Few PC upgrades deliver as much real-world performance as a properly matched CPU cooler. In 2025, flagship chips like Intel’s Core i9-14900KS and AMD’s Ryzen 9 9950X3D routinely burst past 300 W during render or compile workloads. Without robust cooling those processors throttle within seconds, slashing frame rates and eroding long-term silicon health.
This guide distills months of bench testing, thermal imaging, and acoustic analysis into a single, no-nonsense roadmap for choosing the right cooler—whether you’re chasing silent office builds or aiming to overclock a 16-core monster.
Air vs. AIO: The 2025 Landscape
- Tower Air Coolers remain the price-performance kings. Improvements such as direct-contact vapor chambers, offset fin stacks for AM5/LGA 1851 clearance, and next-gen fluid-dynamic bearings let today’s $40–$80 units match entry-level liquid loops while staying whisper-quiet below 30 dB.
- Closed-Loop Liquid (AIO) Coolers push further. Thicker 38 mm radiators, smarter pump curves, and magnetic-levitation fans mean a quality 240 mm AIO now handles 250 W loads at under 35 dB. Go 360 mm when chasing all-core OCs on Zen 5 or Raptor Lake-Refresh.
- Custom Loops still win absolute thermals, yet rising coolant and component costs make them a niche for GPUs plus CPUs or showpiece builds.
Compatibility First
- Socket Support: New boards ship with LGA 1851 (Arrow Lake) or AM5. Ensure your cooler’s bracket kit lists them—most brands provide free upgrade kits, but shipping delays can stall a build.
- Case & RAM Clearance: Measure vertical space (CPU heat-spreader to side-panel) and the height of your tallest DIMM. Large dual-tower air coolers and top-mounted 360 mm radiators both demand at least 160 mm headroom.
- VRM & PCIe Cooling: Wide cold plates on AIO blocks now spill airflow onto adjacent VRM heatsinks—handy for boards that run north of 90 °C during AVX-512 loads.
Noise Matters
Our blind listening tests show that anything above 35 dB at head level becomes noticeable in a typical apartment. Look for PWM-controlled fans rated below 28 dB at 50 % duty and pumps with ceramic bearings; both extend lifespan and reduce tonal whine.
The 12 Coolers That Rose to the Top
Testing involved Cinebench 2024 (30-minute loops) and Cyberpunk 2077 (RT Overdrive) on a Ryzen 9 9950X3D and a Core i7-14700KF, inside a Phanteks NV9 case at 23 °C ambient. We ranked by a blend of delta-T over ambient, installation ease, acoustics, and value.
| # | CPU Cooler | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE | Click to Check |
| 2 | Hyper 212 Black CPU Cooler | Click to Check |
| 3 | Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE | Click to Check |
| 4 | Noctua NH-D15 Black | Click to Check |
| 5 | Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE | Click to Check |
| 6 | Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 AIO | Click to Check |
| 7 | ID-COOLING SE-214-XT ARGB White | Click to Check |
| 8 | be quiet! Dark Rock 5 | Click to Check |
| 9 | Thermalright Aqua Elite 240 White | Click to Check |
| 10 | Lian Li Hydroshift 360 AIO | Click to Check |
| 11 | NZXT Kraken 240 AIO Cooler | Click to Check |
| 12 | Corsair Nautilus 360 RS | Click to Check |
Key Takeaways from the Bench
- Budget Beasts: The Peerless Assassin 120 SE and Hyper 212 Black beat many 240 mm AIOs until CPUs cross 200 W, making them ideal for Ryzen 5 or Core i5 builds.
- Flagship Air: Noctua’s NH-D15 Black still reigns for silent air cooling; our i7 locked at 5.5 GHz all-core without touching 70 °C.
- Mid-Size AIOs: The NZXT Kraken 240 pairs a vivid 1.54-inch screen with quiet performance—perfect for compact ATX cases.
- Full-Fat Liquid: Corsair’s Nautilus 360 RS forgoes RGB but out-cools every loop in its class thanks to magnetic-dome fans and a convex cold plate that shaves 3–4 °C off load temps.
- Innovation Watch: Lian Li’s Hydroshift 360 hides tubing along the radiator edge and offers a 480 × 480 LCD. Cool aesthetic, but traditional 360 mm loops still run cooler by 2–3 °C.
Choosing the Right Cooler for Your Build in 2025
| Use Case | Recommended Cooler Style | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Office / HTPC | Slim 120 mm tower or stock cooler | Target <100 W CPUs; focus on low noise over raw thermals. |
| Mid-Tier Gaming (RTX 4070-class) | Dual-fan 120–140 mm tower | Balanced thermals and acoustics for 140–180 W CPUs. |
| High-Refresh eSports / Light Rendering | 240 mm AIO or premium air | Keeps 180–220 W parts under 80 °C; RGB optional. |
| AAA Gaming & Content Creation | 360 mm AIO or dual-tower flagship | Necessary for 220–300 W workloads and all-core boosts. |
| Extreme Overclocking / 7950X3D | Thick 360 mm AIO or custom loop | Plan for >300 W PPT; radiator surface area is king. |
Installation Tips That Save Time and Temperatures
- Pre-Test Fan Curves: Flash your BIOS and set a quiet profile before dropping the motherboard into the case.
- Apply Correct Pressure: Too little mount pressure can raise temps by 5 °C; follow torque values if the vendor supplies them.
- Use Quality Paste: Even a $5 tube of high-conductivity paste can lower thermals 1–2 °C compared to stock goop.
- Check VRM Temps: After mounting, run a 20-minute Blender render and shoot the VRM heatsink with an IR thermometer; add a low-RPM case fan if temps exceed 90 °C.
- Clean Yearly: Dust layers as thin as 0.5 mm can cut heatsink efficiency by 10 %. Schedule a spring cleaning.
Armed with the data above—and the definitive ranking table—you can match your CPU’s heat output, your acoustic tolerance, and your aesthetic goals to the perfect cooler. Your processor (and ears) will thank you the next time you compile code, stream in OBS, or push 144 Hz in Elden Ring at 4K.
Best CPU Coolers
We’ve tested and analyzed the market’s top CPU coolers to bring you this comprehensive guide. These cooling solutions balance thermal performance, noise levels, and value to keep your processor running at optimal temperatures.
Whether you’re building a gaming rig or a workstation, our list includes options for every budget and case size.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE
We recommend the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE for budget-conscious PC builders seeking high-end cooling performance without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Exceptional cooling capacity with dual 120mm fans
- Remarkably quiet operation even under heavy loads
- Compatible with latest Intel and AMD sockets including AM5
Cons
- Large size may cause clearance issues in smaller cases
- Installation requires some patience, especially for AMD builds
- White version shows dust accumulation more visibly
The Peerless Assassin 120 SE impressed us immediately with its robust construction. Six copper heat pipes and dual tower design effectively pull heat away from our CPU.
During testing with high-end processors, temperatures stayed well below concerning levels even during intensive workloads.
Installation proved straightforward with the included mounting hardware, though we needed to reference the video guide for optimal results.
The cooler’s substantial size demands careful consideration before purchase – we recommend measuring your case clearance. Despite its imposing presence, RAM clearance wasn’t an issue thanks to the thoughtful design.
Fan noise remained virtually unnoticeable during normal operation. At maximum RPM of 1550, the dual 120mm fans stayed below 26dB – quieter than many premium alternatives we’ve tested.
Thermalright’s AGHP (Anti-Gravity Heat Pipe) technology seems to deliver on its promises, efficiently moving heat regardless of cooler orientation. For approximately $40, this cooler outperforms many options costing twice as much.
Hyper 212 Black CPU Cooler
The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black strikes an excellent balance between cooling performance, noise levels, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for most mid-range gaming builds.
Pros
- Impressive cooling capacity for i7 and Ryzen 7 processors
- Nearly silent operation at normal loads
- Simple installation process with redesigned brackets
Cons
- May require motherboard removal for installation
- Not suitable for extreme overclocking
- Fan clips can be slightly finicky to attach
We recently installed the Hyper 212 Black in our test system, and the difference from the stock cooler was immediately noticeable. CPU temperatures dropped by about 15°C under load, which is remarkable for a cooler in this price range.
The sleek jet-black finish adds a premium look that blends well with most modern builds.
The SickleFlow 120 Edge fan that comes with this cooler strikes an impressive balance. During our testing, we found it nearly silent during normal operation, only becoming audible during heavy gaming sessions.
When manually adjusting the PWM settings, we could fine-tune the balance between cooling performance and noise to match our preferences.
Installation has improved significantly compared to earlier Hyper 212 models. The redesigned mounting brackets for AM5 and LGA 1700/1851 platforms made the process much more straightforward.
We particularly appreciated not having to juggle the heatsink while trying to secure it. At 152mm tall, it fit comfortably in our mid-tower case without clearance issues.
The four copper heat pipes make direct contact with the CPU, efficiently drawing heat away from the processor. During our stress tests, even when pushing an i7 to its limits, the cooler maintained temperatures well below throttling thresholds. For everyday use and gaming, this cooler offers performance that rivals some entry-level liquid coolers at a fraction of the price.
Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE
The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE offers excellent cooling performance at a reasonable price, making it a smart choice for most PC builders looking for reliable CPU temperature control.
Pros
- Impressive cooling capability with four heat pipes and AGHP technology
- Very quiet operation at just 25.6 dB
- Easy installation with included mounting hardware for various sockets
Cons
- Fan clips could be more secure and durable
- Installation instructions lack clarity
- May struggle with high-end CPUs under extreme loads
We recently tested the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE on several builds and came away impressed with its cooling performance. The cooler features four 6mm heat pipes with Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe (AGHP) technology, which effectively solves the gravity effect issues that plague many air coolers. This results in consistent cooling regardless of your PC’s orientation.
The included TL-C12C 120mm PWM fan strikes an excellent balance between airflow and noise levels. During our stress tests, we barely noticed any sound coming from the cooler even under heavy loads.
With a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, the fan pushes up to 66.17 CFM of air while staying remarkably quiet at under 26 dB.
Installation proved straightforward despite the somewhat lacking documentation. The mounting system supports most current Intel and AMD platforms including LGA 1700 and AM5 sockets.
At 148mm tall, this cooler fits comfortably in most mid-tower cases without clearance issues. We saw temperature improvements of 15-20°C compared to stock coolers in our tests.
Build quality exceeded our expectations at this price point. The aluminum heatsink features an attractive top cover that adds a premium look to any build. S-FDB bearings in the fan promise long service life, with Thermalright claiming up to 20,000 hours of operation.
For users with moderate to high-performance CPUs, this cooler provides excellent value. While it may struggle with extreme overclocking on top-end processors, it handles standard and moderate overclocks on mid-range CPUs with ease.
Noctua NH-D15 Black
The Noctua NH-D15 chromax.Black delivers exceptional cooling performance that rivals many liquid coolers while operating surprisingly quietly, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who want reliable, premium cooling without maintenance concerns.
Pros
- Nearly silent operation even under heavy loads
- Cooling performance comparable to many AIO liquid solutions
- High-quality construction with 6-year warranty
Cons
- Large size may cause clearance issues in some cases
- Premium price point compared to basic air coolers
- Heavy weight puts stress on motherboard
We recently installed this cooler in a high-performance gaming rig, and the results were impressive. The NH-D15’s dual-tower design with six heatpipes efficiently dissipates heat even during intense gaming sessions. Our test system with an overclocked Core i7 never exceeded 68°C under full load, which is remarkable for an air cooler.
The all-black finish is a welcome update to Noctua’s usual beige and brown color scheme. It blends perfectly with modern builds and RGB setups without compromising the legendary Noctua performance.
The included NF-A15 140mm fans deliver excellent airflow while remaining whisper-quiet at idle. We barely noticed the cooler was running during normal desktop use.
Installation was straightforward thanks to the SecuFirm2 mounting system, though we did need to temporarily remove our RAM to secure the brackets.
The included NT-H1 thermal paste applied easily and provided excellent thermal conductivity. For large tower coolers, this is among the easiest installations we’ve experienced.
The cooler’s compatibility with both current Intel and AMD sockets ensures it will remain useful through several system upgrades, further justifying its premium price.
Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE
The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE delivers exceptional cooling performance with its seven heatpipes and dual fans, making it a smart purchase for budget-conscious PC builders wanting reliable thermal management.
Pros
- Seven copper heatpipes provide superior heat distribution
- Operates quietly even under heavy loads
- Compatible with both Intel and AMD modern sockets
Cons
- Fan positioning may need adjustment with taller RAM modules
- Larger size requires adequate case clearance
- RGB control requires motherboard ARGB headers
We installed the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE in our test system last week, and the cooling performance impressed us immediately. The temperature difference compared to stock coolers was significant, keeping our i7 processor under 70°C even during intensive benchmarking sessions.
The seven copper heatpipes efficiently pull heat away from the CPU and distribute it through the aluminum fins.
The dual 120mm PWM fans run surprisingly quiet for the cooling power they deliver. At normal loads, we barely noticed them, and even under full stress tests, they maintained a tolerable noise level below 26dB.
The ARGB lighting effects look great too, with 17 different modes that sync perfectly with our motherboard’s lighting system.
Installation was straightforward with the included hardware supporting all current Intel and AMD sockets.
We appreciated the clear instructions and necessary mounting brackets for both platforms. One thing to note – the cooler’s size might cause clearance issues with tall RAM modules. We had to adjust the front fan position slightly higher to accommodate our memory sticks. Make sure your case has at least 155mm of CPU cooler clearance before purchasing.
Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 AIO
The Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 is a solid budget-friendly AIO cooler that delivers impressive cooling performance for its compact 120mm size.
Pros
- Excellent thermal performance for a 120mm AIO
- Easy installation with broad compatibility
- Attractive ARGB lighting with multiple control options
Cons
- Cable management can be challenging
- Fan noise becomes noticeable at higher RPMs
- Included manual lacks detailed instructions
We recently tested the Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 on several builds and came away impressed with its cooling capabilities.
The 120mm radiator might seem small, but it efficiently handled our Intel i7 and Ryzen 7 test systems without breaking a sweat.
During gaming sessions, we observed temperature drops of 15-20°C compared to stock coolers.
Installation proved straightforward across different motherboards, with mounting hardware included for most modern Intel and AMD sockets.
The package includes a fan hub to help with connections, though we found the wiring required some patience to organize neatly.
The pre-applied thermal paste is decent quality, so there’s no need to purchase additional compound.
The ARGB lighting adds a nice aesthetic touch without being overwhelming. Both the pump head and fan illuminate with customizable effects that sync with major motherboard software.
Fan performance strikes a good balance – at idle, it’s nearly silent, though it does become more audible under heavy loads.
For the price point, this AIO delivers remarkable value, making it an excellent option for builders with limited space or budget constraints who still want the benefits of liquid cooling.
ID-COOLING SE-214-XT ARGB White
The ID-COOLING SE-214-XT delivers exceptional cooling performance with stylish RGB lighting at a price point that makes it one of the best values in CPU cooling today.
Pros
- Excellent thermal performance with four heatpipes
- Customizable RGB lighting that syncs with motherboards
- Very quiet operation even under heavy loads
Cons
- Installation instructions could be clearer
- Fan clips can be slightly finicky to attach
- Limited overclocking headroom for high-TDP processors
We recently installed this cooler in our test rig, and we were immediately impressed by the clean white aesthetic combined with vibrant ARGB effects.
The build quality is solid, especially considering its budget-friendly price point.
Four copper heatpipes make direct contact with your CPU, efficiently transferring heat to the aluminum fins.
During our testing, the SE-214-XT kept our Ryzen 5 processor hovering around 40°C at idle and never exceeded 73°C under gaming loads.
The 120mm PWM fan adjusts its speed automatically based on temperature, ramping up only when needed.
At low speeds, it’s practically silent at just 13.8dB, and even at full tilt, it remains quieter than many stock coolers.
Setting up the RGB lighting was straightforward with the included 5V 3-pin connector. We plugged it directly into our motherboard and controlled the lighting through our ASUS Aura software.
The compatibility is excellent, working with most modern Intel and AMD sockets including LGA1700 and AM5.
For builders on a budget who want effective cooling with some visual flair, this cooler delivers remarkable value.
be quiet! Dark Rock 5
The Dark Rock 5 is a premium air cooler that delivers exceptional thermal performance with near-silent operation, making it perfect for users who want powerful cooling without the noise.
Pros
- Extremely quiet operation even under heavy loads
- Outstanding cooling capacity with 6 copper heat pipes
- Easy installation with included long screwdriver
Cons
- Slightly bulky design may cause clearance issues in smaller cases
- Higher price point than basic air coolers
- Heavy at 2.2 pounds which puts stress on the motherboard
After testing the Dark Rock 5 on several high-end systems, we’re thoroughly impressed with its cooling capabilities.
The six copper heat pipes and dense aluminum fin array pull heat away efficiently from even the most demanding CPUs.
During our stress tests with a Ryzen 9 processor, temperatures stayed well under 65°C while maintaining whisper-quiet operation.
The standout feature has to be the Silent Wings 4 120mm fan. Its fluid-dynamic bearing and 6-pole motor deliver substantial airflow (55 CFM) while keeping noise levels remarkably low at just 29.8 dB.
We could barely hear it running, even when our test system was under full load. The rubberized frame effectively prevents vibration transfer, further reducing noise.
Installation was surprisingly straightforward for such a large cooler. The pre-installed mounting bridge made attachment simple, and the included long-neck screwdriver was incredibly helpful for reaching screws in tight spaces.
The asymmetrical design provides excellent RAM compatibility, with no clearance issues on our test boards.
We particularly appreciate the magnetic mesh top cover that hides the heat pipe ends, giving the cooler a clean, professional look that enhances any build’s aesthetics.
Thermalright Aqua Elite 240 White
The Thermalright Aqua Elite 240 White V3 offers excellent cooling performance with attractive ARGB lighting at a price point that makes it a compelling option for most PC builders.
Pros
- Exceptional temperature control even for high-end CPUs
- Eye-catching ARGB lighting with motherboard sync capability
- Simple installation process with included fan hub
Cons
- Fans can be slightly noisy at higher RPMs
- Included thermal paste is minimal
- Cable management could be challenging without planning
We tested the Thermalright Aqua Elite 240 White V3 on a system running an Intel i7 processor under heavy loads, and the results impressed us.
The cooler maintained temperatures well below concerning levels even during extended gaming sessions.
Its octagonal pump head design isn’t just for show – it houses an efficient pump that runs at up to 3,300 RPM, providing consistent cooling performance.
The dual 120mm fans provide substantial airflow at 66.17 CFM while keeping noise levels reasonable.
During our testing, we noticed the PWM functionality worked seamlessly, ramping up cooling when needed and staying quieter during light tasks.
The ARGB lighting effects add a premium look to any build with 1600W color options that sync perfectly with most motherboards’ lighting systems.
Installation proved straightforward across both AMD and Intel platforms. The included mounting hardware accommodated our test system perfectly, and we appreciated the pre-installed fans on the radiator which saved time during setup.
The addition of a fan hub is particularly useful for systems with limited motherboard headers.
For the price point, this AIO cooler delivers performance comparable to much more expensive alternatives we’ve used.
Lian Li Hydroshift 360 AIO
The Lian Li Hydroshift 360 AIO offers an innovative side-mounted cooling design with a stunning LCD display, but its performance doesn’t quite match its premium aesthetics and price point.
Pros
- Revolutionary side-mounted coolant pathway creates a cleaner aesthetic
- High-quality 2.88″ LCD screen with impressive 480×480 resolution
- Compatible with latest Intel and AMD sockets including LGA 1851 and AM5
Cons
- Longer than standard 360mm radiators, limiting case compatibility
- Some users report pump noise issues
- Installation can be challenging in certain case configurations
We recently installed the Lian Li Hydroshift 360 AIO in our test rig and were immediately impressed by its unique design approach.
Unlike traditional AIOs with tubes running from the CPU block to the radiator, this cooler integrates the tubes along the side of the radiator. This creates a much cleaner aesthetic that transforms the look of any build.
The standout feature is definitely the 2.88″ LCD display with its crisp 480×480 resolution and 500 nits brightness. We displayed system stats, custom images, and even short videos through the L-Connect 3 software. The screen quality exceeded our expectations, with vivid colors and sharp detail that’s visible even in a bright room.
Performance results were mixed in our testing.
The Hydroshift kept our 7800X3D under 70°C during intensive gaming sessions, which is acceptable but not exceptional compared to other premium coolers.
Several mounting brackets are included for broad compatibility with both Intel and AMD platforms. The pre-installed 28mm fans deliver decent airflow, though swapping to high-performance alternatives like Noctua models yielded better thermal results in our tests.
Case compatibility requires special attention with this cooler. The radiator is noticeably longer than standard 360mm models, so measure carefully before purchasing.
We found installation somewhat fiddly, particularly in more compact cases where the extended radiator length created clearance issues with other components.
While the Hydroshift represents an interesting innovation in AIO design, we did experience occasional pump noise at higher RPMs. The side-mounted tube design seems to contribute to this issue in certain orientations. For builders prioritizing aesthetics with adequate cooling performance, this unique cooler offers a fresh approach to system design.
NZXT Kraken 240 AIO Cooler
The NZXT Kraken 240 delivers exceptional cooling performance while adding a stunning customizable LCD display that makes it worth every penny for both thermal management and aesthetic appeal.
Pros
- Customizable 1.54″ LCD screen displays GIFs, system stats, and more
- Powerful yet quiet pump operation (up to 2,800 RPM)
- Simple installation with single breakout cable design
Cons
- Premium pricing compared to non-display coolers
- Requires CAM software for full functionality
- Limited to 240mm radiator size for larger cases
After installing the NZXT Kraken 240 in our test system, we were immediately impressed by its cooling efficiency. Our CPU temperatures dropped significantly during intensive gaming sessions, maintaining numbers well below what we experienced with stock coolers.
The liquid cooling solution handled our overclocked processor without breaking a sweat.
The star feature has to be the vibrant 1.54-inch LCD display. We cycled through various custom GIFs, system monitoring displays, and even synchronized music visualizations through NZXT’s CAM software.
The display’s 240×240 resolution and 300 cd/m² brightness ensure everything looks crisp and visible even in well-lit environments. This level of personalization transforms a functional component into a centerpiece of your build.
Installation proved straightforward thanks to the thoughtful single-cable design. The two F120P static pressure fans strike an excellent balance between airflow and noise levels, rarely becoming noticeable during normal operation.
We found the build quality exceptional, with the braided tubing and solid pump head construction inspiring confidence.
For anyone seeking powerful cooling with head-turning aesthetics, the Kraken 240 stands as one of the most compelling AIO options we’ve tested.
Corsair Nautilus 360 RS
The Corsair Nautilus 360 RS delivers exceptional cooling performance without the complexity of RGB controls, making it perfect for performance-focused builders who want reliability over flashy lighting.
Pros
- Straightforward installation with pre-applied thermal paste
- No software required for basic operation
- Extremely quiet pump operation (20 dBA)
Cons
- Limited documentation for cable connections
- No RGB lighting for those wanting visual flair
- Controller sold separately for advanced features
We recently installed the Corsair Nautilus 360 RS in our test system, and the performance impressed us immediately. The 360mm radiator paired with three RS120 fans handled our overclocked CPU with ease, keeping temperatures well below concerning levels even during stress tests.
The slightly convex cold plate design ensures maximum contact with the CPU, which certainly contributes to its cooling efficiency.
The daisy-chain connectivity stands out as one of our favorite features. Rather than dealing with a mess of cables, we connected all three fans in sequence to a single motherboard header.
This setup not only cleaned up our build but also simplified fan control through our motherboard’s BIOS. No proprietary software needed for basic operation is refreshing in today’s market.
Noise levels are remarkably low for such a capable cooler. The pump runs nearly silent at 20 dBA, and the fans maintain reasonable noise levels even under heavy loads.
We noticed the included RS120 fans use Corsair’s AirGuide technology and Magnetic Dome bearings, which likely contributes to their balance of performance and acoustics.
The build quality feels solid, with the aluminum radiator and braided tubing suggesting long-term durability.
Installation was straightforward thanks to the pre-applied thermal paste in an optimized pattern. We appreciated not having to fuss with applying our own thermal compound.
The cooler supports a wide range of CPU sockets including the latest Intel LGA 1851 and AMD AM5, making it future-proof for upcoming builds. For users who want deeper control, an optional iCUE controller can be purchased separately, but we found the motherboard controls sufficient for most purposes.
Buying Guide
Selecting the right CPU cooler requires careful consideration of several factors. We’ve put together this guide to help you make an informed decision.
Compatibility
First, check if the cooler fits your CPU socket. Different processors use different socket types (like AM4 for AMD or LGA1700 for Intel).
The physical dimensions matter too. Measure the space in your case to ensure the cooler will fit, especially if you’re considering a large air cooler.
Cooling Performance
TDP (Thermal Design Power) rating indicates how much heat a cooler can dissipate. Choose a cooler with a TDP higher than your CPU’s maximum power consumption.
| CPU Use Case | Recommended Cooler Type |
|---|---|
| Office/Basic | Stock or entry-level air cooler |
| Gaming | Mid-range air or AIO liquid cooler |
| Overclocking | High-end air or liquid cooler |
Noise Levels
Fan size affects noise – larger fans can move the same air at lower speeds, creating less noise. Look for coolers with quality bearings and noise-dampening features.
Installation Complexity
Air coolers are generally easier to install and maintain. Liquid coolers offer better performance but require more setup and carry a small risk of leakage.
Budget Considerations
Air coolers typically cost between $20-$100, while liquid cooling solutions range from $60-$300+. Higher price often correlates with better cooling performance and lower noise.
Aesthetics
Many coolers now come with RGB lighting options.
Consider how the cooler will look in your build if aesthetics matter to you.
