Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Aqua Elite 360 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler is priced at C$41.75, while the Thermalright Aqua Elite 360 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler comes in at C$91.70. This significant price difference of C$49.95 reflects the varying features and capacities of the two coolers. The 120 V3 is aimed at budget-conscious users who require decent cooling without breaking the bank, whereas the 360 V3 targets enthusiasts who seek superior cooling performance and are willing to pay a premium for it.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Aqua Elite 360 V3 outshines the 120 V3 due to its larger cold row size of 360mm compared to the 120mm of the 120 V3. This larger radiator allows for more surface area, leading to enhanced heat dissipation. Both coolers feature a fourth generation pump head and use black aluminium fin heat sink plates, but the 360 V3's design can handle higher thermal loads, making it more suitable for overclocked CPUs or high-performance builds.

Fan Configuration

The Aqua Elite 120 V3 is equipped with one dual-fan TL-C12B-S V2 fan, while the Aqua Elite 360 V3 boasts three of the same fans. This configuration not only improves airflow but also helps maintain lower noise levels, with the 360 V3 achieving a noise level of just 23dBA compared to the 25.6dBA of the 120 V3. The increased fan count in the 360 V3 allows for better cooling efficiency, providing users with a quieter operation without compromising on performance.

Aesthetic Features

Both coolers include ARGB lighting capabilities, allowing for a visually appealing setup. The Aqua Elite 120 V3 syncs its ARGB lights with a 5V 3-pin connection to the motherboard, providing a soft light effect. The 360 V3 enhances this feature with an octagonal pump head that includes a luminous marking, creating a colourful visual experience. While both products offer aesthetic customisation, the 360 V3's design is more advanced, appealing to users who prioritise visual flair alongside performance.

Installation Ease

Installation for both coolers is designed to be straightforward, supporting various AMD and Intel slots. The Aqua Elite 120 V3 is compatible with AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/2011/2066/1700 sockets, while the 360 V3 supports all these plus LGA1851. Both come with all necessary accessories for installation, but the Aqua Elite 120 V3 is noted for its simplicity, making it accessible for novice builders. For those seeking a more powerful solution, the 360 V3 may require a bit more attention due to its larger size and additional fans.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for PC builders. The Aqua Elite 120 V3 operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6dBA, which is relatively quiet for a CPU cooler. In contrast, the Aqua Elite 360 V3 is designed to be even quieter at 23dBA, making it a better option for users who prefer a silent operation. Both coolers feature PWM function, allowing them to adjust fan speeds automatically based on CPU temperature, which contributes to managing noise levels effectively.

Compatibility

Both coolers support a wide range of CPU socket types, making them versatile options for different builds. The Aqua Elite 120 V3 supports AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1150 through LGA1700, while the Aqua Elite 360 V3 includes support for additional sockets like LGA1851. This broad compatibility ensures that users can install either cooler on various systems without worrying about compatibility issues, although the 360 V3 has the slight edge due to its support for more socket types.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 and the Aqua Elite 360 V3 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable and effective cooling solution, the Aqua Elite 120 V3 at C$41.75 is a solid choice for standard builds. However, for high-performance setups or overclocking enthusiasts who require superior cooling and are willing to invest more, the Aqua Elite 360 V3 at C$91.70 offers better heat dissipation and noise management. Assess your requirements and decide based on performance, aesthetics, and budget to make the best choice for your build.