Performance Summary

With CPU waterblocks, both thermal performance and liquid-flow restriction are important metrics. Unlike radiators, where component liquid-flow restriction is not as big a factor in the loop's overall flow rate, CPU block choice will impact average flow rate a lot and can thus not be ignored. In order to quantify relative performance for a CPU block thus, a normalized percentage-based data set was created, with 70% weighting given to thermal performance and 30% weighting given to liquid-flow restriction. The data set created was thus plotted with the subject of this review at 100%.


Let's clarify that the metric for a quantitative performance summary is based on my own thoughts as there is no universally accepted standard. As it stands, the higher than average flow restriction was more than the relatively better thermal performance, which leads to a mediocre showing for the Optimus Foundation and Signature V2 Intel blocks.

Performance per Dollar

Prices are taken from Performance PCs in the USA when available, with all numbers reported in USD. For products not available there, the most obvious retail source is chosen, such as a manufacturer's web shop. For products no longer available, the last available reasonable price point is considered.


We must note right away that aesthetics and build quality do not necessarily translate directly here, especially with intricate metal tops, RGB lighting, and integrated displays that add to the cost but are not quantifiable as a performance metric. This is especially the case with all the various different production and quality control mechanisms employed by Optimus Cooling here. Them occupying the currently worst two spots in the chart means they are priced higher than most other CPU water blocks.