Push Performance – 3/5

XT45 - APF P b

Push/Pull Performance – 2.5/5

XT45 - APF PP

Overall Performance – 3/5

XT45 - APF All b

The Alphacool XT45 is a decently performing radiator where space limitations mean that a thicker radiator can not be used.

The core dimensions are well balanced, meaning that the FPI and core thickness is well matched for the overall radiator thickness. This combination meant that the XT45 achieved good performance results across the range of test data points.  Evidence of this is seen in the Round-Up Performance Factor comparison where the XT45 pulled a PF score of 88.4.

In Price Vs. Performance the XT45 sits in the middle of the pack, meaning that performance wise, you get what you pay for – decent performance at a fair price.

Features & Quality – 4/5

The ends tanks have the most available ports possible, 6 in total. These 6 ports allow all possible installation options and then still has ports free for fill ports or drain ports – very nice.

The paint finish can be a bit hit and miss on Alphacool radiators, however the XT45 unit tested was purchased (not supplied review sample) and the finish is as good as most others in the round up.

My biggest complaint about the XT45 is the excessive material that was left from manufacturing process. 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 – 3.5/5

The XT45 was unable to compete with the thicker radiators built for higher performance but it performed very well as an all rounder in its thickness category.

Where to buy: $85 – PPCS

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