Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black vs Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White (2026): Key Differences
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You are comparing the thermalright frozen notte 360 black vs frozen notte 360 white AIO coolers. Both units share identical core cooling specifications, including 360mm radiators, 5300 RPM pumps, and TL-E12 fans. The primary difference is cosmetic. The black version features a black aluminum fin cold plate, while the white variant uses a white aluminum fin cold plate. Lighting and mounting hardware remain consistent across both models.
Key differences
| Aspect | Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 | Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Plate Material Color | Black aluminum fin cold plate | White aluminum fin cold plate |
| Fan Model | TL-E12B-S V2 | TL-E12W-S V2 |
| Socket Compatibility | AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 2011 | AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1851 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 if
- You prefer a dark aesthetic that matches black PC cases or components
- You need support for older Intel sockets like LGA 1200 or LGA 2011
- You want the black aluminum fin cold plate for a cohesive look
Choose Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB if
- You prefer a light aesthetic that matches white PC cases or components
- You want the white aluminum fin cold plate for a cohesive look
- You are building on modern platforms like LGA 1700 or AM5
Verdict: The choice between these two models depends entirely on your case color and motherboard socket generation. Both offer the same cooling performance and ARGB synchronization. Select the black version for dark builds or older Intel platforms, and the white version for light-themed modern builds.
Frozen Notte 360 Color Specs
Cooling Materials
Both coolers use a full copper mirror plane base and a 360mm aluminum fin cold plate. The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 specifies a black aluminum fin cold plate, while the Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB uses a white aluminum fin cold plate. Both feature high polymer woven protective water pipes. The pump speed is identical at 5300 RPM ± 10%. The white version adds details about a 0.1mm spacing copper bottom and an acrylic top cover with mirror plating. These material choices ensure low resistance and efficient heat transfer for both models.
Fan Specifications
Each unit includes three 120mm PWM fans. The black version uses TL-E12B-S V2 fans, while the white version uses TL-E12W-S V2 fans. Both fan models share identical performance specs: 2000 RPM ± 10% speed, 2.87mmH2O max wind pressure, and 72.37 CFM max air volume. Noise levels are rated at ≤27.7 dBA for both. Both utilize S-FDB bearings to reduce chattering in horizontal mounts. The fans support manual ARGB adjustment and automatic speed control based on CPU temperature, ensuring consistent airflow and noise management regardless of the color choice.
Lighting Setup
Both AIOs feature ARGB lighting synchronized via a 5V 3-pin connector. The black model describes this as "ARGB God Light Synchronization" with a 1600W color soft light effect. The white model uses the same synchronization method and lighting description. Both allow lighting effects to be connected in series to conserve motherboard slots. The fans and water head lighting can be adjusted manually. Since both units rely on the same 5V 3-pin ARGB standard and offer identical lighting control features, the visual experience is functionally equivalent, differing only in the base color of the hardware.
Socket Compatibility
Both coolers support an extensive range of CPU sockets. The listed compatibility includes Intel LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, 1851, 2011, and 2066. AMD support covers AM4, AM5, AM2, AM2+, AM3, AM3+, FM1, FM2, and FM2+. The black version explicitly mentions dual platform full metal black brackets for easy installation. The white version also notes dual platform full metal black brackets. Both recommend a chassis width greater than 250mm. Since the mounting hardware and socket support lists are identical, installation complexity and compatibility remain equal for both options.
Physical Dimensions
The thermalright frozen notte 360 black and white versions share the same physical footprint. Both units measure 397mm in length, 120mm in width, and 27mm in height for the heat sink. The radiator size is 360mm for both. The water conduit length is 450mm. The black version lists a weight of 3.53 ounces, while the white version does not specify a weight in the provided data. Despite the cosmetic color difference, the spatial requirements for your PC case remain unchanged, ensuring both fit in cases designed for 360mm radiators.
Which Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 fits you
You want a dark aesthetic for your build
This black AIO pairs with dark chassis and components. It uses a black aluminum fin cold plate and matching black accents. The pump speed reaches 5300 RPM for consistent heat transfer. The three TL-E12B-S V2 fans provide up to 72.37 CFM of airflow while maintaining noise levels at or below 27.7 dBA. This creates a cohesive, low-profile look without sacrificing cooling performance.
You prefer a bright, clean white theme
This white AIO complements white cases and motherboards. It features a white aluminum fin cold plate that matches the overall color scheme. The pump operates at 5300 RPM to ensure efficient heat dissipation. The included TL-E12W-S V2 fans deliver 72.37 CFM of air volume with a maximum noise rating of 27.7 dBA. This combination maintains a bright, unified aesthetic while providing reliable thermal performance for your CPU.
You need broad socket support for upgrades
Both models support Intel LGA 1700, 1851, 1200, 2011 and AMD AM4, AM5. This black version explicitly lists these sockets in its specifications. The dual-platform metal mounting bracket ensures compatibility across generations. You can install it on current and older platforms. The 450mm tubing length offers flexibility for routing within various case sizes. This versatility makes it suitable for users planning future hardware upgrades or maintaining legacy systems.
The products compared
Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2
Best for: LGA 1700 and AM5 builds with 360mm cases
- Radiator Size
- 360mm
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1851
- Pump Speed
- 5300 RPM
- Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Lighting Type
- ARGB
- Dimensions
- 0.98 × 4.72 × 4.72 inches
View on Amazon: Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 Affiliate link
This Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB cooler uses a 360mm radiator and three 120mm fans. The pump runs at 5300 RPM, while the fans reach 2000 RPM with a maximum noise level of 27.7 dBA. It supports LGA 1700 and AM5 sockets. The unit features synchronized ARGB lighting via a 5V 3-pin connection. You get a black aluminum fin cold plate and a copper base for heat transfer.
Pros
- 360mm radiator size for high heat dissipation
- Pump speed up to 5300 RPM
- Fans provide 72.37 CFM airflow
- S-FDB bearings reduce fan noise
- Supports LGA 1700 and AM5 sockets
Cons
- Fan noise reaches 27.7 dBA at maximum speed
- Requires separate 5V 3-pin ARGB motherboard header
- Radiator length requires chassis width over 250mm
Good fit if
- You need a 360mm radiator for high-end CPUs
- You want synchronized ARGB lighting effects
- You use LGA 1700 or AM5 platforms
Skip if
- Your case width is less than 250mm
- You prefer silent operation below 25 dBA
- You only have 4-pin PWM headers available
Verdict: Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB delivers strong cooling performance with its 360mm radiator and 5300 RPM pump. It fits users building on LGA 1700 or AM5 who want visible ARGB lighting.
Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB
Best for: White-themed builds on LGA 1700/1851 or AM5
- Radiator Size
- 360mm
- Socket Compatibility
- AMD/AM4, Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200
- Pump Speed
- 5300 RPM
- Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Lighting Type
- ARGB
- Dimensions
- 0.98 × 4.72 × 4.72 inches
View on Amazon: Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB Affiliate link
This is a 360mm AIO cooler with a white aluminum fin cold plate and three 120mm PWM fans. The pump runs up to 5300 RPM, while fans reach 2000 RPM. It supports ARGB lighting synchronized via 5V 3-pin headers. You get full compatibility with modern Intel and AMD sockets. It suits builders who want a white theme with strong airflow and manageable noise levels.
Pros
- 360mm radiator with white aluminum fins
- Pump speed up to 5300 RPM
- Three 120mm fans with 72.37 CFM max airflow
- ARGB lighting sync via 5V 3-pin motherboard header
- Supports LGA 1700, LGA 1851, AM4, and AM5 sockets
Cons
- Maximum fan noise reaches 27.7 dBA
- Requires chassis width greater than 250mm for installation
- Lighting relies on motherboard headers rather than a dedicated controller
Good fit if
- You are building a white-themed PC case
- You need support for the latest Intel LGA 1851 or AMD AM5 sockets
- You prefer synchronized ARGB lighting across fans and the pump head
Skip if
- Your case has a maximum radiator width under 250mm
- You require silent operation below 25 dBA under load
- You want a cooler with a built-in LCD display
Verdict: Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB delivers high airflow and modern socket support for white builds. It fits users who prioritize aesthetic coordination and broad compatibility over absolute silence.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 | Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 360mm | 360mm |
| Socket Compatibility | AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1851 | AMD/AM4, Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200 |
| Pump Speed | 5300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fan Speed | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Lighting Type | ARGB | ARGB |
| Lighting | ARGB | ARGB |
| Size | 360Mm | not stated |
| Dimensions | 0.98 × 4.72 × 4.72 inches | 0.98 × 4.72 × 4.72 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 ounces | not stated |
| Color | Black-360MM | not stated |
| Model | 1 | Frozen Notte 360 WHITE ARGB D6 |
Frequently asked questions
Is there a performance difference between the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black and White models?
No, there is no performance difference between the two models. Both units share identical core cooling specifications, including 360mm radiators and 5300 RPM pumps. The primary distinction is purely cosmetic. You can choose either color based on your chassis preference without affecting thermal output or fan speed.
Do both the Black and White versions support AM5 sockets?
Yes, both the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 and the White ARGB model support AM5 sockets. The published specifications list AM4 and LGA 1700 compatibility for both units. This ensures you get broad modern socket support regardless of which color variant you select for your build.
Are the physical dimensions identical for both color options?
Yes, the physical dimensions are identical for both color options. Both coolers measure 4.72 inches in width and height, with a radiator length of 0.98 inches. The Black version also specifies a weight of 3.53 ounces. You can swap between them without worrying about case fitment changes.
Does the White version have different lighting effects than the Black one?
No, the lighting effects are the same for both models. Both the Black ARGB V2 and the White ARGB feature ARGB lighting capabilities. The difference lies only in the base color of the hardware. You will get the same customizable light show on either chassis.
Which model is better for a white-themed PC build?
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB is the better choice for a white-themed PC build. It is designed to fit users who prioritize aesthetic coordination. The white finish allows it to blend seamlessly with white chassis and components, providing a unified look that the black version cannot offer.
Can I use the Black version on an LGA 1700 motherboard?
Yes, you can use the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 on an LGA 1700 motherboard. The specifications explicitly list LGA 1700 as a compatible socket. It is also noted as ideal for LGA 1700 builds with 360mm cases, ensuring proper mounting and fit.
Is the pump speed different between the Black and White variants?
No, the pump speed is not different between the variants. Both models utilize a pump that reaches 5300 RPM. This consistent speed ensures similar cooling performance across both color options. The choice between black and white does not impact the rotational speed or cooling efficiency of the pump.