Understanding Radiator Size for Your PC Build
Choosing the right radiator size is crucial for effective water cooling. A larger radiator generally offers better thermal dissipation, allowing your components to run cooler and quieter. This guide will help you navigate the common radiator sizes and their implications.
Common Radiator Sizes (Thickness x Length)
Radiators are typically measured in millimeters (mm) and come in standard lengths, often corresponding to fan sizes (e.g., 120mm, 240mm, 360mm). Thickness also plays a significant role, with thicker radiators offering more surface area.
| Radiator Size (mm) | Common Fan Size | Typical Usage | Cooling Potential | Case Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120x120 | 120mm | Small form factor builds, single component cooling (CPU or GPU) | Low to Medium | Very High |
| 120x240 | 2x 120mm | Most ATX builds, dual component cooling (CPU + GPU) | Medium to High | High |
| 120x360 | 3x 120mm | High-end builds, overclocking, multiple components | High | Moderate (requires dedicated space) |
| 140x140 | 140mm | Similar to 120x120, but potentially quieter with larger fans | Low to Medium | Varies (less common fan size) |
| 140x280 | 2x 140mm | Similar to 120x240, often preferred for noise/performance | Medium to High | Moderate |
| 140x420 | 3x 140mm | Enthusiast builds, extreme cooling demands | Very High | Low (requires very large cases) |
Radiator Thickness: Thin vs. Thick
- Thin Radiators (30mm - 45mm): Easier to fit in most cases, good performance, especially with higher static pressure fans.
- Medium Radiators (45mm - 60mm): Offer a good balance of performance and compatibility.
- Thick Radiators (60mm+): Provide the most surface area and cooling potential but require more clearance and can be heavier. Often best with higher fan speeds or dedicated push/pull fan configurations.
Fan Configuration: Push vs. Pull vs. Push/Pull
- Push: Fans push air through the radiator. Standard configuration.
- Pull: Fans pull air through the radiator. Can sometimes offer better dust management.
- Push/Pull: Fans on both sides of the radiator. Offers the highest airflow and cooling performance but increases noise and complexity. Requires significant space.
Important Note: The number of components you intend to cool (CPU, GPU(s), VRMs, etc.) directly impacts the required radiator surface area. A general rule of thumb is at least 120mm of radiator length per component, with more recommended for overclocking or high-TDP parts.
Choosing the Right Radiator for Your Build
Consider the following:
- Case Compatibility: This is the most critical factor. Check your case's specifications for supported radiator sizes and mounting locations.
- Component Heat Output (TDP): Higher TDP components generate more heat and require more cooling.
- Overclocking Goals: If you plan to heavily overclock, opt for more radiator surface area than the minimum recommendation.
- Noise Level Preferences: Larger radiators can often achieve lower temperatures at lower fan speeds, leading to a quieter system.
When in doubt, err on the side of a larger radiator to ensure optimal temperatures and system longevity.