Any gamer no matter how hardcore or casual will have noticed their system heating up after playing continuously for a few hours even. When you touch your CPU and find it too hot to the touch, then for many it’s a scramble to switch off the computer and let the CPU rest for some time. After all, no sane person will risk damaging their CPU forever in exchange for a couple of hours of gaming.
But if you are in the middle of intense gaming then switching off your computer for a couple of hours to go do nothing can be incredibly boring. To prevent such a situation and ensure that you can keep on gaming forever you need to get CPU water blocks. CPU water blocks are an efficient and effective cooling solution.
Won’t CPU fans do the same work? Fans indeed do a good job of keeping all the electronic components chill and cool. But gaming needs high-end hardware and you might have to get your PCs to run faster for a particular application. In such cases, you will find that your fan won’t be able to give you the needed cooling. So if your CPU gets too hot then it’s time to opt for liquid cooling.
But isn’t it a gamble to put liquid or water close to electrical components? Yes, there are risks but the rewards far exceed anything as such. A water cooling system works like that of a vehicle like a car. The heat gets transferred from the hot object to the colder one. So the cold object or here water gets warm and the warm component gets cooler. This fast cooling system will prevent your CPU from failing and as a result, you will be able to use the product for a long time.
But there are a lot of manufacturers who are making such CPU water blocks. How will you know which one is the best and will keep your CPU cool? To help you out here’s a list of the very best CPU water blocks.
11 Best CPU Water Block in 2023 [Reviews]
The below list contains the very best CPU water blocks. These components are effective, safe, and durable. Investing in these will keep your CPU running longer. These CPU water blocks are:
Image
Product
Features
Price
Fosa Computer AM2 / AM2+ / AM3 / AM3+ / AM4 / FM2+ CPU Water Cooling Block Water block Copper Base with MicroChannel
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XSPC Raystorm Neo Water block, Intel CPU, Metal
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EKWB EK-Velocity CPU Water block, RGB, Intel CPU, Nickel/Plexi
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CORSAIR Hydro X Series, XC9 RGB CPU Water Block,16 Individually-addressable RGB LEDs, Software-Enabled
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Phanteks PH-C350I_BK C350I CPU Water Block RGB LED Solid-SKU Mounting Bracket Black Edition
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Thermaltake CL-W139-CU00SW-A Pacific DIY LCS INTEL/AMD with AM4 Support W4 RGB CPU Water Block
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EKWB EK-Velocity sTR4 CPU Water block, Digital RGB, AMD Threadripper CPU, RGB/Nickel/Plexi
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Aveks CPU Water Cooling Block
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EKWB EK-Velocity CPU Water block, AMD CPU, Copper/Plexi
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LENX Professional Special Raystorm CPU Water block For INTEL Water Cool System Computer Black
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1. Fosa Computer AM2 / AM2+ / AM3 / AM3+ / AM4 / FM2+ CPU Water Cooling Block Water block Copper Base with MicroChannel
No products found.
- Product dimensions: 10.3 * 6.3cm / 4.1 * 2.5in
- Item Weight: 11.3 ounces
- Compatibility: AM2, AM3, AM2+, AM4, AM3+, and FM2+ CPUs
With this water block, you will get 4 screws and springs along with a baseboard to install it. Also, there’s one silica-gel grease as well. The water contact space is huge so it will be able to keep the CPU cool and also do it quickly. It has a small water channel through which it is done.
You will be able to use this water block for AM2, AM3, AM2+, AM4, AM3+, as well as FM2+ CPUs. AM2 supports the AMD-Phenom processors. These are also compatible with AM2+. The AM2+ socket comes with split-power planes. The HyperTransport 3.0 AM2+ chips are compatible with the AM2 motherboard.
You will find that the AM3 processors do run on the socket AM2 as well as AM2+ motherboards using the necessary BIOS updates. AM3 processors support both DDR3 SDRAM as well as DDR2. AM4 chips support the DDR4 memory and work with high-end CPUs. Know that it comes with 4 holes which you can use for pinning the motherboard and heat sink together. The lateral lengths are 54×90 mm. But every other AMD CPU comes with lateral lengths of 48 × 96 mm respectively. But you won’t have any issues fixing this water block at all.
This water block comes with a top cover and red copper which is present at the very bottom. The top cover is made of op transparent acrylic. The water block comes with a buckle holder which is constructed using stainless steel. The bottom portion is made using anti-oxidization technology that will prevent the copper from getting damaged. Due to this, you will find that this component will last long.
Pros
- Large area
- Non-oxidizing copper at the bottom
- High compatibility
- Quick cooling
- Transparent cover at the top
Cons
- None
2. XSPC Raystorm Neo Water block, Intel CPU, Metal
No products found.
- Package Dimensions: 14.2 x 10.1 x 6.9 cm
- Weight: 727 Grams
- Compatibility: LGA2011, LGA2066, LGA1155, LGA1366, LGA1156, LGA1151, LGA1150 and LGA2011-3
This water block uses a combination of brass and copper to make it. The brass base is made up of copper and the top is made of chrome plated-glass. You will find that the thick brass base makes the component durable and ensures that it doesn’t get damaged easily at all.
The top chrome-plated glass is scratch as well as crack resistant. It offers the strength and durability needed to ensure the longevity of the product. You will find that this brass and chrome-plated glass combination will give you the peace of mind you need. After all none of these materials are fragile in any sense.
It’s hold down bracket is made using solid aluminum. But you can rest assured there’s zero aluminum used in the flow path of the coolant. This ensures that there’s no chance of any aluminum debris getting in the way or polluting the coolant later on. Due to this, there’s less chance of the component getting damaged due to restriction.
This water block supports the Intel sockets of LGA2011, LGA2066, LGA1155, LGA1366, LGA1156, LGA1151, LGA1150, and LGA2011-3. The component makes use of a mounting system that ensures that you find it easier to install it. Also, you don’t have to buy any mounting hardware separately, everything comes packaged within. There is even a thermal paste to help you stick it.
Pros
- Brass base
- Chrome-plated top
- Solid aluminum bracket
- No aluminum in the coolant
- Wide Intel CPU compatibility
Cons
- None
3. EKWB EK-Velocity CPU Water block, RGB, Intel CPU, Nickel/Plexi
No products found.
- Product Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches
- Item Weight: 9.5 ounces
- Compatibility: LGA-1156, 1151, 1155, 2011(-3), 1150 and LGA-2066
This CPU water block is made for the modern Intel CPUs. Its design is very fresh as well as new. This means that you will be able to use it for multiple variations. This will certainly please both demanding users as well as enthusiasts.
The component ensures that you get optimal coolant-flow as well as high performance. Since this product comes with a low hydraulic-flow barrier so you will be able to use it in lower pump-speeds as well. Due to this you will be able to ensure quiet operation and be able to game more peacefully.
This product comes with RGB lighting too which ensures that you will be able to locate where it’s at and keep an eye on how it’s working if you want. But if nothing else, this lighting will certainly spice up your CPU and gaming room. After all, there’s are 24 LEDs that are used in the aesthetic cover that connects to the 12V 4-pin RGB header.
The water block comes with a nickel-plated copper cold plate that is durable and resistant to any damage. It has been precisely made into a dense micro-fin construct. On the top cover, there is acrylic glass. This glass is transparent but also scratch and crack resistant. It is very durable and won’t get damaged easily at all.
There is a jet nozzle which is incorporated with a very thick jet plate that ensures you get precise bow-control. This simplified structure ensures that you get a better and more optimized flow along with a structure that is easier to maintain. The water block can be used on all kinds of popular motherboard technologies that are RGB synced. Do note that the arrow marks in the LED connector with 4-pin needs to get aligned with all the +12V marks on the header (RGB). It works with LGA-1156, 1151, 1155, 2011(-3), 1150, and LGA-2066.
Pros
- RGB lighting
- Wide compatibility
- Acrylic glass plate
- Nickel-plated copper plate
- Optimized flow
Cons
- None
4. CORSAIR Hydro X Series, XC9 RGB CPU Water Block,16 Individually-addressable RGB LEDs, Software-Enabled
No products found.
- Item Weight: 3.68 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 3.66 x 3.66 x 1.34 inches
- Compatibility: AMD sTR4 OR LGA 2066
Know that with this nickel-plated copper plate as well as with the 70 high-grade micro-cooling fins you will be able to get the heat away from the CPU. This will lower the temperatures and you will be able to get the best possible over-clocking that will help you play high-resolution games. The plate is sturdy and durable so that you get the lingerie you need.
The machine comes with RGB LEDs that will make the CPU look amazing. It will let you have fun and spice up your gaming sessions. You will get 16 RGB LEDs that will give you a customizable 360° lighting. If you use the RGB controller called CORSAIR iCUE then you will be able to sync and customize all the RGB lighting all across your Corsair RGB materials. This includes keyboards, fans, water blocks, and more.
The component had a trim made up of sandblasted aluminum as well as a transparent flow chamber. This is equivalent to any high-grade system construction and additionally, it will let you show off as well as see the coolant easily.
The product is very easy to put in an AMD sTR4 or LGA 2066 socket. This is because they come with mounting screws that are pre-installed and come with a thermal material that is already pre-applied. So the installation is very easy and you will be able to get it done without any hassle or issue.
Pros
- Nickel-plated copper plate
- Easy installation
- 70 cooling fins
- 16 RGB LEDs
- Sandblasted aluminum trim
Cons
- Low compatibility
5. Phanteks PH-C350I_BK C350I CPU Water Block RGB LED Solid-SKU Mounting Bracket Black Edition
No products found.
- Product Dimensions: 8.99 x 8.99 x 0.89 cm
- Item Weight: 199.58 Grams
- Compatibility: C350I CPU
This product is constructed out of the very best materials so that you get a great return for your investment. You will find that it comes with Viton o-ring that is military standard. These help in withstanding the increasing temperature better. So this will give you the much-needed advantage when it comes to tolerating the high temperatures of an overclocked CPU.
Also additionally, these Viton rubber-washers give you the kind of ruggedness that helps components resist any kind of damage during the time of installation as well as use. But that’s not all. You will find that this helps in sealing the component so that there’s a lesser chance of leaks even after long periods of compression.
The water block has an internal fin of 0.15mm construction. This helps in optimal heat distribution and dissipation. Due to this, you will be able to enjoy the optimum cooling performance. The component comes with an acrylic top cover that is scratch resistant as well as crack resistant. You will find that this top cover comes with the necessary tensile strength to give you the needed durability.
The base plate of this water block is made up of nickel-plated copper. This thick base will give you the durability you need against incurring any damage. The base is crack and scratch resistant as well and it will last in its new and perfect condition for a long time. Also, know that the cover plates have been sandblasted so that you get a very elegant look to work with.
The mounting bracket comes with Phanteks’ PH-NDC. This helps in improving the ability of thermal conduction between the two components. As a result of this the CPU will cool down faster and you will be able to resume gaming with the ease of mind.
Pros
- Phanteks’ PH-NDC
- Viton rubber-washers
- Viton o-ring
- Nickel-plated copper base
- Acrylic top cover
Cons
- Low compatibility
6. Thermaltake CL-W139-CU00SW-A Pacific DIY LCS INTEL/AMD with AM4 Support W4 RGB CPU Water Block
No products found.
- Product Dimensions: 9.35 x 9.35 x 2.21 cm
- Item Weight: 671.32 Grams
- Compatibility: Intel and AMD
This water block comes with RGB LED lighting. So if you love gaming for long hours then this will certainly change up your normal gaming sessions. The component comes with an internal fin of 0.15mm that will help in rapid cooling.
The product has a base made of copper that comes with anti-corrosive nickel plating. This ensures that the product lasts longer. The copper already is durable and won’t crack under pressure easily. The top cover is made from PMMA which is shatter resistant as well as lightweight. This kind of durability ensures that it lasts for a long time.
You will find that this comes with a universal kind of mounting system that will give you the ability to install it without any tools. This water block fits in easily with most of the G1/4 fittings. So if you give you a higher level of compatibility when it comes to building custom made PCs. More specifically this water block works with Intel LGA 2011-3, 2066, 1156, 1155, 775, 1150, 1151, 2011, and 1366. It also works with AMD processors, namely AM2, AM4, AM3, FM2, AM2+, and FM1.
The water block comes with universal mounting hardware and brackets that will help you out in the case of AMD and Intel hardware. It also comes with thermal paste. Of course, the installation process will be different for different processors. So you will get a user guide to help you out.
Pros
- RGB lighting
- Universal mounting systems
- Wide compatibility
- Copper base
- PMMA top cover
Cons
- None
7. EKWB EK-Velocity sTR4 CPU Water block, Digital RGB, AMD Threadripper CPU, RGB/Nickel/Plexi
No products found.
- Product Dimensions: 5.12 x 4.72 x 2.36 inches
- Item Weight: 1.12 pounds
- Compatibility: AMD SocketTR4, and AMD Socket SP3
This water block has been made for the processors of AMD Ryzen Threadripper. The top part of this component is constructed out of CNC machined acrylic material. This makes the product shatter-resistant and long-lasting.
You will find that the base is made from pure copper which improves the durability of the product and prevents it from taking any damages. But pure copper isn’t directly used to make the cold plate, it is indeed treated using nickel electroplating.
This product comes loaded with an error-preventing mounting system. To install this you will have to use the mounting holes of the SocketTR4. Due to this, you won’t have to fumble and will instead get the perfect installation. This will save you precious time and effort. What this means is that the product is fully compatible with the AMDs socket SP3 server type motherboards. You will find that you won’t have to get rid of the motherboard and as a result, it will be hassle-free installation.
Also, know that this product is indeed compatible with all the famous RGB synced technologies made by famous motherboard manufacturers. You will be able to remove the LED strip to then replace it with another kind of LED strip here. This ensures that you will be able to have tonnes of fun and create new lighting in your gaming room every day. To install it you will be to align the arrow markings present in the LED 3-pin connector with the markings of +5V present on the A-RGB(D_RGB) top.
Pros
- RGB synced tech
- Error-preventing mounting systems
- Copper base
- Acrylic top
- Easy installation
Cons
- Low compatibility
8. Aveks CPU Water Cooling Block
No products found.
- Product dimensions: 2 x 2 x 2 inches
- Item weight: 5 ounces
- Compatibility: AMD 940, AM2, AM3, Intel LGA 1150, LGA2011, Intel 775, 1155, 1156, 1366
When talking about a CPU water cooling block, you need to consider nothing but the absolute best. This is not just for the sake of the quality and performance of the processor but also to ensure that it doesn’t overheat unnecessary. The Aveks CPU Water Cooling Block is one of the best choices.
The water-cooling block is integrated with two separate chrome plates with copper faucets, all of which contribute to faster cooling without unnecessary risks or accidents. The external diameter of the plate is 10mm, which makes it ideal for almost every CPU available in the market.
The base diameter is around 5 mm, which is pretty standard too. Also, there is an inner water channel, which contributes to faster cooling without any compromise. The water contact surface in this cooling block is pretty diverse, enabling faster heat dissipation.
As said, the Aveks water cooling block for CPU is quite diverse and complements any and every kind of processor that you can think of. Some of the compatible processors include AMD 940, AM2, AM3, bulldozer, Intel LGA 1150 and LGA2011, Intel 775, 1155, 1156, 1366 platforms.
Pros
- Highly compatible with different processors
- Comes with copper faucets
- Designed with an inner water channel
- Ensures faster heat dissipation
Cons
- Fittings aren’t the best
9. EKWB EK-Velocity CPU Water block, AMD CPU, Copper/Plexi
No products found.
- Product Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches
- Item Weight: 15.2 ounces
- Compatibility: AMD AM4
This water block is the perfect cooling solution for new AMD processors. You will find that it comes with a very fresh design that will allow you to use it in several things. After all, you will get optimal flow as well as high performance.
Since it has lesser hydraulic restriction so it can be used in places where weaker or lower water pump setups are being used for silent operation. But even with this, you will get premium performance.
The cold plate of this water block is made using the purest copper which has been constructed into a micro-fine dense structure. Know that the surge has been mirror polished as well so that there’s better contact made with CPU IHS. The top cover is acrylic glass. Both copper and acrylic glass is sturdy and damage-resistant. These materials will ensure that the water block doesn’t break or crack.
This cooling engine is made using a top-integrated jet-nozzle that gets combined nicely with a very thicker jet-plate. Due to this, there’s more precise control. Also, the simplified structure ensures that you get a more enhanced coolant flow coupled with easier maintenance. It is compatible with AMD AM4 sockets.
Pros
- Lesser hydraulic restriction
- Copper base
- Acrylic top cover
- Top-integrated jet-nozzle
- Optimum cooling
Cons
- Low variety incompatibility
10. Bewinner Computer CPU Water Cooling Block Jet Type Copper Base Water block for AM2 / AM3 / AM2+ / AM3+ / AM4 CPU
No products found.
- Product Dimensions: 4.02 x 2.4 x 0.79 inches
- Item Weight: 11.7 ounces
- Compatibility: AM3, AM2, AM4, AM2+, and AM3+ CPUs
Know that you will be able to use it with AM3, AM2, AM4, AM2+, and AM3+ CPUs. This is because there are 4 holes that you will be able to use to fix the heat sink right on to your motherboard you have. These are in a regular rectangle shape and have lateral lengths that are of 48 and 96 mm respectively. This is the same format that is used for all the CPUs listed here. So you shouldn’t be having any issues. It’s all interchangeable.
The top cover of this component is high-grade POM while you will find that the bottom portion has red copper. POM ensures that you get premium quality stiffness and toughness. This ensures that the component doesn’t wear off or get damaged easily. As such you get a durable product with this.
The bottom portion is made of copper which has been processed using anti-oxidization technology. This ensures that the component won’t get damaged easily at all and will last for a long time. On top of this, the base is very thick which adds to the durability. As such you will get more return on your investment.
Will it perfectly fit your CPU? Yes, it will. There is no need to worry about that. Also, note that the water contact space is quite large which means that the heat will get carried from your CPU quickly. The heat will get dissipated faster and your CPU will get cooler sooner so that you can continue gaming without any gaming.
Pros
- Perfect fit
- Large area
- Wide compatibility
- High-grade POM
- Non-oxidization technology
- Thick base
Cons
- None
11. LENX Professional Special Raystorm CPU Water block For INTEL Water Cool System Computer Black
No products found.
- Product Dimensions: 15.24 x 8.26 x 1.6 cm
- Item Weight: 68.04 Grams
- Compatibility: n/a
This water block system has a cover of organic clear glass and a base of stainless steel. The top cover is scratch as well as breakage resistant. Also, it will give you the tensile strength you need. Due to this, you can rest assured that the top portion won’t get damaged easily at all.
As for the bottom made from stainless steel, it is strong and durable. It won’t break, crack, or get damaged in any way easily. Due to this, you will get a very strong component that will last for a long time. Also, the stainless steel base is very thick which will aid in its durability.
In this package, you will get 4 screws along with the water block. You will have to use the screws to attach this water block to the motherboard. It is compatible with a majority of the compression fittings.
It is lightweight so you will be able to carry and attach it easily. This water block won’t weigh anything down. The component is compatible with a lot to CPUs so you don’t have to worry about that.
Pros
- Organic clear glass cover
- Stainless steel bottom
- Lightweight
- Wide compatibility
- Easy installation
- Compatible with compression fittings
Cons
- Copper base would have been better
Ultimate Buying Guide To Choose the right CPU Water Block in 2023
CPU water blocks do an excellent job of keeping the machine cool so that you can play on for hours without worrying about chip damage. These components are underrated and work better than fans in keeping the CPU cool. With these, you can overclock your CPU without worrying about heat failure.
Since it plays such an important role and helps you save money in the long run, many manufacturers are making CPU water blocks. So the question now is of authenticity. How will you know which one is real? For that, you need to look out for some basic features while buying CPU water blocks. These features are:
1. Compatibility
When buying a CPU water block, always go for those that offer you maximum compatibility options with the processors. This means that you should ideally buy that water block that is compatible with both Intel and AMD processors.
If you are thinking of building your computer and still haven’t decided which one you will go for then getting a water block which can work regardless of the manufacturer will help you out. Also, it will future proof your system, as you will be able to use it in various systems.
2. Base
Always go for the water block which comes with a copper base. Make sure that you get one that has been made of pure copper but also make sure that it has been nickel plated and oxidized as well. This will give the base better durability and longevity. Since it will be corrosion resistant after the oxidization so the chances of damage will be low as well.
3. Top cover
For the top cover acrylic glass is fine. It is transparent and also shatters resistant. So you can rest assured that it won’t break easily at all. Know that it will also be scratch resistant so even after some use it will look new.
4. Installation
Not all processors follow the same installation pattern for water blocks even if they are made by the same company. So while buying make sure that you get the one that is easy to install. If you are buying a water block that is compatible with various kinds of processors then check for a user guide. This will make your job easier.
5. RGB lighting
RGB lighting won’t affect the performance of the water block but it will give your room a nice respite from the same boring colours. With the help of the lights, you will be able to create patterns and have fun with new styles everyday. This will help lift your mood. But most importantly, with the help of the RGB lights, you will be able to keep track of the coolant in the CPU and how it’s working.
6. Optimum flow
Always buy the water block which comes with a simplified structure. This will ensure that you get optimum coolant-flow so that your CPU’s temperature doesn’t get too high. The optimum flow will ensure stability as well as effective cooling.
7. Error-preventing mounting systems
Error preventing mounting systems will help you install the water block perfectly without much hassle. This will prevent any potential damages to the CPU as well as to the water block. So if you aren’t sure of how to properly install a water block then get one which comes with an error-preventing system. This will make things easier for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Best CPU Water Block in 2023
1. What to do if the coolant leaks?
This is, unfortunately, a reality which you might have to face so it’s better to be prepared for it. If you coolant leaks then turn your machine off as soon as you see the leak. Then unplug the machine right from the socket itself. After that take off the case panels so that you can access the water block.
Then bring paper towels and use it to mop up the liquid as best as you can. After that fake-out all the components that got drenched or even touched by the liquid. Dry each of the components very carefully. Leave everything alone for 2 days to properly dry. After that put it all back together and pray it works.
2. How to check if the water cooling system is working fine?
You must check your system periodically to ensure that it is water-tight. You can do that by performing visual checks. Make sure to check each of the tubes for damages after you have put everything together. Once that is done, try testing the entire loop. For this, you will have to run the whole loop using just the pump-on facility for a day at least. Make sure to do this using distilled water. If there are any leaks then this will let you know.
Ensure that the fittings are very tight on each of the connections. This will keep the liquid from spilling out. Once that’s all done, double-check it all so that everything is fine.
3. How much better are water blocks compared to fans?
Quite better. There’s no way to give solid numbers but you will find that water blocks help in cooling faster. The heat dissipates faster and as a result, you will be able to get back to gaming faster.
4. Should you install fans if you have a water block already installed?
Yes, you should. Know that the processor isn’t the only thing that generates heat. There are a lot of other components that generate heat and they need to be cooled down too or else it all might get damaged. Such damages can cost you a lot of money so it’s better to take all the necessary precautions and install fans. Also, know that cool systems run faster so this will allow you to game better and with peace.
5. Is a CPU water block more expensive than a fan?
Yes, it is. A water block will be costlier than a cooling fan. But do keep in mind that with a water block you will get more effective as well faster cooling. In a way, you will be future-proofing your system using a water block. After all, with the help of this, you won’t have to worry about CPU failure due to excessive heat. So this one-time investment might very well save you from purging more in the future.
Conclusion
CPU water blocks are a great component for keeping your CPU cool. It works better than fans by dissipating heat faster and more effectively as well. This will allow you to enjoy gaming without any disruptions or worries. You will even be able to overclock the CPU without thinking about it getting heating up and getting damaged. But do keep in mind that even if you do install water blocks, you should keep fans because that will help cool down other parts that generate heat. This will secure your system from all sides.
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