Help me understand diff between nickel and acetal

[grumpybeard]

Hi,

Putting together a parts list for my first foray into a watercooled build. Appreciate it if someone can help me understand the difference between acetal and nickel when in comes to selecting components.

For example, liking the look of this 980ti plus waterblock - it comes in 4 options:

1. Nickel
2. Acetal
3. Aceltal nickel
4. A "blank" option, whatever that is...

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=WC-125-TL&groupid=962&catid=2091


Notice similar options on CPU blocks. Are there cosmetic differences between the options. For info I like the plain black look. Many thanks.

 

[grumpybeard]

Ok that helps me with the cosmetic understanding. My preference would be acetal then.

What about any performance benefits of one over the other. Some enlightenment over the choice of the acetal nickel "mix" would be helpful.