Everything you want to know.
Answers to the most common questions about custom PC builds, Direct-Die cooling, custom water cooling, pricing, and the order process.
Getting Started
01 New build or upgrade – what makes more sense for me? +
We're happy to help you figure that out. Just contact us via WhatsApp, Telegram, or book a free initial consultation. Together we'll determine what makes more sense for you.
02 Do you also upgrade existing PCs? +
Yes, we also upgrade existing PCs, whether that's more RAM, a new GPU, or a faster SSD. Just reach out or book an appointment.
03 Are your services available outside of Germany? +
We currently only serve customers within Germany.
04 Is the initial consultation really free and non-binding? +
Yes, our initial consultation and all quotes are completely free and non-binding. You're under no obligation whatsoever.
Ordering & Process
01 How does the ordering process work? +
Everything starts with a free initial consultation that you can book directly on our website. From there we talk through your requirements, put together a personalised quote, and once you confirm and full advance payment has been received we order the components. You receive regular updates during the build, and once stress testing and documentation are done your PC is shipped or ready for pickup.
02 How long does building my custom PC take? +
Build time depends on the scope of your order. A standard custom PC build typically takes around 2 to 4 working days in assembly. Custom water cooling loops require 4 to 8 working days, and a build combining Direct-Die with custom water cooling takes 5 to 10 working days. Add 1 to 2 working days for shipping via an insured carrier on top of that. We keep you updated throughout the whole process.
03 How much does a custom PC build cost? +
The service fee for a custom PC build starts at 100 euros, plus the cost of the hardware. Direct-Die cooling starts at 200 euros as a standalone service. Custom water cooling starts at 125 euros, with loop components priced separately. We go over exact costs in a free initial consultation so you always know what to expect.
04 Can I change or cancel my order after accepting the quote? +
Changes and cancellations are generally possible. However, services already started must be compensated at least proportionally, as must components that can no longer be returned to the supplier. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for details.
05 What happens if a component is out of stock after I have paid? +
We source components directly from the manufacturer or retailer at current market prices. If a component becomes unavailable, we'll discuss a suitable alternative with you. Price drops after purchasing cannot be factored in.
06 How long does sourcing components typically take after I confirm the order? +
It typically takes two to three business days for all components to arrive at our workshop.
07 Can I add or remove services after the quote has been accepted? +
Yes, that's possible. Any additional or changed services will be billed via a separate invoice.
08 How will I receive progress updates during the build? +
We document your build with photos and add it to our build log with your consent. If you'd like, we can also send you progress photos during the build.
09 Is it possible to watch the build in person? +
This is generally possible by prior arrangement. Please reach out to us directly.
10 Can I supply a parts list I have already put together and just have you assemble it? +
Yes, no problem. If you've already put together a parts list, e.g. via PCPartPicker, we'll take care of procurement and assembly for you.
11 Can I source components from different retailers and ship them to you? +
Yes, that's possible. We'll discuss the details in our initial consultation to ensure smooth sourcing and compatibility.
12 Can I bring my own components? +
Generally yes. We build systems from customer-supplied parts too. Just keep in mind that we cannot take responsibility for the quality of parts you bring along. In the free initial consultation we check compatibility and suitability of the components together.
13 Can I reuse components from a previous build? +
Yes, you can bring in your own components such as a CPU, GPU, RAM, or storage drives. Please note that we cannot provide warranty coverage for customer-supplied parts.
Services & Technology
01 What is Direct-Die cooling and how much does it improve temperatures? +
Direct-Die cooling, also known as delidding, involves removing the integrated heat spreader (IHS) from the CPU. The cooler is then mounted directly onto the CPU die, which dramatically improves heat transfer. On our Obsidian Titan reference build with the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D we measured around 23 degrees Celsius lower temperatures compared to a standard mount — actual results vary by CPU sample and cooling setup.
02 Do I lose my CPU warranty with Direct-Die? +
Yes, delidding voids the manufacturer warranty. It is a procedure that requires experience and the right tools. Michael has carried this out successfully multiple times and documents every step carefully. We are fully transparent about the residual risk before we proceed.
03 Which CPUs support Direct-Die? +
We currently offer Direct-Die for AM5 socket processors, meaning Ryzen 7000 and Ryzen 9000 series CPUs. For other platforms feel free to ask us directly.
04 What is custom water cooling and how does it differ from an AIO? +
A custom water cooling loop is an individually planned and assembled liquid cooling circuit using hard tubes or soft tubes, pumps, a reservoir, and radiators of your choice. It delivers significantly more cooling capacity and visual impact than a pre-built AIO cooler, and is tailored exactly to your build and case.
05 How much maintenance does custom water cooling need? +
A custom water cooling loop should be serviced roughly once a year: flush and replace the coolant, check tubing and fittings for leaks, and clean the radiators. Compared to air cooling the upkeep is a bit more involved, but with a solid build and quality components it stays very manageable. We document your loop in full so you always know exactly what is installed.
06 Which components does Octiware not supply? +
We do not manufacture 12VHPWR cables ourselves. If you need one, we recommend going through a provider like CableMod. For custom cables we exclusively use MDPC-X sleeve, not paracord.
Delivery & Support
01 Can I pick up my PC or does it ship? +
Both options are available. You are welcome to pick up your custom PC in person in Cottbus and get a quick walkthrough at handover. Alternatively we ship it securely packaged within Germany. Shipping details and costs are on our shipping information page.
02 What happens if the PC is damaged during shipping? +
Inspect the delivery immediately upon receipt for visible damage and document it with the carrier. Keep the packaging, filling material, and damaged parts, and take photos if possible. Report the damage to us promptly. Your statutory warranty rights remain fully intact in any case.
03 Do you offer after-sales support following delivery? +
Yes, we support our customers for one year after purchase. If you need help with your PC, just reach out to us.
Warranty & Guarantee
01 Is there a warranty on my custom PC? +
Statutory warranty rights apply for consumers. We are happy to support you personally through any claims process. Component warranties follow the respective manufacturer terms. For procedures like Direct-Die there are separate agreements in place, since the CPU manufacturer warranty no longer applies after delidding.
Custom PC Build
01 How does a custom PC build at Octiware work? +
We start with a free consultation to discuss your requirements, use case and budget. We draw up a component list, fine-tune it together, then order, build, test and deliver your PC fully configured.
02 What does a custom PC cost? +
Hardware costs are the largest part: you pay the current market price with no markup. On top comes our service fee from €100 for consultation, assembly, cable management, testing and configuration.
03 Why choose a custom build over a pre-built PC? +
With a custom build you get exactly the components that suit your use case: no unnecessary compromises, no bloatware, no cheaply substituted parts.
04 Do I get a warranty on my custom PC? +
As the seller, Octiware provides statutory warranty rights for two years under German law. Individual components may additionally carry voluntary manufacturer guarantees under the manufacturer's own terms. We help you with any claims process and offer personal after-sales support.
05 How long does the build take? +
After components are ordered, assembly typically takes 2–4 working days. Builds with custom water cooling take 4–8 days, and Direct-Die plus custom water cooling takes 5–10 working days.
Direct-Die Cooling
01 What is Direct-Die cooling? +
The metallic heat spreader (IHS) of the CPU is removed and the cooler is mounted directly onto the CPU die, dramatically improving heat transfer.
02 How much cooler will my CPU run? +
On our Obsidian Titan reference build with the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D we measured around 23°C lower temperatures compared to conventional mounting. Actual results vary by CPU sample and cooling setup. On older processors the gains are often even larger.
03 Which CPUs support Direct-Die? +
We currently offer Direct-Die for AM5 processors (Ryzen 7000 and 9000 series) and Intel LGA1700/LGA1851. For other platforms feel free to ask us directly.
04 Is this risky? Do I lose my warranty? +
Delidding voids the manufacturer warranty. The procedure requires experience and the right tools. We have performed this process multiple times and document every step carefully.
05 What does Direct-Die cooling cost? +
The service starts from €200, including delidding, polishing the die, applying liquid metal and temperature validation.
Custom Water Cooling
01 What is the difference between hardtube and softtube? +
Hardtube loops use rigid acrylic or PETG pipes that are bent. The result looks very premium and clean but requires more planning. Softtube loops use flexible hoses and are easier to route.
02 What does custom water cooling cost? +
The service (planning, installation, fill, bleeding) starts from €200. On top come component costs: a typical loop with pump, reservoir, radiator, fittings and CPU block ranges from €300–€800 depending on the manufacturer.
03 Can CPU and GPU be water-cooled together? +
Yes, a combined loop with CPU block and GPU block is possible and very effective. It increases planning effort and component costs, but the result is a quiet, cool and visually stunning system.
04 How safe is water cooling? +
Professionally installed and properly bled, custom water cooling is very reliable. We carry out a thorough leak test after every installation before sensitive components are switched on.
Custom Cables
01 What types of cables do you make? +
We currently make cable extensions for ATX 24-pin, EPS 4+4 and 8-pin CPU, and PCIe 6+2 pin connectors. These plug between your PSU cables and your components.
02 Can I choose my own colours? +
Yes. We have a large selection of sleeving colours and can do single-colour, dual-colour, and colour-gradient extensions.
03 Are custom cable extensions safe to use? +
Absolutely. Every cable is hand-crimped with the correct gauge wire and pinned to spec. We inspect each connector and test continuity before handing over.
04 Can I order cables without buying a full build? +
Yes. We sell cables as a standalone service. Just get in touch and we will take care of the rest.
Overclocking
01 What exactly does overclocking do? +
Overclocking raises the operating frequency (and sometimes voltage) of your CPU, GPU or RAM above the factory defaults. Done correctly this means more frames per second, faster rendering and shorter load times.
02 Is overclocking safe? +
When done properly, yes. We test every configuration with industry-standard stress tools and only sign off on settings that remain stable under sustained load.
03 What is CPU undervolting and why does it matter? +
Modern CPUs often run with more voltage than they actually need. Lowering that voltage reduces heat and power draw, which lets the CPU boost higher for longer.
04 Does overclocking void my warranty? +
Most CPU and GPU manufacturers consider overclocking outside of their official warranty terms. RAM overclocking via XMP/EXPO is generally fine as the profile is officially supported by memory manufacturers.
OS Setup & Optimisation
01 Which operating systems do you support? +
We primarily install Windows 11 (and Windows 10 on request). For Linux we support Ubuntu, Debian, Arch Linux and derivatives. Dual-boot setups are also possible.
02 Is the OS setup included in a custom PC build? +
A clean OS installation is always included in a custom PC build. This standalone service is for existing systems that need a fresh install or thorough optimisation.
03 What performance optimisation do you do? +
We set the correct power plan, configure Windows Scheduler settings, remove auto-start bloatware, apply registry tweaks for responsiveness and validate everything with benchmarks.
04 Do I need to provide a Windows licence? +
Yes. If you do not have a licence we can source one for you at cost price. For Linux no licence is required.
Still have questions?
Book a free initial consultation. We look at your specific situation and find the best solution for your build together.
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