A Liquid cooling kit includes everything you need to set up your gaming PC. As a gaming PC enthusiast, we’ve researched water cooling kits and found a few worth the money.
This post will also review some of the coolest liquid cooling kits for overclocking a gaming PC.
Best Liquid Cooling Kit for Gaming PC 2023
You need a good liquid cooling kit if you want your gaming PC to be water-cooled. Liquid cooling kits aren’t cheap, so it’s probably a wise choice to buy the cheapest and best value.
In most cases where most kits don’t provide all cooling components. That’s why you should buy the best kit for your gaming PC.
To make it easy, we have listed the top brand’s new Liquid cooling kit you should buy in 2023 for your gaming PC.
1. Corsair Hydro X Series XH305i
As a PC hardware brand, Corsair needs no introduction. Even in 2023, Corsair water-cooled kits will still have a significant market share.
Because of the overall reliability they provide to their customers. PC gamers and enthusiasts love the way Corsair designs its products. Many would argue that Corsair is the best PC hardware brand on the market.
Talking about water-cooled kits today, let’s start with the Corsair Hydro X-series XH305i Hardline water-cooled kit. Corsair Hydro X-series XH350i features solid support for Corsair iCUE software. Highly customizable lighting effects for CPU blocks and RGB fans. The XT tube is very easy to bend and offers great rigidity.
It also features a copper-plated nickel CPU block construction. CPU cooling performance is superior to other brands. All components have addressable RGB. There is little chance of corrosion. Very easy installation with intuitive RGB integration.
The XH305i includes everything you might need to get extra overclocking headroom. And that translates into extra performance. Both RGB lighting and design choices are aesthetically pleasing. Regarding performance, premium quality parts do most of the heat dissipation. That’s why you don’t have to worry about excessive heat.
And this allows you to overclock your CPU to better numbers. And don’t worry about reliability, as this 30mm thick radiator cooling kit can last longer without hiccups.
The CPU doesn’t easily reach 90 degrees even after long gaming sessions. That’s why we recommend considering the XH305i as your first option. Plus, the XH305i is one of those easy-to-start water-cooled kits! If you are interested in water cooling, we recommend the XH305i. There are clear and concise instructions so you won’t have any problems.
The price seems to be in the premium category. And the pump performance could be better. However, as a complete package, the overall performance is unmatched. So, if you value both performance and aesthetics, Corsair’s XH350i cooling kit is the best choice for your Intel or AMD gaming rig.
2. Phanteks Glacier One aRGB
If your system has this feature, this kit will appeal to your eyes and ears, and you will undoubtedly have difficulty focusing on the screen. The new Phanteks Glacier One all-in-one liquid CPU cooler can cool powerful CPUs while running quietly.
Whatever size you use, the included radiator fan is a pressure-optimized fan blade that provides high airflow, low noise, and excellent cooling. Installation is easy with a pre-filled all-in-one solution, flexible braided tubing, and tube clips to help route tubing and fan cables for a clean PC interior.
The Glacier One features a pump cap design with tempered glass infinity mirrors and integrated D-RGB lighting, so it can be connected to a D-RGB-equipped Phanteks chassis or motherboard to control and synchronize lighting.
The new Infinity mirror piece is a cap that mounts magnetically to the pump module and is a small tempered glass stream with an Infinity mirror effect of 14 LEDs hidden inside.
A high-performance CPU cooler with the best-in-class noise-to-performance ratio still has enough thermal cooling capacity to cool the modern CPUs we use today. This additional thermal cooling capacity aims to maintain a cooling solution that is quieter than most products while keeping connected components in top condition.
The Glacier One Pump Module and Infinity Mirror Cap are designed to provide maximum clearance for motherboard components such as RAM and heatsinks. Additionally, the low-profile design provides maximum flexibility for height-constrained ITX builds.
The AM4 socket bracket in the box is good for the next Ryzen build, and it’s also great for use with Intel CPUs that continue to work on the 1200 socket type.
The Phanteks Glacier One RGB water-cooled kit is an excellent AiO solution in terms of quiet performance and eye-catching design.
3. Corsair Hydro X Series XH303i
This CPU kit features custom RGB blocks and fans with proper iCUE support. Premium CPU block design provides excellent heat dissipation performance with excellent support for both Intel and AMD platforms. Loop creation is very easy, thanks to the included parts and tubes.
Excellent CPU block quality. It does not rust easily. Leaks aren’t the problem with the XH303i! Corsair iCUE software provides an excellent user experience regarding PC RGB lighting. There is no better option than this in terms of functionality. It’s one of the reasons the XH303i is such a popular CPU cooling kit.
Due to the good build quality of the blocks and the distribution of fins on the radiator, the heat dissipation performance is top-notch. As always, with a Corsair water cooling kit, it’s very rare to see the CPU reaching 90 degrees even under sustained heavy loads.
Also (and a noteworthy feature), the XH303i is very easy to use. The instructions that came in the box are well explained. So whether you are an expert or a beginner, you should have no trouble getting started.
The Corsair iCUE software still needs some optimizations for smooth use (the software is under-resourced!). But that’s just one stumbling block to an array of superior features.
It is one of the few options that can satisfy you both from a performance and aesthetic point of view in 2023.
4. MasterLiquid ML240R CPU Kit
The superb 240mm Master MasterLiquid ML240R is the king of current AiO liquid cooling kits. Very easy to install with a 240mm radiator, very affordable, and optimized for low noise while maintaining compatibility with the latest Intel and Ryzen sockets.
The smart design makes installation easier. Small touches like how Cooler Master inserts the bracket attachment screws from below so you can hold it in one hand can put this kit ahead of the others. This cooler features a low-profile dual-chamber design with PPS and fiberglass construction, unaffected by water immersion.
The pump is lightweight and unaffected by oxidation and corrosion. Cooler Master also includes an RGB hub for users who don’t have a dedicated RGB header on their motherboards. The controller works with the included MasterFan ML240R ARGB 120mm fan and addressable RGB lighting, and with the right motherboard, there are even more ways to customize it through software settings to match the other components within your PC perfectly.
We also offer the 120mm Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240R and 360mm ML360R for those looking for a larger water cooling kit at an affordable price. And another quick salute to the Cooler Master, who created a kit made specifically for the much larger AMD ThreadRipper series. The ML240 and ML280 are compatible with the original TR4 and the new sTRX4 socket.
5. Thermaltake Pacific C360
Thermaltake has been around for a long time in the PC gaming industry. Over the years, they have shown outstanding advancements in the gaming market space. And I have a water-cooled kit that takes second place in our review of the best water-cooled kits.
Thermaltake’s Pacific 360 water cooling kit takes a disruptive approach, giving users greater control over the installation process.
It provides 7 predefined RGB color profiles with support for different color schemes. Super slim copper radiator with 17 fins per inch. The radiator is only 27mm thick, making it suitable for small builds. Excellent leak-tight O-rings provide good compression.
It also comes with Intel and AMD support brackets. A very easy CPU cooling kit for intermediate users. From an aesthetic point of view, this water-cooled kit is one of the best in the industry. A transparent CPU block illuminates RGB lights like a charm. And the tubing helps to resonate the light excellently.
In terms of performance, it is on par with other top brands. There are no leaks to report because the fittings wrap nicely. And the 27mm radiator design allows the set to fit into a very compact PC case. So if you’re planning on building a small form factor gaming PC, this might be a good choice.
It also complies with thermal performance. It can sustain long gaming and productivity sessions and keep the CPU temperature in the 65-70 degree range (depending on a load, of course!). Overall, you can find satisfactory thermal performance.
The only major issue may be the screw length. Otherwise, you have all the tools necessary to get into CPU liquid cooling.
6. CoolerMaster MasterLiquid Maker 240
CoolerMaster is a well-known brand in gaming PC peripherals. Excellent internal flow balanced cooling kit design. Copper fin distribution allows for the best heat dissipation. Pink coolant does not corrode and provides a stable temperature.
The 3-phase fan design keeps decibel levels low. 100% CNC-designed water blocks provide excellent heat transfer. G-¼ fittings are reliable and leak-tight. The whole installation process is satisfyingly easy. In terms of aesthetics, you will find this liquid cooler kit stylish. The pink coolant complements the overall white game build. Matching RGB color profiles looks cool!
And the heat dissipation ability of this CPU cooling kit is decent too. You won’t find the CPU easily reaching 90 degrees under heavy loads. And that’s because of the careful design execution of the radiator and CPU block. So overall performance is top-notch. And the look isn’t bad either.
The installation process is simple, but the documentation is not very helpful. So it won’t be very useful for beginners. However, intermediate users will find the installation process satisfactory.
And that’s the only major flaw. From a performance standpoint, it doesn’t matter if you’re an Intel user or an AMD user. In both cases, the performance is on par with other high-end products.
7. EKWB EK-Quantum Power P240
There are several reasons why EKWB EK-Quantum is on the list of best gaming liquid cooling kits. But the main reason is that EK only focuses on water cooling of PC components. And I’ve done extensive research on how to achieve better component cooling.
It has a customized water cooling kit for both Intel and AMD systems. The 240mm dual design provides cooling efficiency beyond acceptable levels. Nickel-Plexi water blocks provide adequate heat dissipation. Top-notch RGB lighting aesthetics.
The cooling kit comes with all the parts you need to get started. A liquid cooler kit that’s great for small form factor builds. If you look closely at the cooler and CPU water block, you can see exceptional craftsmanship.
The meticulous metalwork is one of the main reasons these CPU coolers reach temperatures above 85 degrees. And constantly under heavy loads. From an aesthetic point of view, the EKWB P240 is also cropped. Blends with black or white PC builds. And RGB lighting feels subtle and luxurious. It all comes together to create a delicious experience.
The price of this EK-Quantum water cooling kit is on the high side. Nevertheless, the performance is good enough to justify it. Many high-end CPU liquid coolers cannot offer this level of performance for the price. That’s why we can truly vouch for this to the enthusiast class of PC users. You won’t regret it!
8. ASUS ROG STRIX 240mm ARGB
It features the iconic ROG logo, Aura RGB-illuminated pump housing, and signature slashes on the radiator. It adds a vibrant color burst and iconic Republic of Gamers style to the heart of the build.
The ASUS ROG STRIX 240mm water-cooled kit features the same closed-loop design as the popular Strix LC series but adds an addressable RGB radiator fan, accentuating the build with gorgeous multi-color lighting effects.
Lights and effects can be tailored to the system to create a unified look, making this kit ideal for kits already in the Asus AURA ecosystem of motherboards, graphics cards, and more.
The innovative cooling plate design features microchannels that provide more heat dissipation area for processor heat, which reduces thermal resistance for more efficient performance and lower temperatures.
With 4-pin PWM control for both pump and radiator fans, this kit can provide precise speed control for the perfect balance of performance and acoustics in any scenario. The ROG radiator fan is also specially tuned for optimum performance with the ROG Strix. LC RGB Series Radiator!
With the performance, features, and style you’d expect from a ROG, Strix LC RGB cooler, you can overclock with confidence in your gaming system. Asus has also created a very sweet ROG STRIX White Edition to make this series even cooler. A water cooling kit with a clean all-white aesthetic!
9. AORUS 240 CPU water cooling
A glorious new addition to PB Tech’s range here, the AORUS 240 is somewhat unique (and eye-catching) and features a 60mm round full-color display!
It is nice to look at and lets you choose your GPU model ID, clock speed, temperature, fan speed, and more. It’s nice to look at and gives you instant access to real-time stats. The new AORUS water-cooled setup is also very well made, and the kit feels luxurious with a nice pump and the connected RGB fans and radiators.
Compatible with both Intel and AMD, this kit will fit into many gaming PCs in the future. The AORUS Fusion software suite allows you to choose from various patterns and modes, along with custom image and text options. This can also be useful for monitoring PC performance and can be set to display CPU clock speed, fan RPM, temperature, Purposeful RGB, etc.
Don’t worry about installing too many CPU pumps and pipe directions. You can switch this display orientation to match. Pipe down or left. It doesn’t matter on Aorus! The AORUS 240 all-in-one liquid cooling kit, is just part of an exciting new range.
10. Thermaltake Pacific M240 D5
As long as a high-quality cooling kit is on your 2023 wish list, you’ll love Thermaltake’s Pacific M240 water cooling kit. One of the main features of this kit is its excellent configuration. And given the price point of the M240 D5 cooling kit, it can’t be beaten.
Great heat dissipation with 15mm fins with Copper base with nickel plating for precision heat dissipation. High-quality pump/reservoir materials provide superior performance. Good RGB control provides decent aesthetics. Static pressure fans allow for adequate heat extraction from the equipment.
But from the user’s point of view, it can be said that it is a solid acting ability. This cooling kit can cool high-end Intel and AMD CPUs thanks to the right quality materials. And with this cooling kit, you get decent overclocking numbers.
Aesthetically, RGB performance is also acceptable. It’s not overly extravagant, but it can provide adequate lighting. Overall you will appreciate it.
High-quality materials, great control, and decent RGB performance give you more than acceptable overall performance. However, the finish of the water-cooled kit does not depend on the markings.
Still, as with all previous cooling kits, the cooling performance is something we like. For this reason, the M240 water-cooled kit is in our reviews of the best Liquid-cooled kits.
11. Lian Li Galahad 360 ARGB CPU
This kit is very appealing to your eyes and ears, and you will undoubtedly have a hard time focusing on the screen. From a PC builder’s point of view, it should be how Lian Li made the block housing rotatable, starting with the best features.
So the pipe can come out of the CPU block in the best direction for the current build. In addition, the included fan is high static pressure and sealed on the side. The bearings used are Fluid Dynamic Bearings (FDB), which help to reduce noise, and additional magnetic support is in the center of the fan to further reduce vibration.
Industrial-grade motors allow these fans to run quietly, even at top speeds of 1900 RPM. The cooler’s cap is also magnetic, giving it a dark, metallic-looking option by default, with a great ARGB light ring surrounding it. The sides of the radiator are lined with a brushed aluminum shield that further enhances the kit’s premium look.
The GALAHAD 360mm kit has 47 addressable LEDs to create a true rainbow effect or solid color. The tubing is durable and flexible, allowing perfect placement within the system.
Although the kit includes an ARGB controller, if you don’t have the motherboard headers required for use with the software suite, these AiO kits will work with motherboards that support Asus AURA, Gigabyte Fusion, MSI Mystic Light, and Asrock PolyChrome Sync. That’s all we want!
Inside the box, the AM4 socket bracket out of the box is good for the next Ryzen build, and I recommend using it with the 1151 socket type and Coffee Lake Intel CPUs that will continue to work.
The 360mm Lian Li Galahad ARGB water cooling kit is very good in terms of quiet performance and eye-catching design. Check out the full range at the Lian LI Store today!
12. NZXT M22 Kraken 120MM
The popular all-in-one water-cooled NZXT Kraken series features one of the most eye-catching CPU block/pump combos in an all-in-one liquid cooler. The Infinity Mirror design features impressive multi-zone RGB lighting that can be controlled with NZXT’s CAM software package, but settings can be fine-tuned via CAM’s software interface to ensure optimal performance even in the most intense gaming sessions.
You can even set cooler colors with a responsive mode that reacts to changes in system conditions like temperature or audio output! A thin nylon sleeve is added to reinforce the rubber tube. An extra layer of protection protects the Kraken cooler tube from potential damage during installation.
The Aer P120 radiator fan uses chamfered intake and fluid dynamic bearings to be extremely quiet, providing quiet operation, durability, and strong cooling.
Regarding compatibility, you can use the latest M22s from Intel and AMD. One thing to note is the USB 2.0 internal header connection. Double-check that you have free space on your motherboard as this is the CAM software interface with the RGB CPU cooler and not the traditional RGB headers.
The M22 AiO water cooling kit is just one of many options currently available on the NZXT, some of which also feature new digital LED effects like the new Kraken X53.
13. Corsair Hydro Series H150i PRO RGB
Corsair jumps into premium addressable LED all-in-one water-cooled gaming. It enhances the legacy of an already great cooler with a range of cooling options featuring ultra-quiet fans and the signature Corsair RGB.
The fans don’t spin when the temperature isn’t too necessary for complete silence, and the ramps running at 400 (oh too quiet) to 2,400 RPM (severe cooling) during operation perform well on the Corsair.
The burnout effect previously experienced in 0DB mode is annoying. This, combined with a quiet pump design, creates a high-performance, quiet cooling solution.
Sixteen individually controlled RGB LEDs illuminate the pump head to create stunningly customizable lighting effects to suit your build. However, this logo also locks the CPU shroud to mount so the pipe faces to the right, so depending on the ram spacing, things can get tight. Thankfully, these larger kits are usually paired with high-end motherboards.
Micro USB cables are used to customize RGB and monitor pump speed on these cables, and Corsair continues to improve on the already excellent issue software suite. iCUE integrates all compatible Corsair components and devices, making it easy to customize all connected components and gaming rigs.
Available in different sizes to fit different chassis, the Corsair H-series cooler and the stunning white Corsair Hydro Series, the latest water cooling kit look great!
14. Beginner water cooling kit for PC
Many of you may not know this brand. However, the Beginner PC water cooling kit is a good option for beginners looking to get started with gaming PC liquid cooling.
A budget-focused water-cooled kit for entry-level enthusiasts with an excellent heat dissipation performance. A 240mm rad comes with 18 pipe aluminum design. There is no possibility of leakage. Helix design adds aesthetic value to the overall design.
In terms of performance, I can confidently say that it is a decent cooling kit. The temperature never reaches dangerous thresholds (above 90 degrees). And it can withstand heavy loads for a considerable amount of time. So you can avoid a bit of overclocking. As for the lighting, well, it gets the job done.
The parts are mostly green, so getting the aesthetics right can be problematic. But if you’re just looking for performance, this kit is for you. Keep your expectations low! Yes, it is a budget cooling kit. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth seeing. Parts can feel cheap. And the CPU block needs extra pressure to sit on the motherboard.
But considering the price, you should be able to overlook the downside. If you look at its cooling performance, you can see why it was voted one of the best water-cooled kits of 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is water cooling more suitable for games?
Liquid cooling keeps your overclocked hardware cooler, so overheating won’t crash your computer or damage your hardware.
Should my PC be water-cooled?
Yes, it fits your processor! As long as you have a newer CPU from Intel or AMD, a water cooler is always fine.
Is liquid cooling better than air cooling?
Yes, liquid cooling is better than air cooling. With a water-cooled loop, your gaming PC will not overheat and will be dust-free.
Conclusion:
With so many powerful choices, finding the best water-cooling kit is hard. When choosing the right CPU water cooling option, you may end up in a quandary.
But one thing can be sure. All of these liquid cooling kits are on the list for a reason. Of course, they are the best. And you can get better performance from Intel or AMD processors. So no matter which option you choose, you can be sure it is worth the money.
