How to choose the right water cooling for my graphics card?

Water cooling is a way to keep the temperatures of your computer’s components low, whether it’s the processor (CPU) or the graphics card (GPU). Water cooling for graphics cards uses liquid to dissipate heat instead of air, allowing for better cooling and performance at lower noise levels.

GPU water cooling works on the principle of heat transfer, where heat from the GPU chip and VRAM memory is absorbed by the water block. The heat is then transferred by the liquid through hoses to the radiator where it is dissipated by fans. This principle provides better cooling compared to traditional air coolers.

Graphics card compatibility

Before buying a water cooling system, it is important to check if it is compatible with your graphics card model. Each cooler has designated supported card models from NVIDIA and AMD. Reference graphics cards (from NVIDIA or AMD manufacturers themselves) have better availability of compatible blocks.

Cards with custom PCBs (Printed Circuit Board) may require specific cooling that may not be generally available. It is also important to check the cooling dimensions and available space in your PC case, as some large cooling systems may not fit into smaller cases. Also check the mounting points to ensure that the water block contains the necessary mounting hardware for your graphics card.

Different graphics card brands also sell already fully customized graphics cards with water cooling, such as the AORUS GeForce RTX 4070 Ti 12GB XTREME WATERFORCE from Gigabyte. This way it’s a plug-and-play system and installation is very easy.

Types of water cooling

There are two main options for graphics card water cooling.

AIO (All-In-One) systems

The first option is AIO (All-In-One) systems, which are ideal for beginners or users who do not want to deal with the complex installation of their own circuit. These systems are pre-filled with liquid and include the pump, radiator and fans in one package. Examples of such systems are the NZXT Kraken G12 or the Corsair Hydro X Series.

Their advantages are easy installation, lower cost and minimal maintenance. The disadvantages are a less flexible design and lower cooling performance compared to custom loop systems.

Custom loop cooling systems

The second option is custom loop systems, which are designed for advanced users. These systems allow for maximum customization and include a water block, pump, expansion tank, radiator and hoses or tubing. Examples: the EKWB Quantum Vector and the Alphacool Eisblock.

The advantages are higher cooling capacity and the ability to cool multiple components at once, while the disadvantages are higher initial costs and more complex installation.

Size and number of radiators

Radiators are responsible for removing heat from the liquid, so it is important to choose the correct configuration. Standard sizes are 120mm, 240mm and 360mm, with a larger radiator or more radiators providing better cooling performance. When selecting, space in the enclosure must be taken into consideration to ensure the configuration is compatible for water cooling the graphics card.

Comparison of radiators by size

Liquid for cooling

Liquid is an important part of water cooling. Pre-filled fluids used in AIO systems are low maintenance, while custom fluids are suitable for custom circuits and often available in coloured designs. For custom systems, the fluid needs to be changed regularly, usually every 6-12 months, and checked for quality to keep the graphics card’s water cooling running smoothly.

Noise and efficiency of fans

Fans are important for dissipating heat through radiators. Higher rotational speed (RPM) means better cooling, but also higher noise levels. Higher quality bearings are used in more expensive fans to ensure quieter operation even at higher speeds. That’s why it’s also good to evaluate the choice of fans on the radiator – as this is the only element in this type of cooling that produces any noise. Of course, better quality fans also have a longer lifespan. An important factor is the airflow (CFM), which ensures efficient cooling.

Fan comparison

Examples of GPUs with AIO or custom loop water cooling

GeForce RTX 4090 SUPRIM LIQUID X 24G – Powerful card with AIO cooling. Ideal for users looking for high performance and easy installation.

ASUS ROG Strix LC Radeon RX 6900 XT – High-end card with AIO cooling that delivers low temperatures at extreme performance.

EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti FTW3 Ultra Hydro Copper – A card designed for custom loop systems, suitable for users who prefer customizability.

Price and budget

Water cooling for graphics cards tends to be more expensive and their price varies by type and configuration. AIO systems are more affordable, ranging between 100 – 250€ (extra for the water block, compared to classic gpu), while custom loop systems can cost 300€ or more depending on components and quality.

Is water cooling better than air cooling?

To get an idea of whether such an investment can be worthwhile, you need to look at some of the many advantages over conventional gpu cooling.

Advantages of graphics card water cooling

• Significantly better cooling – GPUs that are part of a custom water cooling loop can have temperatures up to 50°C lower (compared to a standard air cooler).
• Better in-game performance – this drop in temperature automatically makes the GPU clock higher.
• Huge overclocking potential – with so much (temperature) room to work with, you can increase the GPU clock speeds and gain more than 10% FPS.
• Quieter – high-end GPUs usually come with three fans, which is why they are so noisy when the temperature reaches 80° or 90°C. Thanks to water cooling, your system will be significantly quieter when using your graphics card.
• Aesthetics – Water-cooled computers have been a trend for over a decade simply because they look so good. Water cooling your GPU will definitely make your computer a little more interesting to look at.

Disadvantages

• Price
• More complicated wiring

Should I have water cooling on my graphics card?

Whether you want to have a water-cooled or air-cooled graphics card depends mainly on your preferences and priorities.

Avoid water cooling your GPU if you prefer performance for the money. Instead of paying over the odds, you could get a more powerful graphics card, better CPU, RAM, etc.
You don’t care so much about aesthetics. Although you can still build a good looking build even with an air cooled GPU.

Conclusion

Water cooling for graphics cards is an excellent investment for people who demand maximum performance and quiet operation even under maximum GPU load. When choosing, consider compatibility, radiator size, type of cooling system, and budget. If you plan your configuration correctly, you’ll get efficient and stylish cooling that will extend the life of your graphics card.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions