Quad Fan or Single Fan Water Cooling Parts? Compared by Specs
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Choosing between a quad fan and single fan water cooling part depends on your case size and thermal needs. We compare the Alphacool NexXxos ST30 480mm and the NexXxos XT45 120mm. Both use full copper cores and black steel panels. The main difference is the quad fan vs single fan water cooling part layout. The ST30 offers a 480mm radiator for higher capacity. The XT45 provides a compact 120mm option for smaller builds.
Key differences
| Aspect | Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator | Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 120mm Copper Radiator |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 480mm | 120mm |
| Fan Mount | Quad Fan | Single Fan |
| Ports | 2 x G1/4" | 6 x G1/4" |
| Weight | 1,226g | 784g |
| Dimensions | 552 x 124 x 30mm | 157 x 124 x 46mm |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator if
- You need maximum heat dissipation for high-end components
- Your case supports a 480mm radiator slot
- You prefer fewer fittings due to dual ports
Choose Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 120mm Copper Radiator if
- You have limited space in a small form factor case
- You want flexibility with multiple G1/4" port connections
- You need a lighter component for easier installation
Verdict: The ST30 suits users with ample space who prioritize cooling capacity. The XT45 is better for compact builds requiring port flexibility. Choose based on your available radiator slot and connection needs.
Quad vs Single Fan Specs
Radiator Size
The Alphacool NexXxos ST30 Full Copper Radiator480 measures 480mm in length. This large surface area is designed for high heat loads. The Alphacool NexXxos XT45 Full Copper Radiator is only 120mm long. It fits in tight spaces where larger radiators cannot go. You need more physical room for the ST30. The XT45 offers compact flexibility for smaller cases. The size difference is significant for your build plan. Choose the ST30 for maximum cooling potential. Pick the XT45 for space efficiency.
Fan Mount
The ST30 supports a quad fan configuration. This means you can mount four 120mm fans for greater airflow. The XT45 is a single fan mount. It holds only one 120mm fan. Four fans move more air than one. This gives the ST30 a clear advantage in airflow capacity. You get more cooling surface area with the quad setup. The single fan on the XT45 is simpler to install. However, it moves less air. The quad mount is better for high performance.
Weight
The ST30 weighs 1.226 kilograms or 1.76 pounds. The XT45 weighs 784 grams or 1.32 pounds. The larger radiator is heavier due to more copper and steel. This extra weight requires sturdy mounting points in your case. The XT45 is lighter and easier to support. You do not need as much structural reinforcement for the smaller unit. The difference matters for case integrity. Heavier radiators can sag if not mounted well. The lighter option is easier to handle.
Port Count
The ST30 features two G1/4" ports. This is standard for most radiator setups. The XT45 includes six G1/4" ports. This allows for more complex tubing routes or additional sensors. You have more flexibility with the XT45. You can attach pressure gauges or temperature sensors easily. The ST30 is sufficient for basic loop connections. The extra ports on the XT45 are useful for detailed monitoring. This gives the smaller radiator an edge in versatility.
Dimensions
The ST30 dimensions are 552 x 124 x 30mm. The XT45 dimensions are 157 x 124 x 46mm. Both have a similar height of 124mm. The ST30 is much longer but thinner. The XT45 is shorter but thicker. The thickness of the XT45 might interfere with RAM clearance. The thin profile of the ST30 fits behind motherboards easily. You need to check your case constraints. The ST30 is better for low-profile installations. The XT45 requires more depth clearance.
Which radiator fits your build needs
High-end gaming PC builders with large cases
You need maximum heat dissipation for high-performance components. The ST30 offers 480mm of length and quad fan support. Its 1,226g weight and full copper construction provide substantial thermal mass. This size suits cases with ample space for large radiators and multiple fans.
Small form factor or compact system builders
Space is limited in your chassis. The XT45 measures only 120mm in length and weighs 784g. Its compact 157 x 124 x 46mm dimensions fit tight spots. The single fan design reduces noise and power draw while still offering G1/4" ports for easy tubing connections.
Users prioritizing port flexibility and compact design
You value connection options in a small package. The XT45 provides six G1/4" ports, offering more routing flexibility than the ST30's two ports. Despite its smaller 120mm footprint, it retains the full copper core and brass threads found in larger Alphacool radiators for reliable cooling.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator | High-performance cooling in large cases | Check price of Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator on Amazon |
| 2 | Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 120mm Copper Radiator | small cases with single 120mm fan mounts | Check price of Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 120mm Copper Radiator on Amazon |
The products compared
Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator
Best for: High-performance cooling in large cases
- Fan Mount
- Quad Fan (what this guide is about)
- Radiator Size
- 480mm
- Material
- Copper
- Thread Size
- G1/4
- Dimensions
- 21.7 × 4.88 × 1.18 inches
- Weight
- 1.76 pounds
View on Amazon: Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator Affiliate link
This is a 480mm quad fan radiator designed for high airflow cooling. It features a full copper core with steel side panels and brass G1/4" ports. The unit measures 552 x 124 x 30mm and weighs 1.226kg. It suits builds requiring maximum heat dissipation across four fans. You get extensive surface area for efficient thermal transfer in large cases.
Pros
- Full copper core construction for superior heat transfer
- 480mm size supports four 120mm fans for high airflow
- Brass G1/4" threaded ports for secure fitting connections
- Steel side panels provide structural rigidity
Cons
- Heavier build at 1.226kg due to copper and steel materials
- Thicker 124mm profile may limit clearance in compact cases
- No mention of anti-corrosion coating or specific flow rate data
Good fit if
- You have a large case with space for a 480mm radiator
- You prioritize maximum cooling performance over compact size
- You plan to use four fans for high static pressure
Skip if
- You are building in a small form factor case
- You need a lightweight component for easy handling
- You prefer a single or dual fan setup
Verdict: Alphacool NexXxos ST30 480mm Quad Fan Radiator is the right choice if you need maximum cooling capacity and have the case space. It delivers robust performance through its large copper core and quad fan support.
Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 120mm Copper Radiator
Best for: small cases with single 120mm fan mounts
- Fan Mount
- Single Fan (what this guide is about)
- Radiator Size
- 120mm
- Material
- Copper
- Thread Size
- G1/4
- Dimensions
- 4.88 × 6.18 × 1.81 inches
- Weight
- 1.32 pounds
View on Amazon: Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 120mm Copper Radiator Affiliate link
This Alphacool NexXxos XT45 is a 120mm single-fan radiator designed for tight spaces. It features full copper chambers and fins for efficient heat transfer, with steel side panels for durability. The unit includes six G1/4" ports for flexible tubing connections. At 784 grams, it is lighter than quad-fan alternatives. It suits you if you need a compact, high-quality single-fan solution for custom loops.
Pros
- Full copper chambers and fins for heat dissipation
- Six G1/4" ports for multiple tubing options
- Compact 157 x 124 x 46mm dimensions
- Lightweight 784g build
Cons
- Single fan mount limits total cooling surface area
- Steel side panels may conduct heat to nearby components
- No included fan or mounting hardware listed
Good fit if
- You have limited space for a single 120mm fan
- You prefer copper core construction for efficiency
- You need multiple G1/4" ports for fittings
Skip if
- You require maximum cooling performance from a single unit
- You need a quad-fan setup for high heat loads
- You want a pre-assembled unit with fans included
Verdict: Alphacool NexXxos XT45 120mm Single Fan is a compact, copper-core radiator ideal for small custom loops where space is tight. It fits builders who prioritize material quality and port flexibility over raw cooling capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator | Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 120mm Copper Radiator |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 480mm | 120mm |
| Material | Copper | Copper |
| Thread Size | G1/4 | G1/4 |
| Fan Mount | Quad Fan | Single Fan |
| Size | 480mm | 120Mm |
| Dimensions | 21.7 × 4.88 × 1.18 inches | 4.88 × 6.18 × 1.81 inches |
| Weight | 1.76 pounds | 1.32 pounds |
| Color | black | Black |
| Model | 14159 | 14163 |
Frequently asked questions
Which radiator is better for a small ITX case?
The Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 120mm is the right choice. It measures 120mm in length and supports a single fan. This compact size fits tight spaces where a larger unit would not. Its 120mm footprint allows for installation in small form factor builds without requiring excessive clearance.
How much weight does the 480mm radiator add to a build?
The Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm weighs 1.76 pounds. This substantial weight comes from its full copper core and large surface area. You must ensure your case mounts can support this load securely. The heavier construction provides greater thermal mass for dissipating high heat loads effectively.
Can I use a single fan with the ST30 480mm radiator?
No, the ST30 480mm is designed for quad fan mounting. It requires four 120mm fans to utilize its full 480mm length. Using fewer fans would leave significant surface area unused. This design prioritizes maximum cooling capacity over space efficiency, making it unsuitable for single-fan configurations.
What material is used in the Alphacool NexXxoS cores?
Both the ST30 480mm and XT45 120mm use full copper cores. Copper offers excellent thermal conductivity for transferring heat from the water to the fins. This material choice ensures robust performance and durability. The exterior panels are finished in black to match common system aesthetics.
What are the physical dimensions of the 120mm Alphacool radiator?
The XT45 120mm measures 4.88 inches in length and 6.18 inches in width. Its height is 1.81 inches. These compact dimensions allow it to fit in areas with limited clearance. The 120mm size is ideal for builders who need a small footprint without sacrificing copper core quality.
Is the 480mm radiator suitable for high-performance gaming PCs?
Yes, the ST30 480mm is ideal for high-performance builds. Its 480mm length and quad fan support provide maximum heat dissipation. This capacity handles the thermal output of powerful CPUs and GPUs. The large surface area ensures components stay cool under heavy sustained loads.
How thick is the Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 radiator?
The XT45 120mm has a height of 1.81 inches. This thickness includes the copper core and fin stack. It is slightly thicker than standard 1.18-inch units. This design maximizes contact area with the airflow from the single fan, improving efficiency in constrained spaces.