When I went about doing a big GPU block roundup, I knew I had to prepare for a few sticker shocks with many blocks increasing in cost owing to the rising material cost over the last couple of years, especially for copper and aluminium. The average GPU block last gen was in the $150+ range without a back plate included. Now we are seeing them in the $250+ range with a back plate included. It's hard to swallow when CPU blocks are somehow still available in the <$100 range. Watercool admittedly does not get to enjoy volume margins as a more boutique operation and the RTX 4090 Strix/TUF is also a non-reference PCB necessitating a larger block than usual. But still there is no denying this is one of the most expensive GPU blocks I have ever tested. Just note that the upcoming roundup includes blocks that are even more expensive as well as those that cost less.

I suppose if you are able to afford an RTX 4090 Strix, then the extra for a GPU block isn't hopefully going to empty your wallet. Anyone going this route already has decided to budget for it and, assuming you are doing so this late in the generation, Watercool does have one of the best options in the market. There are two finishes to choose from with either stainless steel or black anodized aluminium—I prefer the latter since it matches the black back plate—and either version is composed of various parts that fit together like a glove. There's a wrap-around section connecting the top and the back plate too, and the I/O terminal is also placed on the side to help with case compatibility with a reduced overall height on an already-tall card. Aesthetics are certainly subjective but I dare say most people seeing this review will agree this is one of the better looking blocks. I also appreciated the smaller details such as having the terminal shaped to fit the back plate without an easily visible gap as well as being able to remove the wrap-around piece to gain access to the BIOS switch if you wish to change to the optional Quiet BIOS.

Then there's RGB lighting which is well implemented too. The clear top offers you the choice to go with a colored coolant or let the LEDs light it up for you courtesy 12 ARGB LEDs at the bottom. There is also an accent strip cut into the side cover on the front and top, and everything is controlled via a standard 3-pin header on your motherboard to allow coordinated lighting in your entire build. Let's not forget the most important aspect here—the Heatkiller V Pro block tested is the best overall thermal performer. The new modular design worked nicely in incorporating a cold plate section for the GPU core that might as well be taken from a CPU block itself. Coolant flow restriction does end up being higher than average, albeit nothing to really challenge a decent pump. I do wish Watercool had provided the Torx T8 screwdriver needed for installation though, and a hex/Allen key for changing out the stop plugs would have been nice too. Overall I am still impressed, albeit cautiously so given the cost.