CUSTOM WATERCOOLING AT AIO PRICES!? - EK Fluid Gaming Kits
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Bridging the gap between AIO and custom watercooling, EK promises incredible performance with their new Fluid Gaming lineup. Let's check it out! H100i v2 vs A240 vs Copper 240 graph link: i.imgur.com Freshbooks sponsor link: For your unrestricted 30 days free trial, go to freshbooks.com and enter in “Linus Tech Tips” in the how you heard about us section. LTX 2017 is coming up soon! Be a part of the inaugural event: ticketrocket.co Buy EK Fluid Gaming lineup Amazon: geni.us Newegg: geni.us EK site: geni.us Discuss on the forum: linustechtips.com Our Affiliates, Referral Programs, and Sponsors: linustechtips.com Linus Tech Tips merchandise at designbyhumans.com Linus Tech Tips posters at crowdmade.com Our production gear: geni.us Twitter - twitter.com Facebook - @LinusTech Instagram - @linustech Intro Screen Music Credit: Title: Laszlo - Supernova Video Link: youtube.com iTunes Download Link: itunes.apple.com Artist Link: soundcloud.com Outro Screen Music Credit: Approaching Nirvana - Sugar High youtube.com Sound effects provided by freesfx.co.uk
PC water cooling has long been a niche hobby, but this video sets out to evaluate EK’s Fluid Gaming kits as a potential middle ground between traditional custom loops and affordable AIOs. The host frames aluminum construction as a cost-saving advantage, highlighting the Supremacy AX CPU block, a PWM pump with an integrated reservoir, compression fittings, EK fans, and the distinctive aluminum radiator fittings. He explains that the kits differ mainly in radiator configurations and whether a universal GPU block is included, and notes the assembly is easier than expected while still being more involved than a typical AIO. The testing setup uses a controlled environment with consistent airflow and a fixed fan speed to minimize variables, aiming to compare performance fairly against Corsair AIOs and copper loops on a high-end X99 platform. Early results show the A120 and copper 120 configurations trading blows, with the AIO H60 trailing slightly, suggesting the aluminum kits can compete on performance despite their lower material cost. The video then analyzes the A240 and A240G kits, arguing that the larger radiator and extra fan offer significantly better value and better cooling efficiency for a modest price increase. A qualitative preview of the A240G paints it as the most capable kit in the lineup, delivering strong performance while maintaining upgradeability, at least within the constraints of the copper-aluminum mix. The host also covers practical caveats, including potential galvanic corrosion when aluminum and copper are mixed in a loop, and why Koolance moved away from aluminum in the past. The verdict leans positive: for budget-conscious builders who want reusability and future upgrades, the EK Fluid Gaming kits represent a compelling option, especially the A240 and A240G, while cautioning users to follow warnings and ensure their loop design minimizes electrochemical risk. The sponsor segment and community plug is standard Linus Tech Tips fare, but the core takeaway remains that these aluminum-copper hybrid kits deliver meaningful value for those who are comfortable with the setup nuances and maintenance needs.
Topics · hardware · technology · pc-building · diy · gaming hardware
Questions answered
- What are the key advantages EK claims for the Fluid Gaming kits compared to traditional AIOs?
- The kits aim to combine low cost with upgradeability and strong performance close to custom loops, mainly through aluminum construction, an all-in-one pump and reservoir, flexible tubing, and universal components that can be reused and expanded.
- What is the main risk highlighted when using aluminum in a mixed metal loop?
- The main risk is galvanic corrosion when aluminum is paired with copper or brass, which can lead to leaks or component damage if anti-corrosion measures are insufficient.