Request for part selection in water cooling custom loop project
Request for part selection in water cooling custom loop project
I would say it depends on you. It’s actually quite simple to put a waterblock onto a card, but if the block is designed for G1/4 fittings, you should be able to use any fitting you prefer with it. I’m aware that many people have purchased cards with pre-installed blocks only to discover issues like low-quality thermal paste or poor contact. These might be isolated cases rather than common problems. You’re probably going to spend a little extra for a card that already has a block installed compared to buying and installing everything yourself.
It depends on your choice. Installing a waterblock on a card is fairly straightforward, especially if it supports G1/4 fittings. You might encounter issues with poor quality paste or improper fitting, but these seem to be rare cases. Compared to buying a card and installing the block yourself, you'll likely spend more upfront. I prefer the limited edition 10 year anniversary model over the standard one. For maximizing performance, I plan to get a full block for my GPUs—ideally in standard size, like Founders—and install it myself. I’m familiar with the installation process from videos, though I haven’t done it before.
You need a block compatible with your CPU socket 1151, which matches the same CPU you own. EK offers excellent options, so your choice should be reliable. Most available blocks are variations of the Supremacy series, ensuring compatibility. You should aim for at least a DDC or D5 pump, and consider dual pumps if budget allows. The reservoir can be customized—it mainly serves to store extra water and simplify loop filling. Select fittings that match your tubing dimensions; verify ID/OD compatibility with compression fittings unless you're using barbs. Remember, G1/4 threads apply only to the fitting threads, not the tubing itself, and there are various thread types available, so double-check before purchasing. Opt for thick-walled tubing when possible, as thin-walled ones tend to kink easily during bends. Wall thickness can be calculated by subtracting ID from OD, whether in inches or millimeters.
You're seeking a block that matches your CPU socket 1151, which you already have. EK offers excellent options, so you should be safe in your choice. Most of their products are variations of the Supremacy series, which means compatibility is likely.
You'll need at least a DDC or D5 pump; dual pumps would be better if budget allows. The reservoir can be chosen based on its purpose—primarily for storing extra water and simplifying loop filling.
Select fittings that suit your tubing size. If you're using 3/8" ID, 7/16" ID, or 1/2" ID, verify your tubing's ID/OD matches the compression fittings unless you're opting for barbs, in which case focus on matching ID to barb size. Remember, G1/4 threads apply only to the fitting threads, not the tubing itself—also note available G3/8 and G1/4 thread types.
Opt for thicker-walled tubing when possible; thin-walled ones tend to kink easily during bends. Wall thickness can be calculated by subtracting ID from OD, whether in inches or millimeters.
Clarifying a few points...
For the GPU, is this acceptable?
GPU
Cooling Block
And for the CPU (i7-6700k):
This...
You’re considering dual pumps—would you prefer the more expensive models? If so, I’d go with the premium 2x Revo Dual D5s.
For the reservoir, I understand its purpose and have funds; even if it doesn’t directly impact performance, its convenience for refilling is valuable.
For tubing, I was thinking acrylic hard tubing, cutting it and using 90-degree fittings. I’m uncertain about operating a heat gun or lack the necessary tools, so I’ll postpone that. The FOST tubing offers a more straightforward experience but provides a challenge and looks great for around £10,000.
You're seeking a block that matches your CPU socket 1151, which is compatible with the same CPU I own. EK offers high-quality options, so you should be safe in your choice. Most of their products align with the Supremacy series, ensuring compatibility. You'll likely need at least a DDC or D5 pump; dual pumps are advisable if budget allows. The reservoir choice mainly serves to store extra water and simplify loop filling. Select fittings that suit your tubing size—confirm ID/OD for tubing before picking barb sizes. Remember, G1/4 threads apply only to the fitting threads, not the tubing itself, and be mindful of thread types like G3/8 or G1/4. Opt for thicker-walled tubing when possible, as thinner ones are prone to kinking during bends. Wall thickness can be calculated by subtracting ID from OD, whether in inches or millimeters.
Looking at a few points:
For the GPU, is this acceptable?
GPU
Cooling Block
And for the CPU (i7-6700k):
This
You’re considering dual pumps—what brands do you prefer? If it were my choice, I’d opt for the premium models, like two Revo Dual D5’s.
I’m planning to purchase a reservoir; I understand its purpose but have funds available. Even if it doesn’t directly impact performance, its convenience for refilling is valuable.
For tubing, you intended acrylic hard tubing, with cutting and 90° fittings, though I’m uncertain about heat gun usage and equipment availability—so I’ll hold off on that now.
And the fittings: I wanted a challenge and a stylish setup for around £10k.
Consider sticking to a single D5 pump. If budget isn’t a constraint, bitspower offers high-quality units with great covers—ensure they’re adjustable. Avoid overcomplicating things; simplicity wins. Choose a pump with an adjustable flow rate, eliminating the need for a pressure regulator. Just install and forget.
Regarding EK blocks: they’re decent but not top-tier. Many superior-looking alternatives exist, such as Bitspower 1080 or Heatkiller Pro IV, which offer better aesthetics without sacrificing performance. The EK site even provides a configurator to help match specs with compatible parts.
You're seeking a component that matches your CPU socket 1151, which is compatible with the same CPU you own. EK offers excellent options, so you shouldn't face any issues with your choice. Most of their products are variations of the Supremacy series, ensuring compatibility.
You'll likely need at least a DDC or D5 pump; dual pumps would be ideal if budget allows. Reservoir selection is mainly about holding extra water and simplifying loop filling. Choose fittings that suit your tubing size—confirm ID/OD for your tubing to match compression fittings unless you're using barbs. The G1/4 fitting affects threads, not the tubing fit itself, and be aware of other thread types available.
Opt for thicker-walled tubing when possible, as thinner ones are prone to kinking during bends. Wall thickness can be calculated by subtracting ID from OD, whether in inches or millimeters.
Clarifying a few points:
For the GPU, is this acceptable?
GPU
Cooling Block
Regarding the CPU (i7-6700k),
This
You’re considering dual pumps—would you prefer the more expensive ones? If not, 2x Revo Dual D5s would be a good choice.
For the reservoir, I understand its purpose but have funds for convenience.
For tubing, I initially planned acrylic hard tubing, cutting it and using 90-degree fittings, plus fostering tubing for a more challenging yet stylish setup under £10k.
I’d recommend sticking to a single D5 pump if budget isn’t a constraint. Bitspower offers adjustable models with great covers. Avoid overcomplicating—simple pumps with adjustable flow are best. They should just set and run.
Regarding EK, they’re decent but not top-tier. Many better-looking alternatives exist, such as Bitspower 1080 blocks or Barrow glass reservoirs from modmymods.com, which are both affordable and impressive.
If you truly need EK, consider their custom configurator at https://www.ekwb.com/custom-loop-configurator/.
Honestly, I’m unsure what I want—I have a solid setup but no clear direction. I’m here to help with parts and advice.
CatalystGamez :
l187l :
CatalystGamez :
rubix_1011 :
You want a block that fits your CPU which is socket 1151 - I have the same CPU. EK makes some really good blocks, so you aren't really going to go wrong with your selection. Most of them are a version of the Supremacy lineup, so you should be fine.
You're going to want at least a DDC or a D5 pump, you'd do yourself better to get dual pumps if money is no object.
Reservoir is up to you - it mainly just holds extra water and allows filling of the loop to be easier.
Get fittings that work for your tubing size. If you're going to run 3/8"ID, 7/16"ID or 1/2"ID, make sure your ID/OD of your tubing are correct for the compression fittings you choose, unless you are choosing barbs, then you really only need to determine tubing ID vs. barb size. G1/4 fitting applies to the fitting threads, not the part of the fitting that the tubing fits over...also be aware that there are G3/8 and G1/4 threads, among others, so check before buying.
Buy thick walled tubing when you can. Thin walled tubing usually is easy to kink when making bends. Wall size is as simple as determining OD minus ID whether that is in inches or millimeters.
Looking to confirm a few things...;
For the GPU, is this okay?
GPU
Cooling Block
And for the CPU (the i7-6700k) -
This
__________
You mention dual pumps, which two do you recommend? If it was up to me, I would buy the really expensive ones... 2x Revo Dual D5's.
I will be getting the reservoir, I know about it and kinda what it's for, but i have the money, so even if it doesnt do anything directly, it just has that ease of use factor for refilling the loop.
For tubing, I was planning on going for the
acrylic hard tubing
, and then both cutting it and using a bunch of 90 degree fittings to work it (I'm not sure how to use the heat gun, plus, I dont even have the equipment nor knowhow anyway, so I'll leave it for now), and the fost tubing, while it is much easier to use, I both want a challange, and a cool looking set-up for £10,000
😉
Just use a single D5 pump. If money isn't an issue, bitspower sells them with some awesome covers. Make sure it's adjustable.
Don't overthink it. You may think you want something you can tune and mess around and stuff, but simplicity is always best. Get a pump with adjustable flow on it, no need for PWN. Just set it and leave it.
Why exactly are you wanting EK? They're not bad, but they're not the best, and there are a lot better looking blocks than there's that perform just as well or better. The Bitspower 1080 blocks look amazing, and I really like the Heatkiller Pro IV look.
modmymods.com sells Barrow glass reservoirs which look amazing as well and they're incredibly cheap(price, not quality).
If you REALLY want EK, then w/e... I just hate when people base their purchases based on branding. I'm pretty sure EK spends more time/money on branding than they do on their R&D lol...
EK also has a thing on their site that allows you to put in your specs and it gives you all the compatible parts that you need. https://www.ekwb.com/custom-loop-configurator/
Honestly? I have no idea what I want.
I have a brilliant set-up, and all I need now is a flashy, efficient and amazing water cooling loop, however, i have no idea what I'm doing when it comes to it.
Thus, I came here.
This is my current parts list, however, I am constantly upgrading...;
(NOTE: I am only listing the internal hardware components, everything else from my set-up are in different lists)
PCPartPicker part list:
http://uk.pcpartpicker.com/list/pj2X2R
Price breakdown by merchant: http://uk.pcpartpicker.com/list/pj2X2R/by_merchant/
CPU: Intel Core i7-6700K 4.0GHz Quad-Core Processor (£316.98 @ Novatech)
Motherboard: Asus MAXIMUS VIII EXTREME EATX LGA1151 Motherboard (£319.99 @ Novatech)
Memory: Corsair Dominator Platinum 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4-3200 Memory (£223.12 @ Novatech)
Storage: Samsung 850 EVO 120GB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive (£59.99 @ Amazon UK)
Storage: Intel 750 Series 1.2TB PCI-E Solid State Drive (£681.22 @ BT Shop)
Video Card: Zotac GeForce GTX 1080 8GB AMP! Extreme Video Card (2-Way SLI) (£667.98 @ Amazon UK)
Video Card: Zotac GeForce GTX 1080 8GB AMP! Extreme Video Card (2-Way SLI) (£667.98 @ Amazon UK)
Case: Corsair 900D ATX Full Tower Case (£328.64 @ Amazon UK)
Power Supply: Corsair 1000W 80+ Platinum Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply (£189.98 @ Novatech)
Total: £3455.88
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-11-05 16:15 GMT+0000
-----------------
Now tell me, what should I get? I go for EKWB because I know they're a relatively premium company, I see them a lot in high spec builds, and they seem to be a pretty solid company to go for, especially when I have conductive liquids in a £10,000 set-up.
I looked at bitspower... And they seem rather... Tacky.
But the modmymods.com site doesn't look too bad.
However, after doing a bit of research, it does seem that Ek do better blocks than Alphacool, and with the rads, well, they're just rads, same with the reservoirs.
So what would you recommend me get for my full system? (Mobo, CPU, dual GPU's, Rads (3x 480mm & 1x 360mm)).
For the fans, I'm going with the Thermaltake Riing 12 RGB 48.8 CFM 120mm Fans, that's definitive.
www.performance-pcs.com is a good site to look at all the options.
I'm not sure if anyone makes a GPU block for that GPU. When I put it in the EKWB configurator it only gave me the option for a universal block which only covers the GPU die and not the memory/VRMs. If you want a custom PCB card, it'd going to have to be G1,STRIX, or GAMING X. Other than those 3, make sure it's reference PCB(doesn't have to have reference cooler).
I don't really know your taste, so it's hard to give you a suggestion. Some other brands to consider for CPU blocks are Watercool Heatkiller Pro IV, XSPC raystorm pro, and koolance 390
and rads aren't just rads... You want to make sure it's copper with no aluminum. If you want silent, you want a low FPI, if you wanna get away with 1 rad, you want a thick 360/420/480 with a high FPI. My favorite is the HW Lab Black Ice Nemesis GTX 360. It's massive, but it works as good or better than most setups with a 240 and 360 rad. It doesn't have the weird paint any more. It's just a smooth matte black.
These pumps
are probably the best looking pumps IMO. It's just a normal D5 with a bitspower kit already installed. D5's are also extremely reliable and have amazing flow. I can't speak for the EK one(pretty much ALL D5's are just rebranded, so I'm sure the EK one is as well), but if you choose the MPC 655, it puts out pressure like a water hose...
l187l :
CatalystGamez :
l187l :
CatalystGamez :
rubix_1011 :
You want a block that fits your CPU which is socket 1151 - I have the same CPU. EK makes some really good blocks, so you aren't really going to go wrong with your selection. Most of them are a version of the Supremacy lineup, so you should be fine.
You're going to want at least a DDC or a D5 pump, you'd do yourself better to get dual pumps if money is no object.
Reservoir is up to you - it mainly just holds extra water and allows filling of the loop to be easier.
Get fittings that work for your tubing size. If you're going to run 3/8"ID, 7/16"ID or 1/2"ID, make sure your ID/OD of your tubing are correct for the compression fittings you choose, unless you are choosing barbs, then you really only need to determine tubing ID vs. barb size. G1/4 fitting applies to the fitting threads, not the part of the fitting that the tubing fits over...also be aware that there are G3/8 and G1/4 threads, among others, so check before buying.
Buy thick walled tubing when you can. Thin walled tubing usually is easy to kink when making bends. Wall size is as simple as determining OD minus ID whether that is in inches or millimeters.
Looking to confirm a few things...;
For the GPU, is this okay?
GPU
Cooling Block
And for the CPU (the i7-6700k) -
This
__________
You mention dual pumps, which two do you recommend? If it was up to me, I would buy the really expensive ones... 2x Revo Dual D5's.
I will be getting the reservoir, I know about it and kinda what it's for, but i have the money, so even if it doesnt do anything directly, it just has that ease of use factor for refilling the loop.
For tubing, I was planning on going for the
acrylic hard tubing
, and then both cutting it and using a bunch of 90 degree fittings to work it (I'm not sure how to use the heat gun, plus, I dont even have the equipment nor knowhow anyway, so I'll leave it for now), and the fost tubing, while it is much easier to use, I both want a challange, and a cool looking set-up for £10,000
😉
Just use a single D5 pump. If money isn't an issue, bitspower sells them with some awesome covers. Make sure it's adjustable.
Don't overthink it. You may think you want something you can tune and mess around and stuff, but simplicity is always best. Get a pump with adjustable flow on it, no need for PWN. Just set it and leave it.
Why exactly are you wanting EK? They're not bad, but they're not the best, and there are a lot better looking blocks than there's that perform just as well or better. The Bitspower 1080 blocks look amazing, and I really like the Heatkiller Pro IV look.
modmymods.com sells Barrow glass reservoirs which look amazing as well and they're incredibly cheap(price, not quality).
If you REALLY want EK, then w/e... I just hate when people base their purchases based on branding. I'm pretty sure EK spends more time/money on branding than they do on their R&D lol...
EK also has a thing on their site that allows you to put in your specs and it gives you all the compatible parts that you need. https://www.ekwb.com/custom-loop-configurator/
Honestly? I have no idea what I want.
I have a brilliant set-up, and all I need now is a flashy, efficient and amazing water cooling loop, however, i have no idea what I'm doing when it comes to it.
Thus, I came here.
This is my current parts list, however, I am constantly upgrading...;
(NOTE: I am only listing the internal hardware components, everything else from my set-up are in different lists)
PCPartPicker part list:
http://uk.pcpartpicker.com/list/pj2X2R
Price breakdown by merchant: http://uk.pcpartpicker.com/list/pj2X2R/by_merchant/
CPU: Intel Core i7-6700K 4.0GHz Quad-Core Processor (£316.98 @ Novatech)
Motherboard: Asus MAXIMUS VIII EXTREME EATX LGA1151 Motherboard (£319.99 @ Novatech)
Memory: Corsair Dominator Platinum 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4-3200 Memory (£223.12 @ Novatech)
Storage: Samsung 850 EVO 120GB M.2-2280 Solid State Drive (£59.99 @ Amazon UK)
Storage: Intel 750 Series 1.2TB PCI-E Solid State Drive (£681.22 @ BT Shop)
Video Card: Zotac GeForce GTX 1080 8GB AMP! Extreme Video Card (2-Way SLI) (£667.98 @ Amazon UK)
Video Card: Zotac GeForce GTX 1080 8GB AMP! Extreme Video Card (2-Way SLI) (£667.98 @ Amazon UK)
Case: Corsair 900D ATX Full Tower Case (£328.64 @ Amazon UK)
Power Supply: Corsair 1000W 80+ Platinum Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply (£189.98 @ Novatech)
Total: £3455.88
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-11-05 16:15 GMT+0000
-----------------
Now tell me, what should I get? I go for EKWB because I know they're a relatively premium company, I see them a lot in high spec builds, and they seem to be a pretty solid company to go for, especially when I have conductive liquids in a £10,000 set-up.
I looked at bitspower... And they seem rather... Tacky.
But the modmymods.com site doesn't look too bad.
However, after doing a bit of research, it does seem that Ek do better blocks than Alphacool, and with the rads, well, they're just rads, same with the reservoirs.
So what would you recommend me get for my full system? (Mobo, CPU, dual GPU's, Rads (3x 480mm & 1x 360mm)).
For the fans, I'm going with the Thermaltake Riing 12 RGB 48.8 CFM 120mm Fans, that's definitive.
www.performance-pcs.com is a good site to look at all the options.
I'm not sure if anyone makes a GPU block for that GPU. When I put it in the EKWB configurator it only gave me the option for a universal block which only covers the GPU die and not the memory/VRMs. If you want a custom PCB card, it'd going to have to be G1,STRIX, or GAMING X. Other than those 3, make sure it's reference PCB(doesn't have to have reference cooler).
I don't really know your taste, so it's hard to give you a suggestion. Some other brands to consider for CPU blocks are Watercool Heatkiller Pro IV, XSPC raystorm pro, and koolance 390
and rads aren't just rads... You want to make sure it's copper with no aluminum. If you want silent, you want a low FPI, if you wanna get away with 1 rad, you want a thick 360/420/480 with a high FPI. My favorite is the HW Lab Black Ice Nemesis GTX 360. It's massive, but it works as good or better than most setups with a 240 and 360 rad. It doesn't have the weird paint any more. It's just a smooth matte black.
These pumps
are probably the best looking pumps IMO. It's just a normal D5 with a bitspower kit already installed. D5's are also extremely reliable and have amazing flow. I can't speak for the EK one(pretty much ALL D5's are just rebranded, so I'm sure the EK one is as well), but if you choose the MPC 655, it puts out pressure like a water hose...
I have comment on the pumps concernimg D5 variants EK has their own designed D5 and several models gen2 PWN pumps so now you have the correct information and the EK D5 gen2 PWN edition rewiev here
http://
And the new Pump has awesome performance and much improved speedcurve and silient EKs D5 PWN pump is many including my choice.
You're seeking a component that matches your CPU socket 1151, which is compatible with the same CPU. Most options are from the Supremacy lineup, so you should be safe. You'll likely need at least a DDC or D5 pump, and dual pumps would be ideal if budget allows.
The reservoir choice depends mainly on holding extra water and simplifying loop filling. Choose fittings that suit your tubing size—confirm ID/OD for tubing if using 3/8"ID, 7/16"ID, or 1/2"ID. Remember, G1/4 threads apply to threads, not the tubing itself; also check for G3/8 and G1/4 threads.
Opt for thicker-walled tubing when possible, as thinner ones are prone to kinking during bends. Wall thickness can be calculated by subtracting ID from OD (in inches or mm).
Here are some quick notes:
- For the GPU, this is fine.
- Dual pumps? Consider 2x Revo Dual D5s if you can afford it.
- Reservoir: You have options—just ensure it fits your needs.
- Tubing: Acrylic hard tubing is recommended; cutting and using 90° fittings is manageable, though heat gun use isn't ideal.
- For the CPU (i7-6700k), a single D5 pump with adjustable flow is sufficient. Bitspower offers good options with covers. Avoid overcomplicating—simplicity wins.
- EK blocks are decent but not top-tier; consider alternatives like Bitspower 1080 or Barrow glass reservoirs for better aesthetics and value.
- If you insist on EK, their branding focus may influence your choice. Use their configurator for compatibility.
Ultimately, your setup is still in good hands—just keep it straightforward and functional.
I'm working with a 1 EK-XTOP Revo Dual D5 PWM Serial pump and running my current loop using several pumps and fans. The setup includes various components such as 3 HWLabs GTX 480 rads, 1 alphacool XT 45 420 rad, 1 EK XE 360 rad, 2 EK-RES X3 400 reservoirs, 1 EK-FB ASUS R5-E10 Monoblock RGB Edition, 2 EK-FC1080 GTX FTW with acetal+nickel full blocks, and an AquaAero 6LT with four ports powered by a Swiftech 8 Way PWM Splitter-SATA. Everything is well controlled in the loop, especially the pump fans. The Rampage V extreme edition 10 offers strong PWM support, including fan headers for water pumps with high amps and a Qhamp header for high-amp applications.
I have implemented push/pull configurations on the GTX rads and the EK rads. For the AquaAero 6LT, I’m using four ports all powered by a Swiftech 8 Way PWM Splitter-SATA.
I suggest considering an AquaAero 6 XT or LT for optimal performance.
The tubing inside the case back uses 16mm hardtubing, while I opted for 19mm soft tubing to connect all components in the loop.
Regarding fans, I’m using Corsair ML Pro 120mm and 6 ML Pro 140mm for the 420 rad setup and exhaust systems. In my view, the 120mm ML Pro is the top choice today—it delivers strong static pressure and airflow, features magnetic levitation bearings, and performs comparably to the Vardars Noctua 3000 industrial fan but with less noise.