Closed Loop Cooler? (Gigabyte GTX 980 Ti Waterforce Xtreme Gaming 6 GB)
Closed Loop Cooler? (Gigabyte GTX 980 Ti Waterforce Xtreme Gaming 6 GB)
Hey everyone!
I'm comparing graphics cards for my new setup, weighing the Gigabyte GTX 980 Ti Waterforce Xtreme Gaming 6 GB against the Zotac GeForce GTX 980 Ti AMP! Extreme 6GB. The main question is whether I can connect the video card to my existing liquid cooling system, a Swiftech H320 X2 Prestige Edition, which I intended for this purpose. Yes, the H320 supports a GPU cooler, so it should work with an adapter. I'm unsure if a water block from the Gigabyte card would fit well with the Zotac model, based on what I've read. Should I go with the Zotac or try the Gigabyte option?
Thanks,
Recklessrider
What diameter of tubing would be appropriate? It seems quite slim. I'm being direct – altering a sealed loop cooler setup to switch to another cooling loop or enlarging it typically isn't advisable. Initially, the design is intended for use with the low-flow pump included with the Zotac card. That doesn’t mean higher flow rates wouldn’t help, but creating an atypical connection to a cooling loop (Swiftech) that usually uses standard tubing and fittings presents challenges. You’ll need to do your best if you aim to succeed – there isn’t a clear, reliable method anyone can confidently suggest without also implying...
The Waterforce uses its own pump and radiator, so it doesn't require connection to the Swiftech cooler.
I understand you're familiar with the Waterforce's pump but have concerns about its quality. Additionally, you've invested more than $200 in Swiftech to add a GPU block. I'm curious—was this kind of adjustment feasible, or are you risking too much?
Recklessrider:
I know the Waterforce has its own pump, but what I've heard is it's not very good. Also, I spent over $200 on the Swiftech so I could add a GPU block specifically. I'm wondering if this kind of change was feasible or if it's taking too much.
My experience with a water block already installed on a graphics card has been terrible, so I won't buy another one. I'll buy the water block myself and install it myself. I recommend you do the same.
What diameter of tubing would you actually need? It seems quite slim. I'm going to be direct – trying to adapt a closed loop cooler setup into another loop or simply enlarging it often doesn't make sense. Initially, the design is built for operation with the low-flow pump that came with the Zotac card. That doesn’t mean higher flow rates wouldn’t help, but it’s not guaranteed. Also, creating an unconventional connection to a cooling loop (like Swiftech) that typically uses standard sizes will require you to do your best. There really isn’t a reliable method anyone can confidently recommend without warning you of potential risks.
Additionally, as 4ryan6 pointed out, pre-installed waterblocks can be problematic because they’re installed in a factory setting and lack the precision you’d expect. If you’re aiming for a hybrid cooler that’s meant to function independently, any issue with the cooling unit or the card after modification could void the warranty. In summary, the cooler on that card is more of a superficial addition trying to trick you into thinking you have liquid cooling without realizing it’s just limited performance. For instance, the 980Ti model has a TDP range of 250-300 watts. The included cooler is a single 120mm radiator, which generally handles about 130 watts. In ideal cases, 150 watts might be the upper limit, especially since it’s a thin aluminum unit. This would be like expecting a V8 engine to cool a 4-cylinder car with a Honda Civic radiator – it simply doesn’t match real-world expectations. Overall, this cooling solution is intended for those who overlook the distinction between 'liquid cooling' and 'effective liquid cooling.'