Performance: 37 out of 40
While it is indeed true that ‘thin’ 360-class radiators cannot match the cooling performance of a ‘thick’ 360-class rad… the P22 certainly narrows the gap. It accomplishes this via a unique combination of increased fin density, thicker water channels, and low level improvements in the block. To put it another way, MSI is putting the work in and it shows. Shows in ways few others can match let alone exceed.
Ease of Use: 20 out of 20
Pre-mounted fans? Check. Pre-mounted installation bracket? Check. All in one metal backplate? Check. Simplified cabling? Check. Advanced instructions that can be updated in real time? Check. Debloated software so you don’t have to worry about DDR5 RAM prices? Double Check! Mix in the inherent lowered hassle factor from using a ‘thin’ class radiator and the MSI MPG CoreLiquid P22 is a masterclass in how to make an advanced cooling solution novice friendly. Surprisingly novice friendly.
Build Quality & Warranty: 18 out 20
With the one teeny tiny nit of opting for a rifle bearing in the CycloBlade fan we have no issues nor concerns to go over here. Instead MSI has created a well and truly above average AIO. One with a ton of personality and custom touches that exude quality… and certainly belie the extremely reasonable MSRP!
Value: 18 out 20
Once again, the only keeping the P22 from receiving a perfect score is the rifle bearings. Even with this minor issue considered this is a premium product. Just as any MPG branded model should be. It just is not priced like a premium product. Instead it is priced more like a mainstream market orientated model. Making it a fantastic deal that is firmly in ‘no brainer’ territory.
Final Score: 93 out 100
MSI has once again found a way to exceed expectations. Be it in performance. Aesthetics. Even overall value the MPG CoreLiquid P22 is a phenomenal AIO. One that has so much to offer buyers that even if it was demanding 160USD/220 Canuck Bucks we would still consider it a good deal. It is not priced at $220. Rather MSI found a way to also significantly decrease the MSRP from the P13 generation.
Decrease it all the way down to an extremely reasonable 130 USD / 180 CAD. As such the P22 is not a good deal, it is a great one. One that raises the bar on what buyers can demand to get for their hard earned cash. Buy it. Love it. Don’t tell anyone how little you paid for it.
