I still can not get over the part where this is Phanteks' first GPU block ever. If a blind test were to be performed, I would dare say many would think this was a Watercool Heatkiller block instead, and that is a compliment. There are enough differences both externally and internally to where they are by no means the same, but perhaps some source of inspiration was taken here.

From the luxurious packaging to the good build quality, integrated RGB lighting, and mix of acrylic top and aluminum side covers, Phanteks has ticked a lot of good points off the list. The split central flow coupled with thick microchannels means you have the least restrictive block here, and GPU VRM cooling is good also.

This is not to say there is nothing wrong here. For one, you are going to pay for it at a price point higher than most established company products. Secondly, there is the instructions manual that could really benefit from an overhaul. GPU core cooling was so-so at best relatively, and it would have been nice to see the thermal pads pre-cut and installed on the block out of the box. The use of Viton for O-rings is nice, but marketing it as a big point is not really necessary or valid here. It would have been nice to see Phanteks use the built-in LED header on the PCB, but it does not support RGB lighting nor can you really control it, so them not doing so is understandable.

I am definitely pleased with how things happened here overall, and especially so after also seeing them support some popular third-party non-reference PCBs fairly quickly. They now also have support for the newer GTX 1080 Ti, and I imagine performance will be similar there as well. This is a good addition to the Phanteks product portfolio, and one you should definitely consider if getting into custom watercooling.