Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix radiator
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Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix AIO Cooler Review: Top-Tier Cooling Performance

The AIO cooler market has seen a surge of innovation in recent years, with manufacturers like MSI and ASUS releasing upgraded versions of their liquid coolers. Corsair, a leading name in gaming peripherals, joins the fray with the Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix, their largest and most advanced AIO cooler to date. This review explores the features and performance of this high-end cooling solution.

The Rise of 420mm AIOs

For a long time, 360mm radiators were considered the pinnacle of PC cooling, offering sufficient thermal dissipation for even the most demanding CPUs. However, the increasing core counts and power consumption of modern processors, coupled with the growing popularity of overclocking, have created a demand for even more robust cooling solutions. This has led to the emergence of 420mm AIOs, like the Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix, designed to handle the heat generated by these high-performance systems.

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix radiatorCorsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix radiator

The demand for larger radiators is driven by the increasing thermal output of modern, high-core-count CPUs.

Close-up of Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix radiatorClose-up of Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix radiator

Overclocking has also contributed to the need for more powerful cooling solutions.

Premium Design and Build

The Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix’s premium positioning is evident in its packaging and design. The sleek black box, reminiscent of Corsair’s other high-end products like the K100 RGB keyboard, sets it apart from their mid-range offerings. The radiator is robust and well-constructed, resisting bending and flexing. Details like the polished metal logo and metal fittings further enhance the premium feel.

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix packagingCorsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix packaging

The packaging reflects the premium nature of the Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix.

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix unboxingCorsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix unboxing

High-quality materials and attention to detail are evident in the cooler’s construction.

Capellix Lighting and Pump Performance

The square CPU block features Corsair’s Capellix RGB lighting, offering vibrant and customizable illumination. A white cover is included for those who prefer a different aesthetic. While the cooler lacks an LCD screen, a current trend in high-end AIOs, the Capellix LEDs provide ample visual customization through the iCUE software. The pump, likely Asetek’s 7th generation, operates quietly and efficiently, minimizing noise and eliminating the gurgling sounds often associated with AIO pumps.

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix CPU blockCorsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix CPU block

The CPU block features Corsair’s vibrant Capellix RGB lighting.

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix alternate white coverCorsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix alternate white cover

A white cover is included for alternative styling options.

Powerful Fans and Intelligent Control

The H170i Elite Capellix comes equipped with three ML RGB PWM 140mm fans, featuring magnetic levitation bearings for quiet operation and extended lifespan. These fans can reach speeds of up to 1200 RPM, delivering 55.4 CFM of airflow, a significant improvement over Corsair’s SP120 RGB ELITE fans. The inclusion of these high-performance fans adds significant value to the package. The Corsair Commander Core controller, included with the cooler, allows for precise fan and lighting control through the iCUE software, enabling features like Ultra Low Noise mode for optimized acoustics.

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix fansCorsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix fans

The included ML RGB PWM 140mm fans provide excellent airflow and customizable lighting.

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix Commander CoreCorsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix Commander Core

The Commander Core enables granular control over fan speeds and lighting effects.

Installation and Compatibility

While the H170i Elite Capellix is compatible with a wide range of cases, its large size makes it ideal for full-tower cases like Corsair’s 7000 series. The Commander Core simplifies installation by eliminating the need for a USB connection to the motherboard.

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix cable managementCorsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix cable management

The Commander Core simplifies cable management and installation.

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix installedCorsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix installed

The large size of the cooler is best suited for full-tower cases.

Conclusion

The Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix offers a premium cooling solution for demanding systems. Its robust design, powerful fans, and intelligent control deliver exceptional performance while maintaining low noise levels. The vibrant Capellix lighting and comprehensive iCUE integration provide extensive customization options. While the lack of an LCD screen might be a minor drawback for some, the H170i Elite Capellix remains a compelling choice for users seeking top-tier cooling performance and aesthetics.

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