Almost all of us will clearly understand that a 120mm AIO liquid-cooled will, as a rule, perform less well than other models with larger radiators due to the simple fact that they have more large area in which to dissipate heat. However, these small-sized liquid refrigerators are still sold in most stores, and as their sales volume has dropped significantly in favor of larger models, their price has gradually been reduced.
Is a 120mm AIO worth it with current processors?
The problem with the “niche market” for all-in-one liquid cooling kits is that it’s almost always aimed at keen users, or at least gaming PCs. These types of users are always on the lookout for. best possible performance, and for this reason they almost always reject AIO models with “small” radiators such as the 120mm, as the larger models will provide them with better performance from the start.
In addition, there is no doubt that aesthetically a larger radiator is preferable as a 120mm radiator will usually only be installed on the back of the case, while the larger models are installed on the ceiling or even in the in front of the box, something that accompanied by RGB fans creates an aesthetic more of the style of play that we are already used to.
As we mentioned earlier, in terms of performance, liquid coolers with a 120mm radiator are at a distinct disadvantage compared to models with larger radiators because they have a smaller area on which to dissipate heat and, in fact, fact, have one or a maximum. two fans for that. However, despite this, these are still very valid models to keep processors passionate about good temperature out of range
It is true that it is difficult for a 120mm liquid AIO to keep a high end or enthusiast processor with a very high TDP at a good temperature, but for “normal” processors (low, medium and even medium range- high) they have a great performance, and you already know that this type of heat sink offers many advantages over air heaters, starting with the aesthetics and the space they occupy.
In any case, if the manufacturers continue to sell this type of product, it is because they still have a place in the market, and answer the question of whether they are worth it, really yes they deserve it. It is true that if your box supports bigger radiators and your budget can afford it, you will have a better result in all aspects with models with bigger radiators, but there are times when you cannot. have it all and you have to choose.
Ultimately, not all boxes have space to install large radiators (or maybe depending on how you designed the box airflow, you’re more interested in box fans. and not a radiator in this position) or everyone You can spend the money they cost, because the vast majority of models on the market are over 100 dollars, while for 60 you can already buy many 120 models mm quite worthy.