Benefits Of Liquid Cooling PC

A PC’s cooling system is divided into two types: air cooling and liquid cooling system. Air coolers are safer and easier to maintain, whereas liquid cooling provides better cooling performance but is potentially riskier and more prone to failure.

This article will provide an overview of the liquid cooling principle, types of liquid cooling. And finally, we will provide you with our analysis of the benefits and drawbacks of liquid cooling systems for your consideration when building your own PC.

Principle Of Liquid Cooling

When the computer performs intensive tasks such as gaming or video editing, the CPU and GPU must perform extensive computation, causing them to overheat. As a result, the cooling system is used to keep the temperature at a safe level so that the CPU/GPU can function properly.

For liquid cooling systems, the heat from the CPU/GPU surface will be dissipated onto the cold-plate mounted on it. Through the circulating pump system, the liquids will absorb heat from the cold-plate and push to the radiator and fan for cooling in a closed cycle.

It is clear that, when compared to air cooling systems, liquids have a very high heat absorption efficiency, which allows them to achieve excellent cooling performance.

Types of Liquid Cooling

The liquid cooling system can be customized for different PC configurations. There will be two basic types, all-in-one (AIO) systems and custom systems. In AIO systems, the pump, cold-plate, cooling duct, and radiator are pre-assembled by the manufacturer. Liquids are also filled in the system and you cannot change any of them.

In comparison to AIO, a custom system allows you to choose liquid, cooling duct, pump, and other components to install the system based on the location of heat sources. Custom systems are more difficult to install and have a higher risk of liquid leakage, but they provide more customization options.

Custom system is useful if you want to deal with high cooling performance for both CPU and GPU. And if you are only using liquid cooling for your CPU, AIO is the way to go.

Pros of Liquid Cooling

Effective cooling

The most noticeable aspect is that liquid cooling provides an excellent cooling effect. It is ideal for computers that require high performance. If you build a gaming PC or work in the graphics industry, liquid cooling is an excellent choice.

Quiet operation

As previously stated, the efficiency of liquid heat absorption is very high, so the cooling fan does not need to run at high speed, allowing your computer to run more smoothly.

Better Performance

Overclocking is frequently used by gamers to improve performance. And, without an efficient cooling system, the temperature of the CPU/GPU will frequently be on the verge of overheating.

You’re also aware that the system has an overheat protection mechanism that reduces computer performance automatically when the temperature exceeds a safe threshold. So if you intend to overclock, liquid cooling is almost a must-have option.

Cons of Liquid Cooling

More Expensive

The most serious issue with liquid cooling is the risk of liquid leaking into surrounding components. As a result, the components used to assemble the liquid cooling system must be of high quality for long-term operation, and they will be expensive.

When you choose a liquid-cooled installation, a custom system is also more expensive than an AIO. Also, make sure to buy from well-known brands. If you choose cheap ones, you may find yourself in trouble later.

Risks Potential

As shown, liquid cooling systems have a complex structure, include many components, and require quality and durability over time. Because the system cannot be completely sealed, the liquid in it can vaporize. More dangerous, they can leak, causing other components in your computer to burn.

When using liquid cooling systems, you must check them on a regular basis. Failure to detect and address the risks they pose early on can cost you dearly.

Difficult Maintenance

Because all components are pre-assembled at the manufacturer, AIO systems cannot be repaired or maintained. You can only clean or replace the radiator fan. When damage or inefficient cooling is detected, the only option is to replace the system.

In contrast to AIO, you can fix or replace any component in a custom system. This job, however, is not easy, you must have skill and experience to ensure that the liquid does not leak during the disassembly process. If you are confident enough, you can maintain the system yourself, or you can hire professionals to do so.

Final Thoughts

Any passion must have a corresponding cost that you must pay. A liquid cooling system is almost essential if you want to maximize the performance of your PC.

In exchange for the incredible cooling effects that liquid cooling provides, you must take risks when using it. I hope this article was helpful in making your decision when building your computer.