As a seasoned PC builder with years of tinkering under my belt, I must say that the MSI MAG CoreLiquid A13 has certainly caught my attention. Coming from someone who’s seen their fair share of cooling solutions, this budget-friendly AIO cooler is a breath of fresh air.
In my humble opinion, the A13 strikes a perfect balance between affordability and performance. It’s not every day that you come across an AIO cooler that doesn’t break the bank but still manages to deliver impressive cooling capabilities for budget and mid-range systems.
What I appreciate most about this cooler is its simplicity. The installation process was a breeze, and with minimal cables and hardware requirements, it made my life as a builder much easier. Plus, the unassuming design keeps cases looking sleek and streamlined – something every builder can appreciate!
However, no product is perfect, and that includes the MSI MAG CoreLiquid A13. While it’s a strong contender in its price range, its slightly higher-priced siblings like the MSI MAG CoreLiquid I360 offer more powerful fans for those who need a bit more oomph.
In closing, if you’re looking to upgrade your cooling system without breaking the bank, the MSI MAG CoreLiquid A13 is definitely worth considering. Just remember, as they say in my line of work – “a cool PC is a happy PC!” And nothing makes me happier than a happy PC!
AIO (All-in-One) coolers are no longer exclusive to CPU overclocking enthusiasts taking risks. Even Intel 14th-Gen processors run hot at default settings, making less expensive air coolers ineffective. Yet, liquid cooling isn’t solely about boosting performance; the finest PC cases can house radiators and RGB fans for an eye-catching touch to high-end gaming setups.
Companies such as MSI have introduced cost-effective and effortless-to-set-up All-in-One (AIO) alternatives for consumers. The latest addition to their lineup is the MAG CoreLiquid A13, which supports the most recent AMD and Intel CPUs, including the Core Ultra Series 2 desktop processors. Despite its budget-friendly price, this model’s potent water pump allows gamers to confidently push overclocked systems to their limits. Proper cable management is an essential aspect when aiming for a clean and organized PC setup. Given my positive experiences with the MSI MAG CoreLiquid I360 and E360, I was eager to examine how the A13 240 and 360 versions compare.
Contents of Package
As I unbox the MSI MAG CoreLiquid A13, I find myself greeted by a predominantly black and gray rectangular package, which seems particularly sleek for the 240mm variant due to its more compact size. Upon opening, I discover that the liquid cooling radiator resides within, nestled amidst hoses wrapped around cardboard cutouts. To ensure protection during transit, the water block is strategically located in the lower right section of the box.
The provided documentation and accessories for the A13 suggest an uncomplicated setup process, given the limited yet essential items enclosed: a back panel for motherboards, extra components for AMD processors, case fasteners, and pre-applied thermal compound.
Installation
For every new All-In-One cooler MSI releases, they’ve made the setup process more straightforward. The MAG CoreLiquid A13 follows suit, featuring pre-installed components and reduced wiring. As usual, you need to scan a QR code from the box or consult MSI’s support page for quick installation instructions.
I recently tested the latest cooler inside the MSI MAG PANO 100L PZ case, which I had used before for review. MSI offers white variants of the A13 240 and 360 models, but they can be tricky to find in stores. As a spacious mid-tower design with two chambers, it provides ample workspace behind motherboards. After taking off the right-side panels, most customers should find it straightforward to install the A13’s back bracket. Unlike traditional methods using bolts and screws, this bracket attaches to the rear of the motherboard using a double-sided adhesive instead.
In this situation, installers should pay attention to the other end of the motherboard. The processor being installed here is the 13th-Gen Core i7 13700KF by Intel. I merely needed to turn the four screws on the water block’s pre-assembled brackets without adding any additional components. When dealing with AMD AM5/AM4 sockets, you’ll need to remove some metal pieces from the side of the block and replace them with different hardware. Initially, the reverse bracket seemed a bit loose before installation, but it was not an issue once this step was completed.
It’s more convenient for me to set up all-in-one (AIO) radiators inside cases initially, as opposed to handling a bulky suspended part. The location depends on whether you have a smaller compact or larger full-sized case. The placement of A13’s fans is optimal for expelling warm air from the top of a chassis. Installing the cooler at the front of a case might require unscrewing and flipping the fans to ensure proper airflow.
As a seasoned PC builder with years of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that the MAG CoreLiquid A13 240 radiator is a game-changer for those seeking a more manageable cooling solution. With just two 120mm fans, it’s significantly less cumbersome compared to other radiators in its class.
In my experience, the fewer fans you have to deal with during installation, the better. It makes the process smoother and reduces the potential for user error. Plus, having fewer fans means a quieter system overall – always a bonus when you’re trying to enjoy some high-quality gaming or productive work without distractions.
MSI also provides case screws that are compatible with most rigs, making it easy for users to integrate the A13 240 into their existing setup. This is another plus point in my book, as I’ve encountered situations where specific hardware isn’t always compatible with other components.
One thing I appreciate about this radiator is that there is no difference when installing either the A13 240 or A13 360. This means that regardless of whether you opt for a smaller or larger model, the installation process remains the same. As someone who values simplicity and efficiency, I find this to be an attractive feature.
In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a high-quality radiator that won’t break the bank or give you headaches during installation, the MAG CoreLiquid A13 240 is definitely worth considering. With its user-friendly design and straightforward installation process, it’s an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned PC builders alike.
The last step involves linking the pump fan, CPU fan, and ARGB Gen 2 cables to the motherboard ports. However, only one ARGB cable comes from the radiator; you can either daisy-chain this cable with the ARGB wiring from the water block or use separate headers and lighting controllers. To keep things tidy, the pump fan cable is connected to the block’s lighting connector. Unlike the MAG CoreLiquid I360, this setup uses a three-pin pump fan wire instead of a four-pin one.
As a cinephile tinkering with my hardware, setting up the MAG CoreLiquid A13 versions turned out to be faster and smoother than installing the I360 – a process that had been effortless to begin with!
Design
The MAG CoreLiquid A13 water block features a more subtle design compared to the diagonal lines of the I360. This makes it suitable for builds centered around productivity, as it blends in well when not illuminated. However, when lit up, it showcases vibrant and adjustable ARGB effects that accentuate its rounded edges. If you find the design too simple, you can remove the cover and MSI provides guidelines for 3D printing custom alternatives.
MSI took note of a small issue I pointed out regarding the I360, and the A13’s structure appears to be more polished, with fewer noticeable braces.
To enhance CPU cooling efficiency, MSI optimized the amount of copper surface that directly touches the CPUs. By incorporating 0.1mm microchannels, the copper plate more effectively absorbs heat before the pump channels it towards the radiator.
Regardless of its budget-friendly price point at $100 or below, this cooler’s radiant fan design rivals that of premium RGB coolers due to its compatibility with MSI’s Mystic Light software for dynamic animations and seamless color transitions. On the performance side, MSI opted for CycloBlade 7 fans in the A13 model. These innovative ring-blade fans generate optimal airflow without causing unnecessary noise.
Within the radiator, there are 12 expanded water passages to facilitate a higher volume of water flow. Moreover, MSI has boosted the number of fins for enhanced and improved heat dispersion. The liquid, both hot and cold, circulates between the block and the radiator via robust EPDM tubes that exhibit exceptional reinforcement.
With aesthetics now so critical in coolers, the A13 complemented my case’s other illuminated fans.
Software
The MAG CoreLiquid A13 doesn’t support USB communication with MSI software, so its owners must manage the fan speeds through their BIOS settings or alternative applications. If you happen to own an MSI keyboard, mouse, or motherboard, using the MSI Center would be more convenient for control.
Because the A13 CPU cooler fan’s cord features just three connections, it cannot be adjusted to run slower using the MSI Center software.
Workarounds entail adjusting the power supply voltage for the pump, but it’s safe to keep it running at almost full speed, approximately 3800 RPM. Generally, software concentrates on the rate of rotation for radiator and CPU fans. MSI Center provides presets that alter these settings according to whether performance or quiet operation is emphasized. Users can also configure the app to adapt speeds based on CPU temperature. In essence, it’s simple to set up custom fan curves in the usual BIOS, allowing you to balance noise levels with cooling efficiency.
Mystic Light simplifies adjusting or synchronizing your cooler’s RGB lighting with compatible Razer Chroma devices, such as keyboards and mice. Compared to other software like Asus Armoury Crate, it is less resource-intensive, eliminating the need for several applications. Previously, MSI Center failed to apply fan settings upon reboots, but this problem has been resolved following a recent update.
Performance
As a dedicated cinephile of technology, over the last year and a half, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring three nearly identical all-in-one (AIO) coolers from MSI. These models – the MAG CoreLiquid E360, I360 – were subjects of my scrutiny, but alas, no previous 240mm models were evaluated. However, the recent arrival of the A13 240 has provided an exceptional opportunity to expand my review repertoire.
The crux of this comparison was rooted in rigorous stress tests conducted using AIDA64. The test subject was a 16-core Intel Core i7 13700KF, gently overclocked to a frequency of 5,400 MHz. To ensure a relatable consumer configuration, this experiment took place on the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk Wi-Fi motherboard. This setup offers a glimpse into the cooling capabilities that everyday enthusiasts can expect from these AIO coolers.
In simpler terms, during each test, we used the MSI Center’s top performance settings. The results didn’t show any major surprises, but the A13 model had slightly higher average temperatures over half an hour. Upon investigation, it appears that the E360 and I360 models have stronger fans that consume more power and provide greater airflow compared to the A13’s 62.6 CFM. However, it’s important to note that airflow is just one aspect; the A13’s efficient water block and radiator help balance things out. When making a decision, buyers should also factor in cost, as the A13 360 model costs at least $20-$30 less than its counterparts.
The CPU remained safe from overheating during tests, preventing throttling. Yet, I did perceive a slightly louder humming sound coming from the A13 cooler compared to previous MSI liquid cooling systems. With limited user feedback available, it’s hard to predict if others will have the same experience. The pump fan speed was consistent between the two versions, so the three-pin header didn’t play a role. Still, it’s unlikely that those without a completely silent PC setup will find fault with it. On the bright side, the A13’s 120mm CycloBlade 7 fans, using rifle bearings, did not produce any rattling at their maximum speed of 2000 RPM.
Who Should Buy the MAG CoreLiquid A13?
The MAG CoreLiquid A13 offers enhanced performance in economical and mid-level systems, making it a suitable all-in-one (AIO) cooler for those apprehensive about transitioning from traditional air CPU coolers. MSI’s MAG AIO series has expanded to cater to budget-conscious consumers, with the A13 being the most cost-effective choice available in this lineup.
As more computers come with built-in spaces for radiators, All-In-One (AIO) coolers are increasingly common. Plus, the MAG CoreLiquid A13 is easy to set up, requiring only a few connections and essential components that work with modern Intel and AMD processors. Additionally, because cases are meant to display internal hardware, the cooler maintains a sleek appearance in these designs.
Or,
AIO coolers are growing popular as more computers have room for radiators built-in. The MAG CoreLiquid A13 is straightforward to install with just a few wires and basic components suitable for modern Intel and AMD CPUs. Since cases are designed to show off components, the cooler helps maintain a streamlined look in these designs.
For MSI, a drawback of offering more affordably priced All-In-One (AIO) coolers is heightened competition. Interestingly, some of the A13’s rivals originate within the MSI MAG series itself. In my tests, the MAG E360 and I360 managed to keep the Intel Core i7 13700KF slightly cooler with a stronger maximum airflow. Although they are priced at a mid-range level, the A13 also faces budget cooling competitors, such as the Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360L. In essence, with only small differences in average temperatures, the A13’s modest design and replaceable block cover may sway doubters.
Despite not delivering exceptional performance, the user-friendly nature and appealing cost of the MAG CoreLiquid A13 make it highly attractive to many users.
Related Products
| Alternate AIO Cooler | Best Choice For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 | Powerful cooling in a compact form factor | $99 at Amazon |
| Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360L Core | Impressive airflow for an affordable price | $103 at Amazon |
| MSI MAG CoreLiquid I360 | Looks that make a statement | $124 at Amazon |
As a cinema devotee and tech enthusiast, when it comes to selecting an all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooler, the MSI MAG CoreLiquid A13 might not be my top pick due to the abundance of options available. If you’re torn between a 240mm or 380mm model, the Arctic Liquid Freezer III 280 could be an appealing middle ground. It performs comparably to larger coolers for roughly $100, making it an attractive compromise in terms of both size and cost.
For those who appreciate a more subtle aesthetic, the Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360L Core has a low-key appearance but delivers sufficient airflow. Lastly, if you’re willing to invest a bit more, the MSI MAG CoreLiquid I360 shares the A13’s easy installation process, but its enhanced fans offer improved cooling performance at a slightly higher price point.
FAQ
Q: Do AIO coolers need to be refilled?
Most all-in-one (AIO) coolers used in retail have a closed-loop structure, making them tricky to take apart and refill. Despite this, current AIO models are engineered for longevity, often outlasting the need for a PC’s cooling system upgrade by many years.
Q: What is the best room temperature for a computer?
Strong All-in-One (AIO) CPU coolers are capable of managing temperatures above the usual within the case. However, when room temperatures surpass 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius), these coolers have to work more intensely, which might potentially reduce their lifespan.
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2025-01-02 22:06