Asus Rog Strix Lc Ii 360 Vs Asus Rog Ryujin 360

In the realm of high-performance liquid cooling, two titans stand tall: the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and the ASUS ROG Ryujin 360. These formidable rivals offer cutting-edge technology and exceptional cooling capabilities, making them the epitome of liquid cooling excellence. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the depths of these two behemoths, scrutinizing their features, performance, and design to determine which one emerges victorious in the ultimate battle for liquid cooling supremacy.

Design and Aesthetics: A Feast for the Senses

The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 exudes a sleek and understated elegance, with its black and silver color scheme complementing any gaming setup. The pump housing features a subtle ROG logo and a customizable addressable RGB lighting strip, allowing for personalized illumination.

In contrast, the ASUS ROG Ryujin 360 embraces a more flamboyant aesthetic, adorned with a vibrant OLED display that showcases real-time system information, animated GIFs, and custom logos. The pump housing boasts a striking ROG eye design and a 3D-printed ROG logo, adding a touch of extravagance to the overall design.

Cooling Performance: The Core of the Battle

At the heart of any liquid cooling system lies its cooling performance, and both the Strix LC II 360 and the Ryujin 360 deliver exceptional results. The Strix LC II 360 utilizes a high-density radiator with a 360mm surface area, while the Ryujin 360 employs a slightly larger radiator with a 360mm x 120mm dual-chamber design.

In terms of raw cooling power, the Ryujin 360 holds a slight edge over the Strix LC II 360, thanks to its larger radiator and dual-chamber design. However, both coolers perform admirably, providing excellent cooling capabilities for even the most demanding processors.

Pump and Block: The Heart of the System

The pump and block are crucial components in any liquid cooling system, and both the Strix LC II 360 and the Ryujin 360 feature top-notch designs. The Strix LC II 360 employs a durable ceramic bearing pump with a maximum flow rate of 84 liters per minute, while the Ryujin 360 boasts a more powerful Asetek pump with a maximum flow rate of 90 liters per minute.

Both pumps are highly efficient and provide excellent flow rates, ensuring that coolant is circulated throughout the system effectively. The blocks on both coolers are made of copper for optimal heat transfer, and they feature a large contact surface area for maximum heat dissipation.

Fans: The Wings of Cooling

The fans play a vital role in liquid cooling systems, and both the Strix LC II 360 and the Ryujin 360 come equipped with high-quality fans. The Strix LC II 360 utilizes three 120mm ROG Noctua Industrial PPC fans, renowned for their exceptional airflow and low noise levels. The Ryujin 360 features three 120mm ROG Noctua Industrial PPC fans, which offer a slightly higher airflow and a similar noise profile.

Both sets of fans provide excellent cooling performance, and they can be adjusted to different speeds to balance airflow and noise levels according to preference.

Software and Control: Taking Command of Cooling

Modern liquid cooling systems offer extensive software control, and both the Strix LC II 360 and the Ryujin 360 come with dedicated software suites. The Strix LC II 360 utilizes the Armoury Crate software, which provides a user-friendly interface for monitoring system temperatures, adjusting fan speeds, and customizing RGB lighting.

The Ryujin 360 comes with the ROG Ryujin software, which offers a more comprehensive set of features, including the ability to monitor coolant temperature, adjust the OLED display, and create custom fan profiles. Both software suites are well-designed and provide ample control over the cooling system.

Compatibility and Installation: Seamless Integration

Compatibility and ease of installation are important considerations for any liquid cooling system. Both the Strix LC II 360 and the Ryujin 360 are compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD processors, and they come with all the necessary mounting hardware.

Installation is straightforward for both coolers, and the included instructions provide clear guidance. However, the Ryujin 360’s larger radiator may require more space in the chassis, so it is essential to check compatibility before purchasing.

The Verdict: A Tie at the Pinnacle

In the epic battle of the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 vs ASUS ROG Ryujin 360, both coolers emerge as formidable contenders, delivering exceptional cooling performance, stunning aesthetics, and comprehensive software control.

The Strix LC II 360 offers a more understated design and a competitive price, while the Ryujin 360 boasts a larger radiator, a vibrant OLED display, and a slightly higher cooling capacity. Ultimately, the choice between these two titans depends on personal preferences, budget, and specific needs.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. Which cooler is better for overclocking?

Both coolers are capable of handling overclocked processors, but the Ryujin 360’s slightly higher cooling capacity may provide a slight edge for extreme overclocking scenarios.

2. Can these coolers be used in small form factor builds?

The Strix LC II 360 is a more compact option and may be better suited for small form factor builds, while the Ryujin 360’s larger radiator may require more space.

3. Which cooler has better software control?

Both coolers come with dedicated software suites that offer extensive control over the cooling system, but the Ryujin 360’s software provides a wider range of features, including OLED display customization.

4. How often should I maintain these coolers?

Regular maintenance is recommended to ensure optimal performance. Cleaning the radiator and fans from dust and debris every few months is essential.

5. Can I use custom coolant with these coolers?

Using custom coolant is not recommended as it may void the warranty and potentially damage the cooling system.