Swiftech H220 X2 Prestige Review 29

Swiftech H220 X2 Prestige Review

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Value and Conclusion

  • The Swiftech H220 X2 Prestige can be found at retail for $189.99.
  • Top-tier performance
  • Exceptional clearance
  • Acceptable noise profile
  • Easy to install
  • Fantastic build quality
  • Well-packaged
  • Expandable
  • Customizable LEDs
  • Cannot be configured in push/pull
  • Fan PWM range could be improved
  • Very expensive
What is there not to like when it comes to the Swiftech H220 X2 Prestige? This all-in-one liquid cooler offers top-tier performance that is on par with the older and larger H240X. It also manages to distance itself ever so slightly from the more expensive EKWB Predator 240. While it's not as quiet as I would like, its noise profile is still acceptable at full speed. Under typical loads, it will remain near-silent. Build quality is top notch, definitely a step above the older H220 and H240 kits, and it's also easier to install since Swiftech's installation hardware has been revamped a bit. My kit doesn't have it, but a small tool for tightening the standoffs will be included in retail kits, which should make the process easier still. As with most high-end liquid coolers, the H220 X2 Prestige is in fact expandable and makes use of standard G1/4 fittings, which allows you to swap parts out or expand in any way you like. Finally, rather than the typical ho-hum black and white, the kit has ALEDs that are built into the system. These can manually be enabled and set to various colors. Overall, Swiftech really brought as much as they could to the table this time around. Top-tier performance, acceptable noise levels, expandable, and customizable, this kit really sets a new bar for what to expect from an AIO.

Sadly, a few things do keep it from a perfect score. First is the fact that it cannot be configured in a push/pull configuration. What you see is what you get. As such, you will be limited to two fans. This is a step back from Swiftech's older models since you could squeeze a third fan onto those. The fans themselves are of exceptional build quality, but their PWM range could be improved. Getting them as low as 500 RPM would also help reduce noise levels. The final nail in the coffin for some will be its price tag of $189.99. That is a hefty price to pay, but you are essentially getting a custom loop that is ready to go and includes nothing but top-tier parts. Many may still find that price hard to swallow for what is just a CPU cooler to start out with.

With all that said, I am very impressed by the Swiftech H220 X2 Prestige. It offers top-tier performance, acceptable noise levels, ALED customization, expandability, and even features a dye kit to make sure the dye's color matches the LED color of your choice. With all those positives, including its positively quirky additions, many enthusiasts should find the H220 X2 Prestige to their liking.

If you are looking for a custom water-cooling loop with great looks, performance, and quality, but want the added bonus of maintenance-free upkeep, the Swiftech H220 X2 Prestige might just be what you are looking for.
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Dec 25th, 2024 21:47 EST change timezone

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