Zalman has impressed me with the Reserator 3 Max Dual all-in-one liquid cooler. It offers good performance similar to other AIO kits and equals or simply outperforms many high-end air coolers. The solid build quality and exceptional packaging are nice as well. I didn't detect any flaws, cracks, or other issues to speak of. The blue LEDs its fans and pump feature are typical of Zalman and add a nice bit of flair. Those and its unique design really make for a cooler that stands on its own visually. The radiator bracket is also a nice inclusion since it allows for some extra clearance should it be needed. The open design around the radiator's fins allows airflow to escape, which will provide a bit of extra cooling to the VRM. As such, the VRM was slightly cooler; however, the difference was small, although it might be bigger in a chassis.

Zalman has created the basis for a great cooler here, but some changes really need to be made. First up is the price. At 139.99, it is extremely high because the cooler needs to beat everything on the market and failed to do so. Installing the Reserator 3 Max Dual is also tedious, which doesn't help. All the small parts make for minor annoyances if you have fat fingers. Noise is also an issue as the pump is, with 44 dBA, the loudest of any AIO liquid CPU cooler I have tested to date, making it the loudest at idle. It is obviously loud with a full load on the CPU, which isn't unlike every other AIO cooler out there. While its blue LEDs may add some flair, they won't be for everyone as it limits the cooler's ability to match a great deal of hardware. The only other issue I have is the fact that at $139.99, the PWM Y-cable and fan cables are not sleeved or black. Such cables are acceptable on more affordable entry level coolers, but not for an enthusiast product. Then there is its limited memory clearance because it is 73 mm thick, although whether it will interfere with memory clearance also highly depends on which case you use. Most traditional AIO kits are only 52 mm thick.

Zalman does have a solid contender here, but its price needs to be lowered to a more acceptable level. They nailed the look as this AIO liquid cooler really takes the cake in terms of appearance. Not everyone is going to love it, but it is unique and rids itself of the boring traditional radiator design. With some sleeved fan cables, a more affordable price, and lower noise levels, Zalman could have a real winner on their hands.

The Zalman Reserator 3 Max Dual brings unique looks and solid performance to the table if you can handle the price.