Alphacool NexXxos Monsta 360 Radiator Review

Push Performance – 3/5

Push/Pull Performance – 4/5

Overall Performance – 3.5/5

The performance rating of 3.5 is arrived at from the Average Performance Factor. Being a thick radiator with a low fin count I wasn’t sure that the Monsta 360’s core would have the balance to perform well across the range of thermal tests.   While the Monsta excels with low speed push/pull setups it never does badly either.

Overall the Monsta was an excellent all-round performer with ultra-low restriction levels!

Features & Quality – 4/5

The Monsta has a smooth, satin black finish that will please the vast majority of purchasers. My review sample was flawless and exceeded my expectations based on previous rads I have had from Alphacool.

The ultra thick design means there is plenty of material to work with on the tanks, and Alphacool have used it well. The Monsta has the maximum number of port options with 3  inlet and outlet port options. The addition of a bleeder port is a bonus for vertical installations, giving the user an easy solution for filling/air bleeding or draining depending on the orientation implemented.

There are protector plates for the mounting screws which is a good thing as the mounting holes have tubes directly beneath them.

The main feature of the Monsta is of course its thickness, and as shown in the performance data, the Monsta’s tuning can be can be manipulated somewhat with the fan assembly and the speeds they are set at. This makes it a very versatile rad performance wise.

At 134mm total thickness with a Push/Pull fan assembly attached, the Monsta will not fit in very many cases, so it may alienate itself from many potential buyers simple because they cannot fit it in their case.

The Monsta has a very low fin count (10 FPI) which means it’s not really a dust hog and will require less time dedicated to cleaning and maintenance.

A White Special Edition Monsta 360 is also currently available.

Lastly, I have to mention Alphacool radiators reputation for being the dirtiest rads. Yes, no surprises, this one was no exception. All soldered tube radiators have some residue that must be flushed; it’s just one of those chores that has to be done when preparing to install any new radiator to your loop.  However Alphacool seem to have more than the other brands. With the recent launch of specialty radiator cleaning fluids, this chore has been made easier and with far better results than we used to be able to achieve.

Summary – 4/5

The Monsta 360 core design proved to be an excellent all-round performer which excelled with Push/Pull fans at low speed.

It has multiple port options allowing for fill ports/drain ports in all possible orientations, however….the Monsta is a super thick radiator, make no mistake, so ensure you case can accommodate this 84mm thick beast (plus fans) prior to making a purchase decision.

Where to buy: AquaTuning – $119