INTRODUCTION

   With a single exception (I9-7980XE system) whenever i build a new test rig for my reviews i mostly care about 3 things, interior tower space, component performance and cooling efficiency. Yes, looks is always good to have if you can (RGB lighting does look nice) but sometimes looks just don't go hand to hand with some components and honestly, I’d never put them over performance. This of course is something we mostly see with PC cases (the really large and premium models are clearly not as good looking as their smaller brothers) and CPU coolers (take Noctua models for example). Today the majority of AIO liquid CPU coolers also feature design/looks oriented features like RGB lighting but there are still some exceptions out there like the Liquid Freezer II 420 by ARCTIC.

   ARCTIC, a leading manufacturer of low-noise PC coolers and components, initiated and continues to shape the trend towards quiet cooling systems. In addition to an extensive range of CPU/GPU coolers and fans, ARCTIC produces high-quality monitor arms and wall brackets as well as practical tech equipment. The company, headed by founder Magnus Huber, has offices in Germany, Hong Kong and the USA. It has won over PC enthusiasts in more than 45 countries with innovative and user-friendly products that are high quality and sold at fair prices. For almost 20 years, ARCTIC has stood for comfortable computing, stellar service and personal support.

   The Liquid Freezer II line of AIO by ARCTIC currently includes 120/240/280/360/420mm models (the 240 variant is now also available with RGB and A-RGB fans) all of which feature 38mm thick aluminum radiators (quite a jump compared to the 27mm thick ones used with most AIO models out there currently). The 420 model in particular is a tri-fan model that uses three 140mm Arctic P4 PWM fans (1700RPM/72.8CFM/2.4mmH2O/22.5dBA), 450mm long braided EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) tubes and a PWM pump/waterblock combo (2000RPM/copper plate) which is also equipped with a top 3000RPM VRM fan (according to Artic this helps cool the VRMs of your motherboard). Two things which are certainly worth pointing out is that the entire AIO is powered by a 4pin PWM motherboard connector (5.3W consumption for the entire AIO) and is covered by a very generous 6-year limited warranty.