Is the MSI MAG CoreLiquid A15 the Ultimate AIO Cooler for Gamers?

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As a movie buff who’s always eager for the latest tech, I can’t help but notice the consistent production of All-In-One (AIO) coolers by MSI. Their MAG series, in particular, seems to be overflowing with options! These liquid coolers often fall into the mid-range or even budget category, making them a tantalizing prospect for those who stick with air CPU cooling. The newly released MAG CoreLiquid A15 takes advantage of a robust setup that promises a breeze during installation and smart cable management.

The unique-looking ARGB water block on the CoreLiquid A15 model is sure to catch eyes. But what sets it apart is the addition of an offset bracket kit, designed to enhance cooling efficiency for Intel Core Ultra processors. Moreover, this model is compatible with MSI’s exclusive motherboard header that merges lighting and fan control functionalities. I was fortunate enough to give the CoreLiquid A15 a test run to determine if any further advancements have been made to its heat dissipation capabilities.

Installation

MSI’s MAG line of All-in-One coolers has been gradually simplifying the installation process, making it less daunting for users. The CoreLiquid A15 comes pre-installed with as much hardware as possible and streamlines cable management. However, compared to the CoreLiquid A13, there may be a few additional steps required.

To evaluate the A15 model, I employed a 13th Generation Core i7 13700KF Intel CPU within an MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk Wi-Fi motherboard. The chosen case for this setup was the mid-tower MAG Pano 100L PZ, which I had previously assessed.

As a movie lover, I appreciate organization, and MSI certainly delivers that with their thoughtful packaging. In the box, they’ve neatly arranged all the tiny components like brackets, screws, bolts, and more in labeled plastic baggies, making installation a breeze. Compared to previous mid-range MSI liquid coolers, the CoreLiquid A15 stands out with its robust metal bracket that clings firmly to motherboards without relying on adhesives. This LGA 1700 processor comes equipped with four standoff screws fastened to its opposite side, and the matching bracket is already attached to the water block. The cooler’s screws with built-in springs ensure a snug fit over CPUs, guaranteeing a secure installation every time.

In contrast to socket processors from 1851, such as Intel’s Core Ultra series, heat often accumulates in decentralized areas on these CPUs. To address this issue, MSI provides an offset bracket kit. Users will need to remove the standard Uni Bracket from the water block and insert the kit’s hardware instead. There are several options for where to place the screw holes, with MSI’s online guide offering suggestions for the Intel Core Ultra 9/7 or Core Ultra 5 processors.

When placing the radiator equipped with built-in fans beneath the upper part of the case, no unexpected issues were encountered. Yet, the manner in which it is installed might change based on your desired location for the 360mm radiator.

Compared to the MSI CoreLiquid A13, the new A15 model comes with some modifications in terms of headers and cable options. The updated cooler now includes a four-pin pump connector that enables users to regulate pump speeds. Additionally, it is compatible with MSI’s JAF motherboard header, which combines lighting control and CPU fan management into a single connection. While an MSI motherboard isn’t required to use the A15, it does come equipped with standard ARGB V_2 and fan connectors. The cooler’s wiring can be neatly tucked away in the rear chamber of the MAG Pano 100L PZ without much hassle, even with its enhanced flexibility.

Based on the specific CPU and motherboard you’re using, installing the MSI CoreLiquid A15 might require some unique steps. However, for those who are new to liquid cooling, switching from traditional air coolers should feel quite familiar.

Design

In terms of affordably priced MSI MAG AIO coolers, the decision often boils down to personal preference regarding aesthetics. Each cooler in this series showcases an illuminated water block with distinct designs. The CoreLiquid A13 adopts a more conventional design that suits both gaming and work PCs. On the other hand, the A15 block presents a bolder, military-inspired industrial look. Its cover juts out at various angles, encompassing a metal grate. MSI’s logo is prominently displayed near the top of the block, accompanied by a subtle dragon emblem on its right side.

In this setup, the ARGB lighting effects create a bright illumination on the A15 component. Another LED strip adorns the water block’s border. Additionally, the three 120mm fans also project ARGB effects, which can be synchronized with the block or other accessories. Unfortunately, the light intensity from these affordable fans was not as strong in my system setup.

The MSI CoreLiquid A15’s unique block stands out, but the rest of the cooler follows a more familiar design pattern. Notably, the screw-less copper plate that interacts with CPUs has small micro-channels embedded within it, which efficiently dissipate heat. Additionally, the radiator is equipped with larger water channels, allowing it to effectively manage the temperatures of high-powered processors. A continuous flow of warm and cool liquid circulates between the radiator and the rest of the system via thick nylon-braided tubes.

As a movie buff who appreciates the intricacies of hardware, I’d say: Although the CoreLiquid A15 is my liquid cooler, it needs the support of radiator fans to deliver its best performance. When building, I make sure to strategically place the three 120mm CycloBlade 9 fans so they can blow a consistent airflow directly towards the water block, ensuring optimal cooling efficiency.

Regardless of opinions about the A15’s bold design, its construction quality is undeniably excellent. The switch to a metal backplate gives the A15 a more luxurious feel, while its components, radiator housing, and tubing are all solidly built.

Performance

Even with innovative marketing strategies, the underlying performance of All-in-One (AIO) coolers is determined by their fundamental capabilities. The pump within the system needs to be powerful enough to circulate hot liquid through the tubing and radiator in order to dissipate heat effectively. To spot subtle differences in the abilities of contemporary MSI MAG AIO coolers, it’s beneficial to examine their specifications. Since they share the same price point, I was intrigued by the ways the CoreLiquid A15 differed from the A13.

The CoreLiquid A15’s top pump speed is 3400 rotations per minute (RPM), compared to the CycloBlade 9 fans, which can spin up to 2050 RPM. MSI indicates that these fans generate nearly 65 cubic feet of airflow per minute (CFM). On the other hand, the A13’s pump fan rotates at a faster speed of 3800 RPM, and its CycloBlade 7 fans reach a maximum of 2000 RPM. This difference leads to an airflow rating of approximately 62.6 CFM.

Indeed, there’s much more to the stellar performance of an All-In-One (AIO) cooler like the A15 than just adjusting pump and fan speeds. I find it fascinating that the A15 is built with top-tier components, which contributes to its impressive longevity rating of 50,000 hours – a durability double that of the A13.

The MAG CoreLiquid A15 operates without the need for any software, allowing users to customize fan curves directly within their computer’s BIOS. If you prefer, you can use the MSI Center as an alternative, which offers comparable fan curve adjustments and performance presets.

The tests presented below were carried out using the MSI Center Extreme configuration, however, any impact the software might have had on CPU speeds was deactivated.

To compare the performance of CoreLiquid A15 with previous MSI coolers, I recreated similar testing conditions. Using the same case, maintaining consistent ambient temperatures, and employing a modestly overclocked Intel Core i7 13700KF, I utilized AIDA64 stress tests as my benchmark tool.

In simpler terms, the performance I observed is similar to what MSI showed me in their initial testing for the CoreLiquid A15. Surprisingly, the A15 performs slightly better than both the A13 and the MAG CoreLiquid E360, despite its higher price tag of $20 or more. However, the MAG coolers are outshined by the CoreLiquid I360, which boasts an impressive 70.7 CFM airflow. Even during AIDA64’s most demanding FPU test, none of the coolers with 360mm radiators experienced CPU throttling issues.

One problem I faced with the A13 was an audible coil whine, even when it wasn’t under heavy load. MSI provided me with a new version of the model, and I can say that the noise level decreased, although it’s still somewhat louder than other models in its class. However, gamers will barely notice a hum coming from the A15’s cooling system. On the flip side, I noticed a lot of air flowing through the cooler’s tubes initially, but this stopped after about two weeks. Since the air didn’t seem to affect performance, I chose not to adjust or shake the water block or radiator.

Instead of the three 120mm CycloBlade 9 fans featuring quieter sleeve or fluid dynamic bearings, they utilize slightly noisier ball bearings. Despite this, the fans on the A15″s radiator aren’t excessively loud. With numerous case fans in its build, you might find the chassis resembling a wind tunnel when the AIO is under full load. However, I didn’t notice any rattling, whether the fans were running at medium or high speeds.

Can the MAG CoreLiquid A15 Keep Any Battlestation Cool?

MSI aims to create All-In-One (AIO) coolers that fit any setup, and the MAG CoreLiquid A15 stands out with its militarily-inspired ARGB CPU block design. While all MAG coolers offer comparable performance, some buyers might choose a different model solely for aesthetic reasons. However, key adjustments mainly impact the installation process of this specific model.

The CoreLiquid A15 only works with newer models of Intel and AMD processors. Setting up this cooler for these CPUs is hassle-free due to a built-in Uni Bracket and pre-mounted fans. If you have an Intel Core Ultra processor, the A15’s adjustable bracket kit can enhance heat dissipation by targeting hot zones.

If you like the industrial style of the CoreLiquid A15, there’s not much need to look at pricier models. This cooler performs exceptionally well, and its smart cable management is a great match for Project Zero motherboards and dual-chamber cases. In contrast, the Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360L could be an appealing choice for approximately $100. Many buyers might prefer its minimalist ARGB block cover, which seems to have broader mainstream appeal.

FAQ

Q: Do AIO coolers need to be refilled?

I’ve come to appreciate the closed-loop design that most all-in-one (AIO) coolers feature, but it does make disassembly and refilling a bit tricky for me as a user. However, these modern AIO solutions are engineered to provide reliable cooling performance for several years. Quite often, I find PC enthusiasts opting to upgrade their cooling systems before their current AIO wears out, rather than replacing it.

Q: Do I need thermal paste for an AIO liquid cooler?

When installing an All-in-One (AIO) cooler, it’s important to apply thermal paste to the base plate, similar to how you would with air cooler heatsinks. This substance enhances heat transfer from the CPU to the adjacent metal plate. Notably, some liquid coolers are pre-applied with paste on the water block part.

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2025-02-13 02:10