The brand new water block is aptly named EK-Quantum Vector RTX 3080/3090 D-RGB, and it is very important to keep in mind that this reference design water block is not meant for Founders Edition graphics cards – those will get their own, separate, specifically designed EK water blocks.

This also means the water blocks that were showcased in the EK webshop until today are no longer relevant, along with the pricing that has been updated running from 149.90€ to 164.90€ and add 37 to 44 bucks to that for a backplate.

The new water block is purpose-designed with a much thicker 11.2mm copper base to clear the tall capacitors on most reference design graphics cards. This gives the water block advantage on the market of having a clean design and a wider compatibility list, without sacrificing any coolant flow restriction. These 2nd generation Vector water blocks directly cool the GPU, VRAM, and the VRM (voltage regulation module) as cooling liquid is channeled right over these critical areas. The water block is in contact with MOSFETs and chokes to maximize cooling and minimize the chances of coil whine, unlike some products that are currently available on the market. These newly developed water blocks feature optimized flow paths that reduce hydrodynamic instabilities and vortexing (dead spots) inside of them. Additionally, this new design allows the terminal to be screwed directly onto the copper cold plate of the GPU block, making it more rigid and reducing the chances of damaging the water block.

An Open Split-Flow cooling engine design is implemented, which proved to be a superior solution for GPU water blocks. It is characterized by low hydraulic flow restriction, meaning it can be used with weaker water pumps or pumps running on low-speed settings, and still achieve top performance. The jet plate and fin structure geometry have been optimized to provide even flow distribution with minimal losses and optimal performance when used in any given coolant flow orientation, again, unlike some products that are currently available on the market.

The fin array is populated by 27 microfins with 0.5 mm wide microchannels that provide optimal cooling performance, without unnecessary flow restrictions or clogging hazards. The machining time of cold plates for these new reference design water blocks is almost twice as long compared to any other EK water block ever made. The base of the block is CNC-machined out of nickel-plated electrolytic copper, while its top is CNC-machined either out of glass-like cast Acrylic or durable black POM acetal. To cater to the old-school liquid cooling enthusiasts, EK is still offering bare copper models of these water blocks, which are not equipped with any RGB effects whatsoever. The 2nd generation Vector GPU water blocks also feature plexi and acetal terminals that match the top cover material. The watertight sealing is ensured by high-quality EPDM O-rings, while brass standoffs are already pre-installed and allow for a safe and easy installation procedure.

Current Compatibility List for EK-Quantum Vector RTX 3080/3090 Water Blocks