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 significantly, and thus cannot be ignored. In order to quantify relative performance for a CPU block, 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 then 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 average flow restriction ends up being a larger differential than the relatively better thermal performance was, so much so that the Phanteks Glacier C370I once again finds itself among the best performers in this extremely tight list.

Performance per Dollar

Prices are taken from the manufacturer's web shop for customers 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 from a major distributor carrying the various brands. 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. Phanteks sells the Glacier C370I directly and I chose the price of the black color version for this chart since the numbers measured thus far are not going to change if you have the black or white version. The latter is $10 more and offers a brighter LED show in addition to white aesthetics so you can decide if it is worth the extra cost. The Glacier C370I has managed to retain its good value standing here while we see the other top performers not fare as well. This means that the Phanteks block is not only a relatively good performer but also offers good value for your money.