AI-rewritten: This is a summary of an article from Tom’s Hardware, rewritten by AI (Qwen, running locally) to make it easier to read. The facts come from the original article – read it for the full story.

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TrashBench challenged conventional desktop PC building norms by testing various GPU placements, discovering that positioning a graphics card in an unconventional spot could lower hotspot temperatures by up to 19 degrees Celsius. However, this initial change negatively affected CPU cooling. Through further experimentation with different component arrangements, including moving the triple-fan RTX 3080 to the bottom of the case or vertically alongside side fans, he identified a specific configuration that offered significant improvements for both parts.

The testing process involved running constant thermal loads using 3DMark Time Spy and 7-Zip benchmarks while locking fan RPMs for consistency. TrashBench evaluated multiple setups where the CPU air cooler radiator was either pushing air out or pulling it in, alongside various GPU orientations. While some configurations benefited only one component, a balanced approach emerged that provided substantial cooling gains across the board without compromising performance stability.

In his final optimized design, the CPU air intake cooler was mounted vertically against side intake fans, while the radiator remained in a traditional exhaust configuration. This arrangement resulted in a 3.3-degree Celsius reduction in CPU temperatures and a 14-degree Celsius drop in GPU hotspot heat. To achieve such precise component repositioning, TrashBench utilized PCIe riser cables of different lengths to ensure proper connectivity regardless of where the graphics card was placed within the chassis.