Hardware enthusiast TrashBench conducted a series of experiments to test how unconventional PC component layouts affect thermal performance. Using a desktop equipped with a triple-fan RTX 3080 and a 360mm all-in-one liquid cooler, the creator maintained constant thermal loads through 3DMark Time Spy and 7-Zip stress tests.
Initial tests involved relocating the graphics card to the bottom of the case or mounting it vertically at various angles. The results showed that extreme, non-standard positions could reduce GPU hotspot temperatures by up to 19 degrees Celsius, though this configuration caused CPU temperatures to rise significantly.
The creator eventually identified an optimal balance by vertically mounting the GPU directly facing the side intake fans while keeping the CPU liquid cooler in a traditional exhaust configuration. This setup achieved a 14-degree Celsius reduction in GPU hotspot temperatures and a 3.3-degree Celsius drop for the CPU.
The experiment utilized PCIe riser cables of various lengths to facilitate the component repositioning. While these findings highlight the impact of airflow and hardware placement on cooling, the results are specific to the tested platform and may vary depending on individual case structures.
