Noctua has launched a case compatibility database featuring CPU cooler clearance measurements taken by the company for more than 100 PC cases. The tool aims to give builders precise fitment data rather than relying solely on official manufacturer specifications.

Checking official vendor specification pages for CPU clearance, VGA, and PSU limits remains standard practice when picking PC components. However, listed specifications don't always match physical realities, as some components press against side panels despite claims of sufficient clearance. Other chassis offer additional room that vendors fail to document.

As spotted by Tweaktown, Noctua is now addressing these discrepancies by manually measuring CPU cooler clearance across over 100 chassis from various vendors and putting it all into a handy database. Dedicated compatibility tables now outline which heatsinks fit each chassis.

According to Noctua, cases like the Corsair 4000D and 5000D series provide nearly 10mm of extra clearance above listed specs. This extra space allows large coolers such as the 168mm-tall NH-D15 G2 to fit. On the other hand, testing revealed several models with lower physical clearance than advertised. One such example is the Asus Prime AP201, measuring approximately 2mm lower than official figures. Noctua plans to continue expanding the database as it tests additional cases.

KitGuru says: While the database focuses on Noctua's own cooling lineup, the data can also help builders gauge clearance for third-party coolers.

The post Noctua case compatibility database shows some manufacturers share incorrect specs first appeared on KitGuru.

Cougar has expanded its CPU cooling lineup with the introduction of the FRZ 412 ARGB and FRZ 412 Elite ARGB single-tower coolers. Both models offer a 240W TDP rating alongside broad Intel and AMD socket support.

The standard FRZ 412 ARGB (via ITHome) incorporates a top-mounted dot-pixel display for real-time CPU or GPU temperature tracking, an integrated RGB strip, and black-finished aluminium fins. Cooling performance relies on four 6mm Direct Touch heat pipes running through a 160mm-tall heatsink with an offset base designed to preserve memory clearance in the first RAM slot. Cougar pairs the heatsink with an FDB-bearing fan featuring ring-surrounded blades, operating from 0 to 2500 rpm to deliver up to 74.52CFM of airflow and 3.66mmH2O of static pressure.

Stepping down to the FRZ 412 Elite ARGB omits the top display, front RGB lighting, and black fin coating in favour of a chrome finish. While fan performance metrics match the standard version with up to 2500rpm speed, 74.52CFM airflow, and 3.66mmH2O pressure, the Elite swaps the FDB bearing for a rifle bearing. Both coolers feature a rated 240W TDP and support Intel LGA115x, 1200, 1700, and 1851 sockets alongside AMD AM4 and AM5 platforms.

KitGuru says: Following the introduction of the FRZ 612 ARGB series, the more compact FRZ 412 ARGB CPU coolers bring similar specs in a more compact form factor. Hopefully, that will also mean a lower price point.

The post Cougar unveils single-tower FRZ 412 ARGB CPU cooler series first appeared on KitGuru.

Cooler Master has revealed two new CPU air coolers, the DT600 and DT621. Both models feature a new honeycomb top panel design, with the DT600 offering a single-tower design and the DT621 using a dual-tower configuration. Both models are available in black and white.

Cooler Master builds the DT600 (via Cowcotland) in a compact 86x128x162mm single-tower form factor. Its base does not feature an offset for increased RAM clearance, but the extra height prevents the fan from blocking the first RAM slot. Six 6mm heat pipes run through the heatsink to an enlarged base with a vertical offset designed to align with hot spots on AMD processors. Operating up to 2000rpm, the included fan delivers 67.19CFM airflow and 2.31mmH2O static pressure.

Stepping up to the dual-tower format, the DT621 mounts its single fan sandwiched between two heatsinks. Measuring 30mm thick, this fan spins up to 2050RPM to push 72.8CFM airflow and 2.52mmH2O static pressure through both towers. Overall, the heatsink height sits at 159mm to assist chassis clearance, with the slim front tower avoiding memory obstruction. The unit also uses six heat pipes.

Compatibility across both models covers Intel LGA115X, 1200, 1700, and 1851 sockets alongside AMD AM4 and AM5 platforms.

KitGuru says: Interested in any of Cooler Master's new CPU air coolers?

The post Cooler Master introduces DT600 and DT621 coolers with 30mm thick fans first appeared on KitGuru.

Cougar has announced the FRZ 612 ARGB, a dual-tower CPU cooler featuring a top-mounted dot-pixel display, carbon fiber-style accents, and a 260W TDP rating.

Built around an aluminium fin heatsink with six copper heatpipes, the FRZ 612 ARGB (via ITHome) stands at 160mm tall with a depth of 135mm. Adjusting the front fan to clear taller memory modules increases overall height up to 170mm, providing up to 53mm of RAM clearance. Cougar Digital software controls the top-mounted dot-pixel display, letting users toggle the screen or switch between displaying CPU and GPU temperatures in °C or °F.

Cooling is handled by two FDB-bearing fans running up to 2500RPM, which deliver 74.52CFM of airflow and 3.66mmH2O static pressure at full speed. Cougar uses ring-surrounded blades with markings to dampen noise, alongside a 0rpm mode for silent operation during light workloads. The central fan omits LED lighting to keep the focus on the front ARGB illumination and top display.

The cooler supports AMD AM5 and AM4 platforms, as well as Intel LGA 1851/1700/1200/115X sockets.

KitGuru says: Cougar's FRZ 612 ARGB combines a simple dot-pixel temperature display with a dual-tower design and flexible RAM clearance.

The post Cougar details FRZ 612 ARGB CPU cooler rated for 260W TDP first appeared on KitGuru.

be quiet! has announced the new Light Loop IO LCD all in one liquid CPU cooler. The new cooler is built for users who want strong cooling performance, quiet operation, and a stylish look inside their PC. It will be available in both 240 mm and 360 mm sizes, with black and white color options.

The biggest highlight is the 2.1 inch IPS display on the pump block. The screen has a 480 x 480 resolution with 500 nits brightness, allowing users to display system information, custom images, or even short videos while the PC is running.

The cooler is designed for high-end processors and overclocked systems. It uses a specially designed jet plate to improve coolant flow and a dense fin stack to remove heat more efficiently. The updated pump is also made to reduce noise, helping the system stay quiet even under heavy workloads.

Cooling is handled by Light Wings LX PWM high speed fans, which feature bright ARGB lighting and airflow focused fan blades. The fans use a daisy chain design to reduce cable clutter, while hidden fan cables along the tubes help keep the build looking clean.

An included IO Controller makes installation easier by carrying both power and data through a single cable. The controller can be attached inside the case with magnets, and the cooler also includes flexible sleeved tubes and an easy refill port with coolant for longer service life.

The updated IO Center software gives users more control over lighting, fan speeds, and the LCD display. It supports custom backgrounds, real time hardware monitoring, and onboard memory, so saved settings remain active even when the software is not running.

be quiet! also offers IO Center Web, which works through most Chromium based browsers on Windows, macOS, and Linux. This allows users to adjust many settings without installing additional software or requiring administrator access.

be quiet! Light Loop IO LCD series pricing and availability

The be quiet! Light Loop IO LCD series will be available starting August 11. The 360 mm models start at $249.90, while the 240 mm models start at $224.90. Every model is backed by a 3 year manufacturer warranty.

be quiet! is expanding its Light Loop AIO series with a new model that introduces a customisable LCD display for the first time. The Light Loop IO LCD arrives in 240mm and 360mm sizes with black and white colour options, with prices starting at £159.99. 

The Light Loop IO LCD builds on the existing Light Loop design with a redesigned CPU block that adds a new 2.1‑inch IPS display. Like other display-equipped AIOs, this small display is capable of showing custom images or GIFs to add a personal touch to your build, or you can use it to display real-time system stats like CPU temperature. The cooler also ships with an updated IO Controller that hooks into be quiet!'s IO Center software, allowing you to set up custom lighting presets and fan profiles.

The pump and cold plate have also been refined for improved liquid flow and reduced noise, while the included Light Wings LX PWM high‑speed fans should provide strong airflow, along with extra ARGB lighting.

The Light Loop IO LCD also introduces several quality‑of‑life improvements, including hidden fan cabling along the tubes for a cleaner build, flexible sleeved tubing for easier installation and an accessible refill port with an included coolant bottle to support long‑term maintenance.

The Light Loop IO LCD AIO will be available starting from the 11th of August, priced at £159.99 for the 240mm model or £179.99 for the 360mm version. There is no price difference between the black and white colour options.

KitGuru Says: be quiet! makes some of the best-looking coolers around. Will you be considering the new Light Loop IO LCD for your next build? 

The post be quiet! launches new Light Loop IO LCD liquid coolers first appeared on KitGuru.

Thermalright has expanded its CPU cooling lineup with the introduction of the Royal Pretor 130 Vision and Royal Pretor 130 Digital dual-tower air coolers. Both models build upon the existing Royal Pretor 130 design by adding integrated top-mounted displays for real-time hardware monitoring and customisation.

The flagship Royal Pretor 130 Vision features a 3.95-inch, 480×480 LCD screen mounted on top of the heatsink. Connected through an internal USB 2.0 header, the display works with Thermalright's software to show system metrics, custom images, wallpapers, GIFs, and animations. In contrast, the Royal Pretor 130 Digital uses a dedicated monitoring display that shows only real-time data, including CPU temperature, package power consumption (W), clock frequency (MHz), and memory usage percentage.

Both coolers share the same physical hardware, featuring a 130x140x165mm dual-tower heatsink with six 6mm nickel-plated copper heatpipes and a nickel-plated C1100 copper base. Airflow is handled by a 120mm TL-H12W-X28-R9 PWM fan rated up to 2400RPM and 98.2CFM, paired with a central 130mm TL-HD13W-X28 PWM fan rated up to 1750RPM and 81.88CFM. S-FDB V2 bearings are used on both fans.

Compatibility spans Intel LGA115X, 1200, 1700, 1851, 2011, and 2066 sockets, as well as AMD AM4 and AM5 platforms. Thermalright will offer both variants in black and white finishes, though official pricing and release dates remain unconfirmed.

KitGuru says: At this point, most AIO coolers have a display attached to them. The same trend is now taking over the air cooler market too. 

The post Thermalright expands Royal Pretor lineup with display-equipped air coolers first appeared on KitGuru.

Thermalright has introduced the new Royal Pretor 130 Vision, a premium air CPU cooler designed for gamers, PC enthusiasts, and users who want both strong cooling and a modern look. The new model combines a large dual tower heatsink with a built in color display that can show useful system information in real time.

The biggest highlight of the Royal Pretor 130 Vision is its 3.95 inch full color LCD screen. The display offers a sharp 480 × 480 resolution and connects through an internal USB 2.0 header. Using Thermalright’s software, users can monitor important system details such as CPU information, temperatures, and other hardware data. The screen can also be customized to show different content.

The cooler features a dual tower heatsink built with a nickel plated copper base and six copper heat pipes. This design helps move heat away from the processor quickly, allowing the cooler to handle high performance CPUs more efficiently. The complete cooler measures 130 × 140 × 165 mm, although Thermalright has not shared its official weight.

Cooling is handled by two high performance fans working together in a push pull setup. The front fan is a 130 mm TL HD13 X28 model with a maximum speed of 1,750 RPM. It delivers up to 81.88 CFM of airflow while keeping noise levels as low as 28.3 dBA. It also uses Thermalright’s second generation S FDB bearing for long lasting performance.

The second fan sits between the two heatsink towers. It is a 120 mm TL H12 X28 R9 fan that can reach speeds of up to 2,400 RPM. It provides up to 98.2 CFM of airflow with a maximum static pressure of 2.48 mm H₂O. Even at full speed, the fan produces a maximum noise level of 32.7 dBA.

At the time of announcement, Thermalright has not revealed the price or release date of the Royal Pretor 130 Vision. More details are expected to be shared in the coming weeks. For users looking for a powerful air cooler with a built in display, this new model appears to be a promising addition to Thermalright’s growing lineup.

Thermalright has introduced the Dynamic Vision PRO 360 ARGB Black, a new 360mm all-in-one liquid CPU cooler with a massive 5.5-inch display on top of the CPU block and a dedicated VRM fan. 

The Dynamic Vision PRO 360 ARGB Black cooler stands out with its 5.5-inch LCD screen, which is mounted onto the CPU block magnetically, making it easy to remove or adjust the angle. Below the screen, the water block integrates a dedicated VRM fan operating at 2500RPM to deliver 20.8CFM of airflow and 2.3mmH2O of static pressure, while the pump runs at up to 6800RPM.

The radiator is equipped with the TL-U36, a 25mm-thick single-frame that houses three fans. At the centre of each fan is an infinity mirror effect, along with ARGB lighting going around each fan, with an extra ARGB LED strip running along the full length of the frame. Performance specs show the fans topping out at 2400RPM, pushing up to 71.5CFM of airflow alongside 2.69mmH2O of static pressure.

KItGuru Says: Would you prefer an oversized display for your AIO, or do you prefer smaller displays that sit directly inside the CPU block? 

The post Thermalright launches Dynamic Vision PRO 360 AIO with massive display first appeared on KitGuru.

MSI has officially unveiled its new flagship case and CPU cooler: the MEG Maestro 900R full-tower chassis and the MEG Coreliquid E15 360 all-in-one liquid CPU cooler. Both products feature premium aluminium construction and advanced structural designs for enthusiast system builders.

The MEG Maestro 900R full-tower case uses a unique “Centered Architecture” that places the motherboard, graphics card, and cooling hardware at the absolute centre of the chassis. This layout pairs with a triple-sided panoramic tempered-glass exterior and features a signature 75º aluminium geometry. To assist with system assembly, MSI includes a detachable, rotatable motherboard tray that can function independently as an open test bench across four installation orientations. The company also bundles a PCIe Gen5 x16 riser cable and a vertical GPU mounting bracket to facilitate centred graphics card positioning.

Accompanying the case is the MEG Coreliquid E15 360 AIO liquid cooler, which features an integrated 110º curved 2K AMOLED display capable of rendering naked-eye 3D content. MSI uses a magnetic Pogo-pin connection to attach the screen to the pump block, removing visible cables from the central CPU area. System communications like screen data, pump power, fan speeds, and ARGB lighting route through a single cable via the EZ Conn system.

Regarding thermals, MSI says the Laminar Focus technology runs the centre fan clockwise while the outer fans spin counter-clockwise to reduce turbulence. A three-phase sensorless motor powers the pump, while an integrated Cooling Safeguard system flashes a red warning light if it detects abnormal fan speeds.

KitGuru says: Interested in any of MSI's new high-end MEG components?

The post MSI introduces MEG Maestro 900R full-tower case and curved AMOLED AIO cooler first appeared on KitGuru.

MSI has announced two new flagship products for PC enthusiasts, the MEG MAESTRO 900R full tower case and the MEG CORELIQUID E15 360 liquid cooler. Both products are designed to combine premium looks, advanced engineering, and high-end performance for gamers, creators, and PC builders.

The new lineup recently received a 2026 Red Dot Design Award and focuses on bringing a more refined and stylish look to modern gaming setups and workspaces. MSI says both products were created to deliver strong performance while also acting as centerpiece components inside a premium PC build.

MSI MEG MAESTRO 900R PC case

The MEG MAESTRO 900R stands out with its unique Centered Architecture design. Instead of placing components around the frame like a traditional PC case, MSI has positioned the motherboard, graphics card, and cooling hardware at the center of the case. This creates a balanced appearance and allows users to better showcase their hardware through the case’s three-sided tempered glass panels.

MSI has also focused on flexibility and ease of building. The case includes a detachable motherboard tray that can be removed and used as an open test bench. This allows users to install and test hardware more easily before final assembly. The tray supports four different installation orientations, giving builders more freedom when creating their systems.

For graphics cards, the MEG MAESTRO 900R comes with a PCIe Gen 5 x16 riser cable and a vertical GPU mounting bracket. This allows users to display their graphics card prominently while maintaining full support for the latest PCIe Gen 5 hardware.

MSI MEG CORELIQUID E15 360 AIO cooler

Alongside the new case, MSI also introduced the MEG CORELIQUID E15 360 all-in-one liquid cooler. One of its biggest highlights is a large 110-degree curved 2K AMOLED display mounted on the pump block. MSI says the screen can deliver a naked-eye 3D visual effect, making it a standout feature inside any PC build.

The cooler features an aluminium construction with brushed finishes and diamond-cut details that match the premium design language of the MAESTRO 900R case. Users can customize the display with different visual content, allowing for a more personal look.

MSI has also simplified installation with its magnetic Pogo-pin display connection and EZ Conn system. These features reduce cable clutter by combining multiple functions, including display data, fan control, pump power, and lighting controls, into a single connection.

Cooling performance remains a key focus. The MEG CORELIQUID E15 360 uses MSI’s Laminar Focus Technology, which employs a special fan layout to reduce airflow turbulence and lower noise levels while improving cooling efficiency. The cooler is designed to handle the thermal demands of modern high-performance processors.

For added reliability, MSI has included a Cooling Safeguard feature. If the system detects abnormal fan behavior, the cooler automatically activates a red warning light to alert users of a potential issue.

With the launch of the MEG MAESTRO 900R and MEG CORELIQUID E15 360, MSI is targeting users who want both premium aesthetics and flagship-level performance. The company confirmed that both products will be available through its global partner network and authorized retailers.

Cooler Master, a global leader in PC components and thermal management solutions, has announced the V8 ACE 3DHP, a flagship single-tower CPU air cooler featuring the company’s patented 3D Heat Pipe (3DHP) technology. Designed for high-performance processors, gaming PCs, workstations, AI development, 3D rendering, and video production workloads, the new cooler aims to deliver dual-tower-class cooling performance in a more compact design.

The V8 ACE 3DHP introduces a hybrid cooling architecture that combines two 3D heat pipes with four traditional heat pipes. This design improves heat transfer from CPU hotspots into the fin stack while maximizing fin utilization. Rather than increasing the size of the heatsink or adding more conventional heat pipes, Cooler Master uses its 3DHP technology to improve heat distribution and cooling efficiency within a single-tower form factor.

Independent testing has also highlighted the cooler’s performance. According to Cybenetics, a third-party hardware testing and certification laboratory, the V8 ACE 3DHP AMD version currently leads all single-tower air coolers in its database and ranks second overall, including larger dual-tower cooling solutions.

As modern processors continue to consume more power during demanding workloads, cooling solutions must balance thermal performance with compatibility and ease of installation. Cooler Master says the V8 ACE 3DHP was developed to meet these requirements while avoiding the size, weight, and clearance limitations often associated with larger air coolers.

“The V8 ACE 3DHP represents the direction Cooler Master is taking with thermal design,” said Gustavo Chiu, Co-CEO of Cooler Master. “Compared with conventional heat pipes, 3DHP lets a similar-sized heatsink deliver superior cooling performance. With 3DHP, we are bringing our thermal authority from our broader cooling R&D into a product for consumers. It is powerful, precise, and more useful than the oversized approach that usually defines high-end air cooling.”

The cooler is available in separate Intel and AMD variants, each optimized for the physical and thermal characteristics of its respective platform. Intel models support LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1151, LGA 1150, LGA 1155, and LGA 1156 sockets, while AMD models support AM5 and AM4 platforms. Cooler Master says the platform-specific design helps improve mounting pressure, contact quality, and heat transfer.

Visually, the V8 ACE 3DHP takes inspiration from the appearance of a V8 engine. The cooler features a bold industrial design without RGB lighting, focusing instead on thermal performance, durability, and the company’s V-series heritage.

Key Features

• Patented 3DHP technology for improved heat transfer from CPU hotspots
• Platform-specific Intel and AMD versions
• Dual 120 x 30 mm PWM LCP fans
• Loop Dynamic Bearing fan design
• Tool-free sliding fan mechanism for easier installation and memory access
• Six-year warranty

The Cooler Master V8 ACE 3DHP is available now through Amazon, Newegg, and selected Cooler Master retail partners. The launch continues the company’s long history of cooling innovation, spanning traditional heat pipe coolers, vapor chambers, superconductive composite heat pipes, and thermal solutions for consumer, industrial, server, telecom, automotive, and AI applications.

Cooler Master has launched the V8 ACE 3DHP, its flagship single-tower CPU air cooler utilizing patented 3D Heat Pipe technology. The cooler arrives in separate platform-optimised Intel and AMD versions and is available starting today in select regions.

Independent hardware testing lab Cybenetics has validated the V8 ACE 3DHP cooler's performance, ranking it first among all single-tower air coolers in its database and second overall against larger dual-tower designs. To achieve this, Cooler Master employs a hybrid layout that combines two 3DHP elements with four conventional heat pipes. This design transfers heat from the CPU hotspot to the fin stack without increasing the cooler's physical footprint.

Airflow is managed by dual 120x30mm PWM LCP fans equipped with Loop Dynamic Bearings. A tool-free sliding fan mechanism simplifies installation and provides easier access to system memory. Visually, the cooler features a non-LED industrial design inspired by a V8 engine.

Platform-specific tuning distinguishes between Intel and AMD models to optimise contact pressure and fit. The Intel variant supports sockets spanning LGA1851, 1700, 1200, and 115x, while the AMD variant accommodates AM5 and AM4 sockets. Cooler Master bundles the hardware with a six-year warranty. The cooler is now available for $119.99/€109.90

KitGuru says: Cooler Master's focus on engineering a high-performing single-tower solution using 3D heat pipe technology gives builders a dual-tower performance alternative with better case and RAM clearance.

The post Cooler Master V8 ACE 3DHP single-tower air cooler officially launches first appeared on KitGuru.

Chieftec has introduced the Iceberg Pro 360 series, a new lineup of 360mm all-in-one liquid CPU coolers featuring an integrated centrifugal VRM fan built directly into the pump housing.

The new series includes two distinct models: the Iceberg Pro 360 RGB and the Iceberg Pro 360 Dark. Both configurations deploy a 360mm aluminium radiator alongside an aerospace-inspired pump design. Chieftec aims to improve overall motherboard thermal performance by using the integrated pump fan to actively direct airflow over nearby VRMs, M.2 SSDs, and memory modules.

Cable management and installation are said to be streamlined with the company's Snap-On interlocking 120mm radiator fans, which spin up to 2200 RPM. Other performance figures for the fans include a rated airflow of 64.72 CFM and a rated air pressure of 3.06 mmH2O. The VRAM fan speed is rated at 500-2200RPM.

Illumination choices separate the two variants: the RGB model uses ARGB/PWM fans, while the Dark edition swaps them for non-illuminated PWM fans to achieve a clean, all-black look. Aside from the fans, both coolers share the same structural framework. Socket compatibility spans Intel LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, and LGA115x, as well as AMD AM5 and AM4.

KitGuru says: Integrating a VRM fan into an AIO pump block isn't new, but it's proven to help reduce temperatures. Do you consider a VRM fan a plus when choosing AIOs, or is it something you just ignore?

The post New Chieftec Iceberg Pro 360 AIO series features interlocking fans and VRM cooling first appeared on KitGuru.

Noctua confirmed the upcoming release of its “NL-LC1 chromax.black series” AIO liquid coolers via its official YouTube account. In response to a user query, the company stated that the all-black variant is planned for release around the end of the year, even though it hasn't been mentioned in the updated roadmap.

Wccftech was the first to spot Noctua's comment on YouTube. Standard configurations for the original NL-LC1 series, launched on June 16th (and our review HERE), represent the brand's very first foray into the all-in-one liquid cooling market and are available in 240mm, 360mm, and 420mm sizes. Noctua equips the 240mm and 360mm versions with NF-A12x25 G2 fans, while the larger 420mm unit uses NF-A14x25 G2 fans.

All three models are built around the Asetek Emma V2 platform and include the custom NL-PNA1 pump noise absorber. The integrated pump firmware features three selectable speed profiles: quiet, balanced, and manual. Each package also contains a tube of NT-H2 thermal paste and comes backed by a 6-year manufacturer's warranty.

Pricing for the existing standard models is set at $219.90/€219.90 for the NL-LC1-24, $249.90/€249.90 for the NL-LC1-36, and $279.90/€279.90 for the NL-LC1-42. Buyers can also pick up the optional NL-ACF1 auxiliary fan for $19.90 to replace the magnetic pump faceplate. For the chromax.black, pricing should be slightly higher, as usual for the series.

KitGuru says: An all-black chromax.black version of the NL-LC1 will be a welcome option for builders who want Noctua's liquid-cooling performance without the traditional brown-and-beige aesthetic.

The post Noctua confirms its NL-LC1 AIOs will also be available in chromax.black first appeared on KitGuru.

Noctua has released an updated product roadmap outlining launch windows for hardware teased at Computex 2026. The updated roadmap shows that Noctua's new low-profile AM5 CPU cooler will be arriving next year, alongside new ‘Noctua Edition' power supplies from Seasonic. 

According to VideoCardz, the upcoming low-profile AM5 cooler features a 70mm height design based on the NH-L12 series. Noctua utilises six 6mm copper heat pipes, dense aluminium fins, and a 120mm NF-A12x25 G2 fan to dissipate heat. Additionally, the configuration preserves 35mm of RAM height clearance for Mini-ITX motherboard compatibility. According to the company, this cooler is officially slated for a Q2 2027 release window.

Closer releases based on the roadmap include the NT-CP1 carbon nanotube thermal pad for AM4 and AM5 sockets, launching in Q3 of this year alongside the Pulsar Feinmann F01 Noctua Edition mouse. A Noctua Edition of Thermal Grizzly's WireView Pro II monitoring tool is also scheduled for Q3 2026.

Lastly, the roadmap shows a 140mm desk fan and a USB fan controller for Q1 2027 and slots the Seasonic Prime PX Noctua Edition and the next-generation Seasonic Prime TX Noctua Edition power supplies into Q2 2027. Next-generation workstation CPU coolers share the same Q2 2027 timeline.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: What upcoming Noctua product are you the most excited about?

The post Noctua updates product roadmap with low-profile AM5 cooler and Seasonic PSUs first appeared on KitGuru.

ARCTIC has introduced the new Freezer 4U Altra CPU cooler, a cooling solution built for Ampere Altra LGA4926 processors used in servers and professional workstations. The cooler is designed to deliver reliable thermal performance while fitting inside standard 4U server racks and compact workstation cases.

The Freezer 4U Altra features a compact design with a height of only 145 mm, making it suitable for systems where space is limited. Despite its smaller size, the cooler is built to handle the cooling needs of powerful processors running demanding workloads.

To improve airflow, ARCTIC has equipped the cooler with two 120 mm PWM fans in a push-pull setup. These fans are optimized for high static pressure, helping move air efficiently through the heatsink. The design aims to provide strong cooling performance while keeping noise levels under control.

The fans also use dual ball bearings, which are known for their durability and long lifespan. This makes the Freezer 4U Altra a good option for servers that operate around the clock in professional environments.

ARCTIC says the cooler offers a wide fan speed range, allowing users to balance cooling performance, noise levels, and power consumption based on their system requirements.

The ARCTIC Freezer 4U Altra is available now through Amazon, eBay, and selected retail partners. It is currently priced at $55.49, while its suggested retail price is listed at $80.49.

Today we're taking a look at something that has been a very long time coming – the NL-LC1-36, Noctua's first-ever all-in-one liquid CPU cooler. It's built around Asetek's EMMA V2 platform, paired with several Noctua-specific enhancements including NF-A12x25 G2 fans, a dedicated pump noise absorber, SecuFirm2+ mounting hardware and an optional auxiliary fan designed to improve airflow around nearby motherboard components. As expected, Noctua is aiming the focus on acoustics, reliability and attention to detail that made its air coolers so popular over the years, but now implementing that into liquid cooling. In this review, we'll be testing installation, build quality, acoustics and, of course, thermal performance to see how the NL-LC1-36 compares against the best 360mm AIO coolers currently on the market.

Timestamps:

00:00 Start
01:11 Versions and pricing
02:06 Product information
03:56 The Mode Switch / Sound Tests
04:56 Top Cover and fan accessory
06:12 Coldplate and fitment
06:50 James thoughts so far
07:12 The Fans / kit
09:07 Accessories
10:27 Setting up the test system
12:33 Noise Output
13:20 CPU Temperature – Manual OC, 100% fans
13:58 CPU Temperature – Manual OC, 40dBA
14:37 CPU Temp and Clocks – PBO
15:21 James Closing Thoughts

Features:

• Based on Asetek’s Emma V2 Platform – Asetek’s flagship pump that uses a closed impeller design for improved efficiency and performance. Compared with its predecessor Emma V2 provides 58% higher flow rate, and 124% higher head pressure as well as offering a 40% reduction in energy consumption.
• Equipped with Noctua NL-PNA1 Pump Noise Absorber – Improved pump acoustics by reducing SPL and shifting the pump's sound signature towards lower, less distracting noise frequency.
• High Purity Copper Cold Plate – Manufactured from 99.95% CU110 copper with a large 32.5 x 22.5mm micro-skived fin array.
• Noctua NF-A12/A14x25 G2 Fans Included – All Noctua NL-LC1 series AIO’s include Noctua NF-A12 or A14 X25 G2 fans

Specifications:

• CPU Socket Compatibility: AMD AM5/AM4, Intel LGA1700/LGA1851
• Radiator Material: Aluminium
• Radiator Dimensions: 400x120x30mm
• CPU Block/Pump Dimensions:
• Pump Speed: 750~3400 RPM (±10 %) Max (Manual Mode)
• Cold Plate Material: Micro Skived Copper
• Pump Connector: 4-Pin PWM
• Tubing Material: EPDM with braided sleeving
• Tubing Length: 410mm
• Fan Dimensions: 120 x120 x25mm
• Fan Speed: 0 – 1800 rpm
• Air flow: 63.15 CFM
• Air Pressure: 3.14 mm H₂O
• Fan Noise: 22.5 dB(A) (Per Fan)
• Fan Connector: 4 – Pin PWM
• Warranty: 6 years

Test System Specifications:

• CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X
• Motherboard: ASRock Phantom Gaming X870E Nova WiFi
• Memory: 32GB G.SKILLTrident Z5 RGB DDR5-6000
• Graphics card: MSI Radeon RX 6600 XT Gaming X
• Storage: 1TB Corsair MP600 Elite PCIe Gen4x4 NVME M.2 SSD
• Power Supply: Seasonic Prime TX-1600
• Chassis: Open Test Bench
• Thermal Compound: Arctic MX-6
• O/S: Windows 11 Version 24H2

The post Noctua NL-LC1-360 360mm AIO CPU Cooler Review first appeared on KitGuru.

PCCooler is pretty new to the market and they are hoping that their CPS RZ820 Display will make a big splash.  Seeing as how it weighs a hair under 2kg it will…