It looks like Intel’s next desktop platform is already starting to surface in the market. Typically, about a year before a new CPU socket launches, we begin to see early signs — from engineering samples to cooler compatibility updates. This time, Thermaltake has become the first manufacturer to confirm support for the upcoming LGA-1954 socket, which will power Intel’s Nova Lake desktop processors.
The discovery comes from well-known hardware leaker @momomo_us, who noticed the update in the specs for Thermaltake’s Minecube 360 Ultra ARGB cooler. This all-in-one liquid cooler stands out for its striking design — it features four 3.95-inch LCD panels, each with a resolution of 720×720 pixels.
While most AIOs rely on smaller circular OLED screens, Thermaltake’s bold approach sets a new bar for customisation. If this design trend continues, we might soon see AIOs requiring actual GPU-style graphics acceleration.
LGA-1954 Socket Compatibility
Intel’s LGA-1954 socket is designed to share the same physical dimensions as its predecessors — LGA-1851 and LGA-1700. Historically, some CPU coolers needed updated brackets for optimal thermal contact on newer processors, but overall compatibility remained strong. This backwards-friendly design means that even coolers dating back to the LGA-1150 era could remain usable, as long as manufacturers provide new mounting kits.
According to the Minecube 360 Ultra’s product manual, Thermaltake’s mounting system works across LGA-1700, LGA-1851, and now LGA-1954, ensuring seamless compatibility across three generations of Intel sockets.
What to Expect from Nova Lake
Intel’s Nova Lake CPUs are expected to arrive next year as part of the Core Ultra 400 series. This generation will effectively replace Arrow Lake and bring an end to the short-lived LGA-1851 socket, which supported only one architecture. While Meteor Lake was originally planned for desktops, it ultimately launched only in mobile and embedded systems.
Thermaltake Minecube 360 Ultra ARGB – Key Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Minecube 360 Ultra ARGB Sync AIO Liquid Cooler |
| TDP Rating | 360W |
| Intel Socket Support | LGA 2066 / 2011-3 / 2011 / 1954 / 1851 / 1700 / 1200 / 1156 / 1155 / 1151 / 1150 |
| AMD Socket Support | AM5 / AM4 / AM3+ / AM3 / AM2+ / AM2 / FM2 / FM1 |
Thermaltake’s early confirmation suggests that cooler manufacturers are already preparing for Intel’s next wave of processors. With the LGA-1954 socket retaining cross-generational support, PC builders will have an easier — and more affordable — transition into the Nova Lake era.
