Aerocool Mirage L120 120mm ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler Review
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Aerocool Mirage L120 is an entry-level CPU liquid cooler that promises to keep your processor cool and quiet. With its ARGB lighting, it also aims to enhance the aesthetics of your PC build. In this review, we’ll delve into the features, performance, and overall value of the Mirage L120 to see if it delivers on its promises.
Features
The Aerocool Mirage L120 is packed with features that make it an attractive option for budget-conscious PC builders:
- 120mm ARGB Fan: The included fan features addressable RGB lighting, allowing you to customize its look with compatible motherboards. The lighting effects are vibrant and add a touch of flair to your build.
- Stainless Steel Bearing: The fan’s stainless steel bearing contributes to its durability and longevity, ensuring it runs smoothly for years to come.
- Hydraulic Bearing Pump: The pump is designed with a hydraulic bearing, which helps to minimize noise and friction for quiet operation.
- 1800 RPM Fan Speed: The fan’s maximum speed of 1800 RPM provides ample cooling potential, even under heavy workloads.
- 72.2 CFM Airflow: The high airflow generated by the fan helps to dissipate heat efficiently.
- 60,000 Hours MTBF: The long mean time between failures (MTBF) suggests a reliable and long-lasting cooler.
- Intel and AMD Compatibility: The Mirage L120 is compatible with both Intel and AMD processors, making it a versatile option for a wide range of systems.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Aerocool Mirage L120 delivers solid results. It effectively kept my processor (Intel Core i7-12700K) cool under heavy loads, such as gaming and video editing. During gaming sessions, CPU temperatures remained below 70°C, which is within acceptable limits. While not as silent as high-end coolers, the Mirage L120 operates quietly enough to not be a distraction. I noticed a slight hum from the pump under full load, but it was not excessive.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Aerocool Mirage L120:
- Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Effective cooling performance
- Attractive ARGB lighting
- Quiet operation under normal loads
- Good compatibility with Intel and AMD processors
- Cons:
- Pump noise can be noticeable under full load
- Not the most aesthetically pleasing design
- Limited customization options for lighting effects (compared to more premium coolers)
Final Verdict
The Aerocool Mirage L120 is an excellent value-for-money CPU liquid cooler that offers solid cooling performance, ARGB lighting, and quiet operation. While it may not be the most feature-packed or aesthetically pleasing cooler on the market, it delivers what it promises at an affordable price. If you’re looking for an effective and budget-friendly solution to keep your processor cool, the Mirage L120 is a solid choice.