Gone are those days when the CPU coolers were only about taming down the CPU temps. Nowadays, most gamers also want aesthetics and the latest features like a display on the CPU cooler.
There are many CPU coolers available with an LCD screen on it. After testing many such coolers, I shortlisted the best ones.
Among them, the ASUS ROG RYUJIN II 360 ARGB turns out to be the overall best CPU cooler with a screen.
Best CPU Cooler With Screens Reviewed
| Award | Model | Screen |
|---|---|---|
| Editor’s Pick | ASUS ROG RYUJIN II 360 ARGB | 3.5" LCD |
| Runner Up | NZXT Kraken Z63 | 2.36" LCD |
| Best Value | MSI MPG CORELIQUID K360 | 2.4" LCD |
| Best 280mm AIO | GIGABYTE AORUS RGB AIO 280 | 2.36" LCD |
| Best 120mm AIO | ASUS ROG RYOU 120 RGB | 1.77" OLED |
We live in a day and age where we are getting a CPU cooling solution with a screen. Sounds awesome, isn’t it?
What’s great about this type of CPU cooling solution is that you would be able to view various performance metrics through the screens.
Also, the flairs that you will be able to add are worth mentioning.
So, what are we waiting for? Let’s get straight into the details.
Here are the five best CPU coolers with a screen:
1. Editor’s Pick: ASUS ROG RYUJIN II 360 ARGB
Key Specifications
Display: 3.5″ LCD
Radiator Size: 360mm
Fan Speed: 600-2200 RPM
Fan Noise: 36.45 dBA
- »The largest LCD display on an AIO
- »Superb thermal performance
- »Great for overclocked CPUs
- »ARGB fans for the radiator
- »Expensive
Why We Picked It
As a PC hardware brand, ASUS doesn’t need any introduction. They have been here in the market for a long time and became a symbol of trust for gamers.
That said, this version from the ROG Ryujin series is a serious contender if you want to buy a cooler with a screen.
The specialty of this cooler is that it is an all-rounder. At normal modes, it can keep processor temps low at a tolerable noise level.
It consists of 3 ROG ARGB fans, which can push around 70 CFM air. This ensures high static pressures and also good airflow through the radiator. Besides, you’ll like the tubes incorporated in the radiator as these are highly bendable.
Performance-wise, I would say that the overclockers will experience a performance boost by using this cooler. The cooling head and pump are incorporated into a much larger pumping station, which is one reason why such outputs are there. The pump also has an embedded fan that spins at up to 4800 RPM.
The temps that I found on my testing were at a considerable level.
Also, the three 120mm fans feature ARGB LEDs which are configurable via the software. The CPU block has a 3.5″ LCD display which is the largest on any AIO liquid cooler. Like other AIO CPU coolers, it can also portray the system details such as those from AIDA64 Extreme. You can display custom graphics on the screen too.
But the problem with this cooler is that you’ll have to spend a lot of cash on it. It’s one of the most expensive AIOs on the market.
Nonetheless, the 6-year warranty and a superb performance level are enough to attract most gamers to buy the ASUS ROG RYUJIN II 360 ARGB.
Who It’s For
The ASUS ROG RYUJIN II 360 ARGB is for those who have enough cash to get the best CPU cooler with the largest display. If you plan to overclock the CPU, the extra performance of the AIO will come in handy.
Verdict
If you’re building a powerful gaming build, adding the ASUS ROG RYUJIN II 360 ARGB to your lineup is a must.
2. Runner Up: NZXT Kraken Z63
Key Specifications
Display: 2.36″ LCD
Radiator Size: 280mm
Fan Speed: 500-1800 RPM
Fan Noise: 21-38 dBA
- »Great balance between aesthetics and performance
- »Sleek design
- »Top-notch cooling capacity
- »CAM software can be buggy
Why We Picked It
In the PC gaming market, you’ll find a lot of brands promising a lot of things. But when it comes to delivering the performance, most of them can’t meet the expectations.
That said, as a brand, NZXT isn’t one of them. They have a good reputation in the market, which they have built over the years by offering top-notch gaming components.
NZXT, as a brand, is well known for the innovation that is pretty much evident in its products. Most of the components under its belt come with excellent aesthetics. The Kraken series of CPU coolers is one of the best NZXT coolers in the current market.
The model here I am reviewing comes with the sleekest-looking radiator with a black texture. Also, it consists of two Aer P fans, which move out the heat trapped inside very efficiently.
What I liked about this cooler is that it ensures proper cooling management. Compared to the other ones in the Kraken series like X53 or Z73, efficiency and consistency are much emphasized in this model.
Whether it is for gaming, video editing, or HD streams, the heat produced is quickly brought under control through this cooler.
The best part is the CAM software that you can incorporate with this cooler. Though the software can get a bit problematic to handle at times, it’s a perfect option to tweak the configurations.
The process of altering fan speeds, temps, power management, etc. becomes quite flexible.
Aesthetics-wise, I would say that this model has one of the finest implementations. It looks minimalist yet elegant. In my opinion, it seems better than the Kraken X53.
Also, the 2.36″ round LCD screen adds a new dimension to the overall styling. Other than viewing the system stats, you can even display gifs.
The installation of this product is relatively easy. It is lightweight, and since it comes with braided sleeves, you will find it easy to maneuver. Also, under loads, the temps don’t get beyond 65C.
Therefore, you can be highly assured about the quality performance it is going to deliver.
Who It’s For
The NZXT Kraken Z63 is for those who want a top-performing AIO cooler alongside great aesthetics. If you’re building a stealthy gaming PC, this AIO would look great.
Verdict
NZXT is successful in delivering the NZXT Kraken Z63 as an AIO that strikes the perfect balance between cooling performance and design.
3. Best Value: MSI MPG CORELIQUID K360
Key Specifications
Display: 2.4″ LCD
Radiator Size: 360mm
Fan Speed: 500-1800 RPM
Fan Noise: 33.6 dBA
- »Great value for money
- »Excellent cooling performance
- »Decent build quality
- »A bit noisy at high load
Why We Picked It
The third cooler on my list is from MSI. They are a pretty big name in the gaming community, and this model from them lives up to their expectations.
As a liquid cooler, this is the best value option that sports a top-quality LCD.
It sports an additional VRM fan that you can find under the LCD, which provides enough airflow to the CPU socket area and nearby components like VRM and SSD. You won’t find this option in many AIOs, which eventually gives this cooler a slight edge.
That said, this same feature makes this cooler highly suitable for systems that possess lower-tier VRMs and a PC case with inadequate airflow.
The shroud on the CPU block looks pretty decent. It protects the display and creates an integrated look for the cooler by eradicating everything that may give it a bits-and-pieces type of outlook. Also, it plays a big part in moving the airflow to the RAM and VRM areas.
You’ll also love to know that with this cooler, you’ll always find sufficient clearance below the socket. The best part is that this trait allows you to use M.2 drives with massive heatsinks with ease.
About the radiator, what I have found is that the fins are pretty standard. And the non-dense look makes it look aesthetically quite pleasing.
Now, coming to the lighting, you’ll find ten modes of ARGB lighting to give some flair to your build. There is the rainbow effect that you can try out. And also, the bleeding and flashing modes look pretty ecstatic.
The 2.4″ LCD looks nifty, and you can add some extravagant flairs to it without any issues.
Now let’s talk business. Performance is what matters, right? What I have found out with this cooler, at the silent mode, the pump spins at a speed of 2000 RPM, and the CPU remains under 65C.
Besides, the temps around VRM also stay under 50C. The temps have a slight spike at the balanced mode, but I would say it’s well under control if you compare it to the extreme mode.
However, in extreme mode, it can get a bit noisy. In my i7-10700K build, it went up to 48 dBA. It happened mainly due to the extra fans, which at times do get noisy.
Also, another thing you need to know about this cooler is its cable management, which can get tricky at times.
But what makes the MSI MPG CORELIQUID K360 special is its high affordability compared to the other contemporaries. You may feel that you’re going to get cheaper models at the same performance level.
But trust me, with those models, you’re gonna miss out on a lot of features.
Who It’s For
The MSI MPG CORELIQUID K360 is the best option for those who want to get the most out of their hard-earned cash. This AIO offers the best value for money that has an LCD screen.
Verdict
The MSI MPG CORELIQUID K360 is the most value-for-money AIO with a screen. Unless you’re planning to overclock an i9 or a Ryzen 9 CPU, this AIO should provide more than enough cooling performance.
4. Best 280mm AIO: GIGABYTE AORUS RGB AIO 280
Key Specifications
Display: 2.36″ LCD
Radiator Size: 280mm
Fan Speed: 2300 RPM
Fan Noise: 22.3-44.5 dBA
- »Good cooling system
- »Easy installation
- »Low noise thanks to the 140mm fans
- »RGB Fusion software is not polished
- »Applied thermal paste is not good
Why We Picked It
The Aorus line of CPU coolers from Gigabyte is good enough to match the level required for high-end CPUs. This model from them exactly promises that level of output.
One of the main attractions of this liquid cooler is its highly attractive appearance. It will easily blend with your RGB gaming build, thanks to its top-notch RGB lighting on the fan. The combination of lighting and aesthetics makes it one of the best RGB CPU all-in-one liquid coolers on the market.
The 60×60 mm circular LCD on the pump provides an added edge to the aesthetics. Using the RGB Fusion 2.0 software, you can display custom system information such as CPU clock, temperature, etc., and pictures along with the Gigabyte Aorus logo.
It comes with an Asetek base design and consists of locking mechanisms on the mounting brackets. Eventually, such brackets make the installation process quite flexible.
Now, compared to its other variants, it has larger fans, which bear dual ball bearings. The reason behind these bearings is that it helps in low-noise optimized performance.
At first, I was skeptical about the claim made by Gigabyte. But when I tested it on my i7 10th Gen build, I was firmly assured. Even at extreme mode, the fans will produce noise measuring less than 45 dBA. The temps were pretty good.
I had previously used Corsair H60, and compared to that model, the Gigabyte Aorus Liquid cooler is well off in terms of noise and removing heat from the CPU.
The RGB Fusion 2.0 software does have some issues, and the applied stock thermal paste isn’t that great, to be honest. But overall, the cooler doesn’t suck in terms of performance.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a quiet AIO with an LCD screen that performs decently, the GIGABYTE AORUS RGB AIO 280 is for you.
If you don’t have enough space for a 360mm cooler then this 280mm cooler will come in handy as it offers almost the same level of cooling.
Verdict
The GIGABYTE AORUS RGB AIO 280 is one of the best 280mm all-in-one coolers on the market, and certainly the best 280mm AIO with a screen. It also manages to be aesthetically pleasing and emits significantly low noise due to the 140mm fans.
5. Best 120mm AIO: ASUS ROG RYOU 120 RGB
Key Specifications
Display: 1.77″ OLED
Radiator Size: 120mm
Fan Speed: 800-2500 RPM
Fan Noise: 37.6 dBA
- »Best 120mm AIO with an OLED screen
- »Great for mid-range CPU or small PC cases
- »Low noise
- »Not suitable for high-core CPUs
Why We Picked It
The last cooler on my list is from the ROG RYOU series of cooling solutions from ASUS. This looks quite attractive, mainly due to the aluminum-covered pump head.
It has a visually attractive OLED panel, which is highly customizable. You can try out all the predefined options. Also, if you want, you can display memes or GIFs and play around the tiny screen.
But its looks aren’t the best thing that it has to offer.
Performance-wise this cooler is one of the highly reliable options among the 120mm AIOs. While overclocking, my testing results experienced 75C at max.
The fan, when tuned in at 1000 RPM, produced a noise measuring around 28 dBA. Although at turbo, it shoots up to 41 dBA.
Who It’s For
The ASUS ROG RYOU 120 RGB is for those who want to include an AIO with a display on their mini-tower or compact mATX motherboard PC case.
These PC cases don’t have enough space to house a 240mm or 360mm AIO, so a high-performance 120mm AIO makes the perfect sense.
Verdict
Overall, I would say that the liquid cooling performance in ASUS ROG RYOU 120 RGB is a pretty good option to consider. Just the price is a tad high, which won’t be an issue if you are not short of budget.
How We Chose the Best Liquid Cooler With a Display
There aren’t many liquid coolers available with a display on the CPU block. Even then it can be confusing to choose the right one.
It’s important to note that AIOs with a display cost much more than regular AIO. That’s why it’s crucial to only shortlist the best ones, which we’ve done on this list.
Here are the factors we considered while listing the best AIOs with a display:
Cooling Performance
The most important aspect of a liquid cooler is obviously keeping the temperature low. We check how the liquid coolers contribute to keeping the CPU temperature low across a wide range of CPUs from both Intel and AMD.
Display
Since we’re dealing with liquid coolers with a display, obviously the screen is considered an important factor.
We look into the quality of the screen, display type, size, what information it can showcase, how configurable the display is, how’s the software experience, etc.
Noise
Liquid coolers use radiators to dissipate heat from the CPU to the outside, and radiators use multiple fans to get that job done.
Hence we need to take the fan noises into account. Radiator fans which are too noisy can ruin the gaming experience.
Build quality
Build quality is quite important for an AIO as there’s liquid inside it. If the build quality is not good enough, the liquid might spill into the PC components and destroy the whole PC.
FAQ
Question: Can you put an animated GIF on a CPU cooler?
Answer: Yes, you can display GIFs in your CPU cooler that has a screen. The software interface that you use to control various aspects of the cooler now allows you to customize the screen of your cooler to add more aesthetic value.
Question: How to customize LCD on Aorus AIO?
Answer: To customize the LCD on an Aorus AIO, you need to follow three steps: Launch the RGB Fusion app, tap on the graphics card icon, click “LCD Display settings” and start your customization.
Final Thoughts
So, these are the top five CPU coolers with screens that you can get for your gaming build.
Among all these, my best pick is the ASUS ROG RYUJIN II 360 ARGB. It fares up in all aspects and has a considerable competitive edge over other coolers on the list.
If you look for the best value, I would suggest the MSI MPG CORELIQUID K360.
Other than these, the rest of the options are also good to go with. Still, even after this comprehensive review, please let me know if you feel that I missed out on anything.
