The New Way to Power a Water-Cooled Gaming PC

Dual radiators, nine fans, a pump, and a GPU water block—all powered by a single cable and daisy-chained together, controlled by a tiny black box that fits in the palm of your hand. This innovative setup represents a new way to power a water-cooled PC, and I’ve spent the past week planning, building, and documenting my experience with the Corsair ICUE Hydro X system. This included the risky endeavor of using my personal 4090 GPU to determine if this new water-cooling system is truly worth it.

Parts

CPU: 7800X3D

Starting off with the CPU, the choice is the 7800X3D, a personal favorite. This CPU is already highly efficient, and while water cooling it might seem like overkill, that’s precisely the point. With a custom loop, it’s expected to run exceptionally cool. Gaming is the primary focus for this machine, and the 7800X3D is widely regarded as the best CPU for gaming currently available. 

While options like the 7950X3D or Intel’s 14900 offer further advancements, they don’t provide meaningful performance increases for gaming to justify their higher cost. Given that the 7800X3D has been frequently on sale for as low as $350 to $370, it’s a smart and economical choice. Check the link in the description to see if it’s still on sale.

Motherboard: ASUS ROG STRIX X670E-E

For the motherboard, this build will use the ASUS ROG STRIX X670E-E, an undeniably overkill option. Two of its three PCI Express slots are Gen 5 ready, and it features a total of four M.2 slots, three of which are also Gen 5 ready. Convenience is enhanced with quick-release buttons for both the GPU and M.2 drives.

The motherboard includes built-in Wi-Fi 6e, a total of 13 USB ports, and a BIOS flashback button. The only feature missing is a USB 4 port, but despite this, the board is exceptionally well-equipped and stands out for its comprehensive features and capabilities.

RAM: Corsair  DDR5-6000

For the RAM, we will install 64GB of DDR5-6000 memory from Corsair in 2 sticks. There is potential to expand by adding another 2 sticks in the future to fill out the remaining slots on the motherboard, reaching a total of 128GB.

These RAM sticks feature an EXPO profile, which can be enabled in the BIOS once everything is up and running to achieve the advertised speeds and proper timings. For those opting for an Intel chip, it’s advisable to look for a set with an XMP profile to enjoy the same benefits.

SSD: Samsing Generation 4 2TB 990 Pro SSD

The build includes a Gen 4 2TB 990 Pro SSD from Samsung. This provides ample storage to start with while leaving three remaining slots available for future upgrades. This choice ensures plenty of space and high-speed performance right from the start.

CPU Cooler: Corsair XC7 RGB Elite LCD

The water block being used to cool the CPU is the stealth grey Corsair XC7 RGB Elite LCD. The standout feature is the bright, customizable LCD display that can show various temperature readings, designs, or animated images. It also includes an RGB ring around the display, all of which is easily visible through the case’s tempered glass.

The block has a solid, substantial feel, although the pieces for screwing in the fittings are made of hard plastic, so it’s important not to over-tighten the fittings during setup. The package also includes an LGA-1700 backplate if an Intel setup is chosen.

In terms of cooling performance, it works well, with the CPU reaching a maximum of 61 degrees Celsius after a few hours of playing Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty in 4K with maxed-out settings and path tracing. This performance is comparable to AIO liquid coolers.

Although this water block is not part of the ICUE link system, it features a single USB-C cable that runs from the water block to the motherboard, which will be connected later in the process.

Case: Corsair 5000T

The case for this build is the Corsair 5000T, a fairly large mid-tower case providing ample space for the hardline custom loop and pump. It accommodates up to ten 120mm fans, which will be fully utilized along with two 360mm radiators. The case features a tempered glass side panel that opens on a hinge, similar to the back panel, allowing for easy and quick access to all cables. 

It comes with a Commander Core XT to control six RGB fans and built-in RGB lighting that frames the sides and front. Although only one exhaust fan will use the built-in fan controller, with the other nine using ICUE Link, the built-in controller is incredibly convenient for those not employing as many ICUE Link devices.

Additionally, the case offers four USB 3 ports, a USB Type-C port, and a headphone jack at the top, enhancing its overall functionality and accessibility.

Cooling: ICUE Link Fans

The setup includes two 360mm radiators alongside ICUE link fans, a configuration that showcases the convenience and efficiency of modern cooling technology. What sets these ICUE link fans apart is their magnetic connection feature, allowing them to seamlessly link to each other. Once connected, they operate as a cohesive unit powered and controlled by a single cable. This streamlined approach significantly reduces cable clutter and simplifies the overall setup process.

The central control hub for these devices, the ICUE link hub, plays a crucial role in managing up to 14 total devices. This compact hub acts as the command center, enabling users to power and control various components within their system. It accommodates a maximum of seven devices per side, with ports divided into left and right outputs. However, exceeding the prescribed limit may trigger an error in the ICUE software, prompting some devices to enter a low-power mode for optimal functionality and performance.

Power Supply: Corsair RMx Shift 1200

The next critical component in the setup is the power supply. This build will use the Corsair RMx Shift 1200l. Known for its 80 Plus Gold certification, this power supply utilizes Corsair’s newer and more compact Type-5 connectors, enhancing cable management and overall system aesthetics. However, what sets the RMx Shift apart is its unique feature: the modular connector panel has been strategically relocated. This design choice adds a layer of convenience during installation and maintenance, allowing for easier access and organization of cables within the system.

GPU: Gigabyte Gaming OC 4090

However, despite the risks, the cooling performance for the Gigabyte Gaming OC 4090 is exceptional. The GPU temperatures remain in the mid to high 40s degrees Celsius after two hours of playing Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty, completely maxed out in 4K with path tracing. Similar temperatures are observed in Ratchet and Clank, maxed out in 4K with ray tracing, without DLSS or frame generation. This range is 10-13º lower than the temperatures seen with the default cooler.

Water Block: ICUE link XG3 Hybrid GPU Water Block 

The ICUE link XG3 Hybrid GPU water block is designed with versatility in mind, fitting most 4080/4090 GPUs and offering a universal solution amidst the scarcity of founders edition cards. While it lacks the aesthetic appeal of some other water blocks, such as the XG7 from Corsair, it compensates with effective cooling performance. Constructed mainly of plastic, it may not exude the premium feel of Corsair’s other products, and it notably lacks a backplate, relying instead on a fan directly cooling the VRMs.

However, performance-wise, it shines. The XG3 keeps my 4090 GPU comfortably cool, with temperatures ranging from the mid to high 40s degrees Celsius during demanding gaming sessions in 4K with features like path tracing and ray tracing enabled. This marks a substantial improvement of 10 to 13 degrees compared to the default cooler’s performance.

While I appreciate this option for its functionality, I do hope for future revisions to enhance the build quality, especially when considering its use with high-end GPUs like the $1800-priced 4090. Despite its minor drawbacks, it’s a viable alternative for those seeking efficient GPU water cooling without specific compatibility constraints.

Pump Resevoir: Corsair XD5 RGB Elite

After installing the GPU, it’s time to start thinking about the custom loop. The first component needed is a pump reservoir, specifically the Corsair XD5 RGB Elite. This is part of the Hydro X line, along with the GPU water block. The pump and RGB light around the reservoir are powered and controlled by a single ICUE link connection. However, there is no output ICUE connection, so the chain must end at this device. The ICUE app allows users to view coolant temperature and set pump speed based on different system temperatures, providing decent flexibility.

The XD5 RGB Elite feels hefty and high quality, featuring a push-down tube at the top to prevent air bubbles and noise.

Step-by-Step Assembly Guide

  1. Lower the CPU into the socket, ensuring the arrow on the top right aligns with the socket arrow. Once it’s in place, lower the latch to secure it.
  1. Align the pins on the RAM with that of the motherboard and press down until it clicks.
  1.   Istall the SSD in the slot below the CPU. Screw in.
  1. Remove the pre-installed CPU cooler brackets from the motherboard, take off the plastic cover over the pre-applied thermal paste, and screw the water block over the CPU using the existing backplate. 
  1.  Remove the side, top, and front panels on the case. Remove the pre-installed fans.
  1. Lower the motherboard into the case, aligning it with the standoffs. Secure the motherboard in place.
  1. Install the two 360mm radiators along with the ICUE link fans. Connect the ICUE link fans magnetically and power them with a single cable. Attach the fans to the radiators, one in as intake and the other in as exhaust.
  1. Secure the radiator with attached fans into the case.
  1. Connect and secure another set of three ICUE link fans at the front of the case.
  1. Install the Corsair RMx Shift 1200 power supply, noting its convenient side-mounted modular connector panel. Secure the power supply in place.
  1. Connect the ICUE hub using a single 8-pin PCIe power connector and a USB port on the front. Connect the CPU power connector and run the motherboard power connector (don’t plug it in yet).
  1. Connect SATA power for the case RGB controller and fan hub. Run the 12-volt high power cable for the GPU. Plug the RGB controller into a USB header along with all case cables.
  1. Disassemble the GPU carefully to avoid voiding the warranty.
  1. Remove the heatsink and clean the GPU.
  1. Attach the new ICUE link XG3 Hybrid GPU water block.
  1. Attach the first bracket to the bottom of the pump, then secure it to the fan bracket with 4 thumb screws.
  1. Attach the pump reservoir (Corsair XD5 RGB Elite) to the case and run the ICUE link cable to the back of the case.
  1. Plan the runs for the hard tubing. Cut, deburr, and bend the tubing using the heat gun and bending tool. Install the tubing carefully, ensuring proper alignment and secure fittings.
  1. Use a pressure leak tool to test the system for leaks. Ensure the system holds overpressure for at least 30 seconds.
  1. Use the pump jumper to run the system and fill the loop with coolant. Alternate between filling and running the system until the loop is filled.
  1. Check for leaks using paper towels around the system, running it for a few hours or overnight.
  1. Once the loop is leak-free, plug in the motherboard connection and turn on the system.
  1. Reattach all panels.

That’s the build complete!

Performance Review

It takes a few days for the liquid to work out all the bubbles, but once it does, the liquid will start to appear completely clear. A valve was added coming out of the reservoir to easily drain the loop when needed, which is recommended to be changed about every year or so.

Overall, the new ICUE link system is highly impressive. It offers a simple and clean cable setup, making it the preferred method for setting up fans and other devices. For example, with nine RGB fans, there would typically be a total of 18 wires to manage, but with the ICUE link system, there’s just one. This is a significant improvement.

However, a bit of planning is required. While the components come with wires and hubs, it may be necessary to pick up a four-way splitter or a standard splitter when working with many pieces. Depending on the setup, longer cables might also be needed, which can be purchased separately. Additionally, when the fans are set to a push configuration on the radiator, the ICUE connect port can be blocked by the fittings. This is something to keep in mind when planning the build.

Planning the number of fittings and the different supplies needed can seem overwhelming, especially for those new to this. Fortunately, Corsair offers an online cooling configurator where users can choose their case and components, which then provides a list of all the supplies needed for the build. This helps take much of the guesswork out of the planning process.