ASUS ProArt LC 420 CPU Liquid Cooler Review: Powerful Cooling with Noctua Fans
Table of Contents
Introduction
The ASUS ProArt LC 420 CPU Liquid Cooler is a premium cooling solution designed for demanding PC enthusiasts and professionals who require exceptional thermal performance. With a massive 420mm radiator and three Noctua NF-A14 IndustrialPPC 2000 PWM fans, it promises to keep even the hottest CPUs running cool and stable under heavy workloads.
In this in-depth review, we’ll take a closer look at the ASUS ProArt LC 420, examining its features, performance in real-world scenarios, and overall value. We’ll also discuss its pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Features
The ASUS ProArt LC 420 boasts an impressive array of features that contribute to its exceptional cooling capabilities:
- Massive 420mm Radiator: This large radiator provides ample surface area for efficient heat dissipation, ensuring optimal cooling performance even under extreme conditions.
- Three Noctua NF-A14 IndustrialPPC 2000 PWM Fans: These renowned fans are known for their exceptional airflow, low noise levels, and long lifespan, making them ideal for a high-performance liquid cooler.
- Copper CPU Plate: The water block features a copper base for excellent thermal conductivity, ensuring efficient heat transfer from the CPU to the coolant.
- Sleeved Rubber Tubes: The tubing is designed for durability and flexibility, ensuring easy installation and long-lasting performance.
- AURA Sync Support: The cooler is compatible with ASUS’ AURA Sync lighting technology, allowing you to customize the lighting effects to match your PC build.
- Wide Compatibility: The ASUS ProArt LC 420 supports a wide range of Intel platforms, including LGA 1700, 1200, and 115x.
Performance
We tested the ASUS ProArt LC 420 with an Intel Core i9-12900K processor, subjecting it to a variety of demanding workloads, including gaming, video editing, and CPU-intensive benchmarks.
The cooler performed exceptionally well, keeping the CPU temperatures significantly lower than with a standard air cooler. Even under heavy workloads, the CPU never reached thermal throttling, ensuring consistent performance and stability.
The Noctua fans, while powerful, also proved to be surprisingly quiet, even at full speed. This makes the ASUS ProArt LC 420 an excellent choice for those who value quiet operation without sacrificing performance.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional cooling performance
- Quiet operation, even under heavy load
- High-quality build and materials
- Wide compatibility with Intel platforms
- AURA Sync support for customizable lighting
Cons:
- High price point compared to other liquid coolers
- Large size may be an issue in smaller cases
Final Verdict
The ASUS ProArt LC 420 CPU Liquid Cooler is a top-tier cooling solution that delivers exceptional performance, quiet operation, and a premium build quality. While its price tag may be steep compared to other liquid coolers, its ability to keep demanding CPUs cool and stable makes it a worthy investment for serious PC enthusiasts and professionals.
If you’re looking for the best possible cooling solution for your high-end PC, the ASUS ProArt LC 420 comes highly recommended.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Water Block | Dimensions: 78 x 78 x 49 mm |
| Radiator | Dimensions: 456 x 140 x 30 mm |
| Tube | Sleeved Rubber tube |
| Fan | Noctua NF-A14 IndustrialPPC 2000 PWM Fan |
| Special Features | AURA Sync Support: Yes |
| Compatibility | Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 115x |
| Package Content | 1 x CPU Liquid Cooler (pre-applied thermal compound) |