Are AIO Coolers Still Worth Using for CPUs and GPUs?

AIOs are still a perfectly reasonable choice if you like them. They can offer good performance and a clean-looking build, and plenty of people run them for years without trouble. Just keep in mind that they contain a pump and are generally more complicated than an air cooler, so a quality air cooler is often the simpler long-term option.

For the tower, look for a sturdy PC stand or adjustable CPU cart with a solid platform and enough width for your case. Choose one that keeps the case several inches above the carpet, has locking casters if you want to move it, and doesn’t block the bottom intake. Avoid narrow stands that let the case overhang or put pressure on the front and rear feet.

GPU AIOs are much less common than CPU AIOs. Most graphics cards already come with large heatsinks and multiple fans designed specifically for their power draw, so an aftermarket liquid cooler usually isn’t necessary unless you’re working with a compact case, an unusually hot card, or a custom water-cooling setup. CPU AIOs, on the other hand, remain widely available and have become relatively inexpensive.

CPU AIOs are still very popular, but modern air coolers have become extremely capable and affordable. A good dual-tower cooler, such as a Phantom Spirit-class model, can perform close to many 240 mm AIOs while costing less and avoiding pump failure as another potential issue. For most systems, air cooling is enough; an AIO mainly makes sense if you prefer the appearance, need extra clearance around the CPU socket, or want a larger radiator for a particularly hot processor.