Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360L Core aRGB Liquid CPU Cooler Review – MLW-D36M-A18PZ-RW

Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360L Core aRGB Liquid CPU Cooler Review: A Deep Dive

The Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360L Core aRGB Liquid CPU Cooler, with the model number MLW-D36M-A18PZ-RW, is a popular choice for gamers and enthusiasts looking to keep their high-performance CPUs cool. This review aims to provide you with a comprehensive analysis of this cooler, covering its features, performance, and overall value proposition.

Table of Contents

Introduction

The MasterLiquid 360L Core aRGB is Cooler Master’s entry into the mid-range AIO liquid cooler market. It offers a balance of performance and aesthetics, making it a tempting choice for those who want a quiet and effective cooling solution without breaking the bank. In this review, we’ll explore its features, performance in real-world scenarios, and ultimately decide whether it’s the right cooler for you.

Features

The MasterLiquid 360L Core aRGB comes packed with features that cater to both performance and aesthetics. Some of its key features include:

  • 360mm Radiator: Provides a large surface area for efficient heat dissipation.
  • aRGB Lighting: Customizable aRGB lighting on the pump and fans adds a touch of visual flair to your build.
  • Quiet Operation: The fans feature a wide RPM range, allowing you to adjust noise levels according to your preference.
  • Easy Installation: The mounting system is designed for straightforward installation on most modern motherboards.

Specifications

Feature Specification
Radiator Size 360mm
Fan Size 120mm
Fan Speed 650 – 1750 RPM
Airflow 71 – 93 CFM
Pump Connector 3-Pin
Radiator Material Aluminum
Lighting aRGB
Compatibility Intel & AMD Sockets

Performance

In our testing, the MasterLiquid 360L Core aRGB delivered impressive cooling performance. It kept our Intel Core i9-12900K processor consistently cool under heavy load, even during demanding gaming sessions. We were particularly impressed with the cooler’s ability to maintain low noise levels even at full fan speed. This makes it an excellent choice for those who value quiet operation. The aRGB lighting adds a nice touch, and the customizable lighting options allow for a personalized look. The installation was straightforward, and the included mounting hardware made it compatible with most modern motherboards.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the MasterLiquid 360L Core aRGB’s pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Excellent cooling performance.
  • Quiet operation.
  • Attractive aRGB lighting.
  • Easy installation.
  • Good value for money.

Cons:

  • The included fans are not the quietest, but they are still relatively quiet.
  • Some users have reported issues with the pump, but this seems to be a relatively rare issue.

Final Verdict

The Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360L Core aRGB is a great option for those looking for a balance of performance, aesthetics, and value. It provides excellent cooling, runs quietly, and offers customizable aRGB lighting. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as the noise levels of the included fans, the overall package is very impressive. If you’re looking for a reliable and effective liquid CPU cooler for your next build, the MasterLiquid 360L Core aRGB is a highly recommended choice.