Corsair iCUE

Corsair iCUE

The Corsair iCUE APP, now at v4, is a universal software suite that allows you to monitor variables like RPM, temperatures, control the fan RPM, and a large range of variables, really. You can also configure the RGB LED coloring.
  

Below is the default layout; as you can see, the software has picked up on the cooler (and other Corsair gear connected) and shows LED control, Pump, and Fan Control/monitoring information.

Once you select LED control, you can control a programmable RGB lit Corsair logo and ring. You get many colors available plus a set of options like static, off, and animations: blink, color pulse, color shift, rainbow (default), and temperature. The software suite really is the icing on top of the cake that is the Hydra LCS unit.  Each fan, for example, can be programmed individually; create your own profile or just select:

• Quiet
• Zero RPM (disables fans until the coolant reaches 40 Degrees C)
• Balanced
• Extreme

The features allow you to get where you need to go; if you require performance, you may do so at the expense of noise; if you require silence, you can do so at the expense of performance. This is one of the perks of software-based control. For the purposes of this evaluation, we'll use the balanced mode, which is relatively quiet. The balanced mode appears to be a thorough configuration.

We can also recommend that you create a custom profile with a low RPM when the CPU is cold and a higher RPM once the CPU reaches 70 degrees Celsius. Take advantage of the silence offered.