ID-Cooling FX360 INF AIO Review 9

ID-Cooling FX360 INF AIO Review

(9 Comments) »

Value and Conclusion

  • The ID-Cooling FX360 INF has an MSRP $79.99
  • Excellent performance and value
  • Perfect memory and GPU clearance
  • Good build quality
  • Visually interesting pump design
  • Easy to install
  • ARGB lighting is uniform and visually pleasing
  • Daisy-chainable fans
  • Works with motherboard software (no custom software required)
  • Pump noise while not loud or annoying, is noticeable
  • Non-standard fan connectors
  • ARGB lighting won't appeal to everyone
  • Three year warranty feels underwhelming compared to competitors
In terms of performance the ID-Cooling FX360 INF is an exceptional offering especially for the price. On the Intel front it proved to be the best performer, taking the top spot in every test. Meanwhile, on the AMD side of things performance, while not top tier, was still exceptional. Compared to other 360 mm AIOs it was typically in the middle of the pack. But when you take into account its $79.99 MSRP the difference in performance becomes a non-issue as most of the coolers are separated by 2°C one way or the other meaning $30-40-60-70 more for 2°C isn't worth it when you're looking for maximum bang for your buck. Beyond the cooling performance the biggest surprise was the FX360 INF's low overall noise output. It maxed out at 48 dBA at 6-inches (15 cm), making it one of the quietest AIOs tested, so the stellar performance a bit of a surprise in the max RPM tests.

When it comes to build quality, I would say it is average to above average. The mounting hardware is the high point due to how easy it is to work with. Universal standoffs, extra brackets for AMD users to change the pump orientation, etc. make it a truly easy cooler to install. While I would prefer four direct points of contact, the metal mounting hardware is stiff and the fact they didn't use the stock AMD plastic mounting bracket is a huge plus. As for the fans and pump, I didn't notice any serious issues, no odd tonal hums or grinding, and the pump while noticeable wasn't making any gurgling noises either. In other words everything worked as it should.

Beyond that, I find the three-year warranty a bit lacking compared to the better warranties offered by some of the competition. Yet when you take into account the performance on offer, and the $79.99 MSRP I have little to complain about on this front as well. Especially since ID-Cooling didn't sacrifice useful features like daisy-chainable fans to hit that price target. Even with the fans using non-standard connectors, ID-Cooling converts those to standard headers via an extension cable, so I can't really fault them too much on that front either.

In regard to the aesthetics it becomes quite obvious that ARGB lighting is the main focus, considering it makes use of an infinity mirror ARGB illuminated pump top and ARGB fans. So if you dislike ARGB lighting you're likely not going to be a fan, but the reverse is also true. If you want an ARGB illuminated cooler then the FX360 INF offers a great experience since it works with standard ARGB software and doesn't require a bloated app or other nonsense.

Overall, the ID-Cooling FX360 INF all-in-one liquid cooler is a fantastic all-around performer that does an exceptional job blending price, performance, and looks into an attractive package for those that want ARGB illuminated components. Taking everything into account I have no qualms recommending it.
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Dec 30th, 2024 15:03 EST change timezone

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