With exceptional performance and an attractive design, the Swiftech H360 X3 AIO proves itself a great option for those wanting a real liquid-cooling loop that is both expandable and serviceable. In terms of general performance, it gives the EKWB Phoenix MLC 360 kit a scare while costing $100 less. When you consider other 360 mm options, such as the ID-Cooling Dashflow 360, Corsair H150i PRO, and Cooler Master ML360R RGB in the same price segment, Swiftech's latest offering is the better value. This is not only because of its performance at a similar price, but the extra features that tip the balance in its favor.

Noise output is a bit of a mixed bag with Swiftech's new series in that it is not a silent option. While it does remain relatively quiet at up to about 75% PWM, with the pump and fans maxed out, noise levels increase to 47 dBA. Granted, under regular loads, it will not get anywhere near its maximum RPM because of the extra headroom the unit affords. Sadly, pump noise, while not loud, is distinct and has a harsher note than the fans, making it more noticeable. Again, under 75% PWM, it was not as noticeable, but as the speed increases, you will hear it. Thankfully, a custom profile lowering the pump RPM while leaving the fans alone improved the noise profile, making it acceptable for even quiet systems. I will explore this further in the near future.

Build quality is good overall, far above what you would see on a more prototypical closed-loop unit. The radiator, pump, and reservoir combo feels rigid and strong with very little to no flex. The copper and brass design also eliminates the potential for corrosion, which is good for longevity. The barb and clamp fittings are the only downside. While fine, they just don't live up to the compression fittings used on the previous-generation Prestige units. Even so, when you take overall build quality and the ease of installation into account, the unit really does stand out as a high-quality offering. Just keep in mind that this design is thick coming in at about 90 mm. The fittings and tubing increase that thickness to roughly 115 mm, which is something users will want to take into account when looking at case compatibility. That said, at least clearance around the socket and GPU area was perfect with no problems to report.

I myself have never liked dyed or speciality coolants since there reliability has been suspect over the years, and this unit hasn't changed my mind yet. While Swiftech at least did their homework and went with quality stuff from Mayhems, I myself am still not a fan of any kind of dye in a water cooling loop and while nano particles are not dye, their being heavier does mean they have a chance of settling. Between the two there is a small chance it could gunk up blocks and make cleaning and refilling a hassle, and while that may not be as much of an issue today, it still isn't something I would recommend. I would have preferred a more standard clear coolant with the dyes as an option for those wanting to go that route. I will say the Pastel White Nanofluid coolant used here does looks fantastic, I just can't help but wonder how it will hold up for multiple years. The fact that the warranty is only two years compounds that issue since closed-loop coolers now regularly offer two, three, or sometimes even five-year warranties.

Finally, while the mounting hardware is easy to work with during the install, it does suffer from a quirk when removing the cooler. The standoffs feature pre-applied washers that stay in place with an adhesive. When you tighten the CPU block down, those washers will appear to stick to the motherboard: however, that is not the case. Instead, they stick to the backplate, which is where I made my mistake. I figured the washers were stuck to the motherboard and decided to pull the backplate off. Doing so sent the washers flying, and I was not able to find them all afterward. So while not a huge problem, you will want to remove the washers manually if they appear stuck before removing the backplate. Most users who plan to install, run, and forget about it won't have this problem.

Overall, the Swiftech H360 X3 AIO is an attractive all-in-one expandable liquid CPU cooler that delivers stunning looks and solid performance at a price similar to their closed-loop mixed metal rivals.