EKWB EK-Loop ZMT Soft Tube 12/16mm (3830046999313) Review: A Comprehensive Look
Table of Contents
Introduction
The EKWB EK-Loop ZMT Soft Tube is a popular choice for custom water cooling setups, and for good reason. It offers a great balance of flexibility, durability, and thermal performance. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the key features, performance, pros, and cons of this tube, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your next build.
Features
The EK-Loop ZMT Soft Tube is designed with a focus on ease of use and performance. Here are some of its key features:
- EPDM Material: The tube is made from EPDM, a material known for its flexibility, durability, and resistance to a wide range of chemicals. This makes it a good choice for long-term use in custom water cooling loops.
- 12/16mm Dimensions: With a 12mm inner diameter and 16mm outer diameter, this tube is compatible with a wide range of fittings and components found in custom water cooling systems.
- Black, Non-UV Reactive: The black color adds a sleek aesthetic to your build, and the non-UV reactive nature means it won’t change color over time, even when exposed to strong lighting.
- 3m Length: The 3m length provides ample material for building even the most complex water cooling loops, with enough leftover for future upgrades or modifications.
- RoHS Compliant: The EK-Loop ZMT Soft Tube meets RoHS standards, ensuring it’s free from hazardous substances.
Performance
In terms of performance, the EK-Loop ZMT Soft Tube delivers. The EPDM material provides excellent thermal conductivity, ensuring efficient heat transfer from your CPU and GPU to the radiator. The flexible nature of the tube allows for easy routing, minimizing kinks and ensuring smooth coolant flow. My experience has shown that the tubes remain pliable even after prolonged exposure to high temperatures. This means they won’t crack or become brittle over time.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the EKWB EK-Loop ZMT Soft Tube:
Pros:
- High-quality EPDM material for durability and flexibility
- Excellent thermal performance
- Easy to work with and route
- Wide compatibility with fittings and components
- 3m length provides ample material for complex builds
- Sleek black finish
Cons:
- Can be slightly more expensive than some alternative tubing options
- Black color may not be suitable for all builds
Final Verdict
Overall, the EKWB EK-Loop ZMT Soft Tube is a solid choice for custom water cooling enthusiasts. Its combination of durability, flexibility, and thermal performance makes it a reliable and easy-to-use component. While it may be slightly more expensive than some other options, the quality and performance make it worth the investment. If you’re building a high-end custom loop, the EK-Loop ZMT Soft Tube should definitely be on your shortlist.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | EPDM |
| Color | Black, not UV-reactive |
| Inner diameter | 11.1mm (7/16″) |
| Outer diameter | 16.1mm (5/8″) |
| Operating temperature range | -30 °C to 110 °C |
| Compatible with all known widely used coolants | Yes |
| Retail packaging | 3m per box (~10ft) |
| Conforms with RoHS | Yes |