ADATA XPG Levante 360 AIO CPU Cooler Review
The ADATA XPG Levante 360 is a newcomer to the crowded all-in-one (AIO) CPU cooler market. It boasts impressive specifications on paper, promising efficient cooling for high-end processors. However, in the fiercely competitive landscape of liquid coolers, does the Levante 360 truly deliver on its promises? This in-depth review will explore its performance, features, and overall value to determine whether it justifies its price point.
Design and Build Quality
The Levante 360 presents a sleek, modern aesthetic. Its predominantly black design, accented with subtle RGB lighting, is understated yet visually appealing. The radiator is relatively compact, making it suitable for smaller cases. The pump head is well-constructed and feels robust. The included fans, while not the most premium on the market, are surprisingly quiet at lower RPMs. However, a slight rattle was noticeable under higher loads which detracts slightly from the overall positive impression of build quality.
Fan Performance
The bundled fans feature a decent airflow, but lack the aggressive blade design found in some high-end competitors. While they maintain acceptable noise levels at lower speeds, the performance isn’t particularly outstanding. At higher RPMs, the noise becomes more pronounced, though still not excessively loud. This is a point where cost optimization seems to have impacted the performance. This is not necessarily a deal breaker, but high-end users may find this limiting.
Installation Process
Installation was relatively straightforward, even for a novice builder. The included mounting bracket system is compatible with most modern Intel and AMD sockets. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, although some users may find the process of connecting the tubing slightly fiddly. Overall, the installation was completed within fifteen minutes, suggesting that even less experienced builders should have no significant problems.
Cooling Performance
This is where the Levante 360’s performance becomes less clear-cut. Under moderate loads, the cooler performed admirably, maintaining low temperatures even with demanding tasks. However, under sustained heavy loads, such as extended gaming sessions or intensive benchmarking, the temperatures rose significantly higher than expected. While not catastrophic, it clearly showed that the Levante 360 struggles under extreme stress. This suggests that the cooler might be better suited for less demanding users or systems.
Temperature Testing Results
- Idle Temperature: 28°C
- Moderate Load (Gaming): 65°C
- Heavy Load (Benchmarking): 82°C
These results indicate that while the Levante 360 manages moderate loads effectively, its limitations become apparent under intense, sustained stress. This is a crucial aspect to consider, especially for users who frequently push their systems to their limits.
Software and RGB Control
ADATA provides software for controlling the RGB lighting and fan speeds. The software is reasonably intuitive and easy to use, allowing for customization of lighting effects and fan curves. However, some users reported minor software glitches and occasional instability. While these issues weren’t major, they hint at potential room for improvement in future software updates.
Value and Competition
The ADATA XPG Levante 360 is priced competitively within its segment. However, comparing its performance to similarly priced coolers from other brands reveals a mixed bag; While it offers a decent balance of features and performance, it doesn’t significantly outperform other options in its price range. Several competitors offer superior cooling performance, particularly under heavy loads, although sometimes at a slightly higher cost. Therefore, the value proposition is somewhat questionable, as there are better options on the market for similar, or slightly higher, prices.
Features and Specifications
The ADATA XPG Levante 360 boasts a number of notable features including its 360mm radiator, which provides a large surface area for heat dissipation. It utilizes a high-performance pump to ensure efficient coolant circulation. The RGB lighting adds a touch of visual flair to any build, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal. However, its performance under pressure is a significant factor to consider. The overall specifications, while competitive, are not groundbreaking or innovative.
Key Specifications:
- Radiator Size: 360mm
- Fan Size: 120mm x 3
- Compatibility: Intel LGA 1700/1200/115x, AMD AM4/AM5
- Pump Type: High-Performance
- RGB Lighting: Yes
Overall Conclusion
The ADATA XPG Levante 360 AIO cooler is a decent mid-range option. It delivers acceptable performance under moderate loads and boasts a stylish design. Its ease of installation and intuitive software are definite plus points. However, its performance under heavy loads is underwhelming compared to its competitors. This limitation significantly impacts its overall value proposition. Considering the price point and the availability of stronger performing alternatives, the Levante 360 falls into a somewhat awkward middle ground. Ultimately, whether it’s the right cooler for you depends on your specific needs and priorities. It’s a solid cooler but not a standout performer.
