Head-to-head · Best Aio Liquid Cpu Coolers

MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 vs Noctua NL-LC1-36

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.

The short answer

Noctua NL-LC1-36 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.6 vs 3.9). The gap is mostly about users prioritizing thermal efficiency and quiet operation — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #4 in Best Aio Liquid Cpu Coolers

MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360

3.9

6 sources$99.99as of Oct 2

Tom's Hardware praised the MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 for its impressively cool performance and quiet operation during testing. The cooler features a well-built aluminum radiator with a split pathway design and supports both Intel and AMD sockets. While it delivers strong cooling performance, it only includes three 120mm fans rather than the full six-fan push-pull configuration some users might expect. This AIO is well-suited for high-end CPUs like the 13900K but may not offer the maximum airflow options for users seeking ultimate cooling performance.

Strengths

— Impressively cool performance
— Quiet operation during benchmarks
— Well-built aluminum radiator construction

Watch-outs

— Only comes with 3x 120mm fans (not 6x push-pull)
— Limited to 360mm radiator size (triple 120mm)

$99.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Aio Liquid Cpu Coolers

Noctua NL-LC1-36

4.6

6 sources$249.95as of Oct 2

Noctua's NL-LC1-36 delivers exceptional cooling performance with near-silent operation, featuring the Asetek Emma V2 pump and a sophisticated multi-layer noise absorber system. TweakTown praised it as a superior solution that outperforms previous AIO offerings, though at a premium cost. The cooler's design emphasizes reliability and acoustics over visual flair, making it ideal for users prioritizing thermal efficiency and quiet operation over flashy aesthetics.

Strengths

— Chart-topping thermal performance and noise suppression
— Premium build quality with Asetek Emma V2 pump and ceramic sleeve bearing
— Near-silent operation with 14.9 dB(A) maximum acoustic noise

Watch-outs

— Premium price point compared to competitors
— No RGB lighting or LCD displays

$249.95 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360

The MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 stands out for its impressive cooling performance and quiet operation, but it falls short compared to the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB in terms of ease of setup with pre-applied thermal paste and included fans. Unlike the Arctic Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB, it doesn't feature the advanced AMD offset mounting or Intel contact frame, making it less optimal for high-end enthusiasts seeking premium mounting solutions.

Noctua NL-LC1-36

The Noctua NL-LC1-36 delivers unmatched thermal performance and near-silent operation compared to the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB, which lacks the premium build quality and noise suppression. While it doesn't feature the OLED display or wireless fan options of the Lian Li HydroShift II OLED Curved 360TL, it provides superior acoustics and reliability at a premium price point.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360	Noctua NL-LC1-36
Radiator Size	14.2 in	360mm
Fan Count	118 x 4724 in	3x NF-A12x25 G2
Compatibility	Intel & AMD sockets	AMD AM4/AM5, Intel LGA1700/1851, LGA1954
Noise Level	20 dBA (avg.)	14.9 dB(A)
Fan Size	120mm	120mm
Pump Speed	3000	2100 rpm
Dimensions	18.5"L x 8.23"W x 5.63"H	15.75"L x 4.72"W x 2.32"H
Wattage	3.5 watts	1.8 watts
Material	Copper	Copper (base) & aluminium (radiator)
Pump Model	—	Asetek Emma V2
Fan Speed	—	0-1800 rpm
Voltage	—	12 volts

← See the full ranking of best aio liquid cpu coolers