You’re going to want a case that supports a 240mm radiator, with enough space for dual 120mm fans. That’s not too much to ask, but be aware that the pump module is higher than average by about an inch. The radiator is also a little thicker than average: If you have a longer video card, you may be limited to top mounting this cooler.
The latest from Deepcool proves the company is hopping on the RGB bandwagon, but does the performance of the Captain 240EX RGB still justify the price jump?
Visually, the newest addition to the Captain Series retains its familiar look, now with added RGB features, including a 13” LED strip with 21 RGB LEDs and a 16” pigtail, a fan hub, an in-line RGB controller, a fan extension cable, and an RGB extension cable.
The pump retains the same overall design of the last iteration in the Captain Series, with a few added upgrades. The tubing now features anti-explosion, anti-corrosion, crush resistant, and thermostable material. The new system impeller is said to allow stronger liquid flow and a bigger delivery head to increase cooling potential. The CPU contact plate features 10% more heat dissipation this time around. It comes with thermal paste pre-applied, but we always use a standardized thermal paste (Arctic MX-4) in order to stay consistent in our reviews.
The Captain 240EX RGB is compatible with AMD (including AM4), Intel LGA 115x (1150/1151/1155/1156), and Intel LGA 2011x (v1 and v3) motherboards.
For Intel LGA2011/2011 v3, installation consists of placing the standoff screws through the appropriate holes in the front of the motherboard. Next comes the installation plate on top of the standoffs and then securing the included rails on top of the plate. For all other installation systems, a backplate is required behind the motherboard. You’ll need a screwdriver for the non-thumb screws.
It’s best to install the fans onto the radiator, then install the radiator in your case first, before installing the water block. Deepcool delivered the product with the tubes aligned so that they extend from the back of the case to the CPU, but you can turn them to put your radiator in whichever orientation you need.
Once thermal paste has been applied (or re-applied, assuming you’re not using the pre-applied thermal paste) and the mounting bracket has been installed, the water block drops into place over the CPU and you secure it to the bracket with two spring-tensioned screws.
