Swiftech H240-X Review 26

Swiftech H240-X Review

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Conclusion

  • The Swiftech H240-X has an MSRP of 149.95.
  • Exceptional performance
  • Fantastic build quality
  • Expandable
  • Fairly quiet
  • Unique design
  • Solid clearance around socket and memory
  • Easy to install
  • Customizable color options
  • High price compared to other high-end AIOs
  • Not capable of proper push/pull configuration
  • Pump noise is noticeable at max speed
  • Radiator size limits case compatibility
The Swiftech H240-X is basically a slightly upscaled H220-X, and that's just fine and dandy. It still offers exceptional performance, taking the top spot in the relative performance chart. Build quality is also top notch. I have nothing to complain about in that regard - just look at that mirror finish on the copper base! The H240-X is expandable, which is fantastic since G 1/4 off-the-shelf fittings are compatible with everything save for the pump's outlet which requires an adapter. Though not as quiet as the H220-X, the H240-X still proves to be fairly quiet overall, offering a near-silent computing experience. The design is unique in regards to the radiator/pump/reservoir combination Swiftech utilized; it bypasses patent problems nicely and keeps the entire system relatively compact considering the radiator's size. Clearance around the socket, while not the greatest, is still solid since the pump is mounted in such a way as to allow for better memory and heatsink clearance. If you are on one of Intel's mainstream sockets, such as LGA1150, its installation is also a breeze. Even swapping to other sockets is relatively simple. Let's not forget the simple but elegant PWM hub that makes handling system cooling a snap by allowing for all PWM-enabled fans and the pump to be regulated via the CPU's temperature. The ability to change the LED color of the CPU's waterblock via exchangeable plates is also a nice touch for those looking to have the H240-X match their system's color theme.

The Swiftech H240-X hardly suffers from any issues, though the price is one of them. Granted, its high price makes sense considering the quality of the components used. Still, most users will grab a Corsair H105 for less when faced with the H240-X's $150 price tag. Much like the H220-X, the H240-X is limited to three fans as the pump's and reservoir's locations makes mounting a fourth fan for a proper push/pull configuration impossible. Pump noise is noticeable at max speed; however, it is still acceptable and of no real concern to most users because of PWM functionality. Finally, there is the radiator's size - more surface area usually results in better cooling, but the bigger a liquid cooler's radiator, the fewer cases could accommodate it. Granted, if you can shell out $150 on a cooler, you can probably afford a case that can accommodate it.

The only other things that come to mind are the fact that Swiftech's H240-X uses the MCP 30 pump, just like the H220-X, which takes a G1/4 adapter for the pump's outlet should you want to replace all fittings. While such a purchase is a possibility, the adapter should have been included out of the box. And there is the fact that the H220-X makes the H240-X seem nearly irrelevant. The H220-X is more affordable, quieter, has the same features, and works with more cases. However, those looking to expand their system to include a GPU will be better served by the H240-X's larger radiator, so both have their pros and cons.

If you are looking for top-tier cooling, low noise output, and the ability to expand in the future, the Swiftech H240-X is a fantastic option so long as your case can accommodate it.
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Dec 28th, 2024 22:22 EST change timezone

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