Tubing and hoses for custom PC liquid cooling loops: flexible soft tubing and rigid tubes for anyone building or upgrading a water-cooled computer. Our range holds over 130 products, including Alphacool, Bitspower, Barrow and EK Water Blocks, so you can match the tube to your fittings and the look of your build.
How to choose tubing for a liquid cooling loop
Soft or rigid. Soft tubing bends by hand and forgives mistakes, so it suits a first loop and cases with tight routing. Rigid tubes (usually acrylic, PETG or metal) need precise cuts and heating or bending tools, but they give straight, tidy runs and are popular in show builds.
Diameter. Tubing is specified by inner and outer diameter, for example 10/13 mm, 10/16 mm or 13/19 mm. Fittings are made for a specific size, so choose the fittings first and then the tube that matches them.
Material and coolant. Some PVC tubing can release plasticiser over time, which clouds the coolant and may clog the fine channels in a CPU water block. Materials that leach very little, such as EPDM, avoid this. Check that the manufacturer states compatibility with your coolant, especially if you plan to use a coloured or pastel one.
Length and spares. Measure the route between the radiator, pump and water blocks, then add some extra length. With rigid tubes it is worth buying spares, since a badly measured cut or a failed bend means replacing the section.
Brands we carry
- Alphacool: a German liquid cooling specialist, known for its Eisbaer coolers, and the brand with the most products in this category (over 90).
- Bitspower: a Taiwanese manufacturer known for fittings and rigid tubing aimed at neat, visually polished builds.
- Barrow: a Chinese manufacturer known for fittings and water blocks available in many colours.
- EK Water Blocks: a Slovenian manufacturer known for water blocks and the EK-Loop line of custom loop parts.
- XSPC: known for ready-made liquid cooling kits, reservoirs and pumps.
- Thermaltake and Corsair: both are better known for cases and power supplies, but each has its own liquid cooling line (Pacific and Hydro X).
- Aqua Computer: a German manufacturer known for its aquaero fan and pump controllers.
Also in our range: Stealkey Customs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best tubing for PC water cooling?
For a first loop, soft tubing is usually the easier choice because it bends by hand without special tools. Rigid acrylic or PETG tubes suit builds where straight, tidy runs matter, but they demand more precise work. Whichever you pick, the diameter must match your fittings.
What size tubing do I need for a liquid cooling loop?
You need the size that matches your fittings. Popular soft tubing sizes include 10/13 mm, 10/16 mm and 13/19 mm (inner/outer diameter). For rigid tubes, fittings are normally chosen by the outer diameter.
Can I mix tubing and fittings from different brands?
Usually yes, provided the diameter and fitting type match. Most fittings use a G1/4 thread to connect to water blocks and radiators, so fittings from different makers often work together. Before buying, compare the tube's outer diameter with the fitting's specification.
When should I replace the tubing in a water cooling loop?
There is no fixed interval, but replace tubing when it yellows, stiffens, cracks or starts to cloud the coolant. The easiest time to inspect it is whenever you change the coolant. Coloured coolant and heat can speed up ageing of the material.
