With the Predator 280, EKWB has released an exceptional product with top-tier performance that currently puts all other offerings to shame, and unlike most AIO liquid coolers, it does so while being relatively quiet. Simply put, it's the best-performing cooler I have yet tested and has noise levels similar to those of the Noctua NH-D15. EKWB has also made sure that this unit is easily expandable with their quick disconnect fittings (QDC). It also sets itself apart from rival Swiftech units in that a push-pull fan configuration is possible. Generally speaking, this is a well-built and well-packaged unit. EKWB has essentially created the cleanest pre-filled liquid cooler you can buy today.

A couple issues do keep the EK Predator 280 from a perfect score. First, there is its high price. Yes, it does perform at the top of the chart, and yes, it has amazing features and build quality, but the fact remains that the much cheaper Swiftech H220-X2 offers 95% of the performance for $50 less give or take. Thus, value is not the Predator 280's strong suit. The hex screws for the fans are cumbersome with I myself preferring Phillips head screws since losing such a small hex key would not be hard and Phillips-head screwdrivers are everywhere. AMD support also requires a separate mounting kit that will roughly run you $8 without shipping, there are no extra screws for push/pull, and the PWM header has 4 slots, 1 for the pump and 3 rather than 4 for the fans, which means you'll have to use an adapter in push/pull. Finally, there is the 2 year warranty. With the likes of Corsair offering long warranties on simple AIOs that cost far less, the 2 year warranty seems a bit lacking considering the kit's high-end nature.

Overall, I feel the EK Predator 280 is a fantastic product with an elegant design that looks good and performs great, and it thankfully doesn't have a bunch of LEDs all over it like it belongs at a dance party. I previously stated I would have preferred regular screws over hex screws, but that is a bit of a personal preference. Still, while I may be critical of the unit, it's without a doubt one of the best coolers available on the market. The only concern to keep in mind is that at 335mm in length and 68mm thick, the radiator may not fit into as many cases as a more traditional all-in-one liquid cooler.

If cost is not a concern and you want the highest level of performance and build quality you can get from a liquid cooler without going with a custom loop, the EKWB Predator 280 deserves a long, hard look.