Quantum Vector EK waterblocks introduced for Asus ROG Strix 5700 series cards

EK Water Blocks recently announced the arrival of a new full cover water block for Asus' RX 5700 series cards, the Quantum Vector Strix RX 5700 +XT D-RGB. The part is available for pre-order and ships from December 18th.

As a full cover block, the Quantum Vector Strix cools the GPU itself, VRAM, and VRM. Thermal performance has been increased over previous EK full cover blocks as the Quantum Vector has a larger footprint and consequently larger surface area for heat transfer. The Quantum Vector's base is made of nickel-plated electrolytic copper and its top is made of acrylic. EPDM O-Rings are utilized to ensure a tight seal. D-RGB lighting is provided by a 3-pin VP addressable D-RGB strip.

While liquid cooling, in general, is a significant step up from stock air-cooled solutions, this means that the Quantum Vector will be better capable of handling Navi 10's prodigious heat output at high clocks. As we observed in our reference RX 5700 XT review, the reference card overheats even at stock clocks and TDP.

At a pre-order price of $154.99, though, questions remain about the block's value. Overclocked 5700 XTs perform in the vicinity of the RTX 2070 Super at stock, while consuming more power and running hotter. The Quantum Vector will likely allow ROG Strix 5700 XT owners to approach RTX 2070 Super performance levels. But the water block, together with a 5700 XT costs $50 more than reference 2070 Super cards. For new buyers, it would make more sense to simply get hold of a custom 2070 Super.