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.

The only way for PC users to not have heard of Corsair is to have lived under a rock for the last decade. Corsair has products in nearly every conceivable category of the DIY PC market: air coolers, liquid coolers, power supplies, keyboards, mice, fans, cases, and memory. They are a true market leader when it comes to PC parts and accessories, but great products and market penetration are only the tip of the iceberg. Let us not forget their fantastic support and exceptional warranties as these have made Corsair one of the go-to brands for almost anything PC related.

The popularity Corsair enjoys in the PC-cooling market rests almost entirely on the Hydro Series of products which cover nearly every segment of the market from entry to enthusiast—the only thing missing is an expandable option. Then there are the H100i and H110 for extreme cooling purposes as both were until recently the best the cooling line had to offer. 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 upper mid-range AIO, the Hydro Series H80i GT. Taking the H80i a step further with an even thicker radiator, the new unit also makes use of the Corsair Link software to offer full control and access to a wide range of system information. Improvements on a tried and true design are always welcome, but when a single 120 mm radiator is almost equal to those standard 240 mm radiators other AIOs use in terms of surface area, it makes one take notice. With that said, let's take a look at what Corsair's Hydro Series H80i GT has to offer.

Packaging & Contents

Corsair's H80i GT comes in a fairly large and attractive box. Measuring in at roughly 27.3 cm in length, 15.2 cm in width, and 22.8 cm in height and utilizing a blue and black scheme, the bright attractive blue color stands out to grab your attention. On the front, users will find a full image of the H80i GT and a few quick badges for Corsair Link support, the dual 120 mm fans, and Corsair's five year warranty. The top lists the unit's features. These include the two fans, Corsair Link, RGB LED lighting, and more. Looking at the bottom, there is a list of what you will find in the box.


You will find the product's supported sockets on the left-hand side, along with all supported operating systems and the requirements for Corsair Link. Moving to the back, you will find the cooler's specifications, features, and measurements.

Contents

After opening the box, I was greeted by exactly what I expected: A cardboard insert that holds the cooler and its accessories in place, with a layer of foam on top and the installation guide the first thing you will encounter. Corsair's packaging is what I would consider above average and serves its purpose well by protecting the product.


Everything you need to mount the Hydro Series H80i GT has been included. Intel's mounting bracket has in fact been pre-attached for your convenience, which should further simplify the installation process for most users. With separate standoffs for LGA115x, LGA2011, and AMD sockets, the mounting hardware itself is also pretty straightforward. Compared to previous designs, the backplate is much improved as it incorporates a sliding mechanism that is self-contained, which makes installing and removing the Hydro Series H80i GT much easier and reduces the risk of backplate failure due to over-tightening.

Common parts supplied for mounting include:

• 8x Black washers
• 8x fan screws
• 4x LGA2011 standoffs
• 4x LGA115x standoffs
• 4x AMD black standoffs
• 4x Thumbscrews
• 2x SP120L fans
• 1x Closed-loop cooler
• 1x Intel backplate
• 1x Retention ring
• 1x Intel mounting bracket
• 1x AMD mounting bracket
• 1x Corsair link cable
• 1x Installation guide