PC Modding with OcUK is back with another helpful guide. In this blog post, we’re highlighting everything you need to know about vertical GPU mounting. We’ll be showcasing what it is and what hardware you need to vertically mount your graphics card.
What is Vertical GPU Mounting?
Vertical GPU mounting is a different method of orientating your graphics card. As opposed to the traditional horizontal layout, where the fans are facing down, they are pointing towards the side panel.
Pros
- Allows you to create a show stopping gaming PC.
- More aesthetically pleasing – allowing you to showcase features of your GPU that are often hidden such as integrated coolers or RGB lighting.
- Can help to prevent GPU sag.
Cons
- Needs an additional vertical GPU bracket and cable.
- Requires a case that has a wide enough GPU clearance. If your case doesn’t, this can cause issues with cooling and airflow as the GPU is situated too close to the side panels.
What Do I Need to Vertically Mount my GPU?
To successfully mount your GPU vertically, you’ll need a compatible PC case, suitable vertical bracket and PCIe riser cable.
Compatible PC Case
First up you need a PC case that supports vertical GPU mounting. These cases come with plenty of GPU clearance to accommodate large graphics cards and vertical orientations, whilst still boasting lots of airflow.
HAVN HS 420 VGPU Premium Mid Tower Case – White
- Mid tower PC case
- UniSheet tempered glass panel
- 470mm GPU clearance
- Innovative airflow design to support vertical GPUs
- Supports up to eleven 140mm fans
Lian Li A3 mATX Wood Edition – Black
- SFF PC case
- Supports up to mATX motherboards
- GPU clearance of up to 415mm
- Vertical GPU support (mounting kit not included)
- Stylish design with black finish and real wood accents
Bracket
Most case manufacturers will have their own dedicated vertical GPU brackets. It’s vital you select a bracket that is compatible with your PC case, as every chassis is different. Your PC case will have specific mounting points and you’ll also need to ensure it has a wide enough GPU clearance.
If you don’t, you run the risk of your GPU not fitting when installed vertically or suffering from poor airflow and cooling.
Kolink Vertical GPU Mounting Kit for Observatory Y/Z and Stronghold Prime
- Vertical GPU mounting kit
- Compatible with Kolink Observatory Y/Z and Stronghold Prime
- Includes 230mm PCIe 3.0 riser cable
- Supports triple slot GPUs
Phanteks PCIe Gen5 DRGB Vertical GPU Bracket
- Vertical GPU mounting kit with innovative mounting system
- Can be installed in cases with seven PCIe slots
- Includes PCIe 5.0 riser cable
- Adjustable tilt between 15- and 30-degrees
- DRGB lighting strip
Riser Cable
A PCIe riser cable is vital for ensuring you can still connect your GPU to the motherboard, even when installed vertically.
be quiet High Speed PCIe 4.0 Graphics Card Riser Cable
- PCIe riser cable
- Gen 4.0
- 200mm length
- Includes a support base
- Compatible with select Dark, Silent, Pure, Light, and Shadow Base cases
Read More in PC Modding with OcUK
Want to read more in our PC Modding with OcUK series? Check out some of our other articles down below.
Have You Vertically Mounted Your GPU?
Have you vertically mounted your graphics card? Share your installation tips in the comments!
- 3 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over four years and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
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