Conclusive Thoughts

When I first opened this Larkooler package, and not yet aware of the invidual parts, I didn't expect much of this kit. How on earth would it cope with an overclocked Intel Core i7 thermonuclear plant? The thin tubing, low cooling surface blocks, low flow pump didn't give me high hopes at all… luckily things turned out better than expected!

The installation was flawless, took me under 10 minutes to get the rig going again. This of course with just the CPU block mounted. The screw-on fittings provide a bullet proof and leak free connection. Installing the IOH and GPU block was also pretty painless. This all aided by a clear and concise manual. In fact you have to be a real dog to get things messed up here.

Performance wise the CPU only block setup could keep in touch with my daily air setup. The IOH and GPU block also lowered temps drastically once installed. I haven't tested this kit with the CPU any higher than 3.8Ghz, this to keep it in touch with the other I7 water blocks tested. Even though its performance isn't stellar compared to a normal WC setup. You still have to keep in mind the price of this kit. Weighing in at 180 dollars and providing a full thermal solution for the vital hot components, it's quite affordable. A normal WC solution will set you back sometimes at least twice the price. Of course cooling performance will be better, but it might require case modding or other craftsmanship to get it working.

I'm aware that water-cooling purists will negatively headshake, when seeing this kit in the shops. Guys this kit is not intended for you. But for those that want a hassle free, quick to install and easy introduction into the world of water-cooling, this kit might just cut it for you!

Larkooler WC-Kit Recommended for


Pros
+ Very easy install and nicely detailed manual.
+ Pretty good performance, commendable price/performance balance.
+ A solid introduction into the world of water-cooling.
+ Affordable price for a complete kit

Contras
- Some missing parts : extra thermal grease and some heatsinks
- Total tubing length might be a bit sparse.
- Bleeding the loop is very very hard.

How could Larkooler improve this kit? Maybe upgrade the diameter of the tubing and fittings. A bigger cooling surface for the CPU block will also lower temps for sure. The pump/reservoir needs a redesign to allow complete bleeding. Some extra heatsinks for the video card might come in handy.

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Thanks goes out to Mark from Frozen CPU for providing us this brand new entry to the cooling market.



Tobias from OCZ for the OCZ Freeze.

And to our dear readers for supporting us in the year 2009, hope to see you guys and gals back in 2010!