Selecting the Right PC Cooling Solution

When running a powerful computer at high settings or editing 4k videos, the hardware can become extremely hot. Selecting the right temperature control solutions can prevent overheating and extend the life of your hardware.

The main processing center of a PC is the CPU and GPU (graphics processor). Both require adequate temperature management for optimal performance. However, cooling isn’t limited to these components and there are plenty of other hardware components that need careful attention.

Air Cooling
The cheapest and most common method for keeping your computer cool is through air cooling. It relies on fans to blow hot air out of your case, cooling down the inside of your machine. This method can be less efficient than liquid-based solutions.

Mineral Oil Cooling
Mineral oil cooling for computers was originally conceived as a fun do-it-yourself project for the modding and PC-building community. The odorless mineral oil looks like water but, unlike water, it does not conduct electricity. Mineral oil is therefore completely safe to submerge your hardware in.

Liquid Cooling
Liquid-based PC cooling consists of a series of tubes that run in the case, creating what is known as a “cooling loop.” The liquid moves heat safely away from your hardware, while the fans remove it at lower RPMs. This results in optimal performance with less noise than air-cooled systems. However, installing and maintaining a custom liquid cooling system can be complicated. There are also more opportunities for leaks and other problems.