A Closer Look

The EK-AIO Elite 360 D-RGB has an aluminium radiator, but is a tad heavier than the more typical AIOs. While not by a large margin, it was noticeable. This could be because of the design or more fluid than is usual in the loop; regardless, it results in a good first impression. The radiator's FPI, or fins-per-inch, comes is 21–22. As noted before, more fins mean more surface area for cooling, but also higher pressure, and typically, higher RPM fans are needed to adequately force air through said fins. With an increase in FPI, I expect an increase in noise, which will likely be compounded by the three extra fans.

Other than that, the radiator keeps the traditional boxy appearance I find appealing. It is simple and clean, which means it will fit in just fine with the majority of systems if the chassis has enough room for it. The fittings are a nice visual upgrade over the more typical ones used in the Asetek units and pair well with the braided sleeving. As for tubing length, it is 400 mm, which is fairly standard.


The pump, much like on the previously released units, remains mostly untouched and feels similar to other AIOs on the market with its compact size, swivel fittings, and overall design. However, the internals are different as this pump/block uses EK's SPC series pump. Another marked difference to the previous EK-AIO 360 D-RGB is the switch to a black nickel finish, which gives the EK-AIO Elite 360 a more visually pleasing look. While I liked the original design personally, the new black nickel finish will likely be seen as a nice improvement aesthetically by many users. In regards to lighting on the Elite series, only the EK logo is illuminated. The fittings and wiring are on opposite sides, which means the overall range of motion is a bit better than expected, although still not perfect. As for the base, it's not the best I have seen, looking a bit cloudy even after cleaning, and machining marks are visible. However, the overall finish is still better than average. Considering the nickel finish on the body, I would have liked that to have been carried over to the copper cold plate as well. That said, while something I would expect on a cooler labeled as "Elite" with a $199.99 price tag, it's just a wishful thought and has no real impact on performance.


The fans in this kit are the EK-Vardar S 120ER D-RGB variants, which have an RPM range of 550–2200 and a maximum airflow of 66.04. The big difference I see with these fans is in their frames. While not as visually pleasing, the frames are square and sealed at the back, meaning fan airflow will predominately go through the radiator rather than escaping through the gaps between fans with a more open or rounded frame design.