Lian Li vs EK: Aio Liquid Coolers Compared by Specs
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When comparing the lian li vs EK aio liquid cooler, you face two distinct cooling solutions. Both units provide maintenance-free liquid cooling with addressable RGB lighting and support modern AMD and Intel sockets. The main difference lies in their physical footprint. The Lian Li GALAHAD uses a larger 240mm radiator for broader heat dissipation. The EK model utilizes a compact 120mm radiator, prioritizing a smaller size over raw surface area.
Key differences
| Aspect | Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO | EK AIO 120mm D-RGB Liquid Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 240mm | 120mm |
| Socket Compatibility | AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1200 | AM4, Intel 115X/1200/2066 |
| Lighting Type | RGB | D-RGB |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds | 3.09 pounds |
| Warranty | 5-year | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO if
- You need a larger 240mm radiator for better heat dissipation.
- You require compatibility with newer sockets like AM5 or LGA 1700.
- You want a unit with a listed five-year warranty.
Choose EK AIO 120mm D-RGB Liquid Cooler if
- You are building in a small form factor case.
- You prefer a compact 120mm radiator profile.
- You want reinforced sleeved tubing with aluminum covers.
Verdict: The Lian Li GALAHAD is the better choice for standard ATX cases where you need higher cooling capacity and broader socket support. The EK AIO suits builders with space constraints who prioritize a smaller radiator footprint. Your decision depends on whether you value raw cooling surface area or physical compactness.
Lian Li vs EK AIO Specs
Radiator size
The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO features a 240mm radiator. This larger surface area allows for more heat dissipation compared to the EK AIO 120mm D-RGB. The EK unit uses a 120mm radiator, which is significantly smaller. A 240mm radiator generally provides better cooling potential for high-performance CPUs. If you need maximum thermal headroom, the Lian Li offers a clear physical advantage. The EK 120mm is more compact but has less surface area for heat exchange. You should choose the Lian Li if space allows and you prioritize cooling capacity over minimal footprint.
Socket compatibility
Both coolers support modern AMD and Intel sockets. The Lian Li GALAHAD supports LGA 1700, 1200, 115X, 2066, 2011, AM5, and AM4. The EK AIO supports Intel 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, 2011-3, 2066, and AMD AM4. The EK unit requires a separate LGA 1700 kit for newer Intel processors. The Lian Li includes support for LGA 1700 and AM5 natively. This makes the Lian Li more ready-to-use for the latest platforms. The EK offers broader support for older Intel sockets like 1150 and 1155. For new builds, the Lian Li has the edge in out-of-box compatibility.
Lighting features
The Lian Li GALAHAD includes 35 addressable RGB LEDs embedded in the block. It also comes with an LED controller for customization. The EK AIO features D-RGB lighting in both the CPU block and the fans. The EK lighting is fully customizable and can be controlled via motherboard or a standalone controller. The Lian Li focuses its lighting on the block, while the EK extends it to the fans as well. Both systems sync with mainstream motherboard software. The EK offers more extensive lighting coverage across the entire cooling loop. If you want RGB on the fans too, the EK is the better choice.
Fan performance
The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm uses 120mm ARGB fans with industrial-grade motors. These fans operate between 800 and 1900 RPM. They provide a rated airflow of 69.17 CFM. The EK AIO 120mm comes pre-installed with EK-Vardar high-performance PWM fans. The data does not specify the exact RPM or CFM for the EK fans. However, the EK-Vardar series is known for high static pressure. The Lian Li provides specific airflow numbers for transparency. Without exact specs for the EK fans, we cannot definitively compare performance. The Lian Li offers more detailed performance data for you to evaluate.
Build materials
The Lian Li GALAHAD uses a high-density aluminum radiator with 14 rows of tubes. It features a triple-chamber pump design to reduce friction and prevent leaks. The EK AIO 120mm uses reinforced and sleeved rubber tubing with aluminum covers. This design ensures durability and a premium look. The Lian Li emphasizes its leakproof pump design. The EK focuses on durable tubing materials. Both units use aluminum for the radiator and block components. The Lian Li provides more detail on its internal pump structure. The EK highlights its external tubing construction. Both builds appear robust, but the Lian Li offers more specific engineering details.
Choose the right AIO for your build
Users needing maximum cooling capacity
The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm offers a larger 240mm radiator with 14 rows of aluminum tubes. This design increases surface area for better heat dissipation. The triple-chamber pump reduces friction and helps prevent leaks. You get higher airflow at up to 1900 RPM for efficient cooling performance.
Small form factor enthusiasts
The EK AIO 120mm fits compact cases with its smaller 120mm radiator footprint. It includes sleeved rubber tubing with aluminum covers for durability. The unit supports Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM4 sockets. You benefit from a maintenance-free design that integrates D-RGB lighting into the block and fans.
Users prioritizing pump durability
Lian Li uses a triple-chamber pump design that combines the pump, connecting, and cold plate chambers. This reduces friction from coolant flow. The design aims to prevent system leaks even if the pump is damaged. You also receive a five-year warranty for long-term reliability and peace of mind.
The products compared
Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO
Best for: 240mm cases needing reliable leak prevention
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Fan Speed
- 800 to 1900 RPM
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1200
- Dimensions
- 10.7 × 4.86 × 1.06 inches
- Weight
- 2.2 pounds
View on Amazon: Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO Affiliate link
The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm uses a triple-chamber pump to reduce friction and prevent leaks. It features 35 addressable RGB LEDs and fans that reach 1900 RPM for 69.17 CFM airflow. The high-density aluminum radiator has 14 rows of tubes for efficient heat transfer. It supports AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA 1700 sockets. This cooler suits users who want reliable cooling with customizable lighting effects.
Pros
- Triple-chamber pump design reduces friction and prevents leaks
- 35 addressable RGB LEDs for customizable lighting effects
- Fans reach 1900 RPM with 69.17 CFM rated airflow
- High-density aluminum radiator with 14 rows of tubes
Cons
- Smaller 240mm radiator compared to the 360mm option
- Includes LED controller rather than motherboard sync only
- Limited to 35 RGB LEDs versus 47 in the 360mm version
Good fit if
- You need a 240mm radiator for compact cases
- You want a pump design focused on leak prevention
- You prefer included LED controllers for lighting sync
Skip if
- You require the maximum possible cooling capacity
- You want more than 35 addressable RGB LEDs
- You prefer a 360mm radiator size
Verdict: Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO offers solid leak prevention and airflow for users with 240mm radiator slots. It fits those prioritizing pump durability and included lighting control over raw cooling performance.
EK AIO 120mm D-RGB Liquid Cooler
Best for: Small chassis builds with 120mm radiator space
- Radiator Size
- 120mm
- Socket Compatibility
- Intel 115X/1200/2066, AMD AM4
- Lighting Type
- D-RGB
- Dimensions
- 5.12 × 8.27 × 10.2 inches
- Weight
- 3.09 pounds
View on Amazon: EK AIO 120mm D-RGB Liquid Cooler Affiliate link
The EK AIO 120mm is a compact, maintenance-free all-in-one liquid cooler designed for Intel and AMD platforms. It features fully customizable D-RGB lighting in both the block and fans, controllable via motherboard or a standalone RGB controller. The unit includes reinforced sleeved tubing with aluminum covers for durability. It weighs 3.09 pounds and measures 10.2 inches in height. This cooler suits users prioritizing compact 120mm radiator sizes and aesthetic customization.
Pros
- Compact 120mm radiator size fits small form factor builds
- Pre-installed reinforced and sleeved rubber tubing with aluminum covers
- D-RGB lighting in block and fans controllable via motherboard or standalone controller
- Compatible with Intel LGA 115x, 1200, 2066 and AMD AM4 sockets
Cons
- Smaller 120mm radiator limits cooling capacity compared to 240mm or 360mm options
- LGA 1700 support requires a separate purchase
- Weighs 3.09 pounds, which is heavier than typical 120mm AIOs
Good fit if
- You need a compact cooler for a small chassis
- You want addressable RGB lighting in both the block and fans
- You are using an Intel 115x, 1200, 2066 or AMD AM4 socket
Skip if
- You require native LGA 1700 support without buying extra kits
- You need maximum cooling performance from a larger radiator
- You prefer a 240mm or 360mm radiator size
Verdict: EK AIO 120mm D-RGB CPU Cooler is a compact cooling solution for users with space constraints or specific socket requirements. It offers durable tubing and customizable lighting, making it suitable for small builds that do not require high-end thermal headroom.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO | EK AIO 120mm D-RGB Liquid Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 240mm | 120mm |
| Socket Compatibility | not stated | Intel 115X/1200/2066, AMD AM4 |
| Fan Speed | 800 to 1900 RPM | not stated |
| Lighting Type | RGB | D-RGB |
| Lighting | RGB | RGB |
| Size | 240Mm | not stated |
| Dimensions | 10.7 × 4.86 × 1.06 inches | 5.12 × 8.27 × 10.2 inches |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds | 3.09 pounds |
| Color | Black | D-RGB - 120mm |
| Model | GA240B | 3831109815823 |
Frequently asked questions
Which AIO offers better socket support for modern Intel and AMD CPUs?
The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO provides broader compatibility. It supports AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, and LGA 1200 sockets. The EK AIO 120mm D-RGB only lists AM4 support. If you plan to upgrade to newer platforms like AM5 or LGA 1700, the Lian Li model is the safer choice for future-proofing your build.
How do the physical dimensions of these coolers differ?
The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm measures 10.7 inches in length and 4.86 inches in width. It weighs 2.2 pounds. The EK AIO 120mm D-RGB is shorter at 5.12 inches long but slightly wider at 8.27 inches. It is heavier at 3.09 pounds. You should check your case clearance against these specific measurements before purchasing.
Does either cooler include customizable lighting features?
Both units feature addressable RGB lighting. The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO includes RGB lighting for aesthetic customization. The EK AIO 120mm D-RGB also offers D-RGB lighting. This allows you to sync the light effects with your motherboard software. Both options provide visual flexibility for your case interior.
Which cooler is better suited for small form factor cases?
The EK AIO 120mm D-RGB is designed for smaller builds. Its 120mm radiator fits into chassis with limited space. The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO requires a 240mm radiator slot. If your case only supports 120mm fans, the EK unit is the only viable option. It prioritizes compactness over maximum cooling surface area.
What is the primary difference in cooling capacity between the two?
The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO has a larger 240mm radiator. This provides more surface area for heat dissipation. The EK AIO 120mm D-RGB uses a smaller 120mm radiator. The larger radiator generally handles higher thermal loads more effectively. You should choose the Lian Li model if you prioritize raw cooling performance over compact size.
Are both coolers maintenance-free liquid cooling solutions?
Yes, both are closed-loop AIO systems. They require no user maintenance or refilling. The Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm and EK AIO 120mm D-RGB are sealed units. This design ensures long-term reliability without the complexity of custom loops. You can install them and forget about coolant top-ups or leaks.