Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 AIO CPU Cooler, 120mm Liquid Cooling, ARGB PWM Fans, Intel LGA1150-1200/AMD AM4-AM5
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AI Verdict
This 120mm AIO with a 3300 RPM pump and 1500 RPM fans cools CPUs up to 188W, best for small cases or budget builds.
This 120mm AIO is a situational fit, primarily due to its compact 120mm radiator size and budget price point. While it can cool CPUs up to 188W, its performance is often matched or exceeded by air coolers in the same price bracket, making it ideal only when space constraints or ARGB aesthetics are paramount.
For better cooling performance without significant price increase, look for a 240mm AIO or a dual-tower air cooler with a TDP rating above 200W.
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Pros
- Pre-installed fans simplify the setup process.
- Includes a FAN HUB and plumbing snaps for tidier cable routing.
- ARGB lighting on the fan and pump head syncs with motherboards via 5V/3PIN.
- Supports a wide range of Intel (LGA1150-1200/2011/2066/1700) and AMD (AM4/AM5) sockets.
- Achieved 90°C on a 188W CPU at 29°C ambient under stress.
Cons
- The included thermal paste is often dry and unusable, requiring a separate purchase.
- 120mm AIOs frequently offer less cooling performance than similarly priced air coolers or larger AIOs.
- Pump failure is a higher reported risk with cheaper AIOs.
- Radiator hose orientation can impact air bubble prevention, with hoses needing to be at the bottom.
Dimension Scores
It managed to keep a 188W CPU at 90°C under stress, but 120mm AIOs generally offer less cooling than larger options for the price.
The fans have a maximum noise level of 25.6dBA at 1500RPM, which is on the quieter side for a cooler.
Features a fourth-generation pump head and aluminum radiator, but some users report concerns about pump longevity in cheaper AIOs.
Includes a FAN HUB and plumbing snaps to help organize cables within the chassis.
Best For
- Small form factor PC builds with limited space for larger coolers.
- Budget-conscious builds needing ARGB lighting.
- CPUs with a TDP of 188W or less in ambient temperatures up to 29°C.
- Users prioritizing aesthetics with motherboard-syncable ARGB.
Not Recommended For
- High-end CPUs with TDPs significantly above 188W.
- Users prioritizing maximum cooling performance over aesthetics or budget.
- Users who prefer air cooling for perceived longevity or simpler installation.
Watch Out For
- The included thermal paste is frequently reported as dry and unusable, requiring a separate purchase.
- 120mm AIOs are generally considered less efficient than larger AIOs or some air coolers for the price.
- Pump failure is a reported concern with budget AIOs.
- Radiator mounting orientation matters; hoses should be at the bottom to prevent air bubbles.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 755225217411 |
| ASIN | B0CL8ZMPL2 |
| Brand | Thermalright |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Item Weight | 2.79 pounds |
| Noise Level | 25.6 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | Thermalright |
| Cooling Method | Water |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 66.17 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Item model number | AE120 V3 D6 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 4.72"L x 0.98"W x 4.72"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1500 RPM |
What Buyers Say
The main takeaway from user feedback is that while this 120mm AIO is budget-friendly and offers ARGB lighting, many PC builders question the value proposition of 120mm AIOs in general. Users frequently recommend opting for a more powerful air cooler or a larger 240mm+ AIO for better thermal performance, especially for higher-TDP CPUs. A recurring complaint is the poor quality of the included thermal paste, which users often replace immediately. Despite these reservations, it's seen as a viable option for specific scenarios like compact builds where larger coolers won't fit or for users prioritizing aesthetics on a tight budget.
“Dude, it's cheap and lights up, but seriously, throw out that thermal paste it comes with, it's garbage. And honestly, if you got space, just get a bigger air cooler.”
Common Praise
- Pre-installed fans simplify the setup process.
- ARGB lighting on the fan and pump head syncs with motherboards.
- Includes a FAN HUB and plumbing snaps for tidier cable routing.
- Supports a broad range of Intel and AMD CPU sockets.
- Can cool CPUs consuming up to 188W, maintaining temperatures below 90°C in some tests.
Common Complaints
- The included thermal paste is often dry and difficult to apply.
- Many users feel 120mm AIOs are generally outperformed by air coolers or larger AIOs at similar price points.
- Concerns about the long-term reliability and potential for pump failure in budget AIOs.
- Radiator hose positioning can be critical for preventing air bubbles.
Ownership Tips
- The pre-applied fans save a step during installation.
- The included FAN HUB is genuinely useful for managing multiple fan connections.
- The ARGB lighting is bright and syncs well with motherboard software.
- You'll likely need to buy separate thermal paste for optimal performance.
- Monitoring pump noise over time is advisable, as some budget AIOs can develop issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 120mm AIO enough for a Ryzen 5 5600 or Ryzen 7 5700G?
While it can cool these CPUs, many users suggest a good air cooler or a larger AIO (240mm+) for better performance or value. It achieved 90°C on a 188W CPU, which is within limits for many modern CPUs.
Is the included thermal paste any good?
Multiple users report the included thermal paste is dry, pasty, and difficult to apply, recommending you use your own.
Does it support AMD AM5 sockets?
Yes, it supports AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets, along with various Intel LGA sockets.
How noisy are the fans?
The fans operate at a maximum noise level of 25.6dBA at 1500RPM, which is on the quieter side for a cooler.
Can the ARGB lighting be controlled?
Yes, the ARGB lighting on the fan and pump head syncs with 5V 3pin motherboard headers, allowing for software control.
Buying Guide
When looking at CPU coolers, you're trying to move heat away from your processor to keep it from overheating, which can slow down your PC. Liquid coolers, or AIOs, use a pump to circulate coolant through a radiator, where fans then dissipate the heat. The size of the radiator (like this 120mm one) and the fan speed directly impact how much heat it can handle.
cooling_method (Water)
fan_size (120mm)
noise (25.6dBA)
wattage (188W observed)
Alternatives
If this cooler doesn't provide enough cooling or you have more case space, look for AIOs with 240mm or 360mm radiators, or consider dual-tower air coolers with higher TDP ratings.
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