Overheating causes internal damage to your PC. That's why it is essential to install a functional cooling system.
There are two ways you can cool your PC, either water or air. Water cooling is the most common of the two since it is more effective and quieter than air.
The only challenge is if water leaks, then it could damage the internal electrical component. Regardless, they will still do an excellent job. The most effective way to cool your pc is using a best pc water pump.
Best Water Pump For PC Comparison
Name | Image | Editors Reviews | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Mavel Star PC Water Pump |   | ||
Corsair Hydro X Series, XD3 RGB |   | ||
Thermaltake Pacific DIY PR22-D5 |   | ||
EK Water Blocks EK-Xtop Revo D5 RGB |   | ||
EKWB EK-XRES 140 Revo D5 |   |
What is a PC Water Pump?
It is a centrifugal pump that utilizes centrifugal force generated by its impeller’s rotation to circulate coolant that cools the CPU. It is a quiet water pump compared to the fans, and it comprises a pump chamber, control circuit, pump casing, rotor, and pump cover.
5 Best PC Water Pumps Reviews To Buy
1. Mavel Star Submersible PC CPU Water Cooling Pump
Product Description
This reasonably priced tiny PC water pump can accomplish several tasks and surpass customer's expectations.
How to Install the Pump
Before installation, you should note that this unit is submersible, which means it can't vent air automatically. If you run it outside the water installation, then install it below the liquid surface.
Disconnect power to prevent water or coolant from damaging the electrical components. Please take note of the poles so as not to mix them during installation. The negative pole is the blue/black wire, while the positive pole is the red wire.
How to Use it
When using this pump, avoid letting hard particles get into the pump. Regular maintenance of the pipe ensures durability.
What are its benefits?
The pump can be used for a wide variety of applications, such as;
At 4.2 watts, it is considered efficient at low consumption. The pump can be powered by a battery pack, solar panels, and also directly by a power adapter.
What makes it unique
It is the smallest in size, which makes it too light. Its tubing is made of vinyl, unlike most that are acrylic glass.
2. Corsair Hydro X Series, XD3 RGB, Pump/Reservoir Combo
Tech Specs
How to Install it
The combo features all the mounting hardware necessary for installation. You will also require a head screwdriver, CORSAIR iCUE Commander Pro, XL5 coolant, and a filling container. You can choose either of the adapter plates to mount the XD3 directly to a radiator or fan.
There is a perpendicular mounting bracket that can be utilized to change the pump's orientation if necessary. Decide on the mounting configuration you would like to use and pick the loop's inlet and outlet.
The top port is used as a fill port, whereas the bottom one is where you can install the temperature sensor. Decide your flow configuration.
Connect the male 3-pin RGB connector to an available lighting port if you are using Commander Pro. Then connect the 2-pin temperature pro connector to the first temp port. After the assembly, it's time to prime the loop until it is full.
Ensure you disconnect all power cables, turn off the power supply, and connect the 24-pin PSU jumper bridge.
Fill the reservoir via the top-fill port. Leave almost half a centimeter from the reservoir's top. Switch on the power supply, and the coolant will begin to flow. Turn off the power supply before the reservoir is empty. You may need to prime and fill it multiple times until the loop is full since the reservoir is fairly small.
Allow the loop to run for approximately 24 hours to leak test the system and eliminate trapped air. You can then reconnect the power supply to other components and proceed to set up lighting and performance.
How to Use it
It is crucial to perform regular maintenance as you consider upgrades for your cooling system. Ensure you do not spill coolant on any other part of the PC. If you do, clean it up with a paper towel and leave the PC unpowered for a couple of days.
What Are Its Benefits
The Hydro X series XD3 RGB reservoir combo has a top-performance DDC PMW pump. It also has an integrated in-loop temperature sensor and RGB lighting, making it practical even for the most compact designs.
The pump delivers the perfect flow balance for your loop. It also provides impressive, customizable lighting effects to match your gaming build.
Its size allows it to fit inside most systems, favoring even the smallest custom cooling loops. Flushing, filling, and topping-off of your coolant is easy since the pump has an integrated fill port and a stunning angular design.
The pump has a temperature sensor, allowing automatic cooling when paired with the CORSAIR iCUE and an iCUE Commander PRO software.
It is also fast, smooth, and silent when running, which removes the constant whirring sound distraction. Most importantly, it comes with a 2-year warranty for parts and labor.
Compared to others?
Compared to the previous models, this reservoir combo features stunning color changes that give users an artistic and futuristic feel when using it.
3. Thermaltake Pacific DIY PR22-D5
Product Features
How to Install
The package comes with tools to help with the installation. Begin by laying out everything to make the process easy.
Flush your radiator with distilled water before the installation. Attach your compression fittings to the radiator. Hand tighten the fittings and ensure you do not overtighten them since it may damage the o-rings leading to leaks.
Then install the radiator in the case with the side of the fitting facing the back or whichever way you prefer.
You may require additional tools to install the hard tube. Draw up a route for the loop starting from the pump. Depending on the shape and size of your case, longer hard tubes may be needed.
Mockup all your tubes, ensuring the fitting sleeve or o-rings are removed to allow easy test fits. Ensure the tubes are moving when applying heat and allow them adequate time to cool on a flat surface.
Before securing each tube, rinse them to get rid of materials from cutting. Seat the tubes properly, keeping in mind that adjustments may be needed to get sleeves to grab. Use the PSU jumper to power ‘pump only’ when installing coolant.
Fill the reservoir with the coolant, and ensure there are no leaks. If any, remove the leaking parts or cover them. Monitor the system for several days before being too comfortable.
How to Use
It has five-speed adjustment settings, which allow you to determine how fast it will pump when using it. Thermaltake also enables you to customize a show of colors when using it.
This feature makes the whole setup look stunning, especially when using in the dark. You won't have to worry about any vibrations or noise when using it. It's extremely quiet and runs smoothly.
What are the Benefits?
It features exceptional performance and unmatched reliability. It can sustain a maximum pressure of 99 PSI, owing to the 6mm thick of the pipe wall. The pump is crystal clear, and durable.
How does it differ from the rest?
It is easy to power this pump with a supplementary PSU for maintenance without powering your main device.
4. EK Water Blocks EK-Xtop Revo D5 RGB PWM Pump
Product Specs
How to Install it
It comes with mounting hardware for easy installation. Before you proceed, you should note that screwing does not require excessive force to prevent the damage of the O-rings.
First, begin by preparing mounting holes. Take the enclosed stickers with four designated holes. Stick them to the PC where you want the holes and drill four holes on the designated points. Place the sealing gasket on the pump and when it is in place, place the pump into the XTOP. Rotate the XTOP to alternate the outlet port’s position to meet the requirements.
Place the rubber dumper into the holder, then push the assembled part onto the pump. Rotate the pump to alternate the outlet port's position to meet the requirements.
Secure the pump onto the holder. Align the bottom holder holes on to the previously drilled holes. Then secure the assembled pump with enclosed screws.
Connect the RGB LED to the RGB header on the motherboard. Ensure the arrow indicator on the connector is on the 12V side of the motherboard. Failure to comply can damage the LED strip or the motherboard.
Screw-in the fittings in the threaded openings on the plastic top. For this model, it is advisable to use the EK-ACF fittings. Use hose clamps or any practical substitute to ensure the tubes are fitted safely to the fittings/barb. Ensure you use the correct inlet and outlet ports.
How to Use it
It can be used in any mounting configuration except being mounted upside down. Mounting it from down may lead to the pump, eventually running dry and premature failure. After installation, you should test the cooling circuit for leaks before powering the computer. Do not test the waterbuck using tap water pressure.
What are its benefits?
It features a fully rounded design, which offers great usability. It also allows for a 360 degrees installation. It features silent operation and a vibration-free-operation, owing to the special rubber shock absorbers.
It can be mounted and positioned horizontally or vertically, allowing for easy tube routings. This model is popular with the RBG sync technologies from all major motherboard designers.
How does it differ from others?
Though it is an EK pump, just like the EK-EXRES 140 REVO reviewed below, it features a longer tubing design.
5. EKWB EK-XRES 140 Revo D5
Product Specs
How to Install it
Unbox and disassemble the pump parts. Slide the O-ring onto the pump, attach it on the XRES, and secure tightly. You may utilize the anti-cyclone insert by default or the anti-vortex foam insert. You may also trim the foam and utilize both. Ensure you attach the extender to the outlet. Afterward, secure the plugs into one of the outlets and cap.
Screw in the four anti-vibration standoffs to the Rex base. Place the mounting plate on top of the rubber standoffs. Then screw the plates with a screw and a plastic washer. The DS XRES is now ready to be mounted to the case.
How to Use it
It is the perfect solution for a newbie in water cooling systems. The pump is almost easy to install; meaning using it is not a hard task. You get options to use while showcasing different colors.
Scheduled maintenance is important to ensure the coolant does not spill in electrical components. While using it, ensure you do not run it dry to prevent the risk of damage.
What are its benefits?
It is a high-performance cooling pump that offers a stunning look and amazing usability, which allows for easy and visible installation. It offers high hydraulic performance.
It is extremely quiet, does not vibrate, and is smooth-functioning due to the rubber shock absorber installed. It can be positioned either horizontally or vertically, making the tube routing easy.
Its tube is designed with top-quality acrylic material, making it feel premium in the hands of users. The pump is compatible with the majority of RBG sync technologies from all great motherboard manufacturers. It features a 1-year warranty from Amazon.
How does it differ from others?
The RBG cable is ridiculously short, which means you may need to purchase an extension lead. It is also a water lubricant, meaning it's not advisable to run it dry.
What to Consider When Purchasing a PC Pump
1. Cylindrical vs. Bay pump
When using a pump and reservoir water cooling methods, there are usually two options: the cylindrical or the bay combos. The cylindrical combo is versatile and modern.
The reservoir is usually above the pump, and the coolant has to be circulating in the system. Running the cylindrical combo dry risks damaging it. The acrylic cylinder can be swapped out for a shorter or longer one, making it flexible and more suitable than the bay combo.
The bay combos are less popular since they use 5.25-inch drives and are meant for CD and HD drives. They cannot be upgraded by changing parts, and once they have been mounted, they have to remain installed unless a new system is purchased.
2. Size
You should also consider the size of your case before purchasing your pump. The bigger the case, the bigger or smaller the pump you can buy to fit well and leave space for other component installation. A bigger pump pumps more coolant and enhances the stunning aesthetics.
3. Lighting performance
It may not be as important, but you can comb your way around the available options for one that gives you amazing lighting customization options. Most pumps will come with software that will allow you to adjust lighting and performance, for example, speed of pumping and color of lighting.
4. Price
Go for one that is not overpriced, while at the same time functional and gives you the options and features you want.
Who Needs a PC Water Pump?
Cooling a PC system is essential to keep your hardware stable. A PC cooling system is designed for the PC enthusiast who likes to keep their device well-maintained. It is also designed for gamers who run-heavy game software or video editing software.
If your PC tends to overheat or does not cool well enough with the available fans and cooling options, then a PC water cooling system is for you.
FAQs About PC Water Pumps
Q: Which is the best cooling system between air and water?
A: The water cooling system is considered the best cooling system. It is quiet, and no vibration is felt during running.
Q: How else can I cool my computer
A: You can cool your PC by regularly cleaning it, moving it to a different place, exposing it to the airflow, or upgrading the CPU fan. The easiest and most practical solution is to install a water cooling system.
Q: Why should I purchase a water cooling system?
A: They can be used to cool GPUs. Water cooling systems are much quieter than fans. Water cools considerably fast, and the system looks more appealing than installing lots of fans.
Q: Why should I buy a pump and reservoir combo?
A: Purchasing them together ensures they are compatible with one another and attach correctly. However, they will look almost the same aesthetically if bought separately. Also, most components usually come already attached, leaving you to install it into the PC.
Bottom Line
Purchasing and installing a water cooling system requires knowledge of the parts and everything, especially if you are installing it independently. Ensure your pump is not leaking the first few days of installation.
Finally, schedule regular cleanings, maintenance, and replacement for your pump if you are a heavy PC user or gamer. Based on the review, the Mavel Star Water Cooling Pump is the best PC water pump. It is durable and ultra-quiet; you won't feel a single vibration. It is a long-term investment for you and your PC.