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

Testing Results, Maximum Fan Speed

Our maximum speed testing is performed with both the fans and the pump of the kit powered via a 12V DC source. This input voltage should have the pump and fans matching the speed ratings of the manufacturer. According to Corsair’s specifications, the QX120 fans included with the iCUE LINK H150i RGB should have a rotational speed of 2400 RPM. Our tachometer indicated that the fans were rotating at an average speed of 2390 RPM, very close to their rated specifications.

The Corsair iCUE LINK H150i RGB AIO Liquid Cooler marginally surpasses its predecessor, the Elite Capellix, in performance. It features an improved Average Thermal Resistance of 0.0674 °C/W and maintains a sound pressure level (SPL) of 42.8 dB(A). This model demonstrates enhanced efficiency, particularly under low-load conditions, which was a limitation in the previous Elite Capellix version. The redesign of the heat transfer plate is most likely responsible for that improvement. Comparatively, the Corsair iCUE LINK H150i RGB showcased exceptional thermal performance among AIO coolers of similar size and consistent performance across a wide range of loads, narrowly outperforming most competitors.

While the Elite Capellix set a high standard in thermal management, often surpassing competitors at full fan speed, it also registered a Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of 43 dB(A) under these conditions. In contrast, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB manages to slightly reduce this noise footprint to 42.8 dB(A), a measurable but slight improvement that, unfortunately, would not be perceptible by any typical user. Still, all improvements are steps in the right direction.

Testing Results, Low Fan Speed

Using a PWM voltage regulator, we reduced the speed of the fans manually down to half their rated speed. At this setting, the 120 mm QX120 fans of the Corsair iCUE LINK H150i RGB rotate at 1200 RPM.

The Corsair iCUE LINK H150i RGB AIO Liquid Cooler exhibits a slight edge over the previous generation Elite Capellix, with an Average Thermal Resistance of 0.0771 °C/W. This positions it as a top performer among 360 mm coolers, surpassed only by AlphaCool's open-loop kits. However, it is important to note that this performance comes at the cost of increased acoustics, registering a Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of 35.9 dB(A). This is notably louder than the older H150i Pro RGB, yet it offers improved thermal efficiency.

Despite the increase in noise levels compared to the H150i Pro RGB, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB's enhanced thermal performance is noteworthy. This improvement suggests that the cooler might achieve comparable performance to its quieter predecessor if the fan speeds are adjusted to lower levels. The data indicates that while the iCUE LINK H150i RGB's fans operate at a higher speed to achieve this thermal efficiency, resulting in increased noise, it still maintains a competitive edge in cooling performance within its category.

Thermal Resistance VS Sound Pressure Level

During our thermal resistance vs. sound pressure level test, we maintain a steady 100W thermal load and assess the overall performance of the coolers by taking multiple temperature and sound pressure level readings within the operating range of the stock cooling fans. The result is a graph that depicts the absolute thermal resistance of the cooler in comparison to the noise generated. For both the sound pressure level and absolute thermal resistance readings, lower figures are better.

The Corsair iCUE LINK H150i RGB shows an overall enhancement in performance compared to the H150i Elite Capellix, and even slightly surpasses the H150i Pro RGB across its entire operational range. Similarly to the H150i Elite Capellix, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB relies on fast 2400 RPM fans for peak thermal efficiency. However, the iCUE LINK H150i RGB manages to offer better cooling at comparable noise levels, bringing the curve slightly below that of the Elite Capellix.

This improvement suggests that the iCUE LINK H150i RGB could maintain a competitive edge in cooling performance even when operated with its fans at low speeds, similar to those of the venerable H150i Pro RGB. The data further highlights that the advantage of a long and thin 360 mm radiator, as seen in these models, does not significantly benefit from higher airflow due to its extensive heat transfer surface.