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The Lian Li Galahad II Performance 360 is an all-in-one (AIO) liquid CPU cooler that aims to deliver high-performance cooling with a touch of style. This 360mm radiator cooler caters to gamers and enthusiasts seeking to tame even the hottest processors while maintaining a quiet and visually appealing system. Let’s have a close look on it:
Performance:
The Galahad II Performance 360 doesn’t just boast increased cooling capacity compared to its standard counterpart; it provides quantifiable improvements. Lian Li claims an 11% increase in heat transfer efficiency thanks to the larger copper cold plate and improved fin design. This translates to lower CPU temperatures, allowing you to push your overclocks further or simply enjoy cooler and quieter operation under stock settings.
Lian Li’s benchmark results show the Galahad II Performance 360 keeping the Intel Core i9-12900K at an average of 63°C under full load, a significant improvement over the standard Galahad II’s 72°C. Independent reviewers have also reported similar impressive temperature control, with some even observing overclocking headroom thanks to the cooler’s enhanced capabilities.
Noise Concerns:
While delivering strong cooling, the Galahad II Performance 360 prioritizes maintaining a balance with noise levels. The included LCP fans utilize advanced fluid dynamic bearings, known for their quiet operation. Lian Li claims a noise level range of 31.4 dB(A) to 39.9 dB(A) depending on fan speed. This translates to a near-silent experience at lower RPMs and a manageable hum at maximum fan speed, only noticeable under heavy loads.
Additional Considerations:
- The 360mm radiator offers a larger surface area for heat dissipation compared to smaller AIO coolers, further contributing to efficient cooling.
- The increased pump speed (31% faster) ensures efficient water circulation throughout the loop, maximizing heat transfer from the CPU to the radiator.
Aesthetics and Features:
Beyond performance, the Galahad II Performance 360 shines in its visual appeal and user-friendly features:
The radiator and fans offer feature customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to synchronize colors and effects with other RGB components in your build, creating a cohesive and visually stunning aesthetic. The 45-Degree Swiveling innovative connectors offer greater flexibility during installation and cable management. This allows for cleaner aesthetics within the case, improving overall build quality and airflow. The black braided nylon sleeves on the tubing add a touch of sophistication and durability to the cooler’s overall look.
The Liquid Crystal Polymer fan blades offer a unique visual element while ensuring efficient airflow and quieter operation. Lian Li includes three different pump cap options: Dazzle Mode, Sink Hole, and Duo-Infinity. These caps allow for further customization, letting you personalize the look of your cooling solution to match your system’s theme.
Compatibility and Installation:
The Galahad II Performance 360 boasts broad compatibility with popular CPU sockets, ensuring wider user accessibility:
- Intel LGA 1700, 1200, and 115x sockets
- AMD AM5 and AM4 platforms
Lian Li emphasizes a user-friendly installation process thanks to the included mounting system. This caters to both experienced builders and newcomers, simplifying the integration of the cooler into your system.
Here are some additional points to consider regarding compatibility and installation:
- Case Size: Due to its 360mm radiator size, ensure your case has ample space for the cooler’s installation. Check your case’s radiator clearance specifications before purchasing.
- Pre-applied Thermal Paste: The cooler comes with pre-applied thermal paste for your convenience. However, some users may prefer to choose their own thermal paste solution.
- Software Control: The included L-Connect 3 software allows for monitoring and customization of fan speeds, pump speed, and RGB lighting effects.
Competitors:
It’s important to consider its competitors and alternatives before making your final decision. There are many other robust CPU coolers for gamers. Two of the key contenders are:
- Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 ARGB: This popular option offers similar cooling performance to the Galahad II Performance 360 at a slightly lower price point. It also features addressable RGB lighting and quiet operation. However, it may not have the same level of visual customization and premium aesthetics as the Lian Li cooler.
- Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML360 Sub Zero ARGB: This high-end AIO boasts even better cooling performance than both the Galahad II and the Arctic Liquid Freezer II, thanks to its integrated fan controller and support for push-pull fan configurations. However, it comes at a significantly higher price tag.
Also Read: Be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 CPU Cooler | Gamers Guide Review
Alternatives:
- Air Coolers: While not as visually striking as AIO coolers, high-performance air coolers like the Noctua NH-D15 or be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 offer excellent cooling performance at a lower cost and quieter noise levels. However, they require significant case clearance and may not be suitable for all builds.
- Smaller Radiator AIOs: If your case size is limited, consider 240mm or 280mm radiator AIOs like the NZXT Kraken X53 or the Corsair H100i Elite Capellix. These coolers offer decent cooling performance for mid-range CPUs and still feature RGB lighting and user-friendly installation.
What to Consider:
Consider the following factors:
- Budget: The Galahad II Performance 360 sits in a mid-range price point. Consider how much you’re willing to spend and compare it to the cost of competitors and alternatives.
- Cooling Needs: If you have a high-end CPU and plan to overclock, a powerful AIO like the Galahad II or the MasterLiquid ML360 Sub Zero might be necessary. If not, a smaller AIO or even a high-performance air cooler might suffice.
- Noise Levels: The Galahad II offers a balance between performance and noise. If near-silent operation is crucial, consider air coolers or AIOs with lower RPM fan profiles.
- Aesthetics: The Galahad II shines in its visual appeal with RGB lighting and premium details. If aesthetics are important to you, compare it to other visually striking AIOs.
- Case Size: Ensure your case has enough space for the 360mm radiator of the Galahad II. Smaller cases might require alternative cooling solutions.
Specs Table:
| Feature | Specification |
| Type | All-in-One (AIO) Liquid CPU Cooler |
| Radiator Material | Aluminum |
| Radiator Dimensions (L x W x H) | 397.5 mm x 123.5 mm x 27 mm |
| Fan Size | 120 mm x 120 mm x 25 mm |
| Number of Fans | 3 |
| Fan Speed | 900 RPM – 4,200 RPM |
| Fan Airflow | 31.45 CFM – 81.96 CFM (per fan) |
| Fan Noise Level | 31.4 dB(A) – 39.9 dB(A) |
| Pump Speed | 2,900 RPM – 3,200 RPM |
| Pump Noise Level | 16.59 dB(A) |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 115x |
| Lighting | Addressable RGB (fans and pump) |
| Warranty | 5 years |
Bottom Line:
The Lian Li Galahad II Performance 360 is a compelling option for PC builders seeking a powerful and stylish AIO cooler. It offers strong cooling performance, customizable RGB lighting, and a user-friendly design, making it a well-rounded choice for those who prioritize both thermal performance and aesthetics in their gaming rigs. However, it’s important to consider your case size and budget before making a purchase, as 360mm radiators can be quite large and the cooler might be on the pricier side compared to some air coolers.