Picking the right block for a 680

Scoob

Scoob

New member
Hi all,

I'm considering picking up a couple of GTX 680's along with water blocks. However, despite using the configurator tool, I'm struggling to find an exact match.

Basically the 680 I've picked as good value at the moment is the EVGA one, here's a link to it on Scan.

Now, note the full model code of this GPU is 02G-P4-2680-KR, however the closest match block I can find for this card (EK) lists that it's for the 02G-P4-2680 - i.e. no "-KR" on the end.

The thing is that "-KR" could mean nothing, it could mean they've moved VRM's around, or it's a different PCB! I really don't know so I was hoping someone here could advise me.

Oh, I've only really been looking at EK blocks, as I've used them before and they seem fine. I'm not adverse to using another brand if it comes recommended though.

Cheers,

Scoob.
 
It's probably worth taking a look at the TPU GPU database as that features pictures of the PCBs and exhaustive details of all Nvidia cards of recent years.
 
Hi grok23,

Thanks for your reply.

I'm doing what research I can, however I do not yet have any of the products yet so cannot 100% check. I think the 680 in question is still a 100% reference design, so in theory all reference blocks should fit just fine. It's just a pain when there are such differences to listed GPU model numbers, leading to potential confusion.

I will be sure to do some additional research of course, so will google "TPU GPU" database when I have a moment.

Cheers,

Scoob.
 
I thought -KR just denoted a lesser warranty period. I think it's only 3 year vs 5, 10, or lifetime. AFAIK it should still be a reference design. I can't find anything solid on it though.

Edit: Here's some info on it from EVGA http://www.evga.com/support/warranty/
 
Last edited:
You can always email EVGA and ask them, they're better than some at getting back with the right information within a few days.
 
I recently bought the evga 680 from scan and I had a 680 from back in april. Afaik the pcb has not changed from what I could see anyway. The evga backplate fits the same as well.

The only difference I found was the older model had torque screws holding the pcb to the cooler where as the newer one has screws.

Hope this helps. I am interested to hear what you find out as I plan to watercool both my blocks in the future.
 
That's a reference PCB, any waterblock manufacturer making refernce pcb blocks will be fine.

The -KR is to denote something to do with the warranty (location maybe?)

Take a look at Watercool Heatkiller blocks or aquacomputer nickle plated as they look the dogs imo.
 
Thanks for the great info guys, I'd never have guessed it was warranty-related. I suspect though that my actual warranty can be measured in hours as I'll be adding water blocks of course.

Might place the orders tomorrow, I'll let you know.

EK Waterblocks do appear to be the most readily available, and they're usually a little cheaper too - maybe due to volume produced. They also seem to perform very well plus EK would be toast if they ever drop the ball on quality again so I'd imagine they're pretty hot when it comes to longevity.

Cheers,

Scoob.

P.S. I love Peanut M&M's - not had 'em for ages & this large pouch ain't gonna last much longer lol.
 
Evga's warranty covers you even if you watercool iirc so it is worth regeristering your serial numbers and proof of purchase with them online.
 
B3rni3 said:
Evga's warranty covers you even if you watercool iirc so it is worth regeristering your serial numbers and proof of purchase with them online.
Click to expand...

Now that is good news! I had it in my head that MSI (?) did that but not EVGA, maybe I remembered incorrectly though. I'll certainly register for that level of peace of mind.

Scoob.

P.S. M&M's defeated - feel a bit sick.
 
Scoob said:
Now that is good news! I had it in my head that MSI (?) did that but not EVGA, maybe I remembered incorrectly though. I'll certainly register for that level of peace of mind.

Scoob.

P.S. M&M's defeated - feel a bit sick.
Click to expand...

This is from the link I posted above:

The product must be returned to EVGA in the original factory configuration and condition. All aftermarket modifications must be reversed before sending in the product for replacement.
Click to expand...

So as long as you don't physically modify the card you are fine. Just hold on to the original cooler.
 
Cool, thanks for clarifying - though there was no way I'd be sending them my block if the card failed! lol. I do plan to retain ALL standard parts (as I have done for my 570's) so that should not be a problem at all.

It's great that the manufacturers take into account what the enthusiast does with their product, makes me much more confident.

Scoob.
 
EK blocks are cheaper because in recent history they've sold more than competitors, mostly due to marketing imo as every new watercooler comes to forums asking about their plans and mentioning EK off the bat.

I wouldn't be surprised if they're cheaper now because they're shifting fewer units, due to their horrific aesthetic design choice lmao

edit, evga explicitly allow the watercooling and I'm pretty sure they're the only nvidia manufactuer like this.

I have seen an MSI rep say that MSI do not offer that but wink wink nudge nudge, if the card returns with the stock cooler, who's to know? ;)
 
Yeah, the new "CSQ" (Circles and SQuares) design is terrible, plus their GPU block now have just TWO ports (on the underside when installed) rather than FOUR which is crap. Thankfully I don't have a window in this case...

Heh, maybe that's what I recall reading about MSI then... :)

Scoob.
 
They have tried to address the port issue by selling a cheap bridge thing that will bolt on and provide ports horizontally towards the case side panel/window.

As for CSQ, they're doing some community voting think to pick new designs because it's been so badly received lmao.
 
I emailed EVGA about a month ago about the GTX 670 design and this is what they told me:


Dear Customer,

Thank you for contacting the EVGA Customer Service Team.
My name is Matthew Moser and I will be answering your question today.

Answer:

Hi Chris, The 670 and 670 Superclocks are the reference design. If it has a FTW or Classified in the name it is not a reference design and is our own design and layout. Please note that we recommend checking with the waterblock maker before purchasing it and seeing if they have tested it on our part number as it meets reference specs some parts and sizes may not be in the same location or size as reference boards from Nvidia. Regards, EVGA

Looking at the GTX 670 and 680 they look like the same design so chances are they are referance.EVGA has great support so if you email them they should reply with 24 hrs
 
Hey all,

I really like this block: SpecialTech Link I wonder why they're out of stock...? ;)

It is good to hear positive things about a company like this, thanks for the input guys.

Scoob.
 
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