What To Know
- The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 boasts a larger radiator surface area and three 120mm fans, resulting in a higher cooling capacity compared to the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240.
- If you have a mid-range system with a CPU that has a TDP of up to 150W, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 is a cost-effective and compact solution.
- On the other hand, if you have a high-end system with a CPU that has a TDP of 200W or more, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 is the better choice for maximum cooling performance.
When it comes to high-performance CPU cooling, Arctic’s Liquid Freezer II series has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional performance and value. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of two popular models from this series: the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 and the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360. We will analyze their key features, performance metrics, and suitability for different system configurations to help you make an informed decision about which one is the best fit for your needs.
Performance Comparison: Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 vs 360
Cooling Capacity:
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 boasts a larger radiator surface area and three 120mm fans, resulting in a higher cooling capacity compared to the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240. It can effectively dissipate more heat, making it ideal for high-end CPUs with high TDP (Thermal Design Power).
Noise Levels:
Both coolers feature PWM-controlled fans that adjust their speed based on the system’s temperature. At low to medium fan speeds, both coolers operate quietly. However, at higher fan speeds, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 may generate slightly higher noise levels due to the additional fan.
Compatibility:
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 and Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 are compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD CPU sockets. However, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 requires more case space due to its larger radiator size.
Features Comparison: Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 vs 360
Radiator Size:
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 features a 240mm radiator, while the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 has a larger 360mm radiator. The larger radiator surface area of the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 provides more cooling potential.
Fan Configuration:
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 comes with two 120mm fans, while the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 includes three 120mm fans. The additional fan on the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 contributes to its increased cooling capacity.
Pump Design:
Both coolers utilize a high-performance pump that ensures efficient coolant circulation. The pump is designed to operate quietly and reliably, even under heavy loads.
Suitability for Different System Configurations
Mid-Range Systems:
For mid-range systems with CPUs that have a TDP of up to 150W, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 is a suitable choice. It offers adequate cooling performance and is relatively compact, making it a good fit for smaller cases.
High-End Systems:
For high-end systems with CPUs that have a TDP of 200W or more, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 is a better option. Its larger radiator and three fans provide superior cooling capacity, ensuring that your high-performance CPU remains cool even under demanding workloads.
Aesthetics and Customization
Design:
Both coolers feature a sleek and understated design with a black finish. The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 has a more compact design, while the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 has a larger footprint due to its bigger radiator.
RGB Lighting:
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 and Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 do not come with RGB lighting. However, there are aftermarket solutions available if you desire customizable lighting effects in your system.
Price Comparison: Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 vs 360
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 is typically priced lower than the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 due to its smaller radiator and fewer fans. The price difference can vary depending on the retailer and current market conditions.
Final Note: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the choice between the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 and the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 depends on your specific system requirements and budget. If you have a mid-range system with a CPU that has a TDP of up to 150W, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 is a cost-effective and compact solution. On the other hand, if you have a high-end system with a CPU that has a TDP of 200W or more, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 is the better choice for maximum cooling performance.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Which cooler is better for overclocking?
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 is better suited for overclocking high-end CPUs due to its superior cooling capacity.
2. Can I use either cooler in a compact case?
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 is a more compact option and is better suited for smaller cases.
3. Is the installation process difficult?
Both coolers come with detailed installation manuals and are relatively easy to install.
4. What is the warranty period for these coolers?
Both the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 and Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 come with a 5-year warranty.
5. Which cooler is quieter at low fan speeds?
Both coolers operate quietly at low fan speeds, but the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240 may be slightly quieter due to its smaller fan configuration.
