6 Best Alternatives to the Alphacool Eisblock Aurora GPX-N Acrylic (2026)
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You might look for alphacool eisblock aurora gpx n acrylic alternatives if you need a different material or form factor. The original Alphacool Eisblock Aurora GPX-N Acrylic Active Backplate is designed specifically for GeForce RTX 3080 and 3090 Founders Edition cards. It uses nickel-plated copper for the active cooling base and an acrylic top for ARGB lighting. The unit weighs 2.5 pounds and includes G1/4" internal threads or 5/3mm hose ports for loop integration. This setup provides significant thermal performance gains by cooling the rear of the GPU.
You may want to consider other options if you are building for a different socket, need a smaller radiator, or prefer a full copper construction. The 6 products listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the needs of custom loop builders. Some entries offer compatibility with AM4 or AM5 CPUs, while others provide specialized pump tops or RAM cooling. This guide focuses on practical spec comparisons to help you find the right component for your specific loop configuration.
How alternatives compare to the original
Alphacool Eisdecke D5 Plexi Pump Top
This Alphacool Eisdecke D5 Plexi Pump Top differs significantly as a pump reservoir cover rather than a GPU component. It targets users with D5 pumps who need multiple connection ports for loop flexibility. While the original backplate cools graphics cards, this acrylic top manages coolant visibility and connectivity. It weighs 0.44 kilograms and measures 3.15 inches square. You should choose this if your loop requires pump top expansion rather than active GPU back cooling. It lacks the heavy nickel-plated copper construction of the backplate, prioritizing clear acrylic aesthetics and port availability over thermal mass for a GPU.
Alphacool RTX 3090 Acrylic Backplate
The Alphacool RTX 3090 Acrylic Backplate serves the same function as the original but is specific to the RTX 3090 Founders Edition. It shares the acrylic material and ARGB lighting features. This model weighs 2.5 pounds and measures 8.11 inches in length. You might pick this alternative if you have an RTX 3090 rather than a 3080 or the specific Ti model supported by the original. It offers identical active cooling benefits for the rear of the card. The primary difference lies in the specific GPU compatibility, ensuring a precise fit for the 3090 variant without needing different mounting hardware.
Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 50mm Full Copper Radiator
This NexXxoS XT45 radiator is a heat dissipation component, not a GPU block. It uses full copper construction for superior thermal performance in a 50mm depth. Weighing 0.36 kilograms, it is much lighter than the 2.5-pound backplate. You would select this if you need to expand your loop capacity rather than cool a specific card surface. It lacks the acrylic top and ARGB lighting of the original. This choice suits builders who prioritize pure copper heat transfer in compact spaces over the aesthetic and targeted cooling provided by the acrylic GPU backplate.
Watercool HEATKILLER IV Basic AM4 CPU Block
The Watercool HEATKILLER IV Basic is a CPU block for AM4 sockets, completely unrelated to GPU cooling. It features clear acrylic and weighs 0.31 kilograms. This alternative is for users building a CPU loop rather than upgrading a graphics card. It offers no GPU compatibility or active backplate functionality. You should choose this if you need a basic, flow-focused CPU block for AM4 systems. It lacks the heavy copper construction and ARGB lighting of the Alphacool backplate, focusing instead on a clear aesthetic and standard AM4 mounting for processor cooling.
Watercool HEATKILLER IV PRO Acrylic AMD Water Block
This Watercool HEATKILLER IV PRO Acrylic block supports both AM4 and AM5 sockets. It features a copper base with an acrylic top and weighs 10.9 ounces. It is designed for CPU cooling, not GPU backplates. You would pick this if you need a reliable, simple CPU block for newer AMD platforms. It differs entirely from the original by targeting processors rather than graphics cards. It lacks the ARGB lighting and heavy nickel-plated copper construction of the Alphacool backplate, offering a straightforward acrylic design for efficient CPU heat removal in custom loops.
Alphacool Aurora Acryl X4 RAM Water Block
The Alphacool Aurora Acryl X4 RAM Water Block cools four RAM sticks, not a GPU. It features black acrylic and ARGB lighting, weighing 5.28 ounces. This component is for memory cooling within a custom loop. You should choose this if you need to cool RAM modules while maintaining the Aurora aesthetic. It differs from the original by targeting memory rather than the graphics card rear. It lacks the substantial weight and copper construction of the GPU backplate, offering a lightweight solution for specific RAM compatibility and consistent lighting integration with other Alphacool Aurora products.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Alphacool Eisblock Aurora GPX-N Acrylic Active Backplate
Best for: RTX 3080/3090 Founders Edition active back cooling
- Lighting
- 6 digital aRGB LEDs, 5V
- Material
- Nickel-plated copper, acrylic
- Thread Size
- G1/4
- Weight
- 2.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Alphacool Eisblock Aurora GPX-N Acrylic Active Backplate Affiliate link
This active backplate cools the rear of GeForce RTX 3080 and 3090 Founders Edition cards. It uses nickel-plated copper to transfer heat into your loop. The acrylic top matches the Aurora series aesthetic. You can connect it via G1/4 inch threads or 5/3 mm hose ports. Weighing 2.5 pounds, it adds mass to your build. It suits users who want to maximize GPU cooling performance with a matching visual style.
Pros
- Active cooling via nickel-plated copper backplate
- Compatible with G1/4 inch internal thread fittings
- Supports 5/3 mm hose connections on the side
- ARGB acrylic top matches Aurora series
Cons
- Only fits Founders Edition RTX 3080/3090 cards
- Heavy at 2.5 pounds
- Does not include the pump or main GPU block
Good fit if
- You own an RTX 3080 or 3090 Founders Edition
- You want to cool the GPU backplate actively
- You prefer hard tubing or 5/3 mm hose connections
Skip if
- You use non-Founders Edition graphics cards
- You want a complete all-in-one GPU cooling solution
- You need a lighter component under 2 pounds
Verdict: Alphacool GPX-N Acrylic Active Backplate is a specialized add-on for RTX 3080/3090 Founders Edition cards. It fits users who already have a loop and want to cool the card's rear surface for better thermal performance.
Alphacool Eisdecke D5 Plexi Pump Top
Best for: D5 pump users needing multiple ports
- Material
- Plexi (acrylic)
- Thread Size
- G1/4
- Radiator Size
- 40mm
- Pump Compatibility
- D5
- Coolant Color
- Clear
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 3.15 × 1.57 inches
View on Amazon: Alphacool Eisdecke D5 Plexi Pump Top Affiliate link
This is an acrylic pump top designed for the D5 pump. It features five G1/4 ports and includes three plugs. The unit measures 83 by 80 by 87 mm with stands. It weighs 0.44 kg. You need a D5 pump to use it. This top suits builders who want a clear view of coolant flow and multiple connection points for their loop.
Pros
- Five G1/4 inch ports for tubing connections
- Clear acrylic material for coolant visibility
- Includes three G1/4 inch plugs
- Compatible with D5 pumps
Cons
- Pump is not included
- Only fits D5 pumps
- Requires separate purchase of fittings
Good fit if
- You are using a D5 pump
- You need multiple G1/4 inch connections
- You want a clear acrylic top
Skip if
- You do not have a D5 pump
- You need a pump included
- You prefer opaque materials
Verdict: Alphacool Eisdecke D5 Pump Top V.3 Acrylic is a practical addition for D5 pump users. It offers five ports and clear visibility. It fits builders who prioritize connectivity and aesthetics over all-in-one solutions.
Alphacool RTX 3090 Acrylic Backplate
Best for: RTX 3090 Founders Edition active cooling
- Lighting
- ARGB
- Material
- Nickel-plated copper, acrylic
- Thread Size
- G1/4"
- Dimensions
- 8.11 × 4.72 × 0.51 inches
- Weight
- 2.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Alphacool RTX 3090 Acrylic Backplate Affiliate link
This Alphacool Eisblock Aurora Acrylic Active Backplate cools the rear of RTX 3080 and 3090 Founders Edition cards. It uses nickel-plated copper for heat transfer and acrylic for the exterior. You can connect it via G1/4" threads on top or 5/3mm hose ports on the side. The unit weighs 2.5 pounds and measures 8.11 by 4.72 inches. It adds active cooling to your GPU loop for better thermal performance.
Pros
- Active cooling with nickel-plated copper construction
- Compatible with G1/4" internal thread fittings
- Supports 5/3mm hose connections on the side
- ARGB lighting finish
Cons
- Acrylic material is less durable than copper or nickel
- Requires a separate pump loop for active cooling
- Limited to RTX 3080 and 3090 Founders Edition cards
Good fit if
- You own an RTX 3090 Founders Edition card
- You want to cool the back of your GPU
- You prefer acrylic aesthetics with ARGB
Skip if
- You use a non-Founders Edition RTX 3090
- You need passive cooling without a pump
- You prefer copper or nickel construction
Verdict: Alphacool RTX 3090 Acrylic Backplate adds active cooling to RTX 3090 Founders Edition cards. It fits users who want to lower GPU temperatures with a loop and prefer acrylic styling.
Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 50mm Full Copper Radiator
Best for: High-performance cooling in compact 50mm spaces
- Radiator Size
- 50mm
- Material
- Copper
- Thread Size
- G1/4
- Dimensions
- 3.94 × 2.36 × 1.97 inches
- Weight
- 0.36 kilograms
View on Amazon: Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 50mm Full Copper Radiator Affiliate link
This is a 50mm thick, full copper radiator designed for high heat dissipation. It features pure copper pre-chambers, water channels, and fins. Copper offers higher thermal conductivity than aluminum, allowing for better cooling performance when you need to move a lot of heat. The unit weighs 0.36 kilograms and comes in a black finish. It suits builders prioritizing material quality and thermal efficiency in their custom loop.
Pros
- Constructed entirely from pure copper for water-bearing components
- Highest thermal conductivity compared to aluminum radiators
- Significantly higher performance limit for heat dissipation
- Compact 50mm thickness saves space in tight builds
Cons
- Only 50mm thick, limiting total cooling surface area
- Heavier than aluminum equivalents due to copper density
- Limited to 50mm size option in this specific model
Good fit if
- You prioritize maximum thermal conductivity over weight
- You have space for a 50mm thick radiator
- You need to dissipate high heat loads efficiently
Skip if
- You require a thicker radiator for more surface area
- You are building a weight-sensitive SFF case
- You prefer aluminum for its lighter weight
Verdict: Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 Full Copper Radiator delivers superior thermal performance for users who value pure copper construction. It is the right fit for builders who can accommodate its 50mm depth and weight to gain maximum heat dissipation.
Watercool HEATKILLER IV Basic AM4 CPU Block
Best for: AM4 builds needing basic acrylic cooling
- Socket Compatibility
- AMD AM4, AM5
- Material
- Acrylic, Copper
- Thread Size
- G1/4
- Dimensions
- 5.51 × 4.33 × 1.97 inches
- Weight
- 0.31 kilograms
View on Amazon: Watercool HEATKILLER IV Basic AM4 CPU Block Affiliate link
This Watercool HEATKILLER IV Basic block is made for AMD AM4 sockets. It uses clear acrylic for a clean look. The design features a revised cooling structure with finer micro fins. These increase the surface area for better heat transfer. It claims up to 3°C lower temperatures than the predecessor. The block has a real high flow design with larger jet structures. It weighs 0.31 kilograms and fits standard AM4 mounts.
Pros
- Compatible with AMD AM4 sockets
- Clear acrylic construction for a clean aesthetic
- Revised cooling structure with finer micro fins
- Claims up to 3°C temperature decrease over predecessor
- Real high flow design with bigger jet structures
Cons
- Limited to AM4 socket compatibility only
- Basic model lacks premium features found in other list items
- No mention of active backplate support
Good fit if
- You are building an AMD AM4 system
- You prefer a clear acrylic look
- You want improved flow performance
Skip if
- You use an Intel CPU
- You need AM5 socket support
- You require an active backplate
Verdict: Watercool HEATKILLER IV Basic Acrylic AM4 offers a solid base for AM4 builds. It suits users who prioritize flow design and a clear aesthetic over premium extras.
Watercool HEATKILLER IV PRO Acrylic AMD Water Block
Best for: AM5 builders wanting simple, reliable cooling
- Material
- Copper
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5
- Dimensions
- 5.51 × 4.33 × 1.97 inches
- Weight
- 10.9 ounces
View on Amazon: Watercool HEATKILLER IV PRO Acrylic AMD Water Block Affiliate link
This Watercool block supports both AM4 and AM5 sockets, making it a versatile upgrade path. The acrylic top and copper base offer a classic look. It features a high-flow design with integrated jets for better cooling efficiency. The unit weighs 10.9 ounces and fits standard tubing sizes. You get reliable performance without needing complex software setups.
Pros
- Supports AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets
- Acrylic top with copper base
- High-flow design with integrated jets
- Compatible with 16/10 and 19/13 fittings
Cons
- No software control or monitoring
- Heavier than some aluminum alternatives
- Standard acrylic may scratch over time
Good fit if
- You need AM5 support in an existing build
- You prefer mechanical reliability over smart features
- You want a classic acrylic and copper look
Skip if
- You require RGB lighting control
- You need a display for temperature readings
- You are building for an Intel socket only
Verdict: Watercool HEATKILLER IV PRO Acrylic delivers solid cooling for AM5 users who value simplicity. It is a practical choice for builders who want reliable performance without digital complexity.
Alphacool Aurora Acryl X4 RAM Water Block
Best for: Cooling four RAM sticks in custom loops
- Lighting
- Digital RGB, 3-Pin 5V
- Material
- Nickel-plated copper, acrylic
- Thread Size
- G1/4
- Dimensions
- 6.3 × 2.76 × 1.57 inches
- Weight
- 5.28 ounces
View on Amazon: Alphacool Aurora Acryl X4 RAM Water Block Affiliate link
This Alphacool block cools four DIMM slots using a 4 mm thick nickel-plated copper base. It features a flush digital RGB LED strip for lighting. The unit measures 6.3 x 2.76 x 1.57 inches and weighs 5.28 ounces. It is designed for users who already have Alphacool Aurora components. It provides targeted cooling for RAM modules in custom loops.
Pros
- 4 mm thick nickel-plated copper base for heat transfer
- Digital RGB LED strip embedded flush into the side
- Compact dimensions of 6.3 x 2.76 x 1.57 inches
- Designed to match Alphacool Aurora product lighting
Cons
- Requires specific Alphacool D-RAM modules (manufacturer no. 17268)
- Only cools four DIMM slots
- No mention of included mounting hardware or fittings
Good fit if
- You are building a custom loop with Alphacool Aurora components
- You need targeted cooling for four RAM sticks
- You want digital RGB lighting that matches your other blocks
Skip if
- You need a block for eight DIMM slots
- You do not have the required Alphacool D-RAM modules
- You want a complete cooling kit with fittings included
Verdict: Alphacool Aurora Acryl X4 D-RAM Water Block is a specialized component for users with compatible RAM modules. It fits best in loops where you already use Alphacool Aurora products for consistent lighting.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Alphacool Eisblock Aurora GPX-N Acrylic Active Backplate | Alphacool Eisdecke D5 Plexi Pump Top | Alphacool RTX 3090 Acrylic Backplate | Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 50mm Full Copper Radiator | Watercool HEATKILLER IV Basic AM4 CPU Block | Watercool HEATKILLER IV PRO Acrylic AMD Water Block | Alphacool Aurora Acryl X4 RAM Water Block |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | not stated | not stated | not stated | 50mm | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Socket Compatibility | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | AMD AM4, AM5 | not stated | not stated |
| Lighting | 6 digital aRGB LEDs, 5V | not stated | ARGB | not stated | not stated | not stated | Digital RGB, 3-Pin 5V |
| Material | Nickel-plated copper, acrylic | Plexi (acrylic) | Nickel-plated copper, acrylic | Copper | Acrylic, Copper | Copper | Nickel-plated copper, acrylic |
| Thread Size | G1/4 | G1/4 | G1/4" | G1/4 | G1/4 | not stated | G1/4 |
| Pump Compatibility | not stated | D5 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Coolant Color | not stated | Clear | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Weight | 2.5 pounds | 0.44 kilograms | 2.5 pounds | 0.36 kilograms | 0.31 kilograms | 10.9 ounces | 5.28 ounces |
| Dimensions | not stated | 3.15 × 3.15 × 1.57 inches | 8.11 × 4.72 × 0.51 inches | 3.94 × 2.36 × 1.97 inches | 5.51 × 4.33 × 1.97 inches | 5.51 × 4.33 × 1.97 inches | 6.3 × 2.76 × 1.57 inches |
| Color | ARGB | Clear | ARGB | Black | Clear | Copper | Black |
| Model | 13063 | 13189 | 13039 | 14219 | 18016-2 | 18019 | 17467 |
| Size | not stated | not stated | not stated | 50mm | not stated | not stated | not stated |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Alphacool Eisblock Aurora GPX-N Acrylic on an RTX 3090 Founders Edition card?
Yes, Alphacool offers a specific variant for this card. The Alphacool RTX 3090 Acrylic Backplate is designed for active cooling on RTX 3090 Founders Edition models. It features an ARGB finish and weighs 2.5 pounds. This component helps lower GPU temperatures by integrating with your existing liquid cooling loop.
What is the best budget alternative for D5 pump reservoirs?
The Alphacool Eisdecke D5 Plexi Pump Top is a strong budget option. It provides five ports for loop connectivity and features clear acrylic visibility. It weighs 0.44 kilograms and measures 3.15 inches wide. This top is ideal for builders who prioritize practical port access and aesthetic clarity over complex all-in-one solutions.
Which Alphacool radiator is best for pure copper performance?
The Alphacool NexXxoS XT45 50mm Full Copper Radiator is the top choice. It is constructed entirely from copper for superior heat dissipation. It fits in compact 50mm spaces and weighs 0.36 kilograms. This radiator suits users who can accommodate its depth and weight to gain maximum thermal efficiency in their custom loop.
Is there an acrylic CPU block for AM5 processors?
Yes, the Watercool HEATKILLER IV PRO Acrylic supports AM5 sockets. It also works with AM4 processors and features a copper finish. The block weighs 10.9 ounces and offers simple, reliable cooling. It is a practical choice for builders who want solid performance without digital complexity or unnecessary features.
How do I cool four RAM sticks in my loop?
The Alphacool Aurora Acryl X4 RAM Water Block handles four modules. It is made of acrylic with a black finish and weighs 5.28 ounces. This block fits best in loops where you already use Alphacool Aurora products. It ensures consistent lighting and dedicated cooling for your memory modules.
What is the best basic acrylic block for AM4 builds?
The Watercool HEATKILLER IV Basic AM4 CPU Block is a solid base. It features a clear acrylic design and weighs 0.31 kilograms. This block suits users who prioritize flow design and clear aesthetics. It provides reliable cooling for AM4 platforms without premium extras or complex digital controls.
Does the GPX-N backplate include RGB lighting?
Yes, the Alphacool Eisblock Aurora GPX-N Acrylic Active Backplate includes ARGB lighting. It weighs 2.5 pounds and is made of acrylic. This component is designed for RTX 3080 and 3090 Founders Edition cards. It allows users to integrate rear GPU cooling with synchronized lighting in their existing custom loop.