Performance Summary

With GPU waterblocks, both thermal performance (core and VRM) and liquid flow restriction are important metrics. Unlike some custom loop components, such as radiators where the component's liquid flow restriction is not as big a factor in the overall loop flow rate, the GPU block choice will impact average flow rate a lot and can thus not be ignored. In order to quantify relative performance for a GPU block thus, a normalized percentage-based data set was created, with 60% weightage given to thermal performance for the GPU core, 20% weightage given for thermal performance for the GPU VRMs, and 20% weightage given to liquid flow restriction. The data set created was thus plotted with the subject of this review at 100%.



With there being little difference when it comes to thermal performance based on GPU core cooling, it is no wonder that most blocks are close to each other here. The Phanteks Glacier block has a good showing in the relative performance charts thus, as the better flow restriction and VRM cooling help overcome its relatively weaker core cooling.

Performance per Dollar

Prices were taken from Performance PCs in the USA wherever available, with all numbers reported in USD. For products not available there, the most obvious retail source was chosen, such as a manufacturer's webshop. For the products no longer available, the last available, reasonable price point was considered.



With pricing considered, the Phanteks Glacier GTX 1080 comes in smack dab in the middle of the chart. I do want to mention that subjective features, such as build quality, integrated lighting, etc., are not considered here and are retained for the final score on the next page, so the charts above are purely objective.