Alpenfohn Black Ridge vs MSI Meg CoreLiquid S360

Verdict

Overall, the Alpenfohn Black Ridge is a good performing cooler with a great build quality, but it has limitations due to its peculiar shape and mounting system. It is best suited for small ITX systems housed in a Dan SFX case, and requires a compatible motherboard with smaller VR heatsinks and a riser cable for the graphics card. It has been found to perform better than taller options and is comparable to Noctua's NH-L12S. However, early V2 models require some modification and the combination AM3/AM4 mounting bracket interferes with some B550/X570 motherboards. Custom unsleeved silicon cables and silicon gaskets for the fan can be helpful in managing the cooler. It pairs well with the Dan A4 case and is a good option for cooling in height-restricted layouts.

Verdict

The MSI Meg CoreLiquid S360 receives mixed reviews, with some praising its strong cooling performance and others criticizing its build quality and difficult installation process. The LCD screen on the pump is a selling point for many, but some reviewers note that it feels flimsy and fragile. There are also concerns about the product's recall and potential issues with a rubber gasket. Overall, the cooler is effective at keeping CPU temperatures at safe levels, but potential buyers should be aware of its drawbacks before making a purchase.