After the success of the first phase of the iCUE LINK ecosystem, we're happy to announce that we've now expanded this ecosystem to the world of custom GPU water cooling with the CORSAIR iCUE LINK XG3. But first, let's take a look at why water cooling your GPU is a good idea.
WHAT IS A GPU WATER BLOCK?
GPU water blocks are specialized cooling components designed for liquid cooling systems in custom-built or high-performance gaming computers. Their primary purpose is to transfer and dissipate the heat generated by a graphics card's graphics processing unit (GPU) more efficiently than traditional air-cooling solutions.
WHY LIQUID COOL YOUR GPU?
Using water blocks for GPUs has various benefits over air cooling solutions. They can offer more efficient cooling, enabling the GPU to function at lower temperatures, which can lead to better performance and stability. Moreover, water blocks are significantly quieter than high-performance air coolers since they don't depend on loud fans for heat dissipation.
Many enthusiasts, overlockers, and users looking to boost the cooling performance of their high-end gaming PCs or workstations often turn to GPU water blocks. These blocks are particularly popular because even a few degrees of temperature reduction can make a significant difference in achieving better performance and extending the lifespan of the graphics card.
After learning about the advantages of using a GPU water block in your computer, it's time to explore the new iCUE LINK XG3 RGB HYBRID GPU Block from CORSAIR, which is the latest addition to our Hydro X custom cooing lineup.
iCUE LINK XG3 RGB HYBRID GPU WATER BLOCK
Introducing the iCUE LINK XG3 RGB GPU water block, the first hybrid GPU water block from CORSAIR. It's designed to fit most of the popular graphics cards available in the market. This aftermarket solution can improve cooling performance and reduce noise levels to a great extent.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
Before we get into the details, let’s check out what comes with the iCUE LINK XG3.
- 1 X iCUE LINK XG3 RGB Hybrid GPU Water Block
- 1 x 180 to 90 degrees iCUE LINK Cable
- 6 x Mounting Screws
FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS
COMPATIBILITY
When it comes to water blocks for graphics cards, things can get a bit more complicated compared to CPU blocks. This is because there are numerous variations of graphics cards available, such as the NVIDIA 4080, which come with different layouts and require specific water blocks.
The iCUE LINK XG3 is designed to support a wide variety of graphics cards. It comes equipped with a universal water block that can be mounted onto different PCBs, regardless of the type of stock cooler they have. This means it is not limited to a particular type of graphics card.
Additionally, everything here will smoothly connect and work with the water blocks, too. Combine these withiCUE LINK XC7 RGB and RGB ELITE CPU radiators and iCUE LINK fans, and you've got a seriously tidy system.
Three iCUE XG3 RGB variants are available, all equipped with RGB lighting and VRM Cooling.
To verify whether a graphics card is compatible with our water blocks, you can use CORSAIR's Custom Cooling Configurator for a quick compatibility check.
HYBRID COOLING
As mentioned earlier, water blocks designed for GPUs are more complex than those for CPUs due to the printed circuit board (PCB) layout. Cooling all the components of the GPU, including the Memory IC, voltage regulator module (VRM), and the rest of the circuit board, at the same time, can be difficult. However, with a carefully designed and innovative approach, it is possible to cool all these components of the GPU effectively.
The iCUE LINK XG3 GPU water block stands out from others because it can fit many different graphics card designs, unlike those that rely on a single PCB design.
Usually, a cold plate would be made for only one specific PCB design. However, the XG3 has an integrated fan that actively cools the part of the PCB that is not covered by the cold plate.
Here's how it works: the primary cooling loop in your system is responsible for cooling both the GPU and Memory IC. And here's the cool part, a specialized fan is included to cool the VRM, making it the ideal hybrid water block for your GPU.
PRE-APPLIED THERMAL PASTE AND PADS
The iCUE LINK XG3 RGB is designed to be easily mounted onto your graphics card. It comes with pre-mounted thermal pads and paste, saving you the hassle of cutting them to size and searching for their locations in the manual. With this, you can achieve perfect mounting every time.
CORSAIR iCUE LINK SUPPORT
Building a custom water-cooled PC can be a challenging and time-consuming task. However, there's no need to add further stress by dealing with numerous cables when you can use a universal connector instead. This is where CORSAIR iCUE LINK ECOSYSTEM comes in handy. This system not only streamlines the process of building a traditional PC but also reduces the overall amount of time you need to spend putting together a custom water-cooled system.
The CORSAIR ICUE LINK XG3 RGB Hybrid GPU Water Block is a new product from CORSAIR that supports iCUE LINK. This technology simplifies the building and setup process by using a single cable ecosystem, which is a patent-pending technology. It's also CORSAIR's first GPU water block to include this feature.
STUNNING RGB LIGHTING
The iCUE XG3 Hybrid Water Block is equipped with 18 individually addressable RGB LEDs that light up the fan hub and ring light diffuser, which are customizable via iCUE Software.
Do you want to make your custom water-cooled PC more visually stunning? Consider mounting the GPU block vertically for a unique and impressive display. With the CORSAIR iCUE LINK System Hub (sold separately) and the CORSAIR iCUE software, you can easily customize and control your RGB setup and say goodbye to boring PCs!
PRECISE COOLING CONTROL & PREMIUM BUILD QUALITY
The XG3 boasts a split water flow manifold that guarantees uniform coolant distribution across the copper cold plate. It also features a built-in temperature sensor that provides accurate cooling regulation. With a sturdy construction of nylon and copper, the water blocks of XG3 are dependable and durable, making it an excellent and long-lasting investment for your PC.
If you want to build your own custom water-cooled system or upgrade your current GPU water block, consider adding the CORSAIR iCUE LINK XG3 RGB Hybrid GPU Water Block to your options. This water block can unlock your GPU's full potential and is a game changer.
Check out CORSAIR's complete Hydro X Custom Cooling lineup for more information.
