A Closer Look

Like most all-in-one liquid CPU coolers, the MSI MEG CORELIQUID S280 uses an aluminium radiator for heat dissipation. To set their radiator apart, MSI used the MEG branding on the side, which is stamped into the outer housing. It does add a subtle accent, but is not as attention-grabbing as it could be, which is either a positive or negative depending on your preferences. The radiators has a fins per inch (FPI) of 20, which is right in line with most AIO coolers. Thus, the pump and fans will be the main determining factors on final performance. As for the tubing, it is 400 mm long.


The pump/block is rather large at first glance because of a magnetic cover that conceals the inner workings. You will want to remove the cover in order to remove the protective plastic film on the display before installation. The cover also has ventilation holes and a see-through window for the IPS display on top of the pump. A fan is below the display, which adds additional cooling for surrounding components, especially the VRM. When it comes to the wiring, it is run along the outside edges of the pump fittings, with everything exiting on the same side as the tubing. At the same time, the wiring looks to be a handful at first glance, but the pump cover does a good job, hiding 90% of it, at least near the CPU socket.


The copper coldplate is familiar; after all, this is an Asetek unit. However, the fit and finish are quite good. Machining marks are visible, but not to the same extent as on other OEM offerings, which is definitely a plus. Overall build quality is pretty good; I have no real complaints.


The Silent Gale 4 fans in this kit have a maximum RPM of 1800 and a maximum airflow of 82.27 CFM. In terms of design, there are nine fan blades in total with no ARGB LEDs or other extras. However, I will tell you that the build quality as a whole is fantastic. The fans have some serious heft, and the frames are rigid. More importantly, MSI didn't stick with a generic bearing; instead, they used hydrodynamic bearings.