Constructing a PC is never simple. However, once you grasp the concept, it can be exceedingly enjoyable and gratifying.
Crafting a computer from the ground up requires at least some planning if you want to end up with a tidy and organized build. One of the most effective ways to get a cleaner look for your computer is by mounting your GPU vertically.
Doing this requires a bit more knowledge, and you should get exactly that from this guide.
Table of ContentsShow
Why Would You Mount A GPU Vertically?
Before we explain what you need to do, you should first consider all of the pros and cons.
The main reason anyone would do this is that it will make your rig much more attractive. Why? Today, most graphics cards’ prettiest side is the bottom, where you can see the fans and most of the RGB goodness.
However, as most PC cases and motherboards are designed to mount the GPU with its side facing up, we don’t get to see this. By mounting a graphics card vertically, you will be able to have the “right side” facing up. This is particularly advantageous for cases with a transparent panel.
One advantage is that if a card is put up and down, GPU droop doesn’t happen.
However, there is a snag!
It isn’t all good news when it comes to vertical mounting. There are a few substantial disadvantages. One of the biggest detriments is that mounting your GPU this way hinders access to all the other PCIe lanes on your motherboard.
This means no expansion, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or any other kind of PCIe card.
It can also restrict airflow inside your case, which is vital for low GPU temperatures. This happens because the card’s fans are too close to the case’s panel. The issue is even worse if the panel is made of glass.
Keep in mind that there are some instances where a vertical mount would actually improve your computer’s airflow.
Regardless, the drawbacks are not excessively substantial. If you choose to neglect them and proceed with this endeavor, proceed!
Case Compatibility
Every computer case is built differently. Some are smaller, while others are much larger, and there are many in-between. Of course, they also come with different price tags.
This is important to remember because not every case is compatible with a vertically mounted GPU. Some can be modified to accommodate such a mount, while others make it impossible. Be sure to do some research on your case before you decide to proceed with this project.
Try searching on Google to ascertain whether or not this type of project has already been completed with the identical case as yours.
There are also some instances, such as NZXT’s H510i (more commonly known as its predecessor, H500i), that are ready for a vertical mount out of the box. In these cases, all you will need is a PCIe riser, which brings us to the next subject.
Vertical Mount Plate And PCIe Riser
For cases that are not designed for such mounts, you will need to order a upright mount plate and a PCIe elevator. These shouldn’t be too costly, and the elevator will likely be more affordable.
Once you have those two components, it’s time to install the GPU.
Vertically Mounting The GPU In Your Case
The procedure of mounting the GPU will be different for every case, so we’ll use the H500i as an example.
First, remove the card from your case by unscrewing all of the essential screws and pushing down the latch on the motherboard’s PCIe slot.
Next, add the vertical mount plate (if necessary) by following the instructions. This should be uncomplicated.
Now, plug the PCIe riser cable into the topmost PCIe slot and attach it to the vertical mount plate (if required).
With that done, you just need to plug the GPU into the riser cable, fasten it in, and you are finished!
Shut the side panel, connect your PC, and turn it on. If everything runs well, well done! You have effectively installed your GPU in a vertical position.