Thermalright vs Enermax Aio Liquid Coolers: Which Brand Fits You?
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Choosing between the thermalright vs enermax aio liquid cooler requires looking at their core specifications. Both units feature ARGB lighting and support modern Intel and AMD sockets. The main difference lies in their physical design and cooling capacity. The Thermalright model uses a 360mm radiator for higher airflow, while the Enermax option uses a 240mm radiator. You need to decide which size fits your case and which pump technology suits your build.
Key differences
| Aspect | Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 | Enermax Liqmax III 240 White ARGB |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 360mm | 240mm |
| Pump Speed | 5300 RPM | not listed |
| Fan Airflow | 72.37 CFM | 72.1 CFM |
| Fan Static Pressure | 2.87 mmH2O | 1.98 mmH2O |
| Pump Technology | Standard integrated pump | Dual Chamber design |
| Socket Compatibility | AM4, AM5, LGA 1700/1851/1200/2011 | AM4, AM5, LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1156/1155/2011/2066 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 if
- You need a 360mm radiator for maximum cooling potential.
- You want fans with higher static pressure for dense radiators.
- You prefer a pump speed listed at 5300 RPM.
Choose Enermax Liqmax III 240 White ARGB if
- You have a case that only supports 240mm radiators.
- You want a dual-chamber water block design.
- You need support for legacy sockets like LGA 2011 and LGA 2066.
Verdict: The Thermalright Frozen Notte is better if you have the space for a 360mm radiator and want higher fan static pressure. The Enermax Liqmax III is the practical choice for smaller cases or builds requiring legacy socket support. Both offer ARGB lighting and modern socket compatibility.
Thermalright vs Enermax AIO Specs
Radiator Size
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 features a 360mm radiator. This larger surface area allows for more heat dissipation across a wider space. In contrast, the Enermax Liqmax III 240 White A-RGB uses a 240mm radiator. This smaller footprint is designed for cases with limited space or for builds that do not require maximum cooling potential. A 360mm radiator generally provides better thermal performance for high-end processors. You should choose the larger unit if your case supports it and you need extra cooling headroom.
Socket Compatibility
Both coolers support modern platforms. The Thermalright unit explicitly lists support for Intel LGA 1700, 1851, 1200, 2011, and 2066, along with AMD AM4 and AM5. The Enermax model also supports LGA 1700 and AM5, plus older Intel sockets like LGA 1155 and LGA 1156. While both cover the latest AM5 and LGA 1700 standards, the Thermalright listing highlights support for the newer LGA 1851 socket. This suggests broader future-proofing for Intel's latest architecture without needing to check older legacy support.
Pump Technology
The Enermax Liqmax III 240 employs a patented Shunt-Channel-Technology (SCT) and a dual-chamber water block design. This isolates the pump from the heat source to prolong the cooler's lifetime and boost thermal conductivity. The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 lists a pump speed of 5300 RPM but does not detail specific internal pump architecture or isolation technology. If you prioritize engineered pump longevity and specialized heat transfer designs, the Enermax approach offers a distinct technical advantage over the standard high-speed pump description found in the Thermalright specs.
Fan Specifications
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 includes three PWM fans with a maximum speed of 2000 RPM, generating up to 2.87 mmH2O of static pressure and 72.37 CFM of airflow. The Enermax Liqmax III 240 uses two fans with a maximum static pressure of 1.98 mmH2O and 72.1 CFM airflow. The Thermalright fans offer significantly higher static pressure, which is crucial for pushing air through dense radiator fins. Higher pressure typically results in better cooling efficiency, giving the Thermalright unit an edge in fan performance metrics.
Lighting Type
Both coolers feature ARGB lighting that connects via a 5V 3-pin header for motherboard synchronization. The Thermalright model provides 1600W color soft light effects and supports daisy-chaining to avoid insufficient light slots. The Enermax model uses Luminous Aurabelt technology for synchronized ARGB lighting. Since both units offer standard 5V ARGB connectivity and synchronous lighting capabilities, there is no significant functional difference in the lighting interface. You will get similar visual customization options from both brands.
Which Thermalright or Enermax AIO Fits You
Users with large cases needing max cooling
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 features a 360mm radiator for superior heat dissipation. Its pump speed reaches 5300 RPM, and fans deliver 72.37 CFM airflow. This combination handles high thermal loads effectively. You need a chassis width greater than 250mm to fit this larger unit comfortably.
Owners of compact mid-tower cases
The Enermax Liqmax III 240 White ARGB uses a compact 240mm radiator. This size fits easily in standard mid-tower cases without clearance issues. It supports both Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets. The dual-chamber water block design helps isolate the pump from heat, potentially extending the cooler's operational lifetime.
Builders wanting extensive socket compatibility
The Thermalright model supports a wide range of sockets including LGA 1851, 2011, 2066, and AM2 through AM5. This extensive list covers older and newer platforms. You can install this cooler on legacy systems or future upgrades. The dual-platform metal buckle ensures easy mounting across these diverse CPU types.
The products compared
Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2
Best for: Modern CPU platforms needing 360mm cooling
- 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 AIO features a 360mm radiator and three 120mm fans rated for 2000 RPM with 72.37 CFM airflow. The pump runs at 5300 RPM to move heat efficiently. It includes ARGB lighting synchronized via a 5V 3-pin motherboard header. The unit supports Intel LGA 1700/1851 and AMD AM5 sockets. It suits builders needing broad socket coverage and strong airflow for high-end CPUs.
Pros
- 360mm radiator with three 120mm fans
- Pump speed up to 5300 RPM
- Supports LGA 1851 and AM5 sockets
- Full copper mirror plane base
- ARGB lighting with daisy-chain support
Cons
- Only includes 5V 3-pin ARGB headers
- Pump uses a 12V 3-pin connector
- Radiator dimensions may exceed 250mm chassis limits
Good fit if
- You need support for the latest Intel LGA 1851 or AMD AM5 sockets
- You want a 360mm radiator for maximum cooling surface area
- You prefer manual ARGB control via motherboard headers
Skip if
- Your case cannot accommodate a 397mm long radiator
- You require software-based lighting control without motherboard headers
- You are building on an older socket like LGA 1151 only
Verdict: Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 ARGB delivers high pump speeds and broad socket compatibility for modern platforms. It fits users who prioritize raw cooling capacity and manual lighting sync over software convenience.
Enermax Liqmax III 240 White ARGB
Best for: White LGA1700 or AM5 builds with 240mm space
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA1700, AM5
- Lighting Type
- ARGB
- Dimensions
- 10.8 × 4.72 × 2.09 inches
View on Amazon: Enermax Liqmax III 240 White ARGB Affiliate link
The Enermax Liqmax III 240mm is a white A-RGB all-in-one liquid cooler designed for Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM5 sockets. It features a dual-chamber water block that isolates the pump from heat to extend lifespan. The dual-convex fans deliver up to 72.1 CFM airflow and 1.98 mmH2O static pressure. Its patented Shunt-Channel Technology aims to boost thermal conductivity and prevent heat surges. This cooler suits users seeking reliable white aesthetics and efficient cooling for modern platforms.
Pros
- Dual-chamber water block isolates the pump from heat
- Patented Shunt-Channel Technology boosts thermal conductivity
- Dual-convex fans provide up to 72.1 CFM airflow
- Luminous Aurabelt supports motherboard-synced 5V ARGB lighting
Cons
- 240mm radiator size is smaller than 360mm options
- Requires 3-pin 5V ARGB header for lighting control
- No mention of software control for fan curves
Good fit if
- You need a white A-RGB cooler for LGA1700 or AM5
- You prefer a compact 240mm radiator setup
- You want pump longevity through heat isolation
Skip if
- You require a 360mm radiator for higher heat loads
- You need software-based lighting or fan control
- You are building for an older socket like LGA1151
Verdict: Enermax Liqmax III 240mm A-RGB White is a solid choice for users building on LGA1700 or AM5 who want a white aesthetic and reliable pump protection. It fits well in cases that accommodate a 240mm radiator.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 | Enermax Liqmax III 240 White ARGB |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 360mm | 240mm |
| Socket Compatibility | AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1851 | LGA1700, AM5 |
| Pump Speed | 5300 RPM | not stated |
| Fan Speed | 2000 RPM | not stated |
| Lighting Type | ARGB | ARGB |
| Lighting | ARGB | ARGB |
| Size | 360Mm | 240 |
| Dimensions | 0.98 × 4.72 × 4.72 inches | 10.8 × 4.72 × 2.09 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 ounces | not stated |
| Color | Black-360MM | LM3 240 ARGB W |
| Model | 1 | ELC-LMT240-W-ARGB |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 support AM5 sockets?
No, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB V2 does not list AM5 in its socket compatibility. It supports AM4 and LGA 1700. If you need AM5 support, this specific model is not compatible. You should check other Thermalright options or look at Enermax models for broader socket coverage.
Which cooler is better for a white build aesthetic?
The Enermax Liqmax III 240 White ARGB is the better choice for white builds. It comes in a white color scheme. The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 is only available in black. If your case and components are white, the Enermax unit will match your build theme better than the black Thermalright option.
What is the size difference between these two radiators?
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 has a 360mm radiator. The Enermax Liqmax III 240 has a 240mm radiator. The Thermalright unit is physically larger to provide more cooling surface area. You need more case space for the Thermalright model. The Enermax unit fits in smaller cases with less radiator clearance.
Do both coolers have addressable RGB lighting?
Yes, both coolers feature ARGB lighting. The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 includes ARGB for customizable effects. The Enermax Liqmax III 240 also includes ARGB. You can sync both units with motherboard software for lighting control. Both provide similar lighting features for visual customization in your PC case.
Can I use the Enermax cooler on an AM5 platform?
Yes, the Enermax Liqmax III 240 White ARGB supports the AM5 socket. It is compatible with both AM5 and LGA 1700. This makes it a flexible choice for newer AMD processors. You can install it on your AM5 motherboard without needing a different mounting bracket or cooler.
Which cooler has a larger pump speed?
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 has a pump speed of 5300 RPM. This high speed helps move coolant faster for better heat transfer. The Enermax Liqmax III 240 does not list its pump speed in the provided data. You should assume the Thermalright unit offers higher pump performance based on its specifications.
Is the Thermalright cooler heavier than the Enermax one?
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 weighs 3.53 ounces. The Enermax Liqmax III 240 weight is not specified in the data. The Thermalright unit is a 360mm radiator, which is generally heavier than a 240mm unit. You should expect the Thermalright cooler to be heavier due to its larger size and material.
Which cooler is better for high-end Intel CPUs?
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 is better for high-end Intel CPUs. It supports LGA 1700 and has a 360mm radiator for maximum cooling. The Enermax Liqmax III 240 also supports LGA 1700 but has a smaller 240mm radiator. For heavy loads on Intel processors, the larger Thermalright radiator provides more cooling capacity.