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The AIO liquid cooler market is constantly evolving, with manufacturers like Corsair consistently upgrading their product lines. Corsair has recently refreshed several peripherals and cases, and their AIO coolers are no exception. The Corsair H100 RGB represents a compelling option in the mid-range AIO segment, particularly for users with smaller PC cases. This review dives into the features and performance of the H100 RGB, exploring why it’s a strong contender for your next cooling upgrade.

Compact Design, Big Performance

Corsair H100 RGB Water Cooler – Compact Design

Dual-fan AIO liquid coolers like the Corsair H100 RGB are a popular choice among PC builders. They offer a compact design that fits easily into most cases without requiring expensive, oversized chassis. Despite their smaller footprint, these coolers provide sufficient cooling performance for even high-end CPUs. The H100 RGB’s competitive pricing further solidifies its appeal, offering excellent value for its performance.

The H100 RGB shares a similar design and packaging with its larger sibling, the H150 RGB. Inside the distinctive yellow box, you’ll find the cooler neatly packaged with two SP120 RGB ELITE fans, a closed-loop radiator, and mounting hardware for both Intel and AMD platforms.

Easy Installation and Robust Construction

Corsair H100 RGB Water Cooler – Installation

Corsair has implemented a user-friendly mounting system, allowing for easy installation even within a fully assembled PC. Similar to the design found on the Corsair iCUE H150i RGB PRO XT, this tool-free mounting mechanism simplifies the upgrade process for novice users.

The radiator itself is robustly constructed with thick, durable fins. Reinforced plastic joint covers provide added protection against leaks and wear, a critical feature given the higher pressure of modern pump designs. This long-term reliability is a significant advantage over metal covers, which can corrode over time.

Corsair H100 RGB Water Cooler – Mounting Bracket

The copper cold plate ensures efficient heat transfer from the CPU to the coolant, maximizing cooling performance.

Enhanced RGB Lighting and Quiet Operation

The pump head retains Corsair’s signature square design but boasts enhanced RGB lighting. Thirteen individually addressable LEDs provide vibrant and customizable illumination, a significant improvement over previous generations.

Corsair H100 RGB Water Cooler – Pump Head

While the exact OEM of the pump is not disclosed, the quiet operation suggests a high-quality design, potentially utilizing Asetek’s latest generation technology. The H100 RGB operates with minimal noise, even under heavy load, eliminating the distracting gurgling sounds often associated with AIO coolers.

Powerful Fans and Customizable Control

The included SP120 RGB ELITE fans offer both aesthetic appeal and impressive performance, boasting an airflow of 47.7 CFM. Unlike some RGB fans, these are controllable via a hub, allowing users to adjust fan speeds and lighting effects. This flexibility enables optimized cooling performance and noise levels for different scenarios.

Corsair H100 RGB Water Cooler – RGB Fans

While Corsair recommends using the Commander Core for comprehensive control, the H100 RGB is compatible with motherboard RGB synchronization, ensuring seamless integration with existing setups.

Corsair H100 RGB Water Cooler – Performance Test

Conclusion

The Corsair H100 RGB offers a compelling blend of performance, aesthetics, and affordability. Its compact size, quiet operation, and vibrant RGB lighting make it an excellent choice for a wide range of builds. The easy installation and robust construction further enhance its value, making it a strong recommendation for anyone seeking a reliable and efficient cooling solution. The H100 RGB delivers impressive cooling capabilities without breaking the bank, making it a worthwhile investment for your next PC upgrade.