Water cooling noob

[17mchuh17]

So I wondering just how much it would cost me to set up a custom loop.

Current set up is a i5-4690k, GTX 660, MSI Z97-g45 gaming all wrapped up in a Thermaltake commander G42

1. I would want it to be able to cool graphics/CPU/chipset all in one (even though i'll only start with cpu)

2. I would like to have a radiator of 240mm.

3. I would like to stick to my red and black theme

 

[Calvin3200]

A 4690k and a 660 would not require any sort of custom loop. It would be a complete waste of money. There is a reason why you only see those custom loops on high end computers. Neither of those 2 parts were at one time considered "high end" to the point where any sort of additional investment would be worthwhile.

Do you plan on heavily overclocking that CPU?

Why do you think you need water cooling for a 660?

Any sort of loop would cost more than what would be a solid upgrade in components.

If you have your heart set on water cooling, and want to keep a color scheme... get a H100i. It has a RGB LED.

Sorry, but it just isn't worth it. But to answer your question, full custom loop, parts included, you're looking at about $500 to start. Blocks, brackets, radiator, tubing, coolant... it adds up FAST. Save your money.

 

[17mchuh17]

yeah, when it comes to need; I know for a fact I don't, as i'm just getting into overclocking and have an ancient graphics card. Though, I would like the liquid cooling because I want to learn the in's and out's of it; which appears to be unreasonable at $500. I just want to tinker with the newest stuff at the lowest price possible (ie 4690K).

Thanks for the heads up on the price, and if there happens to be a cheap way to build a custom loop ( lower pressure pump/smaller res/etc) i'd still be interested.

 

[Calvin3200]

There are some "custom loops" out there, that are basically plug and play, with the ability to add on to them later. They're basically glorified H100i's, but you can see the color of the coolant, and you can replace the hoses for precise length, etc...

True custom loops cost a ton. The water blocks alone are a couple hundred, each. CPU block and then a GPU block... it's just not worth it unless you're overclocking like crazy, and actually require that level of cooling.

On the other side, if done right, they look pretty great.

Function > Fashion

 

[17mchuh17]

glorified h100 sounds like what I want. would you mind linking one that I can take a look at?

 

[ac130]

glorified h100 sounds like what I want. would you mind linking one that I can take a look at?

It's not out yet, but looks like what you are looking for. Watercooling is very expensive though and from my experience does not give much benefit, but looks great. I would prioritize upgrading the rest of your system before watercooling.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67glAjdvwLc

 

[Calvin3200]

Just google expandable water cooling kits and you'll find something.