Custom loop under $200
Custom loop under $200
You're planning to upgrade your I5 6600k with a $200 budget. You aim for 4.5 ghz in Corsair Air 240 and are considering the Swiftech H220 X2. Custom loops could be beneficial, so think about parts you'd like to replace. If you can swap components like pumps, you might be able to install the Swiftech now and upgrade gradually. You're also weighing options such as the Ek Predator 240, Swiftech H220 X2 Prestige, ELAZO L240, Alphacool Eiswolf, or the Alphacool Eisbaer.
Swiftech coolers offer a solid beginning for a custom loop setup. You receive a quality copper CPU block, a reliable pump, and a brass/copper radiator with a reservoir. Many budget options use aluminum radiators paired with copper blocks. To reach the copper radiator price point, you generally need to opt for a swiftech product. Products from EK such as the predator with quick disconnects also provide sub-$200 kits that include everything needed for a CPU-only custom loop. This is consistent across several vendors.
I remember a recent article mentioning Alphacool’s expandable AIO line, though I think it had some issues and only offered fittings on one side of the loop.
The Swiftech AIOs can be adapted for custom loops at a later stage. Custom loops aren't superior to AIOs when you lack expertise, and they demand greater upkeep compared to AIOs.
custom loops are super expensive, plus you have to know what you are doing when it comes to them. Though they do look better their really isn't much of a difference in the "cooling" aspect of it.
Swiftech coolers offer a solid beginning for a custom loop setup. You receive a quality copper CPU block, a reliable pump, and a brass/copper radiator with a reservoir. Many budget options use aluminum radiators paired with copper blocks. To reach the copper radiator price point, you generally need to opt for a swiftech product. Products from EK such as the predator with quick disconnects also provide sub-$200 kits that include everything needed for a CPU-only custom loop. This is consistent across several vendors.
I remember a recent article mentioning Alphacool’s expandable AIO line, though I think it had some issues and only offered fittings on one side of the loop.
If I were you, I'd choose a kit from EK and enhance it progressively.
For that budget I suggest the new Aluminum series from EKWB. It doesn't change in cooling performance, but because it's aluminum it's more affordable. Just keep in mind not to combine water cooling components made of different metals than the aluminum in the EKWB kit. Always choose aluminum parts for upgrades or replacements from EKWB by reaching out to them and ordering specific ones.
https://www.ekfluidgaming.com/
Go to the kits drop down menu and pick your preferred size.