In general, I have to say that I am quite impressed by the performance and value the darkFlash Twister DX-360 V2.6 offers. While not the top-performing 360 mm AIO recently tested, it still performs well and is generally far better value than most. The heavy hitters like the Lian Li Galahad II Trinity Performance still hold the crown, but in terms of maximum heat load, the Twister DX-360 V2.6 was only eight watts behind the former on the AMD test bench. On the Intel test bench, it fell back a bit further, trailing behind by 16 watts. But when you consider it did so while using fans that are rated at a far lower RPM and CFM, its achievement is still stunning. Furthermore, even under extreme loads with overall noise output limited to 45 dBA, it still stays within 1-2°C of the top-performing AIO.

Even noise levels were a bit of a surprise. At max RPM, the cooler did hit 55 dBA, which, while not the worst showing, is still very loud. The fact it gets that loud with the fans maxing out at just 1800 RPM means darkFlash has room for improvement on the fans, which could also spur further improvements in regards to cooling performance. To put things into perspective, at 45 dBA, the fans hit around 1150 RPM. When compared to the Lian Li unit, which manages nearly 1500 RPM, there is quite a gap here between RPM and similar noise levels. Still, I can't fault the cooler all that much in this regard as performance remained stellar in the 45 dBA test even if it was at a disadvantage in regards to airflow and fan RPM.

In regards to build quality, I would say it is above average. Meanwhile, the mounting hardware is easy to work with. That said, a three year warranty feels lacking when the top-tier brands offer far longer warranties. Still, three years are acceptable even if not stellar, as the value aspect helps keep things in perspective. After all, considering the quality and performance, the darkFlash Twister DX-360 V2.6 remains the best value thus far I have tested in regards to 360 mm AIOs. The quality of my retail review sample leads me to believe it should survive the warranty period, so while the warranty isn't impressive, the build quality is good enough that it wouldn't influence my decision to use this cooler in a build should it fit the visual aesthetic. Speaking of visual aesthetics, the look of the unit is good. Sure, it lacks the punch of, say, Corsair and ASUS ROG gear, but the infinity mirror pump cap and fans do look quite nice. The usage of standard industry connectors means you are not tied into a single ecosystem, which is definitely a plus.

Besides the shorter warranty length, an issue would be the lack of availability. The darkFlash Twister DX-360 V2.6 is not available in the USA, and overall availability in North America as a whole is pretty much non-existent. That is the one major downside, as you might be able to find one through various etailers that are willing to ship internationally, but should a warranty issue come up, you might be in a pickle. Hopefully, darkFlash manages to continue its expansion into new markets sooner rather than later thus improving overall availability.

In conclusion, the darkFlash Twister DX-360 V2.6 is a solid 360 mm AIO liquid cooler that is visually appealing, affordably priced, and delivers good performance.