A Closer Look

The EK Water Blocks EK Supreme is a very attractive waterblock. The top on our test sample is made of clear acrylic, although EK also sells a black acetal version as well. The top is finely cast and well-machined, and the chrome universal mounting plate surrounding it is elegantly polished. One unique feature about the acrylic top is that there are two small holes on one side of the block meant for two 3mm LEDs.


As can be seen from the side, the EK Supreme is fairly thin. The construction is similar to most other waterblocks in that there is a copper base, rubber O-ring, acrylic top and chrome mounting plate that are all bolted together.


The difference with the EK Supreme is the internal design. The block is designed so that the flow needs to enter in only one way, as shown in the first image above. The liquid coolant flows through the inlet and gets divided into two chambers that force water through a metal plate with slits in it. Below that plate the coolant flows through 49 thin copper fins, around the edge of the top and out the second port on the top.


The copper base is incredibly well polished to a beautiful mirror shine. In the reflection test there seems to be a bit of distortion, which is confirmed by the razor blade test. The base on the block is intentionally bowed to provide superior contact and cooling.