If I didn't overclock my CPU...

[j.col]

Well I was going to go for a H100 and call it a day.

But this PC is suppose to last me a good 5 years if possible (with some small upgrades and so on) so a heavy overclock will happen eventually (assuming I win the silicon lottery).

Also, I did want it to stand out in my bedroom. I guess it's still a debate in my head but watercooling is edging it.

Finally, due to ... "future career choices", watercooling would be a nice addition to my plans

the H100 is good, but to match top end air cooling, the fans have to be on high rpm, and then its louder than a proper air cooler.
so many h100 users buy better fans, which is an extra expense.
have you considered the EK-KIT H3O 240 kit?
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=WC-170-EK&groupid=962&catid=1532&subcat=
this will easily beat the h100 for temps and noise.
or do your research, and buy used parts for a custom diy water loop

 

[HangTime]

A modest overclock on stock cooler will not be massively slower in most games, since there is usually a GPU limitation. RTS games can be a bit different, but I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[AshD93]

the H100 is good, but to match top end air cooling, the fans have to be on high rpm, and then its louder than a proper air cooler.
so many h100 users buy better fans, which is an extra expense.
have you considered the EK-KIT H3O 240 kit?
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=WC-170-EK&groupid=962&catid=1532&subcat=
this will easily beat the h100 for temps and noise.
or do your research, and buy used parts for a custom diy water loop

Yeah, that's what I was trying to say. I'd prefer to get a full loop. Done lots of research. It's just the 670 Blocks are ****e with the ports being in the same direction.

But a full loop is what is going on after. Need to get the computer first