Introduction

From the Corsair website:

Founded as Corsair Microsystems in 1994, Corsair originally developed Level 2 cache modules for OEMs. After Intel incorporated the L2 cache in the processor with the release of its Pentium Pro processor family, Corsair changed its focus to DRAM modules, primarily in the server market. In 2002, Corsair began shipping DRAM modules that were specifically designed to appeal to computer-overclocking enthusiasts. From its roots in high-performance memory, Corsair has expanded its award-winning product portfolio to include ultra-efficient power supplies, builder-friendly cases, ground-breaking CPU coolers, blazing-fast solid-state drives, and other key system components.

Corsair is a company every enthusiast around the world knows. They have products in nearly every conceivable category. Power supplies to keyboards and mice, heatsinks and fans, even cases and memory. They are a true market leader when it comes to PC parts and accessories—not to mention that all those great products tend to be backed by fantastic support and solid warranties. It is no wonder Corsair is so popular among today's PC enthusiasts.

Corsair's real claim to fame in the CPU cooling market has been due to their Hydro Series products. They cover nearly every segment of the market—from the H60 for entry-level systems to the H80i for those who need some extra cooling performance. Then there is, of course, the H100i: Corsair's flagship model until recently. When it comes to heatsinks and fans, Corsair really does have a product for just about everyone.

Today, I will look at Corsair's new high end product, the Hydro Series H110. This massive liquid CPU cooler is their new top-of-the-line model, and it is time to see just what this cooler offers today's enthusiasts. Will it live up to the reputation Corsair has cultivated with previous Hydro Series products by offering exceptional performance? Will it offer reduced noise levels if compared to its predecessors? I guess it is time to find out!

Packaging & Contents

Corsair's Hydro Series H110 CPU cooler comes in a rather large box that measures roughly 35 cm in length, 15 cm in width, and 21 cm in height. The box has, as one would expect, a lot of relevant information on the cooler. The side of the box lists some of the features of the Corsair Hydro Series H110. These include 140 mm fans for lower noise and superior cooling and low evaporation rubber tubing, to name a few. The back of the box lists the cooler's performance in comparison to the stock Intel cooler, with both of them on the i7 3770K. It also lists socket compatibility for a wide range of Intel and AMD products.


One of the sides lists the Corsair Hydro Series H110 radiator's dimensions and all the pertinent information about the fans. The opposite side notes that it was designed for cases with mounting points for 280 mm radiators, so make sure your case can accommodate the product first.

Contents

Upon opening the box, I found the instructions neatly on top. The pump and tubing were, of course, in a plastic bag, with the pump's coldplate protected by a plastic cover. The radiator was placed in a cardboard sleeve for protection, with the fans situated side by side in the cardboard tray.


After removing the Corsair Hydro Series H110 from its plastic wrappings and cardboard tray, I found the mounting hardware tucked away safely inside a plastic bag. The pump and radiator were safe and sound. Good packaging really does go a long way.


Upon emptying the contents of the plastic bag, it is easy to see that everything needed to mount the cooler has been included. However, only eight fan screws have been provided, which means that you will need to get another set of screws if you wish to use a push-pull setup. The screws users will need to install another set of fans are 6/32 UNC, with 1.25 inches or 3.175 cm. Still, users will find that everything they need to install the Corsair Hydro Series H110 on nearly every current Intel or AMD socket has been included.

Common parts supplied for mounting include:

• 8x Fan screws
• 8x Washers
• 4x Thumb screws for LGA775, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1366, AM2, AM3, and AM3+
• 4x Thumb screws for LGA2011
• 4x Metal backplate nuts
• 2x Rubber cushions for backplate
• 2x 140 mm fan
• 1x Bracket for Intel
• 1x Backplate for Intel
• 1x Bracket for AMD
• 1x Backplate for AMD
• 1x Universal mounting ring