Performance Summary

With CPU waterblocks, both thermal performance and liquid-flow restriction are important metrics. Unlike radiators where component liquid-flow restriction is not as big a factor in the loop's overall flow rate, CPU block choice will impact average flow rate a lot and can thus not be ignored. In order to quantify relative performance for a CPU block thus, a normalized percentage-based data set was created, with 70% weighting given to thermal performance and 30% weighting given to liquid-flow restriction. The data set created was thus plotted with the subject of this review at 100%.


Let's clarify here that the metric for a quantitative performance summary is based on my own thoughts as there is no universally accepted standard. As it stands, the middling standings in the two metrics for the CORSAIR XC9 are, unsurprisingly, cause for another middle-of-the-table occupation here.

Performance per Dollar

Prices are taken from Performance PCs in the USA when available, with all numbers reported in USD. For products not available there, the most obvious retail source is chosen, such as a manufacturer's web shop. For products no longer available, the last available reasonable price point is considered.


We must note right away that aesthetics and build quality do not necessarily translate directly here, especially with intricate metal tops, RGB lighting, and integrated displays that add to the cost but are not quantifiable as a performance metric. The Hydro X Series XC9 CPU block makes, you guessed it, another appearance in the middle. As more entries get added to this table, and noting the overall limitations of physics when it comes to tangible gains in CPU block design, this is an expected sight. Other factors, such as aesthetics and ease of installation, end up being important too, and we will go over everything on the next page.