PC & CPU Cooling ROG Ryujin III vs Ryuo IV: Performance or Aesthetics? AIO Cooler August 22, 20251 view0 By IG Share Share In the world of high-end PC cooling, ASUS‘s flagship ROG AIOs present a clear choice between two philosophies. Are you building a rig for pure, unadulterated performance, or a visual masterpiece designed to be the centerpiece of your setup? This guide pits the engineering-focused ROG Ryujin III Extreme against the aesthetic-driven ROG Ryuo IV SLC. We break down everything from the Ryujin’s cutting-edge Asetek Gen8 pump and critical VRM fan to the Ryuo’s revolutionary 6.67-inch AMOLED screen, helping you choose the perfect cooler for your ultimate PC build. Faceofit.com | ROG AIO Face-Off: Ryujin III vs. Ryuo IV Faceofit.com ROG AIO Face-Off: Ryujin III Extreme vs. Ryuo IV SLC A deep dive into ASUS's flagship liquid coolers. We pit the performance-driven Ryujin III against the aesthetic-focused Ryuo IV to help you decide: is your build about pure power or unparalleled presentation? Note: If you buy something from our links, we might earn a commission. See our disclosure statement. A Tale of Two Philosophies In the upper echelon of PC components, the choice between these two coolers isn't about which is "better," but which philosophy you subscribe to. The ROG Ryujin III Extreme is an engineering-first solution, built for the relentless pursuit of quantifiable performance. The ROG Ryuo IV SLC champions a revolutionary aesthetic, transforming the cooler into a dynamic visual canvas. Chapter 1: The Anatomy of Performance The core hardware reveals a clear split in design priorities. The Ryujin III is built with the latest, top-tier components for raw cooling power, while the Ryuo IV makes calculated compromises to accommodate its revolutionary display. ⚙️ Pump Technology: The Heart of the System Ryujin III Extreme: Features the cutting-edge Asetek Emma Gen8 V2 pump. This 3-phase motor delivers higher flow rates and lower impedance, paired with a 32% larger copper cold plate for maximum heat transfer from modern CPUs. Ryuo IV SLC: Uses an unspecified "powerful pump." This suggests a cost-balancing measure, likely using an older or less premium pump to allocate budget towards its massive AMOLED screen. The consumer pays a "performance tax" for the screen. 📏 Radiator & Tubing: A Critical Compatibility Warning Ryujin III Extreme: Standard 120mm wide radiator and flexible 400mm tubes ensure broad compatibility with most PC cases. Ryuo IV SLC: A non-standard 140mm wide radiator and extremely short 200mm tubes severely limit case compatibility. Builders must verify their case supports a 140mm wide radiator in their desired mounting location before purchasing! Fan Performance Showdown Chapter 2: The Command Center: Displays & Features Beyond cooling, the user experience is defined by interactive elements. Here, the philosophical divide between a functional dashboard and a cinematic art piece becomes crystal clear. 🖥️ Display Technology: Dashboard vs. Cinema Ryujin III Extreme: A functional 3.5-inch IPS LCD (480p, 60Hz) serves as a high-fidelity data ticker for system vitals. It's a tool for the enthusiast who values immediate hardware information. Ryuo IV SLC: A revolutionary 6.67-inch curved 2K AMOLED display. It's a secondary monitor inside your case, supporting 3D-effect videos and screen splitting for ultimate visual customization. 💨 The Unseen Advantage: Embedded VRM Fan Exclusive to the Ryujin III Extreme, a powerful fan is embedded in the pump housing to cool your motherboard's Voltage Regulator Modules (VRMs). ASUS testing shows this can reduce VRM temperatures by a staggering 36°C, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring system stability under heavy loads. 💾 Software Ecosystem: Integrated vs. Standalone Ryujin III Extreme: Integrates seamlessly into the unified Armoury Crate software and includes a 1-year subscription to AIDA64 Extreme for professional monitoring. Ryuo IV SLC: Requires a separate, standalone application called ASUS InfoHub. This software fragmentation can be a hassle for users already invested in the ROG ecosystem, suggesting a siloed or rushed development cycle. Chapter 3: The Proving Grounds: Benchmarks Technical specs tell part of the story, but real-world testing reveals the practical outcomes. Data synthesized from third-party reviews shows a clear performance hierarchy. 🌡️ Thermal Performance Under Pressure Ryujin III Extreme: Consistently tops performance charts. In one test, it allowed an Intel i9-13900K to sustain a 311W power draw, keeping temps in the low 80s °C. It's the superior thermal performer, period. 🔊 Acoustic Profile Analysis Ryujin III Extreme: Performance has an acoustic cost. A recurring criticism is audible pump noise, with descriptors like "whine" or "noisy" being common even at low loads. The fans can also reach a loud 55 dBA at max speed. Ryuo IV SLC: While its fans get loud at high RPMs, there are fewer widespread complaints about its pump noise, suggesting a quieter idle experience. Acoustic Profile (Max Noise) Lower is better. Note that reviews suggest the Ryujin III's pump is audibly louder than the Ryuo IV's, despite the fan noise rating. Chapter 4: The Spec Sheet: A Detailed Comparison Use the filters below to compare the specifications of the coolers you're interested in. ROG Ryuo IV SLC 360 ROG Ryujin III 360 Extreme Feature ROG Ryuo IV SLC 360 ARGB ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB Extreme Pump TechnologyUnspecified "Powerful Pump"Asetek Emma Gen8 V2 Display TypeCurved AMOLEDFull Color IPS LCD Display Size6.67-inch3.5-inch Display Resolution2K (60 Hz)640x480 (60 Hz) Embedded VRM FanNoYes (5100 RPM) Fan ModelROG RYUO IV MF-12C ARGBROG Magnetic Daisy-chainable Fan Fan Dimensions120 x 120 x 25 mm120 x 120 x 30 mm (Thickened) Max Airflow71.44 CFM89.73 CFM Max Static Pressure5.45 mmH2O5.15 mmH2O Max Noise Level39.6 dB(A)36 dB(A) Radiator Dimensions394 x 140 x 32 mm399.5 x 120 x 30 mm Tubing Length200 mm400 mm Software ControlASUS InfoHubArmoury Crate + AIDA64 Warranty6 years (Cooler), 2 years (Display)6 years Chapter 5: The Verdict: Choosing Your Champion The final decision comes down to a simple question: what is the primary goal for your build? The answer will point you directly to your ideal cooler. Why Choose the Ryujin III Extreme? Unmatched thermal performance Critical VRM cooling for stability Superior, high-airflow fans Builder-friendly design (long tubes, standard radiator) Integrated software experience Potential Downsides Audible pump noise is a common complaint Smaller, less impressive display Premium price for performance Why Choose the Ryuo IV SLC? Revolutionary, case-defining 6.67" AMOLED screen Unparalleled aesthetic customization Solid thermal performance for most use cases Potentially quieter pump operation at idle Potential Downsides Severe case compatibility limitations Fragmented, standalone software Unspecified pump technology Extremely high price for aesthetics Final Recommendations For the Performance Purist & Overclocker: The ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB Extreme is the unequivocal choice. If your goal is maximum performance and stability, its superior hardware and VRM cooling are non-negotiable. Be prepared for the potential pump noise as the trade-off for this power. Check on Amazon Check on Newegg For the Aesthetic Visionary & Show-Builder: The ROG Ryuo IV SLC 360 ARGB is your champion. If your PC is a visual masterpiece, its screen offers a level of flair no other cooler can match. But you must do your homework: verify case compatibility before you even think about adding it to your cart. Check on Amazon Check on Newegg Affiliate Disclosure: Faceofit.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Share What's your reaction? Excited 0 Happy 0 In Love 0 Not Sure 0 Silly 0
ROG AIO Face-Off: Ryujin III Extreme vs. Ryuo IV SLC A deep dive into ASUS's flagship liquid coolers. We pit the performance-driven Ryujin III against the aesthetic-focused Ryuo IV to help you decide: is your build about pure power or unparalleled presentation? Note: If you buy something from our links, we might earn a commission. See our disclosure statement. A Tale of Two Philosophies In the upper echelon of PC components, the choice between these two coolers isn't about which is "better," but which philosophy you subscribe to. The ROG Ryujin III Extreme is an engineering-first solution, built for the relentless pursuit of quantifiable performance. The ROG Ryuo IV SLC champions a revolutionary aesthetic, transforming the cooler into a dynamic visual canvas. Chapter 1: The Anatomy of Performance The core hardware reveals a clear split in design priorities. The Ryujin III is built with the latest, top-tier components for raw cooling power, while the Ryuo IV makes calculated compromises to accommodate its revolutionary display. ⚙️ Pump Technology: The Heart of the System Ryujin III Extreme: Features the cutting-edge Asetek Emma Gen8 V2 pump. This 3-phase motor delivers higher flow rates and lower impedance, paired with a 32% larger copper cold plate for maximum heat transfer from modern CPUs. Ryuo IV SLC: Uses an unspecified "powerful pump." This suggests a cost-balancing measure, likely using an older or less premium pump to allocate budget towards its massive AMOLED screen. The consumer pays a "performance tax" for the screen. 📏 Radiator & Tubing: A Critical Compatibility Warning Ryujin III Extreme: Standard 120mm wide radiator and flexible 400mm tubes ensure broad compatibility with most PC cases. Ryuo IV SLC: A non-standard 140mm wide radiator and extremely short 200mm tubes severely limit case compatibility. Builders must verify their case supports a 140mm wide radiator in their desired mounting location before purchasing! Fan Performance Showdown Chapter 2: The Command Center: Displays & Features Beyond cooling, the user experience is defined by interactive elements. Here, the philosophical divide between a functional dashboard and a cinematic art piece becomes crystal clear. 🖥️ Display Technology: Dashboard vs. Cinema Ryujin III Extreme: A functional 3.5-inch IPS LCD (480p, 60Hz) serves as a high-fidelity data ticker for system vitals. It's a tool for the enthusiast who values immediate hardware information. Ryuo IV SLC: A revolutionary 6.67-inch curved 2K AMOLED display. It's a secondary monitor inside your case, supporting 3D-effect videos and screen splitting for ultimate visual customization. 💨 The Unseen Advantage: Embedded VRM Fan Exclusive to the Ryujin III Extreme, a powerful fan is embedded in the pump housing to cool your motherboard's Voltage Regulator Modules (VRMs). ASUS testing shows this can reduce VRM temperatures by a staggering 36°C, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring system stability under heavy loads. 💾 Software Ecosystem: Integrated vs. Standalone Ryujin III Extreme: Integrates seamlessly into the unified Armoury Crate software and includes a 1-year subscription to AIDA64 Extreme for professional monitoring. Ryuo IV SLC: Requires a separate, standalone application called ASUS InfoHub. This software fragmentation can be a hassle for users already invested in the ROG ecosystem, suggesting a siloed or rushed development cycle. Chapter 3: The Proving Grounds: Benchmarks Technical specs tell part of the story, but real-world testing reveals the practical outcomes. Data synthesized from third-party reviews shows a clear performance hierarchy. 🌡️ Thermal Performance Under Pressure Ryujin III Extreme: Consistently tops performance charts. In one test, it allowed an Intel i9-13900K to sustain a 311W power draw, keeping temps in the low 80s °C. It's the superior thermal performer, period. 🔊 Acoustic Profile Analysis Ryujin III Extreme: Performance has an acoustic cost. A recurring criticism is audible pump noise, with descriptors like "whine" or "noisy" being common even at low loads. The fans can also reach a loud 55 dBA at max speed. Ryuo IV SLC: While its fans get loud at high RPMs, there are fewer widespread complaints about its pump noise, suggesting a quieter idle experience. Acoustic Profile (Max Noise) Lower is better. Note that reviews suggest the Ryujin III's pump is audibly louder than the Ryuo IV's, despite the fan noise rating. Chapter 4: The Spec Sheet: A Detailed Comparison Use the filters below to compare the specifications of the coolers you're interested in. ROG Ryuo IV SLC 360 ROG Ryujin III 360 Extreme Feature ROG Ryuo IV SLC 360 ARGB ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB Extreme Pump TechnologyUnspecified "Powerful Pump"Asetek Emma Gen8 V2 Display TypeCurved AMOLEDFull Color IPS LCD Display Size6.67-inch3.5-inch Display Resolution2K (60 Hz)640x480 (60 Hz) Embedded VRM FanNoYes (5100 RPM) Fan ModelROG RYUO IV MF-12C ARGBROG Magnetic Daisy-chainable Fan Fan Dimensions120 x 120 x 25 mm120 x 120 x 30 mm (Thickened) Max Airflow71.44 CFM89.73 CFM Max Static Pressure5.45 mmH2O5.15 mmH2O Max Noise Level39.6 dB(A)36 dB(A) Radiator Dimensions394 x 140 x 32 mm399.5 x 120 x 30 mm Tubing Length200 mm400 mm Software ControlASUS InfoHubArmoury Crate + AIDA64 Warranty6 years (Cooler), 2 years (Display)6 years Chapter 5: The Verdict: Choosing Your Champion The final decision comes down to a simple question: what is the primary goal for your build? The answer will point you directly to your ideal cooler. Why Choose the Ryujin III Extreme? Unmatched thermal performance Critical VRM cooling for stability Superior, high-airflow fans Builder-friendly design (long tubes, standard radiator) Integrated software experience Potential Downsides Audible pump noise is a common complaint Smaller, less impressive display Premium price for performance Why Choose the Ryuo IV SLC? Revolutionary, case-defining 6.67" AMOLED screen Unparalleled aesthetic customization Solid thermal performance for most use cases Potentially quieter pump operation at idle Potential Downsides Severe case compatibility limitations Fragmented, standalone software Unspecified pump technology Extremely high price for aesthetics Final Recommendations For the Performance Purist & Overclocker: The ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB Extreme is the unequivocal choice. If your goal is maximum performance and stability, its superior hardware and VRM cooling are non-negotiable. Be prepared for the potential pump noise as the trade-off for this power. Check on Amazon Check on Newegg For the Aesthetic Visionary & Show-Builder: The ROG Ryuo IV SLC 360 ARGB is your champion. If your PC is a visual masterpiece, its screen offers a level of flair no other cooler can match. But you must do your homework: verify case compatibility before you even think about adding it to your cart. Check on Amazon Check on Newegg
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