Water blocks are the parts of a custom liquid cooling loop that sit on the component and take heat into the coolant. This range covers CPU blocks, full-cover GPU blocks and other component blocks for PC builders putting together an open loop. Brands include EK Water Blocks, Alphacool, Barrow and Bitspower, with over 100 models in total.
How to choose a water block
Component type. Decide first what you want to cool. A CPU block is a small plate that mounts on the processor, while a full-cover GPU block replaces the stock cooler and also cools the memory and power delivery on the graphics card.
Compatibility. A CPU block must support your socket, such as AM5 or LGA1700, and comes with the matching mounting hardware. A GPU block is made for one specific board layout, so check the exact card model, including the manufacturer's version, before ordering. A block for a reference design will not fit a custom PCB.
Materials. Most blocks use a copper or nickel-plated copper cold plate with an acrylic, acetal or metal top. Copper conducts heat very well, and plating protects it from tarnishing. If your loop already contains other metals, keep it consistent and avoid mixing aluminium with copper, because this can cause corrosion.
Fittings and flow. Nearly all blocks use standard G1/4 threaded ports, so they work with the common compression fittings and rigid or soft tubing. Blocks with finer cooling channels can cool a little better but restrict flow more, which matters if you run a single pump with several blocks and radiators.
Lighting and looks. Many blocks have RGB lighting or a clear top that shows the coolant. This does not change cooling performance, but it is worth checking that the lighting connector suits your motherboard or controller.
Water block brands we carry
- EK Water Blocks: a Slovenian maker known for a large selection of CPU blocks and full-cover GPU blocks matched to specific graphics cards, and the biggest brand in this range.
- Alphacool: a German manufacturer that covers blocks, radiators and fittings, which makes it easy to build a loop from one brand.
- Barrow: a Chinese brand that offers blocks with a wide choice of finishes and lighting options.
- Bitspower: a Taiwanese specialist known for finely machined blocks, fittings and distribution plates.
- Aqua Computer: a German company that also makes pump and fan controllers, so its blocks are designed to work with its own monitoring and control hardware.
- Thermal Grizzly: best known for thermal paste and liquid metal, and also offers cooling products for enthusiasts who push their processors hard.
- Phanteks: a case and cooling manufacturer whose blocks are often chosen to match the look of its cases.
- Corsair: sells its Hydro X line of custom loop parts, designed to be used together.
- XSPC: a UK brand with a long history in custom loop kits and components.
Also in our range: LYNK+, TRYX and ASUS.
Water blocks FAQ
What does a water block do?
A water block transfers heat from a processor or graphics card into liquid flowing through it. The warm coolant then travels to a radiator, where fans release the heat into the air. It does the same job as an air cooler's heatsink, but moves the heat away from the component through tubing.
Will a CPU water block fit any processor?
No, a CPU block fits only the sockets listed in its specification. Most blocks include mounting kits for several current Intel and AMD sockets, but you should check your exact socket before buying. Older or very new sockets may need a separate bracket.
Can I mix different metals in one loop?
It is best to avoid it, especially aluminium together with copper or brass. Different metals in contact with coolant can cause galvanic corrosion over time. Using copper or nickel-plated parts throughout, with a suitable coolant, is the safest approach.
Do I need a water block for the graphics card as well?
No, a loop can cool only the CPU, and the graphics card can keep its stock cooler. Adding a GPU block lowers the card's temperature and noise, but it adds a lot of heat to the loop. In that case you will need more radiator area and a pump with enough flow.
