If you’re shopping for an all-in-one CPU cooler, you’re undoubtedly asking what the difference is between a 240mm and a 280mm AIO cooler. The 240mm AIO is smaller in size but has less cooling power. 280mm, on the other hand, takes up a little more space but cools the CPU faster.
All-in-one water coolers are becoming increasingly popular, thanks in part to the recent arrival of a slew of new models that outperform the competition. As a result, there is a growing need for understanding and comparing gadgets in order to select the best one.
So, which of the 240mm vs 280mm aio is a better fit for you? Both sizes of AIO coolers are common on the market. Which one you should choose is determined on how you intend to use your CPU.
Dive inside to find out.
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In a rush? Here Are Top Picks for 280mm and 240mm AIO
Table of Contents
- Corsair H100i RGB 240mm Radiator– iCUE Compatible PWM Fan
- NZXT Kraken X53 240mm AIO– Incredible Cooler with Bright & Big
- EVGA CLC 280mm PWM Fan– A Cooler with Quality Value
- NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm RGB– Cooler with Improved Pump
- Thermaltake Floe 280mm AIO– Premium Edition with Dual Ring RGB
Comparing 240mm Vs 280mm AIO
| Factors | 240mm AIO | 280mm AIO |
| Radiator Dimension | 123mm x 275mm x 30mm | 143mm x 315mm x 30mm |
| Radiator Size | 240mm | 280mm |
| Fan Size | 2 Fan Slots (120 mm) | 2 Fan Slots (140 mm) |
| Fan Dimension | 120mm x 120mm x 26 mm | 140mm x 140mm x 26mm |
| Fan RPM | 500 – 2,000 RPM | 500 – 1,800 RPM |
| Fan Air Flow | 65-75 CFM | 95-100 CFM |
| Fan Noise | 21 – 36 dB(A) | 21 – 38 dB(A) |
The following criteria may be used to compare 280mm AIO with 240mm AIO:
- Radiator Dimension
- Fan Dimension
- Fan Size
- Fan RPM
- Fan Air Flow
- Fan Noise
- RGB
- Tube Material
- Price
240mm Radiator Vs 280mm Radiator
When it comes to cooling capacities, radiators are the most crucial component; hence, the larger the radiator, the better the performance. When comparing the 240 and 280 radiators, it is evident that the 280 radiator is superior.
In practise, two models with comparable specifications make no visible difference in terms of lowering the temperature of your computer. What is the distinction between these two radiators?
Comparing the FPI
The first aspect to evaluate is the core’s FPI (Fins per inch). They are zig-zag core components that boost the heat absorption of metal.
Because it may improve surface area and cooling capacity by altering the core, a higher FPI results in a more effective radiator.
By providing more surface area for heat dissipation, a cooler with a higher FPI can outperform a cooler with a lower FPI. The issue is that, while high FPI fans are noisier, they also produce more heat.
Another possibility is to utilise a thicker radiator, which will increase the surface area of the core. You may reduce noise by utilising less FPI with a large radiator.
The contrast in Cooling Fans
The heat-dissipating cooling fans on the CPU are intended to keep the core cold. This implies that the greater the airflow produced by the fans, the better.
The 280mm radiator often outperforms the 240mm due to the bigger size of the fans.
However, bear in mind that, while cooling fans are the least important component of decreasing your system temperature, the radiator’s core provides the bulk of the cooling.
Even if you rely completely on passive cooling from the core without fans, the temperature differential would be roughly 10 degrees Celsius.
240 Vs 280 AIO Fan Sizes and Dimensions
The 120mm fans of the 240mm AIO are replaced by 140mm fans in the 280mm AIO. For 280mm AIO, the radiator is larger. Because the fans are larger, it is also quieter and performs somewhat better.
However, you must ensure that your CPU has adequate capacity for the 280mm. The performance change may be insignificant depending on your device setting.
A 240mm radiator, on the other hand, has a lower overall radiator volume, which means it takes up less space on the case and allows more room for additional drives.
However, most 280mm cooler fans have a longer tube than 240mm fans. The 280mm AIO has a 400mm tube while the 240mm AIO has a 350mm tube.
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240 Vs 280mm AIO Fan Noise
240mm fans typically have a higher rpm of roughly 2200 than 280mm fans, making 240mm louder in the 240 versus 280 AIO debate.
The majority of the 240mm AIO creates noise up to 6 dB(A), however the 280mm makes less noise. 240mm fans, on the other hand, take up less space and generate higher static pressure for any radiator of 240mm versus 280mm AIO.
280mm Vs 240mm AIO Fan Performance
In the 240 versus 280 AIO debate, the 240mm radiator has a lower airflow rate. It can create up to 75 CFM airflow, but a 280mm radiator may produce 100+ CFM airflow depending of its quality.
As a result, 240s often have lower coolant pressure, which is a disadvantage for a 240mm water cooler. However, it can withstand decreased head pressure while still delivering enough flow.
280mm AIO Vs 240mm AIO Usability
Almost all 240mm and 280mm motherboards provide socket support for the most recent AMD and Intel CPUs.
CPUs, on the other hand, emit a lot of heat at their peak performance. Both 240 mm and 280 mm AIOs are excellent for cooling high-temperature CPUs.
Furthermore, the usefulness of these AIOs is dependent on the CPU type. Fortunately, both the 240mm and 280mm AIO are compatible with the most common CPUs and sockets, including Intel Socket LGA 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, and 2066 / AMD Socket AM4, TR4.
For gaming and other high-performance activities, 240mm coolers are sufficient. However, there are instances when you must use it to its full extent, which might limit its longevity. 280mm, on the other hand, can overcome this barrier. Because of the 280mm AIO, you can play games at high settings without worrying about overheating.
However, most AIO coolers have their own software for controlling fan and pump speed. It also monitors CPU temperature to ensure that your settings are providing you the best performance possible.
These AIOs also have RGB lighting to provide an attractive and aesthetic atmosphere while gaming.
240 Vs 280 AIO Price Differences
The cost of a 280mm AIO is rather greater. However, you may go with our recommendation of the EVGA CLC 280mm, which is available on the market at a reasonable price.
The most expensive model in the NZXT Kraken series. Their z63 model is without a doubt one of the best on the market, and it is nearly similar to any standard 360mm AIO on the market.
Is a 280mm radiator better than 240mm?
Yes, it performs better in terms of cooling, ventilation, and noise. However, not all CPUs have adequate room for this radiator. As a result, you must choose cautiously before deciding on one.
Is a 280mm AIO good enough?
Yes, it is possible as long as you choose the greatest one. If you can afford it, the NZXT Kraken Z63 will provide almost identical performance to any 360mm. Other 280mms are sufficient for the newest Intel and AMD CPUs.
Is a 240mm radiator enough for 5800x?
Yes, some of them certainly can be. However, the Corsair iCUE H100i, a 240mm AIO cooler, is the finest High-End CPU cooler for Ryzen 7 5800x.
Which One Should You Pick?
Some gamers believe that practically all 280mm AIOs perform similarly to 360mm AIOs. The concept is partially accurate in theory for high-end air coolers. If you are a gamer, you may select between 240mm and 280mm AIO. In terms of performance, they are not comparable. However, it will make no effect to your equipment.
Obviously, if you have the money, you should go for 280mm fans because they perform better in terms of cooling, RPM, airflow, and noise.
The main issue with 280mm is that it cannot be adjusted with all CPUs for its 140mm2 slot configuration. If you have a limited amount of room, 240mm is the way to go. And the performance you will receive will be insignificant.
Conclusion
We hope that you loved read our article on ‘240mm Vs 280mm AIO| A Better Bet for Right CPU Cooler‘. If you have any queries, please let us know. We would love to help you.
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