First-Time Pre-Filled Recommendations

[DanTheMuffinMan]

Hello guys,

 

I was wondering if I could get some recommendations on a better cooler for my system. I have only ever used air-cooling before and want to look into going with one of those pre-filled water-cooling radiators that attach directly to the cpu. I may be getting the terminology wrong, this is my first time venturing into the world of liquid-cooling, so please correct me if I'm wrong.

 

I'm not really sure how the standards work but this is what I have right now:

Noctua NH-D14

intel i7-4770k (LGA 1150)

Asus Sabertooth Z87

Corsair 750D Case

 

My case is pretty large so I don't think there would be any issues with mounting a cpu-cooler to the top of the case. Can anyone recommend me a good cooler to go with that will work with my equipment. Will I see a significant performance improvement over my Noctua NH-D14? Would uploading a picture of the interior help at all?

 

Thanks again.

[kizoku_95]

Here is a comparison chart.........hope it is helpful

edit: This is where I found it     http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/nepton-280l-tundra-td02-water3.0-pro-reserator3-max,3607-11.html

[Sernyhough]

H320 By Swiftech

[DanTheMuffinMan]

thanks guys!

 

Corsair says my case  supports "Top: 3 x 120mm or 2 x 140mm". Are all of these compatible or would I have to look each up individually to make sure?

 

Also not sure if I understand one of the key aspects, do I have this right:

• There is a radiator that mounts to the top of the case
• There are 1,2 or 3 fans that attach to the radiator
• A heat-sink attaches directly to the cpu

Is that right?

 

Edit: After doing some reading it seems another important number is the thickness of the radiator, looks like most are 60mm, but looking at this thread http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/74069-update-corsair-750d-and-60mm-radiators/ it seems I would not be able to fit it in my system since the Sabertooth's thermal armour would get in the way

[_iNefarious_]

Also not sure if I understand one of the key aspects, do I have this right:

• There is a radiator that mounts to the top of the case
• There are 1,2 or 3 fans that attach to the radiator
• A heat-sink attaches directly to the cpu

Is that right?

Yes, that is right but you can mount more than just 3 fans. You can have push-pull which means you will have double the amount of fans on the radiator.

 

I'd recommend the H320, H220, H110, Kraken X60, and Water 2.0/3.0 Extreme. The NH D14 is one of the best coolers there isn't much upgrade room.

[DanTheMuffinMan]

The H320 looks perfect, I'll take measurements when I get home to ensure it will fit. Feel free to keep the suggestions coming though.

 

Question: If I do go with the H320 could I replace the fans with something else (purely for aesthetics) and could I spray-paint their included fans black or would that screw with the performance?

[DanTheMuffinMan]

Another related question for a noobie like myself, when I go to install this cooler I'll be installing it on the top of my case with the fans between the case itself and the radiator, so do I want the fans to be blowing up towards the case ( A ) or down towards the radiator ( B )?

 

( A )

 

( B )

[applebook]

Since you're in Canada, watch for NCIX's Water 2 Extreme sales. I saw them for $57 with rebate during Boxing Week. Got mine for $67 before that. 

As you can see from the charts, it's one of the best AIO units outside of the H320 (questionable reliability).