GIGABYTE AORUS WATERFORCE II 360 ICE Review: Powerful Cooling for High-End PCs
Table of Contents
Introduction
The GIGABYTE AORUS WATERFORCE II 360 ICE is a premium AIO liquid cooler designed for gamers and PC enthusiasts who demand the best possible cooling performance. With its impressive 360mm radiator, ARGB fans, and rotatable water block, this cooler promises to keep your CPU cool and quiet even under heavy load. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, and whether it justifies its price tag.
Features
The AORUS WATERFORCE II 360 ICE boasts a range of features that aim to deliver exceptional cooling and aesthetic appeal:
- Large 360mm Radiator: Provides ample surface area for efficient heat dissipation.
- Three ARGB Fans: The 120mm fans offer customizable lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of your build.
- Rotatable Water Block: Allows for optimal alignment and clearance with different CPU configurations.
- Copper Base: Ensures superior heat transfer from the CPU.
- Wide CPU Compatibility: Supports both Intel and AMD platforms, including the latest 1700 and AM5 sockets.
Performance
The AORUS WATERFORCE II 360 ICE delivered outstanding cooling performance in our tests. We subjected it to various benchmarks and real-world gaming sessions, and it consistently maintained low CPU temperatures even under extreme stress. The 360mm radiator, paired with the efficient fans, effectively dissipated heat, resulting in noticeable improvements in performance and stability.
In particular, the cooler excelled in handling CPU-intensive applications and demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption 2. The CPU never throttled, allowing for smooth gameplay and uninterrupted performance.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of the AORUS WATERFORCE II 360 ICE’s key strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
- Exceptional cooling performance
- Stylish ARGB lighting
- Easy installation process
- Wide compatibility with various CPU sockets
- Quiet operation under normal load
Cons:
- High price point compared to some other AIO coolers
- Can be a bit bulky for smaller cases
Final Verdict
The GIGABYTE AORUS WATERFORCE II 360 ICE is a top-tier AIO liquid cooler that excels in delivering powerful cooling performance and aesthetic appeal. Its large radiator, ARGB fans, and robust build quality ensure efficient heat dissipation and a visually striking addition to any PC build. While the price is on the higher side, the exceptional cooling capabilities and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking the best possible thermal solution for their high-end systems.
Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Radiator & Block | |
| Radiator Dimensions | 394 x 119 x 27 mm |
| Pump Dimensions | 72.8 x 72.8 x 65.1 mm |
| Radiator Material | Aluminum |
| Block Material | Copper |
| CPU Socket Compatibility | |
| Intel | 115x, 1200, 1700 |
| AMD | AM5, AM4 |
| Pump | |
| Speed | 1600 ~ 3400 RPM +/-10% |
| Fan | |
| Specification | 3 x 120 mm ARGB Fans |
| Speed | 800 ~ 2300 RPM +/-10% |
| Bearing Type | HDB (Hydro-Dynamic Bearing) |
| Air Flow | 64.95 CFM |
| Air Pressure | 2.93 mmH₂O |
| Noise Level | 12.8 ~ 36.9 dBA |
