AIO coolers are now so powerful that they need a built-in tiny PC for color monitors bigger than the iPhone SE

Date:
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 21:05:00 +0000

Description:
Modern AIO coolers now include MCUs, large displays, and software features, transforming simple cooling hardware into complex PC components.

FULL STORY ======================================================================Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Modern AIO coolers now contain hardware resembling miniature computers Large displays are becoming common features in premium liquid coolers MCUs now power advanced features inside modern cooling systems Modern all-in-one (AIO) liquid coolers are
increasingly resembling miniature computing platforms rather than simple hardware designed to move heat away from processors.

Several newly announced models now incorporate color displays approaching smartphone dimensions, complete with monitoring software, animations, and multimedia capabilities. In some cases, the screens attached to CPU cooling systems are larger than the 4.7-inch display found on Apple 's iPhone SE. Latest Videos From Watch full video here: Tiny computers are now embedded inside cooling hardware An example comes from ASUS, whose ROG Strix SLC IV incorporates a detachable 6.67-inch curved AMOLED display running at 2400 1080 resolution.

The company also offers the ROG Strix LC IV with a smaller 3.5-inch IPS
panel, though both products retain extensive customization features. You may like The wildest and weirdest gaming PCs of Computex 2026 Best monitors of Computex 2026: top new displays you need to know about Cooling just became
the most strategic choice in AI infrastructure

Driving these displays requires considerably more than a simple temperature sensor because the screens must process graphics, animations, telemetry information, and user inputs.

Behind such displays sits a microcontroller, commonly called an MCU, which is effectively a complete computer integrated onto a single chip. Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get
all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed! Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors By submitting
your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

An MCU has its own processor, memory, storage resources, and input output functions, allowing it to operate independently within larger devices.

Twenty years ago, a high-end CPU cooler was little more than a large metal heatsink paired with one or two fans.

Modern flagship AIOs increasingly incorporate MCUs, wireless connectivity, high-resolution displays, RGB controllers, dedicated software ecosystems, and even video playback capabilities. What to read next This modder just built
the most ludicrous gaming PC I've ever seen YouTuber makes giant fan that looks amazing and drops CPU temp by 20C This retro PC build in an old CRT monitor is like an iMac on steroids

The result is an entertaining rise in complexity, with display-equipped coolers now relying on tiny computers to manage their advanced features.

As functionality expands, prices have also climbed, turning what was once a relatively straightforward component into one of the most feature-laden devices inside a modern PC.

This trend extends beyond ASUS as manufacturers increasingly compete through aesthetics rather than solely emphasizing thermal performance improvements.

JONSBO's TM-280 includes a 3.95-inch IPS screen capable of displaying
hardware statistics, animated GIF files, images, and MP4 video playback.

Meanwhile, ASRock's Challenger Digital models integrate 3-inch LCD panels displaying processor temperatures, clock speeds, and pump operating information.

Antec has moved even further with the Vortex View 360, featuring a rotatable 5-inch IPS display operating at 1280 720 resolution. Cooling performance now shares space with entertainment features Manufacturers still improve thermal hardware through faster pumps, larger radiators, enhanced fan designs, and supplementary motherboard cooling solutions.

ASUS incorporates a small VRM cooling fan, while JONSBO rates its TM-280 for processors reaching thermal loads of 285W TDP.

Yet the most visible developments increasingly involve screens, lighting effects, wireless connectivity, software ecosystems, and display
customization capabilities.

MSI recently introduced a fabric-covered cooler concealing a display beneath its exterior, illustrating how appearance has become increasingly
influential.

Several of these products now depend upon dedicated software suites, internal USB connections, specialized controller hubs, and proprietary communication interfaces.

The ASUS wireless display implementation even relies upon a motherboard connection system carrying power, control signals, and data through dedicated contacts.

The evolution remains entertaining because these cooling components have transformed into feature-rich hardware that can justify higher prices for enthusiasts building showcase systems.

Some users, however, may question whether such additions are necessary for hardware whose primary purpose remains cooling a processor.

Via The Guru of 3D Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews, and opinion in your feeds.



======================================================================
Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/pro/aio-coolers-are-now-so-powerful-that-they-need-a -built-in-tiny-pc-for-color-monitors-bigger-than-the-iphone-se


--- Mystic BBS v1.12 A49 (Linux/64)
* Origin: tqwNet Technology News (1337:1/100)