Thermal Performance
Thermal Performance scores are derived from the relevant Performance Factor scores. We set this scale with 75% and below as the 0 mark, with each 2.5% increase from 75% in relative performance adding 0.5 to the awarded performance score.
Note: Our test group of 33 radiators range in thickness from 27mm to 84.5mm with core density ranging from 8 FPI to 30 FPI. This greatly differing array of samples means that the better performing thicker radiators (generally speaking) will actually make the thinner radiators scores appear worse. This is an unavoidable side effect of the scoring system and we again advise readers to focus on radiators which are suitable for the specific case scenario. Depending on the amount of variance in the results, this could end up with misleading scores based on the comparative performance.
Push Only Thermal Performance
- 1.5/5
The AX360’s Push Only APF result of 80.2% translated into a performance score of 1.5/5. It’s 20 FPI fin array was expected to produce better comparison results with higher fan speeds, but the data proved that not to be the case.
Push/Pull Thermal Performance
- 1/5
The Push/Pull APF result of 79.6 translated into a thermal performance score of 1 out of 5. The AX360 proved unable to to match the thermal dissipation levels of the vast majority of the radiators in the test group when run with a Push/Pull fan assembly.
Overall Thermal Performance
- 1/5
The Master Performance score of 79.9 generated another very low score. With just 1 out of 5 for overall thermal performance there is no way to mollify the score.
Even if we compare the AX360’s results to ONLY slim 360mm radiators (which we do NOT classify it as) the AX360 still has a poor outcome, beating just one other radiator’s results while there are nine which are better than it.
Performance is not the be all and end all factor in making a purchase decision, though for many it is high on the selection criteria.
Features & Quality – 3/5
The AX360 features the aluminum outer casing which matches all of XSPC’s AX series radiators and is released in the same black and white finishes. This stylish aluminum housing is strong and feels rock solid and is perhaps the AX360’s best feature. Adding to it’s appeal is the ease at which it can be disassembled for custom painting.
There is only one set of ports on the AX360, no alternate ports or ancillary port are fitted so we were left wanting in this department. Also missing are tube protection plates under the fan mounting holes which we believe should be a standard feature these days.
The core is slightly biased towards for medium to high airflow, due to it’s 20 FPI core. With a reasonably high FPI count the AX360 will need cleaning more often than some other radiators.
The low restriction level should not pose any issues for pump power requirements when planning out your loop, even with multiple AX series radiators in the system.
Summary – 2.5/5
The AX360 proved to be a totally underwhelming performer in every thermal performance test we conducted. Having a 20mm thin core but a comparatively thick 40mm enclosure means it doesn’t fit our criteria for a slim radiator (35mm or less) and leaves it somewhat in an awkward position for performance comparisons. It is best suited for medium to high speed fans, however could still be used effectively with low speed fans as the spread between the best and worst radiators with low speed fans is quite low.
It has a low restriction level and a reasonably high FPI count. The build quality and finish are excellent, the design is sleek and stylish, however no alternate ports are fitted.
The 40mm thick enclosure seems almost mis-matched to it’s 20mm thick core and we can’t help but think this is an inefficient use of space. Pricing for the AX360 is comparatively expensive at $100 USD which did not help the value vs performance factor.
You won’t be considering the AX360 if outstanding performance is what you’re looking for, instead stylish looks, quality materials and excellent finish are the highlights that should grab your attention.
For these reasons the AX360 is still an option we can recommend even if we were disappointed with it’s performance.
Where to buy:
- Performance PCs: White $99.95 + shipping from USA – Out of stock at time of writing.
- Performance PCs: Black $99.95 + shipping from USA.
- XSPC Online Shop: White £74.99 ex VAT + shipping from UK.
- XSPC Online Shop: Black £74.15 ex VAT + shipping from UK – Out of stock at time of writing.
