GoKawiilModder TrashBench finds GPU repositioning cuts hotspot temps by up to 19°C
PC modder TrashBench rearranged components in an RTX 3080 desktop, moving the GPU away from its standard PCIe slot into alternate case positions while testing under a constant load from looping 3DMark Time Spy and 7-Zip benchmarks. One configuration cut GPU hotspot temperatures by 19°C but hurt CPU cooling, while a balanced setup achieved a 14°C hotspot reduction alongside a 3.3°C cooler CPU.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The experiment suggests that conventional PC case layouts, long assumed optimal, may not actually deliver the best thermal performance for every build. This could encourage enthusiasts and case manufacturers to rethink airflow assumptions, though the findings come from one modder's specific hardware setup rather than a controlled industry study.
- Moving the GPU out of its standard PCIe slot position improved hotspot cooling in tests.
- A balanced configuration achieved both a 14°C GPU hotspot reduction and a 3.3°C cooler CPU.
- Results highlight that traditional PC layouts may not be thermally optimal for all builds.
Lian Li O11 Dynamic EVO PC Case — If you're inspired to experiment with unconventional GPU placement and airflow like TrashBench, a case with modular, repositionable layouts is essential. The O11 Dynamic EVO is beloved by case modders for its flexible chamber design, letting you reroute GPU and radiator placement to chase exactly these kinds of thermal gains.
See Lian Li O11 Dynamic EVO PC Case on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: tomshardware.com — Mark Tyson, 2026-10-11
Published there as: “Modder discovers that putting a GPU in the 'wrong place' can deliver a 19 degree cooler hotspot”
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