Linus Tech Tips · Video summary
Custom Watercooling for Less Than an AIO
Linus Tech Tips explores the surprising affordability of custom water cooling solutions from Chinese brands, comparing them to high-end all-in-one (AIO) coolers and detailing the build process for a full custom loop.
Watch on YouTube ↗Key takeaways
- Custom water cooling can be more affordable than high-end AIOs, especially with Chinese brands like Bykski, offering better value for money.00:22
- A full custom water cooling kit, including CPU and GPU blocks, can be purchased for less than a premium AIO, providing superior aesthetics and performance.01:10
- Cooling the GPU with a custom loop is where the real performance difference lies, as GPU AIOs are less common and more expensive than custom blocks.02:24
- Even beginner-friendly custom water cooling kits require additional tools like a heat gun, deburring tool, and tube bending inserts for hardline tubing.02:45
- When disassembling a GPU, keep track of screws and thermal pads, and don't worry too much about warranty void stickers, as they are often unenforceable.04:30
- For GPU water block installation, carefully identify thermal pad placement by checking for raised squares and test fitting the block to ensure proper contact.06:11
Chapters
- 0:00Intro
- 2:07Sponsor - Meter
- 2:29What is Bykski?
- 7:00GPU Teardown
- 10:05GPU Water Block Install
- 16:35CPU Water Block Install
- 17:32Loop Order & Components
- 18:59Mounting the Pump/Res
- 23:40Installing the Radiator
- 25:24Tubing Bending
- 31:47Leak Testing
- 32:32Final Thoughts
- 37:36Sponsor - Meter
The digest
Custom water cooling has long been synonymous with high costs, often seen as a luxury for enthusiasts. However, with the rising prices of top-tier all-in-one (AIO) coolers, a compelling question arises: could affordable custom loops offer a better value proposition? Linus Tech Tips investigates this overlap, revealing that thanks to budget-friendly Chinese water cooling brands, a full custom loop might be more accessible and beneficial than many realize.
The Cost-Benefit Analysis: Custom Loops vs. Premium AIOs
High-end AIO coolers from established brands can easily set you back hundreds of dollars. For instance, some popular models are priced at $220, $250, or even $380. While these offer convenience, they often lack the upgradeability, superior aesthetics, and tailored fit of a custom loop. Surprisingly, the video demonstrates that a complete custom water cooling kit, including both CPU and GPU blocks, can be acquired for less than a top-of-the-line AIO. This affordability opens the door to benefits like better performance, enhanced longevity, and a perfect fit for your system, traditionally associated with much higher price tags.
Keep reading in The Digest
The full 2-minute article, 3 more sections, and every new episode from Linus Tech Tips and the creators you follow.
- Demystifying Custom Water Cooling: Addressing the "Hard" Factor
- The Bykski Kit: Unboxing and Initial Impressions
- GPU Water Block Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide
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