Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler vs Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB 120mm Magnetic Dome RGB Fans - Triple Fan Starter Ki

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler offers superior cooling performance compared to the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB fans. Designed specifically for CPU cooling, it utilises a high-performance cold head with a copper base and can reach speeds of up to 5300 RPM. This ensures efficient heat dissipation, making it ideal for high-performance CPUs under load. In contrast, the Corsair fans operate at a maximum speed of 2400 RPM and push up to 63.1 CFM of air. While effective for general airflow, they are not specifically tailored for CPU cooling, which may limit their performance in high-demand scenarios.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design, the Thermalright Frozen Notte features a sleek, black aesthetic with ARGB lighting that can be synchronised with your motherboard. Its construction includes a full copper mirror plane base and a durable aluminum fin cold plate, promising longevity and reliability. On the other hand, the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB fans also present a visually appealing design, boasting 34 RGB LEDs across two light zones. However, their primary function as fans rather than a dedicated CPU cooler may not offer the same robust build quality as the Thermalright's water-cooling system.

Installation and Compatibility

In terms of installation, the Thermalright Frozen Notte is designed for extensive compatibility with various Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 1700 and AM5, making it versatile for many builds. It features a dual platform full metal black buckle for easy setup. The Corsair iCUE LINK fans are also easy to install, with bridge connectors that eliminate messy wiring. However, they do not provide the same level of compatibility with CPU sockets, as their primary role is to serve as case fans rather than CPU cooling solutions.

Noise Levels

The Thermalright Frozen Notte operates at a maximum speed of 5300 RPM, which may generate more noise under heavy load due to its high-performance cooling capability. However, it is engineered to handle those conditions effectively. In contrast, the Corsair iCUE LINK fans feature a Zero RPM mode that eliminates fan noise when the system is under low load, allowing for a quieter operation. The magnetic dome bearing technology further reduces friction at lower speeds, making these fans particularly silent during light usage.

Price Point

The Thermalright Frozen Notte is priced at £44.99, making it a more budget-friendly option for users seeking a dedicated CPU cooling solution. In comparison, the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB fans come in at a significantly higher price of £105.15 for a triple fan starter kit. While the Corsair fans offer advanced lighting features and strong airflow, the price difference may not justify the additional cost for users prioritising CPU cooling performance.

Functionality and Features

The Thermalright Frozen Notte stands out with its integrated water-cooling design that minimises evaporative loss and provides effective heat management. Its ARGB lighting can be synchronised with motherboards, allowing for extensive customisation. Conversely, the Corsair iCUE LINK fans offer unique features such as the Time Warp lighting mode and the ability to connect multiple fans with minimal wiring. However, these features cater more to aesthetics and case airflow rather than direct cooling of CPU components.

User Experience and Reviews

User feedback often highlights the robust cooling capabilities of the Thermalright Frozen Notte, especially in overclocking scenarios where heat management is critical. Reviewers appreciate its effective installation process and compatibility with various systems. The Corsair iCUE LINK fans are praised for their aesthetic appeal and quiet operation, particularly in builds where noise levels are a concern. However, users may note that while the Corsair fans excel in general case cooling, they may fall short when compared to the dedicated cooling performance of the Thermalright.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler and the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB fans ultimately depends on your specific cooling needs. If you are focused on optimising CPU performance and require a reliable cooling solution, the Thermalright Frozen Notte at £44.99 is the clear winner. However, if your priority leans towards case aesthetics and quieter operation under light loads, the Corsair fans, albeit at a higher price of £105.15, may suit your needs better.