Fittings and connectors for liquid cooling loops: compression and barb fittings, angled adapters, T-fittings, stop plugs, drain valves and extenders. The category suits first-time loop builders as well as anyone extending an existing system. Our range includes over 500 products, with Alphacool, EK Water Blocks, Bitspower and Thermal Grizzly among the main brands.
How to choose fittings and connectors for liquid cooling
Thread. Most PC liquid cooling parts (water blocks, radiators, reservoirs, pumps) use a G1/4 thread, so fittings of that standard fit almost every port. Check that all your components use the same thread before you order.
Tubing type and diameter. Soft tubing works with barb or compression fittings, while rigid tubing (acrylic, PETG or metal) needs compression fittings matched to its outer diameter. Fittings are sized to the tubing, for example 10/13 mm for soft tubing or 14 mm outer diameter for rigid, so note these measurements first.
Shape and purpose. Straight fittings suit direct runs, while 45 and 90 degree angled or rotary fittings let you route around a graphics card or memory modules without kinking the tube. A drain valve or a T-fitting is worth considering too, as it makes changing the coolant much easier.
Metal and finish. Keep to the same kind of metal in the loop, such as nickel-plated copper or brass, because mixing different metals in coolant can cause galvanic corrosion. Black, white or gold finishes are mostly a matter of looks, so match them to the rest of your build.
Brands we carry
- Alphacool: a German manufacturer known for a very large selection of fittings, adapters and other liquid cooling accessories.
- EK Water Blocks: a Slovenian manufacturer whose EK-Quantum and EK-Loop lines are designed to work together as one system.
- Bitspower: a Taiwanese manufacturer popular for its large choice of fittings, plugs and adapters in many finishes.
- Thermal Grizzly: a German manufacturer best known for thermal pastes, including liquid metal.
- Barrow: a Chinese manufacturer offering fittings and water blocks for custom loops.
- Koolance: a US manufacturer known for quick disconnect couplings, which let you separate part of a loop without spilling coolant.
- Watercool and Optimus: both focus on enthusiast-grade CPU and graphics card water blocks.
Also in our range: XSPC, Thermaltake, Corsair and Raijintek.
Frequently asked questions
What thread do liquid cooling fittings use?
Most use a G1/4 thread. This is the standard on the majority of PC water blocks, radiators and reservoirs. It is still worth checking the specification of each part.
Can I mix fittings from different brands?
Yes, as long as the thread is the same (for example G1/4) and the fitting matches your tubing diameter. Pay attention to the metals used, since different metals in one loop can corrode. Use the sealing O-rings that come with the fitting.
What is the difference between compression and barb fittings?
A compression fitting clamps the tube with a threaded collar, so it works with both soft and rigid tubing. A barb fitting holds only soft tubing pushed over its ridges and is often secured with a clamp. Compression fittings are usually neater to fit, while barbs are simpler.
How many fittings does a loop need?
Each part with two ports needs at least two fittings, and every bend, drain valve or fill port adds more. Buy a few more than your first plan suggests. A spare stop plug or two also helps when you test the loop.
