We receive a large number of cooler review requests each year, ranging from AIO liquid coolers to traditional tower air coolers. With so many products in circulation, we often put several models into a single multi-cooler roundup — which is exactly what we’re doing today. This time, we’re looking at new CPU air coolers from Cooler Master, CPS PCCOOLER, DeepCool, and Montech. These coolers are selected to represent a mix of sizes, designs, and performance targets. The question is, how well do they handle our current Ryzen 7 9800X3D test platform? Let's find out.

Cooler Master V4 Alpha 3DHP: $39.99 USD MSRP / £34.99 Expected UK Price

• Patented 3DHP heat-pipe architecture – The V4 Alpha 3DHP introduces Cooler Master’s “3DHP” layout: instead of conventional U-shaped pipes, the design places a third heat pipe in an offset position, improving fin-array saturation and enabling more efficient heat transfer.
• Push-pull dual-fan setup – The V4 Alpha is equipped with two 120 mm PWM fans configured for optimal airflow through, while maintaining compatibility with mid-tower cases in terms of clearance and installation.
• Engine-inspired styling with build integration in mind – The top cover and overall aesthetic resemble a V automotive engine, delivering visual presence without compromising components such as RAM clearance or motherboard compatibility.
• Strong performance at accessible price point – Positioned as a value-oriented cooler, the V4 Alpha 3DHP leverages advanced thermal architecture and dual-fan cooling to deliver enhanced performance without entering the premium pricing tier.

Specifications

• CPU Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA 1851 / 1700 / 1200 / 1151 / 1150 / 1155 / 1156 AMD: AM5 / AM4
• Dimensions: 133 x 114 x 161 mm
• Cooler Type: Air Cooler
• Heat Sink Material: Aluminium fins with 2 x 3DHP heat pipes
• Heat pipes: 2
• Fan Configuration: Dual fan (front + rear)
• Fan Size: 120 x 120 x 25 mm (both)
• Fan Speed: Front: 0–2050 RPM ±10%, Rear: 0–1850 RPM ±10%
• Fan Airflow: Front: 107.2 m³/h (63.1 CFM), Rear: 85.8 m³/h (50.5 CFM)
• Fan Static Pressure: Front: 2.69 mmH₂O, Rear: 1.77 mmH₂O
• Fan Noise Level: Front: 22.6 dBA, Rear: 20 dBA
• Fan Bearing Type: Loop Dynamic Bearing
• Fan Connector: 4-Pin PWM
• Fan Rated Voltage: 12 VDC
• Fan Rated Current: Front: 0.12 A, Rear: 0.08 A
• Fan Power Consumption: Front: 1.44 W, Rear: 0.96 W
• Fan Safety Current: 0.35 A
• Fan MTTF: > 200,000 hours
• Warranty: 5 Years

Cooler Master Hyper 212 3DHP Black ARGB: $29.99 USD MSRP

• 3DHP Heat Pipe Architecture – The Hyper 212 3DHP ARGB is equipped with Cooler Master’s latest 3D Heat Pipe layout, for increased contact efficiency between the heat pipes and the fin stack. By improving how heat is distributed across the tower, the cooler aims to deliver stronger real-world thermal performance than traditional straight-line heat pipe designs.
• Compact Single-Tower Form Factor – Maintaining the well-known Hyper 212 footprint, the 3DHP model remains easy to fit into mainstream mid-towers and builds with tight RAM clearance. It aims to deliver stronger cooling performance without stepping up to the size and weight of a dual-tower cooler.
• 120mm ARGB PWM Fan Included – The included addressable-RGB fan provides customisable lighting effects while supporting PWM speed control for precise fan curve tuning. The blade design prioritises a balance of airflow and static pressure, aiming to keep noise levels sensible under load.
• Broad Socket Compatibility for Modern Platforms – The mounting hardware supports the latest Intel and AMD platforms, including AM5 and LGA1700, maintaining the Hyper 212 line’s reputation for flexibility and long-term compatibility across system upgrades.

Specifications

• CPU Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA 1851 / 1700 / 1200 / 1151 / 1150 / 1155 / 1156, AMD: AM5 / AM4
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 133 x 86 x 158 mm
• Cooler Type: Air Cooler
• Heat Sink Material: Aluminium fins with 2 x 3DHP heat pipes
• Heat pipes: 2
• Fan Size: 120 x 120 x 25 mm
• Fan Quantity: 1
• Profile: Addressable Gen 2 RGB
• Fan Speed: 0–2050 RPM ±10%
• Fan Airflow: 107.2 m³/h (63.1 CFM)
• Fan Pressure (Max): 2.69 mmH₂O
• Fan Noise Level (Max): 22.6 dBA
• Fan Bearing Type: Loop Dynamic Bearing
• Fan Power Connector: 4-Pin PWM
• Fan Rated Voltage: 12 VDC
• Fan Rated Current: 0.12 A
• Fan Safety Current: 0.35 A
• Fan Power Consumption: 1.44 W
• Fan MTTF: >200,000 hours
• Warranty: 5 years

CPS PCCOOLER RZ820: Available to purchase now from Amazon UK priced at £119.99 HERE

• Dual-tower configuration with eight heat-pipes (4 x 8 mm + 4 x 6 mm): The RZ820 uses a composite heat-pipe arrangement to support a rated TDP of 290 W, suggesting it’s geared towards high-end CPUs and heavy workloads.
• Two different-sized PWM fans (120 x 150 x 25 mm front + 140 x 140 x 30 mm middle): These offer different airflow and pressure profiles. Front fan max ~86.7 CFM at ~3.2 mm H₂O, middle fan ~71.9 CFM at ~2.12 mm H₂O to offer performance vs noise flexibility.
• Magnetic aluminium ARGB top cover & rail-mounted front fan for adjustable clearance: The top magnetic cover adds aesthetic polish, while the front fan’s sliding/rail mount allows the cooler to adjust for taller RAM module spacing.
• Large physical footprint: Dimensions of 161 x 150 x 165mm and a significant weight of 1.8kg underline that this is a high-end air cooler rather than a compact solution so users must verify case clearance and motherboard compatibility.

Specifications

• CPU Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA 1851 / 1700 / 1200 / 115X / 20XX, AMD: AM4 / AM5
• Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 161 x 150 x 165 mm
• Net Weight: 1,860 g
• Heat pipes: 4 x Φ6 mm + 4 x Φ8 mm
• Fan Bearing Type: Fluid Dynamic Bearing
• Fan Connector: 4-Pin PWM
• LED Type: ARGB
• LED Connector: 5V 3-Pin
• LED Rated Voltage: DC 5V
• LED Rated Current: ≤0.30 A
• LED Power Consumption: ≤1.5 W

Middle Fan Specifications:

• Dimension: 140 x 140 x 30 mm
• Speed: 400–1500 RPM ±10%
• Airflow: 71.9 CFM
• Air Pressure: 2.12 mmH₂O
• Noise Level: 27.1 dBA
• Rated Voltage: 12 VDC
• Rated Current: 0.1 A
• Power Consumption: 1.2 W

Front Fan Specifications:

• Dimension: 150 x 120 x 25 mm
• Speed: 500–2200 RPM ±10%
• Airflow: 86.7 CFM
• Air Pressure: 3.2 mmH₂O
• Noise Level: 32 dBA
• Rated Voltage: 12 VDC
• Rated Current: 0.2 A
• Power Consumption: 2.4 W

Deepcool Assassin IV VC Elite WH: £99.99 Expect UK MSRP

• Vapor-chamber base with seven heatpipes – designed to rapidly spread heat from the CPU across the heat pipes and the dual-tower fin array for optimal thermal transfer efficiency. This design supports high-end CPUs with TDPs up to 300 W, suitable for high-power workloads.
• Dual-tower heatsink with hybrid fan setup – A 140 mm main fan is paired with a 120 mm adjustable rear fan to provide a balance in airflow and static pressure. The rear fan can be repositioned on the heat sink to accommodate different case layouts, offering flexibility for complex builds.
• All-white aesthetic with clean top shroud – The cooler’s white-coated fins, fan frames, and top cover give it a sleek, premium look. The matte finish avoids reflections, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into all-white themed builds while appearing visually striking through a side-panel window.
• Flexible operational modes and straightforward mounting – Users can toggle between “Quiet” and “Performance” modes, adjusting fan speeds for lower noise or higher cooling output. The mounting system is compatible with most Intel and AMD sockets. Careful spacing ensures it avoids interference with RAM modules or nearby motherboard components.

Specifications

• Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 144 x 147 x 164 mm
• Heatsink Dimensions (L x W x H): 140 x 110 x 160 mm
• Net Weight: 1,772 g
• Supported CPU Sockets: Intel LGA 20XX / 1851 / 1700 / 1200 / 115X; AMD AM5 / AM4.
• RAM Clearance: On Intel (LGA1851/1700/1200/115X) and AMD sockets, “Unobstructed”; on Intel LGA20XX, clearance of 63 mm.
• Thermal Design Power (TDP) Rating: Up to 300 W.
• Heat pipe: Ø 6 mm x 7 pcs
• Fan Dimensions: 140 × 140 × 25 mm / 120 × 120 × 25 mm
• Fan Speed (Performance Mode): 500 ~ 1,800 RPM±10% / 500 ~ 1,700 RPM±10%
• Fan Airflow (Performance Mode):25 CFM / 58.06 CFM
• Fan Air Pressure (Performance Mode):76 mmAq / 2.1 mmAq
• Overall Noise (Performance Mode): ≤ 29.3 dB(A)
• Fan Speed (Quiet Mode): 500 ~ 1,450 RPM±10% / 500 ~ 1,350 RPM±10%
• Fan Airflow (Quiet Mode): 48.55 CFM / 46.75 CFM
• Fan Air Pressure (Quiet Mode): 2.46 mmAq / 1.35 mmAq
• Overall Noise (Quiet Mode): ≤ 22.6 dB(A)
• Fan Connector: 4‑pin PWM
• Bearing Type: Fluid Dynamic Bearing
• Motor Type: 6-Pole Fan Motor
• Fan Rated Voltage: 12 VDC
• Fan Rated Current: 0.2 A / 0.2 A
• Fan Power Consumption: 2.4W / 2.4 W
• Rated Voltage: 12 VDC
• Power Consumption (Performance Mode): 4.8 W
• Power Consumption (Quiet Mode): 3.6 W

Montech NX600/NX600 ARGB: From $29.90 USD MSRP (Regular) or from $33.90 USD (ARGB)

• Dual-Tower Heatsink for Enhanced Thermal Capacity – The NX600 adopts a precision-built dual-tower design with 52 fins per stack for maximum surface area without restricting airflow. This approach aims to provide consistent, stable cooling performance under heavy workloads, particularly for modern high-core-count CPUs.
• MONTECH E28 Performance Fans Included – Both NX600 variants ship with MONTECH’s E28 fans, optimised for strong airflow and dependable static pressure. The standard model uses non-RGB PWM fans for an understated look, while the NX600 ARGB includes addressable RGB for users who want synchronised lighting control without compromising cooling efficiency.
• Six Copper Heat pipes with Soldered Copper Base – Heat is transferred from the CPU via six copper heat pipes connected to a precision-soldered copper base for even heat distribution, supporting the cooler’s ability to cope with higher TDP processors, contributing to long-term thermal stability.
• Refined Design with Broad Build Compatibility – The cooler is finished with a subtle top cover featuring visual accents and translucent elements, intended to balance appearance with practicality. The styling blends cleanly into both RGB-oriented builds and more reserved, minimalist systems.

Specifications

• Model Name: NX600 / NX600 ARGB
• Colour Options: Black / White
• CPU Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA115X / 1200 / 1700 / 1851, AMD: AM4 / AM5
• Heatpipes: 6
• Included Fans: 2
• Fan Speed: 800 ~ 2000 RPM (±10%)
• Bearing Type: HDB (Hydro Dynamic Bearing)
• Rated Voltage: 12V
• Connectors: PWM 4-Pin (fan control) / ARGB 5V 3-Pin (lighting, ARGB model only)
• Max Airflow: 85.09 CFM
• Max Static Pressure: 3.35 mmH₂O
• Max Noise Level: 34.17 dBA
• Warranty: 1 Year

The post CPU Air Cooler Round Up – November 2025 first appeared on KitGuru.

Today we’re taking a look at the Lian Li Lancool 217 INF, an airflow-focused mid-tower that builds on the original Lancool 217. Leo spent some time with the standard model earlier this year, and this new version keeps the same core layout and cooling philosophy but adds a striking infinity mirror front panel that instantly changes the look of the system. We’ll be going over the design, the build experience, and the thermal performance to see how well this updated configuration holds up, and whether the visual upgrade brings anything practical along with it.

Timestamps:

00:00 Start
00:55 Pricing
01:11 Overview
02:06 Physical Dimensions
02:25 Features and specifications
03:32 Top buttons
04:00 Front I/O
05:21 Cooling/Radiator support
07:22 Motherboard and GPU Support
07:47 Cable Management / Anti Sag
08:14 Case Rear / PSU setup
09:58 Right hand compartment
11:18 Hub / Lighting / Software
12:00 Storage Support
13:27 Accessories
14:10 Testing Methodology
14:45 Thermal Performance
15:40 Smoke tests
16:10 Noise Performance
16:46 Build Experience
18:20 James' Closing Thoughts

Lian Li Lancool 217 INF Features:

• Dual 170mm front fans with an infinity mirror and mesh front panel – Equipped with two large pre-installed intake fans behind a removable mesh system designed to allow strong airflow while reducing dust build-up.
• Tool-less side panel design with cable management channels – Features quick-release side panels and integrated routing paths to simplify system assembly and keep internal layouts clean.
• Support for multiple cooling configurations – Accommodates up to 360mm radiators in the front as well as air coolers and vertical GPU mounting options for varied cooling setups.
• Modular storage drive bay system – Includes adjustable and removable drive cages supporting both 2.5″ and 3.5″ storage, allowing flexible interior layouts depending on hardware configuration.
• ARGB lighting compatibility – Integrated ARGB functionality is sync-ready with major motherboard lighting control standards for coordinated illumination across components, as well as wireless control via the L-Wireless adaptor that can be purchased separately.

Specifications:

• Case Type: Mid-Tower
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 482 mm (L) × 238 mm (W) × 503 mm (H)
• Materials: Steel frame with 4.0 mm tempered glass side panel
• Motherboard Support: SSI-EEB (max width 330 mm), E-ATX (max width 280 mm), ATX /Micro-ATX / Mini-ITX
• Back-connect motherboard support: ATX / M-ATX
• Expansion Slots: 7
• Storage bays: Behind motherboard tray: up to 2 × 2.5″ SSD (or 1 × 2.5″ SSD when using back-connect mATX board) Drive cages (2 total): each supports 1 × 3.5″ HDD + 1 × 2.5″ SSD, or 1 × 3.5″ HDD or 2 × 2.5″ SSD, PSU shroud cover: 1 × 2.5″ SSD
• Max GPU Length: up to 380mm
• Max CPU Cooler Height: up to 180mm
• PSU Type: ATX up to 220 mm (standard orientation) , up to 180 mm (rotated orientation)
• Pre-installed Fans: 2 x 170mm (Front) 1 x 140mm (Rear)
• Fan Support: 2 x 170 mm (Front) 3 x 120 mm / 2 x 140 mm(Top) 1 x 120mm / 1 x 140mm (Rear) 3 x 120 mm (Bottom)
• Radiator Support: 360 / 280 / 240 mm (Top)
• Dust Filters: Bottom x 1 / Front × 1 (x 2 RU version only)
• Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0 Type-A, 1 x USB 3.2 Type-C, 1 x Audio / Microphone Combo Jack, 1 x Power button, 1 x M1 Front Panel Lighting Control Button, 1 x M2 Fan Lighting Control Button
• LCD Screen: N/A

Thermal Performance Testing

To simulate thermal demand we run the Cinebench R23 multi-thread benchmark and 3DMark Speed Way stress test simultaneously in a loop for 30 minutes to load the system fully. This gives the CPU and GPU enough time to reach constant steady-state temperature. With this data, we can compare how the system handles the thermal demand and measure peak noise levels.

Thermal performance is measured with the case in various configurations, such as the default, with the tempered glass left-hand side panel removed and with the front panel removed to see how these configurations affect the CPU and GPU temperature. During testing, only stock case fans are used unless otherwise specified. All water pumps are set to maximum RPM and fans are set to a custom RPM curve by the Motherboard software/BIOS.

All temperature measurements are presented as Deltas – meaning the ambient temperature has been deducted from the CPU temperature giving us a Delta. Data shown in the charts represent the average component temperature over the length of the test as measured by HWiNFO and then the last 15 minutes of the data are calculated to get the average. The ambient temperature during thermal tests is between 19-20⁰C.

Test System Specification:

• CPU – AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D
• Motherboard – MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk Wifi
• Graphics Card – Gigabyte RTX 5080 Gaming OC
• Memory – 64GB (2 x 32GB modules) G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB DDR5-6000
• Storage – 1TB Corsair MP600 Elite PCIe Gen4 M.2 NVMe SSD
• CPU Cooler – Lian Li Hydroshift II LCD-C 360TL
• Power Supply – Seasonic Focus GX-1000 ATX 3 80+ Gold
• Case fans – Stock
• Chassis – Lian Li Lancool 217 INF
• Operating System – Windows 11 24h2

Thermal Performance Overview

We tested the case thermals with a 360mm AIO as the exhaust at the top and in several different configurations. The default configuration shown in the charts is with the 360mm AIO at the top, 2 x 170mm front intake fans, 1 x 140mm exhaust fan and with all panels installed.

In terms of thermals, the Lancool 217 INF delivers solid results straight out of the box. In the default configuration, the CPU recorded a steady-state temperature of 53°C over ambient, while the GPU sat at 49°C over ambient under load. Removing the glass side panel or swapping the front and top mesh out didn’t significantly alter these results, showing that the case’s airflow design is already very efficient as standard.

The only notable improvement came from adding bottom-mounted fans, which reduced GPU temperatures to 46°C over ambient and lowered CPU temperatures slightly to 52°C. This indicates that the extra intake helps the graphics card breathe more easily, improving airflow across the lower section of the case. Overall, the Lancool 217 INF maintains strong thermal performance, and with just a small tweak by bottom fans, it can cool high-end components even more effectively.

You can get a better sense of how the airflow changes when adding floor fans by looking at the smoke tests in the video.

With no bottom fans installed, the GPU still draws air in through the lower side vent, so there’s already a natural intake path. However, once the two bottom intake fans are added, you can clearly see that airflow towards the GPU becomes much more direct and faster. This extra push of air helps feed the graphics card more efficiently, which ties in neatly with the small drop in GPU temperature we saw during the thermal testing.

Noise Output

Noise performance from the Lancool 217 INF stayed very consistent across all configurations, with system idle noise sitting at around 37 dBA regardless of setup. Under load, most configurations peaked at 50 dBA, showing that removing panels or swapping materials didn’t noticeably alter the acoustic profile.

The only setup that made a difference was with additional bottom fans installed. This configuration not only lowered GPU temperatures slightly but also reduced load noise to 49 dBA, suggesting that the improved airflow helped the GPU maintain lower fan speeds. It’s a small but welcome gain in both thermal and acoustic efficiency.

Closing Thoughts

The Lian Li Lancool 217 INF builds on the strengths of the original model while adding a much more eye-catching front design. The infinity mirror panel paired with the two large 170mm fans gives the case a distinctive look, but the visual upgrade doesn’t come at the cost of performance. Airflow through the front mesh remains strong, and the case maintains the high level of cooling capability that the Lancool series is renowned for.

Thermal performance throughout testing was consistently good, with the default configuration handling both CPU and GPU loads without breaking a sweat. The only notable improvement came when adding bottom intake fans, which helped direct airflow more efficiently towards the graphics card. This lined up neatly with the slight reduction in GPU temperatures we recorded. It’s not essential, but adding bottom fans is a small, worthwhile tweak for high-end GPU setups.

Hardware support is another area where the 217 INF performs well. There’s plenty of room for larger components, including all motherboard types, big GPUs and top radiators, plus the interior layout makes it straightforward to build in. Cable management is tidy, the tool-free panels are easy to work with, and overall build quality feels as solid as you’d expect from Lian Li at this price point. Nothing about the redesign interferes with the usability of the chassis.

Taken as a whole, the Lancool 217 INF is a well-executed refresh of an already great chassis that retains all the positive features of the original while adding a more striking front aesthetic. If you’re after a mid-tower that delivers strong airflow, great thermals, and a clean and simple building experience, all wrapped in a unique-looking package, the Lian Li Lancool 217 INF is a very well-rounded option that’s easy to recommend, especially at this price point.

The Lian Li Lancool 217 INF is available to purchase now from Scan priced from £107.99 for the black version HERE and £112.99 HERE for the white version.

Pros: 

• Great airflow and cooling.
• Excellent build quality and hardware support.
• Brilliant cable management.

Cons:

• The front infinity mirror panel shows up every fingerprint.
• Lack of front radiator installation is not good for custom cooling.

KitGuru Says: The Lancool 217 INF is a strong evolution of the original, with excellent airflow, great thermals, high-end hardware support, clean build experience and impressive build quality with a striking new look at a decent price.

The post Lian Li Lancool 217 INF Case Review first appeared on KitGuru.