Packaging

Deepcool sticks with their now recognizable neon turquoise boxes, which will certainly catch a person's attention. Up front, you will find the 280EX nicely rendered with the badges detailing support for various motherboard RGB sync solutions. Deepcool's new Anti-leak technology is prominently featured on the front as well. The left side has the product name and a quick mention that this liquid cooler uses +5V ARGB LEDs and comes with a wired controller. When it comes to supported CPU sockets, fan speeds, tubing length, features, technical drawings, and general specifications, they can all be found on the back of the box.


The right side is fairly plain with nothing more than a graph detailing the potential pressure levels inside liquid coolers that lack the Anti-leak technology. Looking at the top, you will find nothing more than the Gamer Storm logo with the quote "life is a game," while the bottom details various features that are the same as those on the 360EX. These include Deepcool's Anti-leak tech, split chamber design, tri-phase motor, low noise operation, easy installation, etc.

Contents

Opening the box reveals the biggest change in packaging between the Castle 360EX and Castle 280EX, with the later being encased in foam. Seeing that nice packaging put quite the smile on my face. Sure, it may be a small thing to consider, and while the cardboard trays work fine, foam creates a more premium feel, which is never a bad thing when it comes to first impressions.


Intel and AMD socket support is stellar with all mainstream sockets and even TR4 being supported. Regarding the ARGB LEDs, software control via the motherboard is possible, or users can opt for an in-line controller if they don't have a motherboard with ARGB support.

Common parts supplied for mounting include:

• 8x Radiator fan screws
• 8x Radiator screws
• 4x Phillips head nuts
• 4x Backplate bolts
• 4x TR4 standoffs
• 4x AM4 standoffs
• 4x LGA 2011/2066 standoffs
• 4x Mount bracket screws
• 4x Backplate screw holders
• 2x 140 mm fans
• 2x Intel mounting bracket
• 2x AMD mounting bracket
• 1x Backplate
• 1x Pre-filled liquid cooler
• 1x User's manual
• 1x Fan splitter
• 1x ADD-RGB hub
• 1x RGB motherboard cable
• 1x Case badge