Revolutionary Performance Unveiled: MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 AIO Liquid Cooler Review
The MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 AIO Liquid Cooler boasts a sleek design and a 24-inch LCD display, offering exceptional performance for cooling your CPU
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Contents of PackageInstallation
Design and Features
Performance and Cooling
Conclusion
Related Products
Enthusiasts known as overclockers have a unique passion for pushing their PC's performance to the absolute limit. While some do it simply for the thrill, the majority aim to achieve the highest framerates possible while gaming. Graphics cards have a significant impact on gaming performance, but certain demanding titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator also heavily rely on the CPU.
The MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 is designed to effectively cool CPUs. It does this by continuously circulating cool liquid through a series of tubes that connect the processor to a radiator and fans, effectively dissipating the heat. While air coolers and heatsinks may suffice for running processors at their default settings, AIO liquid coolers are often the best choice for managing the higher temperatures associated with overclocked CPUs. In the past, water cooling was mainly a do-it-yourself venture, but now companies like MSI have made closed-loop units popular and significantly easier to install.
With a sleek 2.4-inch IPS LCD display, the MEG CoreLiquid S360 from MSI aims to elevate the aesthetic appeal of modern PC setups. However, this all-in-one liquid cooler offers more than just good looks. Equipped with a 60 mm VRM fan integrated into its water block and three efficient and quiet 120 mm Silent Gale P12 fans, it promises exceptional performance. To determine if the MEG CoreLiquid S360 justifies its considerable cost, Game Rant recently conducted a thorough evaluation of its capabilities.
MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 Cooler
Save $31 on the MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 Cooler. This cooler is designed to optimize the overclocking potential of both AMD and Intel CPUs, providing superior cooling compared to traditional fan and heat sink combinations. It is compatible with the latest Intel LGA 1700 processors and features a 7th generation Asetek pump, a 60 mm VRM fan, and 3 Silent Gale P12 fans. The cooler also includes a 2.4-inch IPS display, allowing gamers and system builders to monitor CPU temperatures, pump and radiator fan speeds, and much more.
Brand: MSI
Cooling Method: Liquid
Integrated Lighting: No
Noise Level: 21.2 dBA
Fan Speed: 0 - 2000 RPM
Pros: Attractive and versatile 2.4" LCD screen
Works with most CPUs and the latest Intel LGA 1700 socket
Includes VRM fan in water block
MSI Center is easy to use for novice overlockers
Cons Similar performance possible with less expensive liquid coolers
P12 Silent Gale fans lack RGB lighting
$249 at Amazon $260 at Newegg
Contents of Package
The MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 ships in a rectangular box with a black and gold color scheme that matches the packaging for the manufacturer's other high-end components.
Inside the retail box are the radiator, 2 motherboard backplates for various CPUs, 3 Silent Gale P12 fans, a cover for the LCD, and a collection of screws, bolts, and washers.
Surprisingly, there was no manual or quick start guide in the box, but there was a bar code on the packaging for downloading documentation.
Installation
In order to put the MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 through its paces, we utilized an MSI MPG Z590 Gaming Carbon Wi-Fi motherboard housing an Intel Core i5 11600K processor and 48 GB of DDR4 memory. To accompany this impressive liquid cooling system, we opted for the spacious and high-end MEG Prospect 700R large mid-tower case, albeit at a higher cost. Furthermore, we performed an overclock on the Core i5 11600K CPU to thoroughly test the capabilities of the MEG CoreLiquid S360.
To begin the installation process, the first step is unpacking the parts. After unpacking, the initial phase involves attaching the backplate to the backside of the motherboard. Specifically designed for LGA 1200 CPUs, the bracket securely fits into the provided holes, awaiting the attachment of the block on the opposite side of the motherboard.
The radiator hoses and the radiator are seamlessly connected to the water block in this efficient closed-loop system. Once the plastic covering is peeled off the block, the thermal paste is already pre-applied, ensuring convenient CPU contact. MSI offers standoff screws that securely fasten to the backplate on the opposite side.
The block itself features a plate with screw holes that can accommodate sockets of various sizes. Supported by standoff screws, the bottom of the block is pressed onto the CPU and subsequently secured using bolts. For optimal results, MSI suggests following a specific bolt tightening sequence, which can be found in the manual. Positioning the parts correctly can be slightly cumbersome due to the presence of a large radiator and a dangling LCD screen, but overall, the process was straightforward.
In this case, the CoreLiquid S360 radiator can be installed in various locations within the MSI MEG Prospect 700R case. While options such as the front, rear, and side panel exist, the top of the chassis proves to be a practical spot for this liquid cooler. It is important for installers to carefully consider the ideal placement of this radiator in their rig. Fortunately, many recent mid and full-tower PC cases are compatible with this liquid cooler.
Attaching the three 120 mm Silent Gale P12 fans to the radiator outside the case is recommended for easier installation. Ensuring the correct orientation of the fans is crucial for proper cooling. To accommodate the placement of the P12 fans, MSI provides extension cables to reach the water block. Additionally, the orientation of the fan cables that connect to the block should be considered for better cable management.
The radiator can be easily installed beneath the topside of the MEG Prospect 700R case using the provided screws and washers. To control the system, the water block and LCD connect to the CPU fan and USB headers on motherboards, allowing for BIOS and software control. Those new to AIO liquid cooler installation may find the MEG CoreLiquid S360 to be a relatively hassle-free experience.
Design and Features
Similar to other closed-loop water coolers, the MEG CoreLiquid S360 utilizes the advanced 7th generation Asetek pump integrated within its water block. This innovative pump effectively circulates the heated liquid near the CPU socket, conveying it through the hoses to the radiator and its accompanying fans, where efficient cooling takes place. Subsequently, the liquid is returned to the CPU, initiating a continuous and seamless cycle.
Positioned just below the radiator at the top of the case, the Silent Gale P12 fans in this setup offer exceptional performance. These fans are renowned for their meticulously angled blades, which effectively optimize airflow. While the included fans provided by MSI are of high quality, their lack of RGB effects is quite noticeable, particularly in a high-end water cooler setup. If a case already boasts an abundance of RGB cooling fans, the absence of RGB in these fans may not be a major concern. However, it is unlikely that many gamers would opt to install these on a front panel where visual appeal is essential.
The water block is notably spacious, potentially causing complications in smaller configurations. Inconspicuously integrated within the water block is a 60 mm fan. Unlike conventional air coolers, this liquid cooling system avoids obstructing airflow to vital motherboard components such as VRMs and memory sockets.
The key standout feature of the MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 is its impressive 2.4-inch LCD. Through the MSI Center app, users have the convenient option to rotate the screen, allowing for seamless adaptation to different orientations when attaching the water block to a CPU socket.
MSI Center allows users to maximize the performance of their display and optimize fan speed settings, which automatically adjust based on CPU temperatures. With this feature, users have the flexibility to choose the specific information they want to see on the LCD screen. They can select from options such as CPU temperature, GPU usage, liquid temperature, water pump and radiator fan speeds. Additionally, gamers can personalize the display by adding a banner or graphic, or by configuring a clock or weather widget.
In the Fan Setting tab, you can choose from various preset fan curves such as Silent, Balanced, and Game mode, which optimizes the cooling performance of the MEG CoreLiquid S360. If you prefer custom fan curves, you can specify the temperature thresholds at which the radiator fan, pump, and water block fan increase their efforts. MSI Center simplifies the configuration of liquid cooler cooling elements with easy accessibility to all available adjustments on a few screens.
Performance and Cooling
To properly test the MEG CoreLiquid S360, we pushed the 11th-generation Core i5 11600K CPU to its limits by overclocking it to 5 GHz. Under normal circumstances, this level of overclocking would cause temperatures to reach dangerous levels when the CPU is under heavy load, even with a typical air cooler and heatsink combination. However, the liquid cooling system of the S360 offers an appealing solution, as it is capable of efficiently cooling even the latest 13th-generation Intel processors.
Game Rant conducted a series of benchmarks on the MEG CoreLiquid S360, utilizing a combination of the AIDA64 Stress CPU, Stress FPU, and Stress Cache tests. The room had an ambient temperature of 20 degrees Celsius, and each test ran for a duration of 30 minutes. The MSI Center allowed the selection of Silent, Balanced, and Game modes. Notably, the AIDA64 FPU stress test exerts a significant load on the processor, making it a reliable benchmarking program.
The MEG CoreLiquid S360 performed well during testing, passing all AIDA64 tests without any issues. There was little difference in CPU temperatures between the default fan curve settings of the Balanced and Game modes, with temperatures averaging between 70 to 73 degrees Celsius. However, enabling the Silent Fan mode did result in higher temperatures, reaching up to 87 degrees at times and averaging at around 81 degrees.
Even the most superior gaming PCs often spend a significant amount of time idle, patiently awaiting the release of their full power. With the Balanced profile activated and no resource-intensive applications running, the system observed in this instance maintained CPU temperatures of 28 degrees Celsius or lower, surpassing the achievements of most air coolers.
In comparison to more affordable alternatives like the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360, the MEG CoreLiquid S360 displayed commendable performance. It also performed on par with other high-end AIO liquid coolers, such as the EK 360 mm AIO Elite. While performance variations may not be significant, individual preferences for specific brands and the importance of RGB fans factor into the purchasing decision.
MSI's AIO liquid cooler effectively regulates CPU temperatures while minimizing noise. With hydro-dynamic bearings and anti-vibration fan gaskets, the 3 P12 fans produce 20 to 50 decibels of noise, reaching the higher end only during game mode with overclocked CPU temperatures exceeding 80 degrees Celsius. Beyond 30 decibels, the noise becomes more noticeable compared to typical air coolers. The fans also have a Silent mode where they can completely stop, with a default CPU temperature limit of 49 degrees Celsius or lower. However, the effectiveness may vary depending on the level of insulation in the computer case.
Throughout the evaluation period, there were minimal complaints regarding the MEG CoreLiquid S360's overall operation. The MSI Center software remained stable, and the liquid cooler's monitors proved to be reliable, which is crucial when pushing a system to its limits. Occasionally, after making changes in the BIOS, the LCD failed to load or would get stuck displaying specific readings. However, this wasn't a problem during regular reboots or cold boots. If the MEG CoreLiquid S360 is not properly connected to a power supply or USB header, a warning will appear on the LCD screen.
Conclusion
MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 Cooler
$249 $280 - Save $31 on the MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 Cooler. This cooler is designed to enhance the overclocking capabilities of both AMD and Intel CPUs, providing superior cooling performance compared to traditional fan and heatstink setups. It is compatible with the latest Intel LGA 1700 processors and features a 7th generation Asetek pump, a 60 mm VRM fan for cooling nearby components, and 3 Silent Gale P12 fans. Additionally, it includes a stunning 2.4-inch IPS display, allowing gamers and system builders to easily monitor CPU temperatures, pump and radiator fan speeds, and more. The MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 Cooler is a reliable and stylish option for keeping your system running at optimal performance.
Works with most CPUs and the latest Intel LGA 1700 socket
Includes VRM fan in water block
MSI Center is easy to use for novice overlockers
Cons Similar performance possible with less expensive liquid coolers
P12 Silent Gale fans lack RGB lighting
$249 at Amazon $260 at Newegg
The MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 is a high-end AIO liquid cooler that comes with high expectations due to its price. While it may not break any records in terms of cooling performance, it stands out as one of the top choices for overclocking both Intel and AMD CPUs.
Installation can be daunting for those unfamiliar with working with radiators, but as long as the case has enough space, it shouldn't be too difficult. The MEG CoreLiquid S360 includes parts that are versatile enough to be used with most common CPUs and newer motherboards featuring LGA 1700 sockets. With its long fan cables and software-enabled display rotation, this cooling system can easily fit into most setups.
The 2.4-inch LCD screen is highly attractive to gamers who want their rigs to stand out from the rest. This customizable screen allows users to monitor various aspects of their cooling system and GPU usage. With the user-friendly MSI Center, navigating through menus becomes a breeze, providing access to practical fan speed modes for both idle times and intense gaming sessions.
The three Silent Gale P12 fans, measuring 120 mm each, maintain a relatively quiet operation even under high CPU temperatures. However, instead of incorporating RGB lights that are compatible with their Mystic Light ecosystem, MSI chose an all-black stealth aesthetic. This decision is somewhat puzzling, given the attractive screen located near the fans and the overall visually appealing design of MSI's other cases and gaming equipment.
Another noteworthy feature of the MEG CoreLiquid S360 is the inclusion of a 60 mm VRM fan within the water block. This aspect is particularly appealing to system builders who have concerns about liquid coolers affecting the airflow to essential motherboard components.
Related Products
: The MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 shines brightly amidst its unlit counterparts, delivering an impressive combination of performance and features that sets it apart in a competitive market flooded with AIO liquid coolers.If the buyer desires an alternative to the MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 with a priority on an LCD screen, the Corsair iCUE H150i ELITE LCD XT liquid cooler is a sensible choice. Although the iCUE H150i ELITE has a smaller 2.1-inch LCD screen compared to MSI's 2.4-inch display, it offers a slightly higher resolution. Fans who enjoy RGB lighting may be drawn to Corsair's liquid cooler as it comes with 3 RGB-enabled 120 mm fans and a control box to synchronize the lighting of other fans and strips.
Interestingly, there are high-end liquid coolers available at higher prices than the MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360. Many industry experts consider the ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 RGB to be one of the most powerful closed-looped water cooling systems. Featuring a large 3.5-inch LCD screen and utilizing the same 7th Generation Asetek water pump as the MEG CoreLiquid S360, the ROG Ryujin II 360 RGB offers a 6-year warranty for added peace of mind, ensuring a longer lifespan without leaks or drying out. Unfortunately, gamers may find themselves needing to use the Armoury Crate software to fully unlock the potential of the ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 RGB. This software has received frequent complaints for its bugs and excessive features.
For a more budget-friendly option in liquid cooling, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360 A-RGB offers similar performance to the MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 but at a significantly lower cost. In comparison to its MSI counterpart, this cooler features a slimmer water block and incorporates a 40 mm VRM fan. The three 120 mm fans deliver exceptional static pressure, and you can choose between having RGB lighting or not.
$290 | |
$287 | |
$160 |
FAQ
Q: Is liquid cooling better than air CPU coolers?
Q: Why should buyers purchase cooling products with a stock CPU cooler?
Liquid cooling proves most effective for CPUs that undergo significant overclocking. These cooling systems employ water, a superior heat conductor, as a substitute for air. However, most PC builders will find air CPU coolers, which are simpler to install and more affordable, to be a more feasible solution.
The default fans and heatsinks provided with Intel and AMD CPUs are sufficient for most users. However, if buyers plan to overclock their CPU, the standard coolers may not be able to handle the elevated heat produced by an overworked processor.
