Which waterblock do i need for my Graphics Card?
ℹ️ Custom water blocks for graphics cards are highly specialized components, designed to fit specific GPU models based on their reference design. Each water block is engineered to match the physical layout of a particular graphics card, ensuring it covers critical areas such as the GPU die, VRAM chips, and power delivery components (VRMs) for optimal cooling.
Because of the precision required, these water blocks are not universally compatible across different GPU models or brands. When selecting a water block for your GPU, it’s essential to make sure the block is designed specifically for your card's model and PCB (Printed Circuit Board) layout.
Graphics cards come in both reference designs and custom designs from manufacturers. Reference designs are the standardized layout created by GPU manufacturers like Nvidia or AMD, and water block manufacturers typically base their products on these designs. However, many graphics card brands (such as ASUS, MSI, or Gigabyte) often modify the PCB layout for their custom cards, leading to variations in component placement or size. As a result, not all water blocks designed for a reference card will fit a custom card, and vice versa. Even if the GPU chip itself is the same, a water block that fits a reference card may not align with the power delivery components or memory on a custom card.
Compatibility
When choosing a water block for your graphics card, it’s important to carefully check compatibility. Most water block manufacturers provide detailed compatibility lists that specify which exact models their blocks will fit. These lists often indicate whether a block is suitable for reference cards, custom PCB designs, or both. It’s also common for water block manufacturers to release multiple versions of the same block to accommodate various custom PCB designs from different brands.
📢 Below is a list of compatibility checkers that you can use to work out the fitment for your Graphics card.
EK Waterblocks
Alphacool
For older graphics cards prior to Nvidia 3XXX or AMD 5XX
🔗 Alphacool HWConfig Configurator
For all cards newer than Nvidia 3XXX or AMD 5XX
Fitment PDF's
Watercool / Heatkiller
Aquacomputer
Barrow
Please view the product listing, this has the full compatibility and a picture of the card without the cooler on.
In summary, custom water blocks for GPUs are designed to fit specific models based on their reference or custom PCB layouts, and not all water blocks are cross-compatible. Before purchasing, it's essential to verify the compatibility of the water block with your specific graphics card model to ensure it fits correctly and covers all the necessary components.
ℹ️ Once you have worked out the correct fitment for your GPU, please Contact Us with the EAN or MPN, so we can advise on options directly avaialble from our store, or you can also email us directly on [email protected]