Hey everyone! I'm putting together a new PC build and could use some advice on a few parts, specifically a motherboard, a cooler, and some case fans. Here's my current part list (minus the fans): [PCPartPicker Part List](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/8KzJ2x). I've already bought an AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU, a PowerColor Hellhound OC Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU, and a Lian Li O11D EVO RGB case. I'm hoping to save some costs on the rest of the components if possible. I also want to ensure that the cooler and fans I choose will work well together, especially when it comes to controlling the RGB lighting. I've built a few PCs before, but I'm not entirely sure how to manage the RGB from the different components. Any insights would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
3 Answers
You can connect your fans to an aRGB header on the motherboard and then use something like SignalRGB to control the lighting easily. Fan connections can get tricky—you can daisy chain them or plug them into individual power connectors. Newer models, like Corsair's ICUE link fans, clip together and share power but come at a premium. I just found a good deal on a starter kit that includes the hub: [ICUE Link Fans](https://www.corsair.com/us/en/p/revival-series/CO-9051026-WW-RV/icue-link-lx120-rgb-120mm-pwm-fans-starter-kit-revival-series-co-9051026-ww-rv?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Refurbished&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21521404033&gclid=CjwKCAjw_pDBBhBMEiwAmY02Nk6ieAWAhJJFAaWgPBAdWwvkm3OYt4CecTCmPNWEApw2t8VZmigWNhoCJkQQAvD_BwE).
When it comes to managing aRGB components, you should connect them to your motherboard's aRGB header or use a proprietary controller that plugs into a USB header. Most motherboard brands have their own aRGB software that allows you to control lighting from anything connected to the aRGB header, while brands like Corsair or NZXT provide their own software for their controllers. For your RAM and GPU, keep in mind that they may need brand-specific software for RGB control. And just a heads-up, do you want an AIO cooler with an LCD screen? Also, is your PC primarily for gaming or productivity?
Thanks for the response! I'm leaning toward an AIO with an LCD screen unless it ends up being too costly. It's mainly for gaming, but I might do some light work from home occasionally.
Your part list looks nice, but you could definitely save some cash! For instance, do you really need 64GB of RAM and a 1000W PSU? I'd suggest going for 32GB of RAM and an 850W PSU instead. The motherboard and cooling solutions you picked are quite pricey as well. You could easily cut down on the GPU and case costs, too. Here's a slightly less expensive build option [Here](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/BkvgNz), or keep the 64GB and 1000W setup [Here](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/8BD6jn). Lastly, if you want extra case fans, check out a 3-pack from Thermalright for around $13. They’re reliable and effective!
I've already got the GPU and case, but I did get a steal on the GPU when it released. For the PSU, I'm finding that 750W costs about the same as the one I chose, but I might look into other options for the motherboard and PSU. Appreciate your input!
Thanks! If I get that fan set with the hub, can I connect any other fans to that hub? Do they also need to be Corsair fans?