InWin BR36 Liquid Cooler

InWin also sent us their BR36 AIO to utilize for this case review. It is a 360 mm all-in-one unit with a unique CPU block setup which provides active cooling. It ships in a full-color box with an image of the unit on front and all the usual details on the back. A cardboard tray holds all the bits and pieces in place securely.


Naturally, the unit comes with all the usual mounting parts for AMD as well as Intel CPUs. You should also be able to get an LGA1700 kit from InWin if needed. There are three bundles of wires within the package: one for wiring up the fans, another for the CPU block, and the third as part of an ARGB controller should your motherboard not provide that functionality.


Out of the box, the InWin BR36 comes with the usual radiator we have seen used with most AIO CPU coolers out there. The tubes are sleeved and of ample length, so reaching your CPU even when installing the 360 mm radiator in larger cases shouldn't be a problem.


The unit features an in-line pump that is separate from the base of the cooler. A braided 3-pin lead provides both power and RPM control for the motherboard it is connected to. The real differentiator from other AIO CPU coolers is the base. It features ARGB elements and a unique 3-bladed fan for much needed airflow around the CPU socket, which is usually provided by classic air-coolers. The base of the block is actually nice and smooth, and secured by eight screws. You will have to clip on the right mounting hardware for your socket, which is easily done as it requires no tools or screws.


Just like with other InWin AIO CPU coolers, one central connector on the base is there to connect all the cables from the fans and ARGB, which are then unified to provide a single PWM and an ARGB lead to the motherboard. Only the pump itself is also attached to the motherboard directly.


The BR36 actually employs the same Luna AL120 fans as the InWin Airforce. These have hub-mounted ARGB elements, and silicone pads on the corners as an anti-vibration measure.


However, InWin wired the included fans up differently, using shorter cables and a proprietary ARGB connector, which means these fans can't be re-purposed easily. That said, it at least ensures the ARGB leads do not come apart easily with the plastic clips. On the frame of these units, you will find an arrow to let you know which way air will be pushed, and some company branding.


Preparing the motherboard for assembly is essentially done the same way as any other cooler these days. However, the backplate InWin has designed is excellent, easily allowing you to line up the mounting holes regardless of the socket by simply turning the dials on each corner. Once in place, large hex spacer screws hold it in place. All you need to do on the BR36 is add the fans and clip the right mounting hardware onto the base.