Hardware Labs Nemesis 280 GTS X-Flow Radiator Review

Hardware Labs Nemesis 280 GTS X-Flow Radiator Review

Welcome to another Extreme Rigs 280mm radiator review. Today we’ll be looking at the Nemesis 280 GTS X-Flow from Hardware Labs. It is one of two, 280 slim models available in the HWLabs’ Black Ice^® Nemesis^® range.

Last week we published our review of the Nemesis 280 GTS which is the other slim 280mm offering from HWLabs, so be sure to check it out for our in depth appraisal.

The Nemesis 280 GTS X-Flow measures in at just 30mm thick and is therefore well suited for small form factor builds where space is at a premium or for larger builds where extra radiator area is required, but room for a bigger/thicker radiator may not be available.

BUT, the main attraction of the X-Flow version is of course that the G 1/4 port locations are on opposite ends of the radiator. This can greatly assist in cleaner tubing runs whether on a vertical or horizontal installation.

In this review of the Nemesis 280 GTS X-Flow we’ll take a close look at it’s construction & quality, analyze the performance data by comparing it’s results against other 280mm radiators and then conclude with a summary.

As we reviewed the Nemesis 360 GTS X-Flow last year, we may make a comparison or two between the 280 and 360 variants. The 280mm version only has ~10% less surface than the 360, so there may be some interesting data which we can highlight.

Firstly a big thanks to Hardware Labs for providing the review sample of the Nemesis 280 GTS X-Flow. Since we commenced our radiator testing, their commitment to our independent tests has been exemplary. Extreme Rigs couldn’t publish the reviews we do without the continued support offered by our sponsors, so a big thanks to all the crew at Hardware Labs.

Before we start we would again like to say thanks to Noctua for providing the NF-A14 Industrial PPC-2000 IP67 PWM 140mm fans. We use these fans for all our 140mm based radiator thermal performance testing because they have great static pressure which is required to get the best performance from even densest of radiator cores and of course, their proven reliability.

What’s in the Box?

The Nemesis 280 GTS X-Flow sample arrived in full retail packaging. The front features an image of the radiator and Nemesis logo, along with the model number in large bold lettering.

On the back is a technical drawing along with a list of features.

After removing the outer retail sleeve we find a sturdy cardboard box with a Black Ice^® seal.
The seal advises to check screw length if using screws other than those provided, which we’ll discuss in more detail shortly.

Opening the box, we see the familiar packing layout which HWLabs use for all their radiators. The packaging is strong and secure, but it we feel it lacks a bubble wrap sleeve to avoid possible scuffing/scratches on the paint during transport.

On the right hand side the supplied accessories are placed under a lift up flap.

The accessories consist of the following:

8 x M4 x 28mm Phillips Head screws.
8 x M4 x 5mm Phillips Head screws.

The shorter screws measure in at ~5mm and have 2 possible uses. Firstly is for directly mounting the radiator to a case panel. Alternately they could be used to attach mounting brackets for reservoirs or pumps.

The longer screws measure 28mm and are the perfect length for mounting a 25mm thick fan directly to the radiator. However, in most instances they are not long enough to mount a fan between radiator and case panel. If using a mounting bracket, or placing fans between the case panel and radiator, you will probably need to provide your own M4 screws of suitable length. In most instances M4 x 30mm screws will be suitable.

Be warned though, with ONLY a 25mm thick fan, 30mm length screws are too long and the supplied 28mm screws must be used.

Onwards to technical specifications!