In theory, the Phanteks Evolv X2 is not the ideal case for custom watercooling. Quite the contrary, in fact. With its limited radiator support and narrow chamber, it lends itself better to an AIO configuration. We did, however, come across a few interesting attempts on release. But the best was yet to come!
Evolv X2: BTF suits it so well
The story of the Phanteks Evolv X2 has a strange beginning in the world of modding. At the time of its release, most modders agreed that this case was not suitable for custom watercooling. We recognize its unique and successful design. Its limitations are also quickly identified, notably in terms of radiator support. But the well-known obstinacy of the designers leads, against all odds, to an avalanche of custom builds on release. Everyone wants to prove they can do it. We see some beautiful things, some creativity, some performance. But the Evolv X2’s unique personality is systematically lost. Its sleek lines and the floating appearance of the front chamber disappear. An impossible marriage? All it took was a little patience and the intervention of Justin Chu.
On the front, nothing. Not a cable, not even a tube or fitting. And yet, the 9800X3D is cooled by custom watercooling. To achieve this, Justin combines the Asus B850 TUF GAMING WIFI motherboard (rear connectors) with an RTX 4070ti Super, also from the Asus BTF range. On the CPU, he installs a Stealth Block Bitspower (Revo). This waterblock , originally developed by Vietnamese modder Modding Cafe, offsets its inputs/outputs to the rear of the motherboard. It completes the picture by camouflaging the 360mm radiator connections with a 3D-printed plate. It couldn’t be more streamlined!
Behind the scenes
A magician shouldn’t reveal his tricks, but… Justin reveals the appearance of the Evolv X2’s PSU chamber. It’s a real challenge to manage the cables and tubes that make up this unique front panel. The DDC tank/pump combo installed in front of the power supply is a compact Barrow model. Justin has definitely made the most of this distinctive waterblock , and offers us one of the most successful builds in this case. Unstoppable? Rumor has it that Sarah Carlos is about to reveal her own interpretation, while LiquidHaus is also tinkering behind the scenes. We’re likely to be hearing a lot more about the Evolv X2, which lends itself rather well to customization.
