DIY and PC modding is such a wide and varied subject that it can be impossible to know where to start. Never fear, we’ve put together a great guide that covers many facets of modding, so you can get the PC DIYer in your life the perfect gift.
Whether they are just starting out and need all the tools, or are a seasoned pro working on their next water-cooling masterpiece, this list has you covered. We’ll be looking at tools, case modding, RGB lighting, and custom water-cooling; so, feel free to skip to the relevant section or meander your way through them all.
Tools of the Trade
Every PC DIYer is going to need tools. Be they upgrading their PC’s thermal performance or decking their case with RGB lighting, tools are a must. At Overclockers UK, we stock a wide range of PC modding tools from the brand, iFixit, which suit just about every need a PC modder could have. Today, we’ve picked out a tasty cross-section of what’s available.
iFixit Marlin Screwdriver Set
The iFixit Marlin Screwdriver Set is a great all-rounder to add to any toolkit. This includes fifteen fixed-blade screwdrivers, carefully selected using data from over 50K repair guides. These are the most useful screwdrivers you’ll ever have! Plus, they have been ergonomically crafted to enhance your comfort as you use them. There are a range of screwdriver heads included in this kit, from Phillips to flathead and everything in between. This is a handy-dandy all-in-one solution for any electrical repair. From your precious gaming PC to the life-blood coffee maker in the kitchen, there’s a screwdriver for that. It all comes in a nifty fabric tool roll, as well!
iFixit Marlin Screwdriver Set (EU145462-1)
- Fifteen screwdriver set
- Fixed blades designed for laptops or mobile devices
- Includes Phillips, Torx, Flathead, and more
- Selection curated from 50K repair guides
- Includes fabric tool roll
iFixit Foldable Anti-Static Mat
An essential tool when working on electricals is something to ground you. The iFixit Foldable Anti-Static Mat keeps you safe whilst repairing delicate electrical circuits. The anti-static mat prevents any electrostatic discharges, which would damage the hardware, and is grounded by utilising the crocodile clips and wristband. At 60cm by 60cm, this mat has an ample surface area to work upon, so you need never worry about running out of space. All in all, an excellent stocking filler for PC modders.
iFixit Foldable Anti-Static Mat (EU145202-5)
- Foldable mat
- Anti-static properties
- Grounding wristband
- 60cm by 60cm
- Perfect surface for repairing electricals
iFixit Essential Electronics Toolkit
If the PC DIYer in your life truly needs a one-stop-shop for all their tools, then the iFixit Essentials Electronics Toolkit is the way to go. This set has everything: opening tools, magnetic bit driver, sixteen precision bits, gripping tools, and more. It is a well-thought-out selection of tools suited for DIY enthusiasts and professionals, alike, so you know they are premium quality, too. Whatever bit of hardware you’re fixing, there will be a driver bit or dedicated tool that’s just perfect for the job.
iFixit Essential Electronics Toolkit (EU145348-5)
- Comprehensive tool kit for PC repair and modding
- 64 bit driver kit
- Opening picks and tools
- Selection of tweezers and spatulas
- Includes grounding strap
Shop the iFixit Range
Not spotted the perfect gift yet? The iFixit tools cover a variety of needs and functions, so explore their full range and see if that sparks joy.
Case Modders
Case modding can mean anything from using brightly colour extension cables, adding a little bit of glam to your case, to acrylic sheets, or even building a fully functional gaming PC with a Lego case. Today, we’re keeping things simple with a couple of products perfect for making PC cases a little more unique.
Kolink Core Adept Extension Cable Kit
First up, we have the Kolink Core Adept Extension Cable Kit. Kolink make a beautiful range of PC cases, and their extension cable kits are something to behold. There are sixteen incredible colours to choose from, including the Rainbow edition we’ve chosen here. Each extension kit contains six cables; a 24pin, 4+4pin, 8pin, and three 6+2pins. They utilise a 16AWG wire gauge which is well suited for use with demanding hardware thanks to its enhanced conductivity and heat resistance. Sleeved in PET braiding, these cables bend smoothly and can be arranged in a veritable rainbow.
Kolink Core Adept Extension Cable Kit (COREADEPT-EK-RBW)
- Six cable extension kit
- Phenomenal rainbow colour
- PET braiding
- 16AWG wire gauge
- Pre-installed and spare cable combs
Explore the full range of colours available! The other fifteen models are symmetrical, with black or white accents to complete the look.
Aqua Computer Aquaero 6 Pro USB Fan Controller
With the Aqua Computer Aquaero 6 Pro USB Fan Controller you can gain full control of your computer fans. This handy machine is used in a number of 8Pack gaming PCs, as it allows you to expertly set speed parameters and sensor values with great ease either via the intuitive menu or companion software, Aqua Suite. Plus, the LCD screen can be set to display just about any information that you want, thanks to the software LCDHype. With four 4-pin PWM fan headers, USB 2.0 ports, and more, this controller sports incredible connectivity. Perfect for seamless control.
Aqua Computer Aquaero 6 Pro USB Fan Controller (53145)
- Fan controller with microprocessor
- Equipped with USB 2.0
- Adjustable LCD screen
- Four 4-pin fan headers
- User friendly menu
More to Explore
Our case modding range extends from the cosmetic to additional hardware. If you know the PC DIYer in your life is looking for something a little different, why not check out our full collection?
RGB Fanatics
Of course, one of the best ways to modify a case is to add RGB lighting. Whilst many PC cases now have integrated DRGB or ARGB lighting, there’s something truly satisfying about getting a blank canvas and illuminating it just the way you want. Here are some great RGB accessories that will turn any gaming PC into a stunning light show.
CableMod WideBeam Magnetic RGB LED Kit
The CableMod WideBeam Magnetic RGB Strip is perfect for illuminating the edges of your PC case. At 60cm long, there are thirty LEDs equipped with WideBeam technology to make them shine bigger and brighter than ever before. Thanks to the ARGB 4-pin header, these LEDs are addressable and ready to be crafted into beautiful light shows with ASUS Aura Sync software or via the included RF remote. Plus, this strip is easy to install, as there are integrated magnets featured throughout the length.
CableMod WideBeam Magnetic RGB LED Kit – 60cm / 30 LEDs (CM-LED-30-M60KRGB-RK)
- 60cm RGB LED strip
- Magnetic
- 30 LEDs
- WideBeam technology
- Comaptible with ASUS Aura Sync
Corsair RGB Fan Hub Controller
The Corsair RGB Fan Hub Controller may not shine bright like a diamond, but it will help to facilitate all your RGB needs. This sleek, black hub features six 4-pin ARGB ports for connecting all your Corsair RGB fans. You can wire this into an additional Corsair Commander Pro RGB LED Controller or use the 3-pin header for the included wired remote control. Craft dynamic lighting displays!
Corsair RGB Fan Hub Controller (CO-8950020)
- Six 4-pin RGB fan ports
- SATA power supply
- 3-pin connector for controller, remote control, or hub
- Black
- Compatible with Corsair Commander Pro and many fan series
Phanteks Halos Fan Frame
With the Phanteks Halos Fan Frame, you can add a splash of colour. There are models available for both 120mm and 140mm fans, so there is something for every PC case. A simple affair, these frames are easy to mount onto the corresponding fan size, which will then be illuminated by thirty RGB LEDs. Set colours and effects utilising either MSI Mystic Light or ASUS Aura Sync and elevate the aesthetic of your gaming PC. Get your gaming PC lit up like a Christmas tree!
Phanteks Halos Fan Frame (PH-FF120DRGBP_BK01 / PH-FF140RGBA_BK01)
- Fan frames available in 120mm and 140mm models
- 30 RGB LEDs
- Daisy-chaining technology
- Individually addressable LEDs
- Compatible with a range of RGB software
Lian Li UNI AL120 RGB White 120mm Fans – Triple Pack
Alternatively, you can fit fans already equipped with RGB lighting. The Lian LI UNI AL120 RGB White 120mm Fans are a stunning addition to any case. All-white builds, contrasting a black PC, or even accenting something more colourful, these fans are widely compatible and utilise daisy-chaining technology. The blades are lit by thirty-two addressable RGB LEDs, which can be set to create beautiful light shows. What’s more, these are highly efficient fans with a maximum speed of 1900 RPM that only reaches 28.3 dB(A). Stunning, effective, and quiet – the ultimate fan trifecta!
Lian Li UNI AL120 RGB White 120mm Fans – Triple Pack (UF-AL120-3W)
- Triple pack of white 120mm RGB fans
- Daisy-chaining technology
- Max speed: 1900 RPM
- 32 RGB LEDs per fan
- Includes controller
Don’t know the difference between ARGB and DRGB? Check out our handy guide and get in the know.
Water Cooling Aficionados
Water-cooling can seem like one of the most advanced parts of a gaming PC build. There are all-in-one systems, pre-assembled and filled, which makes having this hyper-efficient cooling technique accessible to even the greenest beginners. A custom water-cooling loop, with elaborate tubing, coloured coolant, and dedicated water blocks, is something else, though. We have a selection of must-haves and a full kit to explore.
Mayhems XT-1 Nuke UV Red Concentrate Coolant
The Mayhems XT-1 Nuke UV Red Concentrate Coolant will elevate any cooling loop to a work of art. This coolant utilises a new formula, crafted for extreme cooling and to be PETG safe. As a result, you get highly efficient heat transfer and peace of mind that this coolant won’t micro fracture your tubing. Plus, it will last in your system up to five years!
Mayhems XT-1 Nuke UV Red Concentrate Coolant (MXT1UVR250)
- Non-toxic liquid coolant concentrate
- Vivid red
- Makes 2.5L of coolant at a 1:10 mix ratio
- 5 year shelf life
- New formula for extreme cooling
Red not their colour? Explore the full range of Mayhems Concentrate Coolants and find the perfect hue to put under their tree.
EK Water Blocks EK-Quantum Kinetic TBE 120 DDC PWM D-RGB Pump / Reservoir Combo
The beating heart of any water-cooling system is the pump. Equipped with an EK Water Blocks EK-Quantum Kinetic TBE 120 DDC, you get a powerful and efficient pump with a built-in reservoir. The DDC is a market-proven pump design, too! The reservoir has six G1/4″ ports, enabling you to easily optimise tube routing to best suit your gaming PC. On the whole, the EK-Quantum Kinetic DDC is manufactured from premium-quality materials, including acrylic, nickel-plated brass, and CNC-machined black POM acetal. Keeping the whole thing water-tight are EPDM O-rings. Tasty.
EK Water Blocks EK-Quantum Kinetic TBE 120 DDC PWM D-RGB Pump / Reservoir Combo (3831109819630)
- Combination pump and reservoir
- DDC pump for consistent flow
- DRGB lighting
- 1000L/h maximum flow
- EDPM O-rings
Corsair Hydro X Series iCUE XH303i RGB PRO 360mm CPU Custom Cooling Kit
For an all-in-one kit, the Corsair Hydro X Series iCUE XH303i ProCustom Cooling Kit is the way to go. Including a 360mm radiator, this kit enables you to build a beautiful cooling loop for drawing heat away from a hard working CPU. It comes with everything you need for crafting a highly efficient and beautiful system – including RGB lighting that you can configure in Corsair’s iCUE software. There are even tube bending tools, to help you create those smooth bends. Once assembled, the Corsair Hydro X Series kit will form an incredibly efficient thermal solution with whisper-quiet performance. Just what every gamer wants from Santa this year!
Corsair Hydro X Series iCUE XH303i RGB PRO 360mm CPU Custom Cooling Kit (CX-9070006-WW)
- All-in-one custom water cooling kit
- 360mm radiator and DDC pump
- Integrated RGB lighting
- Hard tubing and bending tool
- Lighting, fans, and pump controlled via iCUE
Keep Cool and Carry On
Our water-cooling hardware range is extensive and there’s something to fit every build and aesthetic. If our selections here don’t land right, there’s plenty more to explore.
Need More Inspo?
Overclockers UK Christmas Gift Guide: Ultimate Gaming Hardware Essentials
Nothing sparking inspiration? Have no fear, we have an ever-growing Ultimate Gift Guide for Christmas 2023. Grab yourself a cuppa and make your festive shopping easier.
PC Modding with Overclockers UK
If this guide feels like it has barely scratched the surface… you’re right! PC modding is an extensive topic and there are so many more gift ideas out there. Lucky for you, we have an ongoing PC Modding with OcUK series. Have a read through, learn more about the world of modding, and find the perfect gift for the PC DIYer in your life.
Christmas Delivery Cut Off Dates
To ensure you get yourPC DIYer gift in time, we’ve included all the important delivery dates you need below!
The deadline for ordering a custom PC was the 27th of November. You can, however, still order a pre-built gaming PC and so much more!
For any other orders, the cut-off date is Thursday 21st December at 4pm. This date is subject to change, so please bookmark our delivery information blog. It has all the further details you need and will be updated should circumstances change.
Have Your Self a DIY Christmas
We hope you’re feeling suitably inspired for the PC DIYer in your life. If you are the PC DIYer, drop a comment below with which gift you’d like to see under the tree this year!
- 12 min read
Emily Haylock
Author
Emily is a board and cosy gamer, keyboard obsessive, and content copywriter for Overclockers UK. She has been with Overclockers UK since 2020, writing about everything from noblechairs to 8Pack PCs. She writes from within her desk nest with a foster pup at her feet. (What, a desk duvet is a totally normal thing!) In her downtime, she likes to play board games, farming sims, and old-school Final Fantasy. IX to be specific. It is the best, and that is a hill she will die on.
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