Should reference graphics cards be bought for watercooling?

[MagR]

Hi All

I'm new to watercooling and am about to try my first build (final parts should be delivered today). I have bought two EK full cover blocks for my 500 series sli graphics system. I used EK because they have a configurator tool and could provide blocks which matched my Pallit cards which have non reference (custom) pcb's.

Thinking about the future, when I buy my next graphics cards is it best to simply get the cheapest version of the model I want with reference pcb and cooler? This should overcome any compatibility problems but are there any real advantages to non reference pcb's?

Also do any companies sell cards without any cooler at all as it is simply going to be removed (which may prove difficult/dangerous) which should be a bit cheaper?

Thanks in advance

Mag

[piggin23]

Its always better to purchase a reference card so their are no compatibility issues with the water blocks.
Most water block manufactures only build blocks for reference cards.
I have never seen a card without any form of cooling but some manufactures so sell cards with blocks already fitted ie EVGA
These manufactures do ask a very high premium for these 'special addition' cards.
You could always ask the supplier to fit the water blocks for you?

[Greecean]

If you are going to buy a graphics card and then watercool in the future - buy the reference design

of you are going to buy and watercool all at once, check out the blocks available and then buy card and block together

[MagR]

Thanks a lot - that makes sense.

Regards

Mag