Thermaltake TOUGHLIQUID Ultra 280 AIO CPU Liquid Cooler Review

The Thermaltake TOUGHLIQUID Ultra 280 is a premium all-in-one (AIO) CPU liquid cooler designed for gamers and enthusiasts seeking top-notch cooling performance and aesthetic customization. It features a unique 2.1″ rotational LCD display, 2000RPM radiator fans, and TT RGB Plus 2.0 software compatibility. In this review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, pros, cons, and final verdict based on our hands-on experience.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Features
• Performance
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The Thermaltake TOUGHLIQUID Ultra 280 is a standout AIO cooler in the market. It combines a powerful cooling system with a unique LCD display that enhances its visual appeal and functionality. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of its strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.

Features

The Thermaltake TOUGHLIQUID Ultra 280 boasts an impressive set of features, including:

• 2.1″ Rotational LCD Display: The centerpiece of this cooler is its customizable LCD display, allowing you to showcase real-time system information, personalized graphics, or even animated GIFs. The rotational functionality adds a dynamic touch to your PC setup.
• 280mm Radiator: The large radiator provides ample surface area for efficient heat dissipation, ensuring optimal cooling performance even under heavy workloads.
• 2000RPM Radiator Fans: The included 2000RPM fans generate high airflow and static pressure, effectively pushing air through the radiator fins for enhanced cooling.
• TT RGB Plus 2.0 Software: This software grants complete control over the LCD display, fan speeds, and RGB lighting effects, enabling personalized customization and synchronization with other compatible components.
• Compatibility: Supports various AMD (AM5/AM4) and Intel (LGA 1700/1200) motherboards, making it compatible with a wide range of systems.

Performance

We tested the TOUGHLIQUID Ultra 280 on a high-end gaming PC with an Intel Core i9-12900K processor, overclocked to 5.2 GHz. Under heavy workloads, including gaming and benchmark testing, the cooler consistently maintained stable temperatures, keeping the processor within safe operating limits.

The 2000RPM fans provided ample airflow, effectively dissipating heat and maintaining a cool and quiet operating environment. The LCD display was responsive and easy to customize through the TT RGB Plus 2.0 software.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional cooling performance
• Unique and customizable 2.1″ LCD display
• High-performance 2000RPM fans
• Comprehensive TT RGB Plus 2.0 software
• Wide compatibility with AMD and Intel motherboards

Cons:

• Can be slightly noisy at maximum fan speeds
• LCD display might be distracting for some users
• Relatively high price compared to other AIO coolers

Final Verdict

The Thermaltake TOUGHLIQUID Ultra 280 is a top-tier AIO cooler that excels in both performance and aesthetics. Its unique LCD display, powerful fans, and robust software make it a compelling choice for gamers and enthusiasts seeking a premium cooling solution. While its price might be a deterrent for some, its overall performance and features justify the cost. If you’re looking for a high-performance cooler with a touch of customization, the TOUGHLIQUID Ultra 280 is highly recommended.

Specifications