The MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 is an all-in-one liquid CPU cooler from the gaming hardware giant, aiming to deliver top-notch cooling performance at a reasonable price point. As PC enthusiasts continue to push the limits of their systems with power-hungry CPUs, finding the right balance between thermal management and noise levels becomes increasingly important. Let’s dive in and see if MSI’s new AIO has what it takes to keep your rig running, cool, and quiet.
Right out of the box, the MAG CoreLiquid E360 makes a striking impression with its sleek, all-black design accented by subtle ARGB lighting on the CPU block and fans. The cooler’s aesthetic is inspired by a total solar eclipse, giving it a unique and eye-catching look that will complement any build.
Installation is relatively straightforward, with MSI providing all the necessary mounting hardware for a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700 and AMD AM5/AM4/TR4/sTRx4. The only minor gripe is the lack of a printed quick-start guide, which could be helpful for first-time liquid cooling users. However, MSI does provide a detailed manual via a QR code, although I managed to get everything installed in a matter of minutes, with everything clearly labelled and made to be easy to assemble.
I installed the MAG CoreLiquid E360 in our AMD test build, and it was very straightforward. Everything, the fans and radiator all fit without issue, although with the 360mm radiator I used, you will need to ensure you have a case that supports it. While it does give more potential cooling ability, if space is a premium, it may not be the way to go. That being said, there are options, so pick the one that meets your needs.
“The MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360’s cooling prowess is impressive, thanks to several key design elements.”
Once everything was installed, I was impressed at how it all turned out, especially with the ARGB running, giving it a very modern look. I will say I loved a minor but potentially standout feature, the rotatable CPU block, which allows for easy orientation in any direction up to 270 degrees. This flexibility ensures compatibility with various case layouts and makes the installation process more user-friendly. Honestly, while this may sound minor, it comes in handy more than you would think, especially if you want your case to look as clean as possible once everything is built.
The MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360’s cooling prowess is impressive, thanks to several key design elements. The enlarged copper base plate maximizes contact with the CPU, enhancing heat transfer. Additionally, the radiator utilizes a split pathway design to efficiently distribute warm and cold liquid, while the high-density micro-channel design further improves heat dissipation.
In testing, the E360 proved to be a strong performer, rivalling even more expensive AIO coolers. It effectively tamed the heat output of power-hungry CPUs like Intel’s 13th and 14th-gen processors or the latest Ryzen chips from AMD, showcasing its ability to handle the most demanding cooling scenarios.
While I have seen AIO coolers that deliver a bit more features out of the box, the MAG CoreLiquid E360 still manages to go toe-to-toe with many pricier alternatives. Its cooling performance is more than sufficient for the vast majority of users, making it an excellent value proposition. I was impressed with just how cool things stayed even when I pushed the system. I would take a cool system over an LED screen any day, and knowing I can push my system as far as it can go and not worry is well worth the investment.
Equally important as raw cooling performance is the ability to maintain low noise levels, and the MAG CoreLiquid E360 does not disappoint in this regard. The included 120mm fans feature fluid dynamic bearings, which help minimize noise and vibration. When on, the system was near whisper quiet, and that is when everything running benchmarks or gaming. When just sitting in windows, I barley noticed it on.
The three-phase motor in the water pump is another key factor in the E360’s quiet operation, balancing cooling power with reduced noise and vibration. Even under heavy load, the cooler remains impressively quiet, with no noticeable pump whine. While the fans can spin up to 1800 RPM, they manage to push plenty of air through the radiator without becoming overly loud.
“If you appreciate the MAG CoreLiquid E360’s distinctive design, silent operation, and strong cooling performance, it is a valuable investment.”
At an MSRP of $139.99 for the 360mm version, the MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 finds itself in a somewhat tricky position. It’s part of MSI’s value-oriented MAG line, but there are slightly less expensive 360mm AIO coolers that offer similar performance.
However, the E360 does have a few tricks up its sleeve to help justify its price tag. The attractive ARGB lighting on the CPU block and fans adds a premium touch, while the inclusion of a user-accessible refill port (albeit with a warranty-voiding sticker) provides some long-term serviceability.
In the end, the choice depends on personal preference and priorities. If you appreciate the MAG CoreLiquid E360’s distinctive design, silent operation, and strong cooling performance, it is a valuable investment. However, if you are solely concerned with the price-to-performance ratio, there are slightly less expensive alternatives available.
The MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 is an attractive option for anyone looking for a high-performance, low-noise AIO liquid cooler. The MAG CoreLiquid E360 stands out in the crowded AIO market due to its striking design, ease of installation, and impressive cooling capabilities.
Although not the cheapest 360mm AIO available, its slightly higher price is justified by a combination of style, performance, and user-friendly features. If you require a reliable and quiet cooling solution for your high-end gaming rig or workstation, the MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 is definitely worth considering.
- TIMELESS RELIABILITY – The motor ceramic bearing has been designed to stand up to 100,000 hours of life expectancy.
