The Corsair iCUE LINK H150i RGB 360mm AIO Cooler Review: Colorful Connections

Conclusion

The latest generation in the long line of AIO coolers from Corsair, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB AIO Liquid Cooler represents the culmination of over a decade of development in the realm of all-in-one CPU coolers. In a market teeming with AIO solutions, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB stands out, reflecting Corsair's dedication to innovative design and quality. This cooler showcases Corsair's commitment to using premium materials and superior construction techniques, ensuring a product that not only performs well but is also built to last.

The key highlight of the iCUE LINK H150i RGB is its seamless integration into the iCUE ecosystem, a cornerstone of Corsair's product strategy. This integration offers users extensive programmability, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality. The synergy created through the iCUE software extends beyond the cooler, allowing for comprehensive system-wide customization. This includes the ability to synchronize lighting effects across all compatible devices or adjust cooler settings based on specific user profiles. However, this advanced feature set is best utilized with other iCUE LINK-compatible devices, limiting its full potential to within the Corsair ecosystem.

In terms of design, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB follows the standard AIO layout but stands apart with its sleek, cable-free appearance. The use of black sleeved low-permeation rubber tubing adds to its aesthetic and functional appeal. The cooler's radiator, at 397 mm in length, is substantial and optimized for performance with its low airflow resistance design. This design choice ensures efficient cooling even under minimal air pressure conditions.

The main block assembly, with its detachable top plate, offers customization options for users looking to personalize their cooler's appearance. Furthermore, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB is equipped with a square copper contact plate for optimal thermal performance, complemented by Corsair’s high-quality XTM70 thermal paste. The iCUE LINK H150i RGB's cooling efficiency is further enhanced by its magnetic levitation QX120 RGB fans, which are both reliable and operate quietly. The fans' unique design allows for a wire-free look, contributing to the overall sleekness of the setup.

The Corsair iCUE LINK H150i RGB AIO Liquid Cooler represents a small but measurable advancement in cooling technology, showcasing outstanding performance across various operational conditions. It features an improved average thermal resistance of 0.0674 °C/W, indicating its high efficiency in heat dissipation. Performance under low-load scenarios has particularly improved, a notable enhancement from its predecessor. Despite its powerful cooling capabilities, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB can reach a high sound pressure level (SPL) of 42.8 dB(A) with its fans at maximum speed, negating acoustic comfort. Nonetheless, the QX120 fans are extremely versatile and can be operated at any speed, or even stop completely, according to the fan/cooling profile the user selects from inside the iCUE software.

With street pricing for the Corsair iCUE LINK H150i RGB AIO Liquid Cooler running at around $205, the latest H150i cooler represents a premium choice in the realm of high-end cooling solutions, with all of the positives and negatives that entails. Its unique cable-free design not only contributes to a cleaner and more streamlined build but also sets it apart in the crowded market for AIO coolers. The H150i's exceptional application of lighting offers a visually striking and customizable experience, elevating both aesthetics and functionality.

Performance-wise, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB delivers very good cooling efficiency and a very broad operational range, offering exceptional flexibility. And though the price tag is certainly stiff, for users who are willing to invest in a high-budget setup and plan to incorporate multiple iCUE compatible devices, the the H150i is going to be particularly appealing, thanks to its high performance and seamless synergy with the rest of the aestheticly-minded iCUE system.