I_Leak_VN, a Vietnamese PC hardware influencer/leaker, reckons that the region's first GeForce RTX 5090 GPU-based "AI/mining/scalper" rig has just emerged. Earlier today, their social media post provided an informative look at a local shop's "Training AI: X7 RTX 5090 32G" build. Apparently, the retail outlet has assembled this monstrous setup for an important customer. A Nguyễn Công PC employee sent personal thanks to GIGABYTE Vietnam; for the supply of seven GeForce RTX 5090 GAMING OC graphics cards. As showcased in uploaded photos (see below), these highly-prized units were placed neatly in a row—as part of an airy open plan system. After inspecting the store's heavily watermarked shots, Western media outlets have (visually) compared the "Training AI: X7" rig to crypto mining builds of a certain vintage.

Tom's Hardware spotted multiple Super Flower Leadex 2000 W PSUs—providing sufficient juice to a system that: "can easily be valued at over $30,000, considering these GPUs go for $3500-$4000 on a good day." Wccftech's report extended coverage to Nguyễn Công PC's other AI offerings; mainly "more traditional" PC builds that utilize dual MSI GeForce RTX 5090 card setups—a "dual rig" likely costs ~$10,000. The shop's selection of gaming-grade hardware is not too surprising, given the performance prowess of NVIDIA's GB202-300-A1 GPU variant. Naturally, Team Green's cutting-edge enterprise hardware unlocks the full potential of "Blackwell" GPU designs—but the company can charge sky-high prices for this level of equipment. Going back to early 2024, Tiny Corp. started to make noise about its "tinybox" AI platform—consisting of multiple XFX Speedster MERC310 RX 7900 XTX cards, rather than AMD's freshly launched Instinct MI300X accelerator.

HP is expanding into the DIY gaming PC market with a new line of Omen-branded components, moving beyond its traditional prebuilt systems and laptops. The upcoming product lineup includes a single 120 mm RGB fan, a triple-pack of 120 mm modular RGB fans, a 1000 W modular power supply, a 240 mm LCD liquid cooling system, and a 360 mm aRGB liquid cooling system. HP confirms these components will work with non-Omen desktop systems, giving PC builders more flexibility.

The fans feature an annular design to help increase the airflow (up to 74 CFM) while reducing vibration through improved static pressure. Each fan includes aRGB LEDs that are customizable via HP's Omen Gaming Hub (OGH) software. They support HP's daisy chain system (up to 10 fans), or connect up to 16 fans through a single Omen Modular Hub. The AIO liquid cooling uses Asetek's 7th Gen pump with a built-in 2.1-inch IPS LCD (for the 240 mm model) and fans with aRGB Gen 2 lighting effects with OGH. HP is also offering the OMEN 1,000 W ATX 3.1 PSU with Cybernetics Platinum and 80 Plus Gold certification. The power supply is fully modular featuring 12 V-2×6 and 12VHPWR connectors with up to 600 W of power and a Zero RPM fan mode for quiet operation., While specific release dates and pricing haven't been announced, HP's website indicates these products are "coming soon."

ASUS today announced the arrival of the A31 Computer Chassis - The A31 is a compact dual panel panoramic chassis offering that easily supports ATX motherboards and supporting high-performance components while allowing for a highly visible aesthetic. The ASUS A31 case readily supports large 360 mm AIO cooling solutions, including those with thicker radiators and thicker fans. It also easily supports large graphics cards like ASUS GeForce RTX 50 series accommodating up to lengths up to 380 mm. For those focusing on a bold, bright and well cooled aesthetic you can support up to 7 120 mm chassis fans, alongside a triple fan 360 mm AIO cooling solution. With an angled base and dual sided tempered glass panels, the ASUS A31 offers an unobstructed view of the main chamber while maintaining structural integrity. Currently, the case is available in two colors: black and white, with both models featuring color-matched interior cables.

The ASUS A31 was built to empower the PCDIY experience, as a case that could be a first step into the world of pc building or a showcase for an experienced builder. The case incorporates design queues such a cable routing channel with hook and loop fasteners for quick and easy cable management. Simplifying front panel connections there is a color matched unified front I/O cable (or FIO cable). These unified FIO cables are also color-matched to the case model, blending in seamlessly into the background instead of adding noticeable contrast.

Lenovo has listed two custom Legion GPUs designed specifically for its Legion 9000K gaming systems. These models—the RTX 5090D and RTX 5080—are available exclusively in the Chinese market and are not intended for the DIY segment. The "D" designation in the RTX 5090D model signifies that the component adheres to specific regulatory standards required in China, hence Lenovo choosing it for their China-exclusive systems. Both GPUs incorporate a cooling solution that spans four expansion slots and utilizes three fans, complemented by CNC-machined metal shrouds and full backplates. While detailed parameters such as core and memory clock speeds have not been disclosed, the two models differ in their GPU architectures: the RTX 5090D is built around the larger GB202 die, and the RTX 5080 uses the smaller GB203 silicon.

Both cards employ a single 16-pin power connector and are expected to operate at standard factory settings without factory overclocking dialed in yet. But with a massive cooler configuration, it should be an easy thing to do. Regarding computational capability, the RTX 5090D delivers up to 2,375 TOPS, supporting gaming tasks and localized AI processing. These GPUs are integrated within systems powered by Intel's Core Ultra 200K series processors. System configurations start at 22,499 RMB (approximately $3,100) for units featuring the RTX 5080 paired with a Core Ultra 7 265K processor and 32 GB of RAM. In contrast, configurations with the RTX 5090D, Core Ultra 9 285K processor, and 64 GB of RAM are priced at 41,999 RMB (roughly $5,820). Lenovo has also indicated that mid-range RTX 5070 variants are planned for future releases and that final production units may vary slightly from the initial promotional renders of these cards.

MODDIY has swiftly updated its Help Center site with new guidelines, following recent reports of one of its older 12VHPWR cable designs having a high temperature disagreement with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Founders Edition card and ASUS ROG Loki SFX-L power supply unit. The company's newest batch of (2025) 12V-2X6 and 12VHPWR are manufactured with the latest specifications and standards in mind, thus given the all-clear for utilization with NVIDIA's recently introduced GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 graphics cards. Any products from the 2024 production cycle (and before) are deemed safe to use with the GeForce RTX 40-series, but not "officially" valid for anything newer.

The company's renewed guidelines state: "as of 2025, the industry standard has transitioned to 12V-2X6, replacing the previous 12VHPWR standard. Our new cables incorporate significant advancements, including enhanced terminal and connector housing materials, along with thicker wires, to provide an additional safety buffer for the latest GPUs. At MODDIY, all 12VHPWR / 12V-2X6 cables purchased from 2025 onward are manufactured in accordance with the new 12V-2X6 specifications and standards, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance with the RTX50 series GPUs. Prior to 2024, the RTX50 series GPUs had not yet been introduced, and the prevailing standard was 12VHPWR. All cables produced before this period were designed and tested for use with the RTX40 series GPUs. We recommend that all users upgrade to the new 12V-2X6 cables to take full advantage of the enhanced safety and performance features offered by this new standard." They believe that their messily-named "ATX 3.1 PCIe 5.1 H++ 12V-2X6 675 W 12VHPWR 16 Pin Power Cable" premium custom tailor-made model is the best candidate for Team Green's modern generation of gaming cards.

HXL/9550pro and HardwareLuxx's Andreas Schilling shared evidence of the ASUS PCIe Q-Release Slim—the manufacturer's latest ejection mechanism—causing damage to graphics card PCIe connectors. Recent feedback suggests that repeated usage can scrape or grind off material present on a card's interface. HXL gathered critiques from multiple sources (owners of Intel 800 and AMD 800 series boards), and linked a relevant Bilibili video. The footage presents a damaged GALAX RTX 4070 Ti HOF OC LAB model, following sixty quick release cycles—paired with a ROG Strix B850-A Gaming Wi-Fi S motherboard. Tony Wu, ASUS China's general manager, eventually weighed in on community discussions—stating that he will investigate this matter and report back with his findings.

Schilling expressed similar frustrations—his chosen platform is producing unwanted results: "I'm not happy with the solution either. We use the Strix X870E-E Gaming for testing the graphics cards. So I have had to remove graphics cards from the slot a few dozen times. This didn't always go smoothly and very often the (GeForce RTX 5090) card got stuck in the slot. First damage visible." Press outlets have picked up on the recent surge in Q-Release Slim user feedback—several publications have gathered additional examples of the new mechanism inflicting damage on a variety of graphics card models.

Thermaltake, a leading PC DIY brand for premium hardware solutions, is proud to announce the release of the TT RGB PLUS 3.0, an upgraded all-in-one software platform designed to enhance the TT RGB PLUS ecosystem. Building on the foundation of its predecessor, the 3.0 version introduces an optimized interface, expanded compatibility, and advanced features to provide seamless system integration and customization for PC enthusiasts. The new software update, scheduled for release in Q1 2025, supports a broader range of products, including the TS120/140 EX RGB Fans (3-Fan Pack), the Toughpower iRGB PLUS 1650 W / 1250 W Titanium, and the MAGFloe and MAGCurve AIO Liquid Coolers.

"Thermaltake's TT RGB PLUS 3.0 software takes system customization to the next level by integrating advanced functionality features and expanding product compatibility," said Kenny Lin, CEO of Thermaltake,"This upgrade reflects our commitment to empowering users with innovative tools for personalized RGB illumination, performance monitoring, and seamless system management. Whether to enhance aesthetics or optimize functionality, TT RGB PLUS 3.0 is designed to meet the diverse needs of PC enthusiasts and gamers."

We are excited to announce the European release of the TRYX LUCA L70. Continuing with the launch of our highly anticipated products showcased at Computex, European PC enthusiasts can finally join the revolution, customers from Germany and UK can place the order on caseking.de and overclockers UK now, pre-orders are available for other regions in Europe.

Product Lineup for Europe
The European release of the TRYX LUCA L70 will feature two color options of black and white.

Looking for a customizable keyboard that also delivers on feel and aesthetics? Frustrated that no keyboard on the market meets all your needs? The Galaxy series is here to cater to every layout and customization preference. Introducing Epomaker's latest flagship product: the Galaxy 100!

1800 full-size keyboard with an integrated knob
The Galaxy 100 is an 1800 full-size keyboard equipped with a convenient rotary knob. It offers a complete set of function keys and a numeric keypad, all in a compact design that saves desk space while maximizing functionality. Whether for work or gaming, this keyboard is versatile enough for any scenario. Additionally, it features a handy volume knob for quick audio adjustments, allowing users to control their sound effortlessly without interrupting their workflow or gaming experience.

Polartherm, the latest name in Thermal Interface Materials, has launched to deliver high performance Thermal Pastes at an accessible price point. Formulated for DIY Builders, PC Gamers and everyday users to achieve efficient heat transfer between critical components.

With today's processors and graphics cards requiring more power and operating much closer to their thermal limits every degree counts. Polartherm has entered the market to enable everyone to get the most from their cooling solutions, by offering products that provide high quality, straightforward application and durability at competitive prices.

The OpenWrt One WiFi 6 router by Banana Pi has recently completed its journey from the first announcement in January 2024, through sampling in April, and is now available for retail to end-users. The OpenWrt One is the first board designed by Banana Pi in collaboration with the OpenWrt open-source community, with assistance from MediaTek. Banana Pi is also handling the manufacturing and distribution of the router board, with part of the generated income being used by OpenWrt to cover the costs of hosting and conferences, as well as donations to the Software Freedom Conservancy (SFC) organization.

The router uses MediaTek's MT7981B (Filogic 820) SoC and MediaTek MT7976C dual-band WiFi 6 chipset, offering 2x2 2.4 GHz and 3x3 5 GHz connectivity. It features a dual-core Cortex-A53 processor running at 1.3 GHz, 1 GB of DDR4 RAM, and 256 MB of SPI NAND flash storage. It also includes 16 MB of additional protected storage for system backup, and integrated M.2 2230/2242 NVMe PCIe 2x1 ports that can be used for adding external storage. The router comes with the board, including a heatsink, assembled in a metal case, three antennas, and an external power supply. In terms of connectivity, the OpenWrt One offers (aside from wireless connections) 1x Gigabit RJ45 and 1x 2.5GbE RJ45 ports, 1x USB 2.0 Type-A host port, and 1x USB Type-C port.

Thermaltake, a leading PC DIY brand for premium hardware solutions, is pleased to launch the CT120/140 ARGB Sync PC Cooling Fan (2-Fan Pack) and the CT120/140 Reverse ARGB Sync PC Cooling Fan (2-Fan Pack) in Black, White, Hydrangea Blue, and Matcha Green. The CT ARGB Sync series is a PWM fan designed to fit all PC usage scenarios. It features upgraded fan blades to provide better cooling performance and is now available in four colors, including new reverse blade fans, enabling you to create an attractive PC without the limitation of the chassis color and airflow direction.

To meet diverse aesthetic preferences, Thermaltake has revealed numerous products in various colors, and now adding the CT ARGB Sync to the multi-color lineup. These fans come in classic black and white, as well as new colors, Thermaltake's iconic hydrangea blue and matcha green, allowing you to easily unify the PC looks with the components in the same color or design the mixed color setup you like. Additionally, many Thermaltake chassis include the CT series as pre-installed fans, so the individual 2-fan package of the CT ARGB Sync enables you to match the built-in fans inside the cases.

Thermaltake, a leading PC DIY brand for premium hardware solutions, is thrilled to introduce the new-colored additions to The Tower 300 Micro Tower Chassis series, now in Matcha Plum and Peach Fuzz. The Tower 300 is a distinctive m-ATX case featuring an octagonal prism shape and supporting both vertical and horizontal placements, making it a standout piece for your gaming or workspace setups. To cater to the diverse aesthetic preferences of PC enthusiasts, now The Tower 300 is available in ten colors: Black, Snow, Turquoise, Racing Green, Matcha Green, Bumblebee, Hydrangea Blue, Bubble Pink, Matcha Plum, and Peach Fuzz.

Thermaltake bridges fashion and technology, boldly creating the chassis in dashing colors. Inspired by a captivating summer, the new color schemes feature vibrant and refreshing hues. The Tower 300 Matcha Plum is built with a matcha green exterior and pink elements, while The Tower 300 Peach Fuzz boasts a peach fuzz appearance with a hydrangea blue interior. These new colors combine Thermaltake's iconic matcha green and hydrangea blue with trendy shades, making The Tower 300 stand out.

Thermaltake, a leading PC DIY brand for premium hardware solutions, kicked off the "2024 Thermaltake RAM MOD Invitational" an annual competition that gathers modders from all corners of the world to mod the designated Thermaltake ram into their own masterpiece. This year we invited six modders from Austria, Italy, Japan, Thailand, and the United Kingdom to modify the TOUGHRAM XG RGB D5 Memory DDR5.

Participating modders are given a specific time frame to modify the RAM heatsinks, without changing the overall appearance and layout of the RAM itself. Contestants must only use our TOUGHRAM XG RGB D5 modules and cannot add the ram to a motherboard or a PC build. However, they can create a stand or platform for the modules but the overall modules must remain intact with the original design as the main focus.

ASRock has silently unveiled the X600TM-ITX, currently the "world's only" AM5 Thin Mini-ITX motherboard designed for AMD Ryzen 9000 "Zen 5" processors along with 8000 and 7000 series CPUs with a max TDP of 65 W. Its "Thin" Mini-ITX form factor (17.0 cm x 17.0 cm) stands out with a compact 25 mm I/O shield height compared to the standard 44 mm.

Unlike traditional Mini-ITX boards, the X600TM-ITX utilizes SODIMM memory (max. 96 GB of Dual DDR5 6400+) and supports onboard power supply via one DC Jack on the rear panel I/O, eliminating the need for a separate ATX PSU. This makes it an ideal choice for DIY mini PC enthusiasts. However, the board lacks PCIe slots for discrete GPUs, limiting its gaming potential. Nevertheless, the integrated graphics in AM5 processors should handle most games at lower settings, especially with higher-end CPUs.

Govee, a leader in the smart home lighting sector, is partnering with the legendary Japanese anime series Evangelion to release a groundbreaking line of gaming lights. This collaboration, Govee x Evangelion Gaming Lights, combines Evangelion's epic storytelling with Govee's advanced lighting technology to provide new hardware for gamers looking to embrace their own unique interest and connection to their gaming atmosphere.

At the core of this collaboration is a fusion of innovation and self-expression. Embodying the spirit of both brands, the products highlight personalized experiences with gaming and the Evangelion brand. The special edition gaming lights are more than just functional; they are an invitation for gamers to transform their ordinary spaces into vibrant battle stations.

Fractal Design has released the 3D printing files for their highly sought-after Raspberry Pi case, dubbed Project: North Pi. The tiny case, which caused a sensation at this year's Computex trade show, can now be produced by anyone with access to a 3D printer. The Project: North Pi case first caught the public's eye during Fractal Design's product launch at Computex, where it was used as a playback device alongside a mini computer. Its diminutive size and sleek design, reminiscent of the company's North series, quickly captured the imagination of attendees and media alike. The case's popularity even threatened to overshadow Fractal Design's other new products, including the Mood ITX case, Refine office chair, and Scape headset. Following the overwhelmingly positive response, Fractal Design has decided to share the case's design with the public.

The company has published a dedicated product page containing free downloadable files and comprehensive instructions for 3D printing the case at home. The Project: North Pi case consists of 17 components (11 unique parts) and measures a compact 105 × 50 × 96 mm size. Despite its tiny nature, the case includes space for up to two 40 mm fans behind its front panels, ensuring adequate cooling for the Raspberry Pi. This move by Fractal Design caters to the DIY community and represents a shift in how companies might approach product distribution in the future. By embracing 3D printing technology, Fractal Design has effectively turned its customers into manufacturers, potentially changing the way enthusiasts interact with and customize their tech accessories. As the 3D printing community eagerly begins to produce their own Project: North Pi cases, we wait to see different color combinations and use cases from enthusiasts.

MSI introduces a revolutionary case that departs from the traditional PC case design. This case features a panoramic view with 4 mm tempered glass using chamfering techniques allowing you to appreciate the internal setup from all angles. The rear of this case is decorated with metal nameplates, also comes with ARGB panels at the front bottom, presenting a subdued and refined style.

This case is compatible with both ATX and Micro-ATX Back-connect motherboards, enabling easy cable management to the back of the case. The dual-chamber design provides a spacious 90 mm area behind the motherboard for cable management. Don't worry about the cable management, the tool-free multi-functional cable covers to hide cables and install SSDs effortlessly. In addition, this case comes with tool-free panels on the top, sides, and front, reducing the hassle of dealing with screws. The integrated front I/O cable design solves the problem of small, hard-to-grasp cables and closely positioned ports, making assembly simpler. The well-arranged ventilation is on the side and bottom to provide fan installation options, and the magnetic dust filters at the side and bottom facilitate easy daily cleaning.

Thermaltake, a leading PC DIY brand for premium hardware solutions, is excited to step into a new era of immersive ecosystems in its long-established gaming field. Aligned with Thermaltake's COMPUTEX slogan, "Immerse in the TT World," the company aims to transcend the conventional PC setup on desks, offering a fully immersive gaming environment with its newly launched GR500 Racing Simulator Cockpit White and Triple Racing Monitor Stand White. With this distinctive white racing gaming ecosystem, experiencing the thrill of fast and furious through stylish indoor equipment is no longer just a dream.

"Here at COMPUTEX, we'll be taking you on a journey into the Thermaltake World with our event theme "Immerse in the TT World". Bringing you a totally immersive gaming experience as we bridge the world between physical and virtual reality. Leveraging new aesthetics such as the 25th Anniversary signature color, Hydrangea Blue, and incorporating cutting-edge technologies like AI PC and Immersive Gaming", said Thermaltake Founder & CEO Kenny Lin.

MSI is announcing today the latest series of fan products, the cableless fan MPG EZ120 ARGB, which features a magnetic design and reduces the effort and complexity of PC assembly. The use of MSI exclusive JAF 7-pin header, which has integrated ARGB and system fan headers, benefits the exertion of cable management. There are 33 LEDs well-arranged on the fan blade and frame; it is the best choice to decorate a panoramic-style chassis.

The MPG EZ120 ARGB takes convenience to the next level. With its Magnetic Connector Blocks, connecting your fans is easier than ever. These blocks deliver power and signal and enhance the connection between the fans. Each fan frame is also embedded with magnets, making the assembly process a breeze.

CORSAIR today launched a white color variant of the revolutionary RMx SHIFT Series of ATX 3.0 power supplies. RMx SHIFT, the world's first PSU with the DC connector panel on the side of the unit, quickly became a sensation among DIY PC enthusiasts after its launch last year thanks to cleaner and easier cabling than traditional power supplies. Available in 750, 850, 1000, and 1200 wattages, the RMx SHIFT Series exemplifies CORSAIR's commitment to addressing the evolving needs of its customers. With its repositioned side panel, builders have unobstructed access to all of its Type 5 Gen 1 micro-fit connections, making installation and maintenance painless. It also means less bending and twisting of the cables, removing unnecessary strain on the cables and connectors.

White models of RMx SHIFT address the overwhelming demand from the PC building community for more customization options to match a wider range of builds. The new white units retain all the features that have made the RMx SHIFT a market standout, including fully modular cabling, 80 Plus Gold-rated efficiency, premium 105°C-rated Japanese capacitors, and a 140 mm fluid dynamic bearing fan, while matching the clean aesthetic of white system builds.

ASUS today announced the TUF Gaming GT302 ARGB chassis, a case that makes it easy to build a high-performance PC with great cooling. Prepped and ready for great out-of-the-box cooling, equipped for wide compatibility with high-performance parts, and thoughtfully constructed inside and out for an easy PC DIY experience, the GT302 ARGB resets expectations for a mainstream case.

Great cooling - right out of the box
Most PC builders go big on cooling to ensure an excellent balance of performance and quiet operation. From the moment it is pulled out of the packaging, the TUF Gaming GT302 ARGB gives users a superb foundation for high-end cooling. This starts with a front panel designed first and foremost to maximize airflow efficiency. It is constructed of a wide-open, high-porosity square-type mesh that leaves ample room for fresh air to enter a PC. Four pre-installed 140 mm ARGB case fans move cool air through the chassis. These fans are exceptionally thick, measuring 28 mm in depth. These fans deliver up to 3 mmH2O static pressure and 115 CFM airflow for excellent cooling with quiet operation.

Jonsbo over the weekend introduced the N4 White and N4 Black, a series of cube-shaped Micro-ATX cases designed for DIY NAS server builds. The case has eight drive caddies, six of which are 3.5-inch, and two 2.5-inch. All 8 bays come with SATA 6 Gbps backplanes, so you can hot-plug them. These drive caddies, along with an SFX PSU bay, and a 120 mm fan vent, make up the lower 60% of the case. The upper 40% holds a Micro-ATX motherboard tray with four half-height expansion slots. Besides low-profile expansion cards, you can have a CPU cooler as tall as 70 mm up there.

The lower compartment has a perforated front panel covering the drive caddies, while the front side of the upper compartment has a classy wood embellishment. This wood embellishment has the power/reset buttons, a type-A USB 3.2 port, and a USB 3.2 type-C. The upper compartment has panel perforations along the sides and top. The Jonsbo N4 comes in two trims as we mentioned—black and white. The case measures 286 mm x 300 mm x 228 mm (WxDxH), weighing 3.75 kg. The company didn't reveal pricing information.

PC hardware exhibitionists will pleased to discover that NBROS—a Japanese DIY parts specialist—is about to release display stands for CPUs and M.2 SSDs. News outlets were alerted to new retail listings on Yodobashi.com by an ever trusty internet sleuth: momomo_us. The CPU display stand (NB-CPU-DP07) and M.2 SSD display stand (NB-M2SSD-DP06) models are available to purchase, although the shipping date appears to be February 29—implying that you can only pre-order at this stage in time. The made-in-Japan CPU stand is priced at ¥1850 (~$12.34) including VAT, while the M.2-oriented display piece comes in at ¥2180 (~$14.54)—both offered with free delivery options.

The NBROS NB-CPU-DP07 display stand is formed of black-painted iron plating, with a stated thickness of 1.6 mm—overall dimensions seem to be 65 x 65 x 50 mm, and it weighs roughly 80 grams according to the Yodobashi listing. The display surface dimensions are not documented, but accompanying photos indicate that all sorts of CPU footprints are supported—including EPYC and Xeon profiles. The retail package bundles in a few helpful extras: a suction pad, rubber feet and an instruction manual. The NB-M2SSD-DP06 model is a larger and heftier prospect, with 85 x 100 x 95 mm dimensions and an approximate weight of 250 g. The NBROS 1.6 mm thick metal plate construction is once again employed, but the NB-M2SSD-DP06's accessory pack differs slightly—you get a set of mounting screw instead of a suction pad. The chunkiest and most robust M.2 2280 designs can be fastened onto its display stand.

During the CES 2024 show, EK unveiled an exciting new addition to their premium all-in-one (AIO) CPU cooler lineup—the EK-Nucleus AIO CR360 Direct Die D-RGB. As the name suggests, this new 360 mm AIO water cooler is purpose-built for direct die cooling of delidded Intel LGA1700 CPUs. The EK-Nucleus Direct Die stands out with its custom cold plate and mounting mechanism, which are exclusively engineered for exposed CPU dies. The nickel-plated copper base ensures compatibility with liquid metal TIMs like the included Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut, which comes in the package. EK has worked with der8auer to provide delidding service kits and tools to facilitate easy DIY removal of the integrated heat spreader (IHS).

The package also contains a contact frame and protective foam for safe liquid metal application. At the heart of the cooler is a powerful AIO pump EK co-developed with the OEM manufacturer, meaning it is not an off-the-shelf pump found in other AIOs and is capable of up to 500 L/h flow rate. The reinforced, sleeved rubber tubing is fitted with aluminium covers for durability. Integrated omnilink connectors allow daisy chaining of the three included 120 mm D-RGB fans for cable management. The EK-Nucleus Direct Die offers extensive RGB lighting customization with illuminated circle accents on the removable pump top covers. The diamond-cut brushed aluminium side panels and radiator cowl add to the premium aesthetic. The new AIO will be available for the Intel LGA1700 platform, with hopefully more versions later. The EK-Nucleus AIO CR360 Direct Die D-RGB is now available for pre-order at €202.90 MSRP price tag.