Corsair iCUE H170i ELITELCD XT Liquid CPU Cooler Review: Is the LCD Display Worth It?
The Corsair iCUE H170i ELITELCD XT is an ambitious liquid CPU cooler that aims to elevate your PC’s aesthetic and functionality with its built-in 2.1-inch IPS LCD display. This innovative feature adds a unique twist to traditional cooling solutions, but is it worth the extra cost? This review will dive deep into the H170i ELITELCD XT’s performance, features, and overall user experience to help you decide if it’s the right cooler for your high-end build.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Corsair iCUE H170i ELITELCD XT is the latest iteration of Corsair’s high-performance liquid CPU coolers, offering a massive 420mm radiator and the aforementioned LCD display for real-time monitoring and customization. With its powerful cooling capabilities and flashy aesthetics, the H170i ELITELCD XT is targeted at PC enthusiasts and gamers who demand the best in both thermal performance and visual appeal.
Features
The H170i ELITELCD XT boasts a long list of features that set it apart from the competition:
- 2.1″ IPS LCD Display: The standout feature is the integrated LCD display, allowing you to customize and display real-time system information, animated GIFs, custom images, and more. The vibrant colors and high resolution of the display make it a visually captivating addition to any PC.
- 420mm Radiator: The large radiator provides ample surface area for heat dissipation, ensuring efficient cooling even under heavy workloads.
- 140mm AF RGB ELITE Fans: The three included fans deliver exceptional airflow and quiet operation, further enhancing cooling performance.
- iCUE Software Integration: The H170i ELITELCD XT seamlessly integrates with Corsair’s iCUE software, enabling comprehensive customization of the display, fan curves, RGB lighting, and more.
- Zero RPM Mode: The fans automatically stop at low temperatures, reducing noise and maximizing silence during idle or light workloads.
- Pump Head with RGB LED Ring: The pump head features a vibrant RGB LED ring that adds a touch of flair to your build.
Performance
In terms of cooling performance, the H170i ELITELCD XT delivers as expected. The large radiator and powerful fans effectively dissipate heat, keeping even the most demanding CPUs running cool and stable. I put the cooler to the test with an AMD Ryzen 9 5900X processor, pushing it to its limits with demanding gaming and rendering workloads. The H170i ELITELCD XT effortlessly handled the heat, keeping temperatures well within acceptable limits even under extreme stress.
I was impressed with the cooler’s noise levels. The fans are remarkably quiet at low RPMs, and even at higher speeds, the noise remains manageable and doesn’t intrude on the overall listening experience. The zero RPM mode is a welcome feature, making the cooler practically silent during idle or low-intensity tasks.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the H170i ELITELCD XT’s strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
- Excellent cooling performance
- Unique and visually captivating LCD display
- High-quality build and materials
- Quiet operation
- iCUE software integration for extensive customization
- Zero RPM mode for silent operation at idle
Cons:
- High price point compared to other coolers without the LCD display
- LCD display might be overkill for some users who prioritize performance above aesthetics
- Large radiator can be challenging to install in some smaller PC cases
Final Verdict
The Corsair iCUE H170i ELITELCD XT is a premium liquid CPU cooler that offers exceptional performance and a unique visual appeal. The LCD display is a definite eye-catcher, adding a level of customization and functionality that sets it apart from traditional coolers. However, the high price tag might be a deterrent for some users. If you’re looking for the ultimate cooling solution that prioritizes both performance and aesthetics, the H170i ELITELCD XT is worth considering. However, if you prioritize performance and value above all else, there are more affordable options available with similar cooling capabilities. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget and preferences.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Liquid CPU Cooler |
| Radiator Size | 420mm |
| Fans | 3 x 140mm AF RGB ELITE |
| Airflow | 89.0 CFM |
| Speed | 1700 RPM |
| LCD Display | 2.1″ IPS |
| RGB Lighting | Pump Head with RGB LED Ring |
| Software | Corsair iCUE |