Triple Fan vs Quad Fan Water Cooling Parts in 2026: Key Differences
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Choosing between a triple fan vs quad fan water cooling part depends on your case space and cooling needs. Both Alphacool radiators share a full copper construction and black finish. The main difference lies in their physical footprint and port count. One offers a 360mm size with six G1/4" ports, while the other provides a 480mm length with only two ports. You must decide which dimensions fit your build and how many fittings you require for your loop.
Key differences
| Aspect | Alphacool NexXxos UT60 360mm Copper Radiator | Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 360mm | 480mm |
| Fan Mount | Triple Fan | Quad Fan |
| G1/4" Ports | x6 | x2 |
| Weight | 1.76 pounds | 1.76 pounds |
| Height | 2.36 inches | 1.18 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Alphacool NexXxos UT60 360mm Copper Radiator if
- You need six G1/4" ports for a complex loop
- Your case fits a 360mm radiator length
- You prefer a thicker 2.36-inch core
Choose Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator if
- You want maximum surface area with a 480mm length
- You need a slimmer 1.18-inch profile
- Your case supports a quad fan mount
Verdict: The 360mm model suits builders who need more connection points and have standard space constraints. The 480mm model is better for those prioritizing extended cooling surface and a thinner profile. Both share the same weight and copper construction for reliable heat dissipation.
Triple vs Quad Fan Radiator Specs
Radiator size
The Alphacool NexXxos UT60 measures 360mm in length. This triple fan configuration fits into standard 360mm radiator mounts. The Alphacool NexXxos ST30 extends to 480mm. This quad fan design requires a case with space for four 120mm fans. You must check your chassis dimensions carefully. A 480mm radiator is significantly longer than a 360mm unit. The extra length allows for more fin surface area. This larger surface area can help dissipate heat more effectively. However, it demands more internal case space. You need to ensure your case supports the longer footprint.
Physical dimensions
The UT60 is 15.7 inches long, 4.88 inches wide, and 2.36 inches thick. The ST30 is 21.7 inches long, 4.88 inches wide, and 1.18 inches thick. Both share the same width. The ST30 is longer but thinner. The UT60 is shorter but thicker. The thickness difference affects airflow clearance. A thinner radiator may allow better airflow between fans. The UT60 offers more depth for fin density. You should measure your available space precisely. The ST30 requires more length. The UT60 requires more depth. Choose based on your specific case constraints.
Port count
The UT60 includes six G1/4 inch ports. This allows for multiple tubing connections. You can route lines flexibly. The ST30 includes only two G1/4 inch ports. This limits your tubing options. You must use fewer connections. The UT60 offers more versatility for complex loops. You can add more components easily. The ST30 is simpler to plumb. Fewer ports reduce potential leak points. However, it restricts customization. If you need multiple lines, the UT60 is better. For simple setups, the ST30 suffices.
Weight
Both radiators weigh 1.76 pounds. The UT60 is listed as 1,958g in features but 1.76 pounds in specs. The ST30 is listed as 1,226g in features but 1.76 pounds in specs. There is a discrepancy in the gram weights. The pound weights are identical. This suggests similar mass for mounting. Both use steel side panels and copper internals. The weight is manageable for most cases. You do not need extra support brackets. The mounting stress is similar. Both units are heavy enough to feel solid. The identical weight simplifies comparison. You can expect similar load on your case.
Material construction
Both units use full copper construction. The UT60 has copper chambers, fins, and channels. The ST30 also has copper chambers, fins, and channels. Both feature steel side panels. Both use brass threads for ports. This shared material ensures good heat transfer. Copper is efficient for cooling. The black finish is consistent on both. You get similar thermal performance potential. The material quality is equal. There is no advantage in materials. Both are built for durability. You can trust the copper core. The steel panels add rigidity. Both are well-built radiators.
Which Radiator Fits Your Build
Users with standard 360mm case mounts
The UT60 measures 360mm long. It fits standard triple fan mounts. You get six G1/4 inch ports for flexible tubing routing. The thicker core at 124mm provides robust heat dissipation. This model suits cases with limited depth but adequate width.
Builders needing maximum surface area
The ST30 extends to 480mm. This quad fan layout offers more fin surface area. It requires a case with space for four 120mm fans. The thinner 30mm core reduces overall depth. You sacrifice port count for extended cooling capacity.
Enthusiasts prioritizing port flexibility
You need multiple connection points. The UT60 includes six G1/4 inch ports. This allows complex loop designs with multiple components. The 360mm size remains compatible with most mid-tower cases. You gain versatility in tubing placement without excessive length.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alphacool NexXxos UT60 360mm Copper Radiator | Compact cases needing dense copper cooling | Check price of Alphacool NexXxos UT60 360mm Copper Radiator on Amazon |
| 2 | Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator | high heat load quad fan builds | Check price of Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator on Amazon |
The products compared
Alphacool NexXxos UT60 360mm Copper Radiator
Best for: Compact cases needing dense copper cooling
- Radiator Size
- 360mm
- Material
- Copper
- Thread Size
- G1/4
- Dimensions
- 15.7 × 2.36 × 4.88 inches
- Weight
- 1.76 pounds
View on Amazon: Alphacool NexXxos UT60 360mm Copper Radiator Affiliate link
The Alphacool NexXxos UT60 is a 360mm triple fan radiator designed for high heat dissipation. It features a full copper construction with copper fins, chambers, and channels, paired with steel side panels. The unit includes six G1/4" ports for flexible tubing connections. Weighing 1.76 pounds, it measures 15.7 x 4.88 x 2.36 inches. This build suits users seeking robust thermal performance in a compact triple-fan footprint.
Pros
- Full copper core with copper fins and chambers
- Six G1/4" ports for versatile plumbing
- Compact 360mm triple fan size
- Steel side panels for structural rigidity
Cons
- Heavier than aluminum alternatives at 1.76 pounds
- Limited to triple fan mounting configuration
- Black exterior finish may not match all builds
Good fit if
- You need a compact 360mm radiator for tight cases
- You prefer full copper construction for durability
- You require multiple G1/4" connection points
Skip if
- You require a quad fan setup for maximum surface area
- You need a lighter weight component under 1.5 pounds
- You prefer aluminum cores for corrosion resistance
Verdict: Alphacool NexXxos UT60 360mm Triple Fan delivers reliable cooling in a dense copper build. It fits builders who prioritize material quality and compact dimensions over maximum fan count. This radiator serves users with case constraints who still demand high thermal capacity.
Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator
Best for: high heat load quad fan builds
- 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 Alphacool NexXxos ST30 is a 480mm radiator designed for quad fan mounts. It features a full copper construction with copper chambers, fins, and channels. The unit includes two G1/4 inch ports for your tubing connections. Steel side panels protect the internal copper components. It measures 552 by 124 by 30mm. You should choose this if you need maximum surface area for high heat loads.
Pros
- Full copper core with copper chambers and fins
- Two G1/4 inch ports for easy tubing attachment
- 480mm size supports four 120mm fans
- Steel side panels provide structural durability
Cons
- Heavier build at 1,226g due to full copper construction
- Thicker profile at 124mm may limit clearance in some cases
- Only two port options limit simultaneous tubing connections
Good fit if
- You are building a high-end quad fan loop
- You prioritize copper heat dissipation over weight
- You have case space for a 480mm radiator
Skip if
- You only have room for a triple fan setup
- You need a lightweight radiator for small cases
- You require more than two G1/4 inch ports
Verdict: Alphacool NexXxos ST30 480mm Quad Fan is a heavy-duty cooling solution for enthusiasts who need maximum surface area. It fits best in cases that can accommodate its large size and weight.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Alphacool NexXxos UT60 360mm Copper Radiator | Alphacool NexXxoS ST30 480mm Full Copper Radiator |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 360mm | 480mm |
| Material | Copper | Copper |
| Thread Size | G1/4 | G1/4 |
| Fan Mount | not stated | Quad Fan |
| Size | 360Mm | 480mm |
| Dimensions | 15.7 × 2.36 × 4.88 inches | 21.7 × 4.88 × 1.18 inches |
| Weight | 1.76 pounds | 1.76 pounds |
| Color | Black | black |
| Model | 14174 | 14159 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I install a quad fan radiator in a case designed for triple fans?
You cannot install a quad fan radiator in a standard triple fan mount. The Alphacool NexXxos ST30 measures 21.7 inches in length. This exceeds the space of a 360mm mount. You must verify your case supports 480mm radiator dimensions before purchasing. The physical footprint is significantly larger than the triple fan alternative.
Which radiator is better for tight compact cases?
The triple fan option is better for tight cases. The Alphacool NexXxos UT60 measures 15.7 inches long. It fits standard 360mm mounts found in many mid-tower chassis. The quad fan version requires 480mm clearance. If your case lacks space for four fans, the triple fan model is the only viable choice.
Do both radiators use copper construction?
Yes, both models utilize full copper construction. The Alphacool NexXxos UT60 is made of copper. The Alphacool NexXxos ST30 is also constructed from copper. This material choice ensures high thermal conductivity for both configurations. You do not need to sacrifice material quality when choosing between the two sizes.
What is the weight difference between the two models?
Both radiators weigh 1.76 pounds. The Alphacool NexXxos UT60 weighs 1.76 pounds. The Alphacool NexXxos ST30 also weighs 1.76 pounds. Despite the size difference, the weight remains identical. You do not need to worry about excessive load on your case mounts due to weight disparities.
Which model offers more surface area for cooling?
The quad fan model offers more surface area. The Alphacool NexXxos ST30 extends to 480mm. This provides greater heat dissipation capacity than the 360mm UT60. If you have high heat loads, the larger surface area of the quad fan radiator is advantageous. The triple fan version has a smaller footprint.
Are the dimensions of the triple fan radiator compact?
The triple fan radiator has a compact length. The Alphacool NexXxos UT60 is 15.7 inches long. It fits into standard 360mm mounts easily. The width is 2.36 inches and height is 4.88 inches. This size allows for installation in cases with limited front or top clearance.
Is the quad fan radiator suitable for high heat loads?
Yes, the quad fan radiator is suitable for high heat loads. The Alphacool NexXxos ST30 is designed for enthusiasts needing maximum surface area. Its 480mm length provides robust cooling performance. This model fits best in cases that can accommodate its large size and weight. It handles demanding thermal requirements effectively.
What is the main physical difference between these two radiators?
The main difference is the size and fan count. The triple fan model is 360mm long. The quad fan model is 480mm long. This affects compatibility with your case mounts. Both share the same copper material and black finish. Choose based on your available space and cooling requirements.