ASRock has expanded its hardware portfolio with a high-end entrant in the AIO cooler market: the Phantom Gaming 360 LCD. This isn’t just another 360mm cooler—it combines advanced thermal engineering with a bold visual design, including a 3.4-inch LCD display, a VRM fan for VRM heat management, and a halo ARGB radiator that stands out in even the most cluttered builds.
The cooler is positioned as a flagship product, targeting enthusiasts who demand both performance and premium aesthetics. With a price of $189.99, it sits at the higher end of the 360mm AIO spectrum, but its feature set—including a detachable, magnetic waterblock, customizable lighting, and a 6-year warranty—justifies the investment for those building high-end systems.
But does it deliver on cooling? Benchmarks against competitors like the NZXT Kracken Elite V2 and Corsair H150i Elite suggest it holds its own, with temperatures that align with other top-tier 360mm coolers while maintaining low noise levels.
Who is this cooler for?
This cooler isn’t for everyone. Its $189.99 price tag and feature-heavy design make it a niche product, but it excels in specific scenarios
- High-end gaming and workstation builds: The inclusion of a VRM fan sets it apart, offering up to 25°C lower VRM temperatures—critical for systems pushing the limits of CPUs like the Ryzen 9 7950X3D or Intel’s Core i9-14900K under heavy loads.
- Customization enthusiasts: The 3.4-inch LCD display, customizable ARGB lighting, and Polychrome Sync software integration make this a standout for those who prioritize build aesthetics.
- AMD and Intel compatibility: It supports both AM5/AM4 and LGA 1700/1851 platforms, making it versatile for upgrades or new builds.
The cooler’s 360mm radiator is thick (32mm) and features three 120mm FDB fans encased in a single frame, reducing clutter while maximizing airflow. The dual-side inlet pump and high-density micro-fin array ensure efficient heat transfer, while the VRM fan—a 70mm unit—adds an extra layer of cooling for power delivery components.
Performance in real-world tests
Testing was conducted on an AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D system with a 1000W PSU, and the results were impressive. Under idle conditions, the Phantom Gaming 360 LCD maintained temperatures as low as 30°C, matching or outperforming competitors like the Arctic Liquid Freezer III 420 and MSI MPG Coreliquid P13. During workloads, it held steady at 69°C, just behind the NZXT Kracken Elite V2 (66°C) but ahead of most other 360mm AIOs.
Gaming workloads saw the cooler perform exceptionally well, with temperatures hovering around 49°C—a testament to its efficiency even under sustained high loads. Noise levels were also commendable, with the cooler operating at 32 dBA under load, comparable to the Noctua NH-D15 (31 dBA) and quieter than many competing AIOs.
A closer look at the features
The cooler’s standout features include
- 3.4-inch LCD display: The magnetic cover attaches to the pump and features a 480x480 resolution at 60Hz, capable of displaying real-time system stats, GIFs, or custom images via a USB-C connection.
- Halo ARGB radiator: The three fans are housed in a single frame, creating a 360-degree ARGB halo effect that’s fully customizable through ASRock’s Polychrome Sync software.
- VRM fan: A 70mm fan mounted on top of the waterblock helps manage VRM temperatures, reducing them by up to 25°C in testing.
- Detachable and rotatable waterblock: The magnetic design allows for easy installation and customization, accommodating different CPU heights.
- Durable tubing: The 450mm tubes use IIR+EPDM materials, resisting evaporation and deformation while offering a premium braided sleeve design.
While the cooler excels in performance and design, it’s not without tradeoffs. The VRM fan can be noisy at higher RPMs, and the cable clutter is a minor drawback for those seeking a clean build. However, these issues are overshadowed by its overall cooling prowess and visual appeal.
The Phantom Gaming 360 LCD is ideal for
- Enthusiasts building high-TDP systems: The VRM fan and efficient cooling make it a strong choice for Ryzen 9000 or Intel’s latest high-end CPUs.
- Customization-focused builders: The LCD display and ARGB lighting add a layer of personalization rare in AIO coolers.
- Those seeking longevity: The 6-year warranty on the cooler and 2-year warranty on the display module provide peace of mind.
For budget-conscious buyers, ASRock also offers a $100 variant without the LCD display, making it a more accessible option for those who prioritize cooling over aesthetics.
The ASRock Phantom Gaming 360 LCD is a compelling entry into the high-end AIO market. It blends performance, customization, and durability into a package that appeals to both hardcore enthusiasts and those who value build aesthetics. While it may not be the cheapest option, its feature set and cooling capabilities make it a worthy investment for those willing to pay a premium for premium performance.
