240mm vs 280mm AIO performance

[Amatsubu]

Hi,

I'm finally upgrading from my 4790k after seven years and wanted to switch to an AIO for 12700k (most likely).

I was dead-set on the Liquid Freezer II 280 but it most probably won't fit into my CM H500 top mounted.

Spec sheet only lists 240mm radiator top mount, some people say it should fit but some say no chance.

Don't want to risk it and I really like this case for the airflow so I'm left with the 240mm.

I know enthusiasts generally frown upon 240mm AIOs but is the difference that big? One of the tests showed 4c difference between the two and LF II is among the top performing options and they use thicker rads.

280mm is the sweet spot obviously but 240mm LF II should be able to handle a 12700k mostly running at stock at acceptable noise levels, right? I'll actually be trying undervolting first.

Some other options I should be looking into? Really don't want to go back to heatsinks the size of my head.

 

[Amatsubu]

Yeah, that's the video I found, it didn't pass I9 stressing, unlike the 280, you can't beat more heat dissipation area.

Should be fine for a 12700k though, without being too noisy.

Would love that 280 as the price difference is so little that it just feels like getting worse cooling for nothing but Id have to go for a front mount, which will ruin GPU temps and nullify one of the biggest pros of my case.

 

[Amatsubu]

I had to front mount my Freezer II 280 as it wouldn't fit in the top of my 4000D.

The GPU temperature difference shouldn't be that great based on the videos I've seen on this. It's usually a few degrees max unless your case is already a hotbox with high ambient temps.

Front mounting the AIO usually leads to much better CPU temps than top mounting it.

Thanks, I'll look into it, not sure if I should take out the front 2x200mm fans if I go for the front mount.

 

[Amatsubu]

Well, ended up swapping my case for a Phanteks Eclipse P500A drgb in white and got a fantastic deal for LF II 280 A-RGB with 1700 kit included.

Always wanted a black/white build so now's the time I guess