High-performance CPUs can generate a significant amount of heat, and without proper cooling, there’s a risk of overheating, leading to reduced performance or even hardware damage. For gamers pushing their systems to the limit with overclocking or demanding games, a reliable CPU cooler isn’t just an accessory—it’s a necessity.
Understanding these key performance factors is crucial for selecting the most suitable cooler for gaming PC builds.
- Fan Speed: Look for coolers with a fan RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) in the range of 1000-2000, capable of reaching up to 3000 RPM for extreme cooling. Remember, air coolers may run faster than liquid ones due to the absence of coolant. Opt for larger or multiple fan setups to enhance airflow, potentially reducing the need for higher RPM.
- Noise Level: Aim for coolers that maintain noise levels below 30 decibels under normal operation, with a maximum of around 40 decibels under heavy load. Liquid coolers often offer a quieter solution thanks to their radiators, making them an attractive option for noise-sensitive users.
- Cooling Method: Choose between air cooling and liquid cooling based on your PC’s heat generation. Air cooling is straightforward, using fans and heat sinks to move heat away from your components. Liquid cooling, while more complex, involves a coolant circulated by fans and a radiator, providing superior heat dissipation.
Besides these factors, this article offers a curated list of CPU coolers from various brands with detailed technical specifications. Additionally, a comprehensive “Buying Guide” aids users in selecting the ideal CPU cooler while building their gaming setup.
Best CPU Coolers for a Gaming PC Build Table
| Best CPU Coolers for a Gaming PC Build | Noise Level (dB) | Cooling Method | Maximum Rotational Speed | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corsair CPU Cooler | 36 | Liquid | 2100 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| CoolerMaster CPU Cooler | 15 | Liquid | 1800 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| ARCTIC CPU Cooler | 8.4 | Liquid | 1800 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| MSI CPU Cooler | 16.7 | Liquid | 1800 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| ID-COOLING CPU Cooler | 30.5 | Air | 2500 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Thermaltake CPU Cooler | 25 | Fans (Air) | 1800 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| ID-COOLING SE-914-XT CPU Cooler | 30 | Fans (Air) | 2200 RPM | Check On Amazon |
| Thermalright CPU Cooler | 25.6 | Fans (Air) | 1500 RPM | Check On Amazon |
Best CPU Coolers for a Gaming PC Build Reviews
1. Corsair CPU Cooler
The first cooler comes from Corsair, a leading manufacturer of PC hardware components. It offers a range of high-performance components for gaming as well as other types of applications.
The Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD Liquid CPU Cooler is tuned for high performance. This unit features a 360mm aluminum radiator, large enough to fit a pair of 120 mm cooling fans. Being a PWM unit, control over the fan speed from 400 RPM to a maximum limit of 2100 RPM is possible. The Zero RPM mode helps in lowering operational noise and creates only 34.1 dB of noise at extreme conditions.
The cooling fans and pump head are fitted with 33 CAPELLIX RGB ELITE PWM which can be controlled with the Corsair iCUE commander CORE. with a wattage rating of 250 watts, this cooler can run on a 12 V power supply via any standard power connector. This cooler is compatible with Intel LGA 1700 and 1200 sockets and AMD AM5, AM4, and sTRX4 sockets.
Best Features:
- A liquid CPU cooler with a 360 mm aluminum radiator
- A pair of 120 mm cooling fans
- Adjustable speed range between 400 to 2100 RPM
- Maximum noise level of 36 dB with Zero RPM mode
- Compatible with latest Intel LGA 1700, 1200, etc sockets
- Compatible with latest AMD AM5, AM4, sTRX4, etc sockets
- Built-in 33 RGB ELITE PWM with customization
Pros:
- It is one of the most powerful coolers on the list
- It is compatible with very nearly-outdated CPU sockets
- It offers heavy customization with the RGB lights
Cons:
- It is priced higher than other options on the list
2. CoolerMaster CPU Cooler
Our next product comes from CoolerMaster, a leading manufacturer of thermal accessories. It offers a wide range of customizations on its product range to suit a user’s needs. These products have standard quality and assured durability.
The CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L CPU Liquid Cooler is designed to deliver efficient cooling. It has a dual-chamber pump that continuously circulates the coolant in the cooler block. The heated coolant is passed to the radiator via pipes made from EPDM material. The large surface area of the 240 mm radiator allows maximum heat transfer. The pair of 120 mm cooling fans circulate air over the radiator at a speed of 1800 RPM.
It is compatible with Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM4 CPU sockets and fits older sockets via additional mounting extensions. The cooler runs at a noise level of 15 dB without disturbing the user, even with CPUs rated for a TDP rating of 260 Watts. It supports the regular 12V DC power supply. Additional RGB lights are included to give the cooler a good look.
Best Features:
- A liquid CPU cooler with a 240 mm radiator
- Features a pair of 120 mm cooling fans, dual chamber pump, and a cooling pipe made up of EPDM material
- The operational noise output of 15 dB
- The maximum rotational speed of 1800 RPM
- TDP rating of 260 Watts and supports 12V DC input
- Compatible Intel sockets: LGA 1700, 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2066, 2011-v3, and 2011
- Compatible AMD sockets: AM4, AM3 plus, AM3, AM2 plus, AM2, FM2 plus, FM2, and FM1
Pros:
- The 3rd generation dual-chamber pump can circulate heated coolant at extreme conditions
- It is one of the most silent liquid coolers on the list
- The built-in RGB light supports a wide range of customizations
- It comes with a 2-year warranty
Cons:
- Power consumption sometimes increases drastically at higher loads
3. ARCTIC CPU Cooler
ARCTIC develops and manufactures various components for PCs. It offers a wide range of thermal solutions for PC components like CPU, GPU, etc. These products include thermal pads, thermal pastes, and coolers.
The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 Liquid CPU Cooler is the most silent unit on the list. It has a noise output level of only 8.4 dB (0.3 sones), silent as if it is not running. It has a cold plate that absorbs heat from the CPU and transfers it to the aluminum radiator via EPDM cooling pipes. A pair of radiator fans and an additional fan for the pump helps in circulating fresh air. As a result, a reduction in temperature by 15 degrees Celsius is achieved.
The cooler is compatible with the latest Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets. It can be connected to a 12 V power supply via the 4-pin connector. All the fans are PWM units and can be set at a speed range between 200 RPM to 1800 RPM. Air is circulated at the rate of 48.8 CFPM. This unit also features RGB LEDs all over the setup to colorfully illuminate the surrounding.
Best Features:
- A liquid CPU cooler with pump, aluminum radiator, and a copper cold plate
- The operational noise output of 8.4 dB (0.3 sones)
- Features a 40 mm VRM fan for the pump and dual radiator fans
- PWM feature with adjustable rotational speed from 200 to 1800 RPM
- Cir circulation rate of 48.8 CFPM
- Supports 12V DC power supply via a 4-pin power connector
- Compatible Intel sockets: LGA 1700, 1200, 115X, 2011-3, and 2066
- Compatible AMD sockets: AM5 and AM4
Pros:
- It offers a reduction of 15 degrees celsius temperature from the CPU surface
- It consumes over 80% less power compared to the other coolers
- To avoid leakage of coolant, it comes with good-quality cooling pipes
Cons:
- It does not have a dedicated cable for RGB lights and pump
4. MSI CPU Cooler
MSI offers a range of innovative products for gaming laptops and desktops. With the help of the latest technologies, it has developed high-performance products to fulfill the needs of modern users.
The MSI MAG Core Liquid 240R V2 Liquid CPU Cooler is designed for silent operations. It features a 240 mm radiator with a spit-flow design, allowing maximum heat exchange. The pair of 120 mm PWM fans circulate fresh air with adjustable speed. It can run at a maximum speed of 1800 RPM and still produce a minimal noise level of 16.7 dB. The 400 mm coolant pipes have a triple-layer construction, to avoid leakage of heated coolant.
The built-in pump helps maintain a simple design for the cooler. The cold plate of this liquid CPU cooler can turn up to 270 degrees to align with the CPU lid. It is compatible with the Intel LGA 1700 or AMD AM5 sockets and supports mounting on older sockets via extension brackets. The ARGB lights add excellent illumination with various lighting effects.
Best Features:
- A liquid CPU cooler featuring a 240 mm radiator with a built-in pump
- A pair of 120 mm cooling fans with built-in ARGB lights
- The maximum rotational speed of 1800 RPM
- The operational noise output of 16.7 dB
- Cold plate with 270-degree rotation feature connected with 400 mm cooling tubes
- Compatible Intel sockets: LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, and LGA2066
- Compatible AMD sockets: AM5, AM4, FM2+, FM2, FM1, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, and AM2
- It supports a 12 V power supply
Pros:
- It is one of the silent coolers on the list
- The built-in pump design keeps the overall setup simple and easy to install
- The coolant tubes have a triple-layered construction making them less vulnerable to leakage
Cons:
- Management of the cable and cooling tubes is a bit difficult
5. ID-COOLING CPU Cooler
ID-COOLING specializes in manufacturing cooling solutions for gaming setups. Its range of computer hardware components is developed for all types of segments. The products are known for their reliability and aggressive price tags.
The ID-COOLING SE-214-XT ARGB White CPU Cooler is a budget-oriented unit. It is equipped with a 240 mm radiator which offers a large surface area for heat rejection. A pair of 120 mm fans circulate fresh air over the radiator at the rate of 68.2 CFPM. Being PWM units, the speed of fans can be controlled up to 2500 RPM. These fans create operational noise between 30.5 dB even at extreme loading conditions.
Both the fans and pump are fitted with customizable RGB lights. The cooler can be connected to a 12 V power supply via a standard power connector. It is easy to mount this cooler with various sockets including the new generation Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5. The brackets of cooling fans have a rubber lining to prevent vibration transfer to the cooler’s body.
Best Features:
- A liquid CPU cooler with a 240 mm radiator
- A pair of 120 mm PWM cooling fans
- Maximum airflow of 68.2 CFM at a speed of 2500 RPM
- The operational noise output is between 18 to 30.5 dB
- Compatible with Intel sockets: LGA 1700, 1200, 2066, 2011, 1151, 1150, 1155, and 1156
- Compatible with AMD AM5 and AM4 sockets
- Built-in RGB lights with a wired controller
- Supports 12 V power supply
Pros:
- It is the most affordable liquid cooler
- Due to the rubber lining on the cooling fan’s bracket, the transfer of vibration to other components is prevented
- It offers better cooling with efficient airflow
Cons:
- It has a very outdated design, compared to the other coolers
6. Thermaltake CPU Cooler
Thermaltake develops various types of computer hardware components. It also offers a variety of cooling solutions for the modern gaming PC setup. Its high-quality products assure the user of long-term durability.
Sasta air cooler
The Thermaltake UX200 SE Air CPU Cooler is developed for high-performance CPUs. With a TDP rating of 170 Watts, it can handle the extreme temperatures of CPUs. This unit features an integrated fan and heatsink design. The 9-blade fan circulates large volumes of air over the aluminum heatsink. This unit works on a 5V power supply and can be directly connected to the motherboard.
Even at a speed of 1800 RPM, this unit produces only 25 dB of noise. To allow maximum heat removal, over 4 u-shaped copper heat pipes of 6 mm in length are in continuous contact with the CPU surface. The built-in 15 ARGB LEDs illuminate the surroundings in 16.8 million colors. It is compatible with Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 series sockets.
Best Features:
- Air CPU cooler with a TDP rating of 170 Watts
- A 9-blade cooling fan connected with an aluminum heatsink
- The maximum rotational speed of 1800 RPM
- A total of 4 u-shaped copper heat pipes of 6 mm in length
- The operational noise output of 25 dB
- 15 ARGB LEDs with 16.8 million color output
- Compatible with Intel sockets: LGA 1700, 1200, 1156, 1155, 1151, 1150, and 775
- Compatible with AMD sockets: AM5, AM4, FM2, FM1, AM3 plus, AM3, AM2 plus, and AM2
Pros:
- It is the most affordable cooler on the list
- Installation of the cooler is very easy
- It comes with a hydraulic bearing for silent operation and a seal cap to prevent leakage of lubricants
Cons:
- The cooling fan’s design makes it difficult to clean
7. ID-COOLING SE-914-XT CPU Cooler
We have another product from ID-Cooling in the air coolers segment. This product has all the qualities of its brand and assures a good performance similar to its liquid-cooling sibling.
The ID-COOLING SE-914-XT ARGB Air CPU Cooler offers better cooling. This unit features 4 heat pipes connected to the heat sink for efficient heat transfer. The 92 mm PWM fan circulates air over the heatsink at a controlled speed between 600 to 2200 RPM. It produces an airflow of 45.8 CFM, to ensure faster removal of heat from the heatsink. With a height of 131 mm, it does not obstruct other components.
This unit can function at higher speeds and still create noise levels of 30 dB. With the help of a 3-pin power connector, this cooler can be connected to a 5 V power supply. It also features multi-color ARGB lights to illuminate the setup with several colors. It is compatible with various Intel and AMD sockets including LGA 1700 and AMD A5.
Best Features:
- Air CPU cooler with 4 heat pipes
- A 92mm PWM fan with adjustable speed between 600 to 2200 RPM
- Maximum airflow of 45.8 CFM
- The operational noise output of 30 dB
- Compatible with 5 V power supply via 3-pin connecter
- Compatible with Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets
- Built-in ARGB lights with customizable colors
Pros:
- It has a compact size which does not interfere with other components
- The design of this cooler looks futuristic with RGB lights
- It offers better cooling with efficient airflow
Cons:
- It is not suitable for overclocked CPUs
8. Thermalright CPU Cooler
Thermalright has been constantly updating its range of cooling solutions to deliver efficient products. By giving priority to premium materials, it delivers a reliable, durable, and performance-oriented product to the user.
The Thermalright BA120 CPU Air Cooler performs on par with the liquid coolers. This unit features an aluminum heatsink connected to 6 copper heat pipes. This heatsink is cooled with the help of a 120 mm PWM cooling fan. With a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, the fan creates an airflow of 66.17 CFM. It creates only 25.6 dB of noise even when running at maximum speed. The TDP rating of 245 W makes it compatible with extreme gaming sessions.
This cooler also features a durable S-FDB bearing which has an industrial service life of 25,000 hours. To ensure safety against electrical hazards, it uses UL-class PBT and PC materials. With a height of 154 mm, this cooler fits any medium size computer case. It is compatible with various AMD and Intel CPU sockets including the latest AMD AM4 and Intel LGA 1700. A 4-pin connector connects the cooler with a 12 V supply.
Best Features:
- CPU air cooler with a TDP rating of 245 W
- Features aluminum heatsink with 6×6 mm copper heat tubes
- A 120 mm PWM fan with adjustable speed
- The airflow rate of 66.17 CFM at a maximum speed of 1500 RPM
- The operational noise output of 25.6 dB
- UL-listed PBT and PC materials for safety
- Supports 12 V power supply via 4-pin connector
- Maximum height of 154 mm
- Compatible with AMD A4 socket
- Compatible with Intel sockets: LGA 1700/17XX/1200/115X
Pros:
- With 20,000 hours of service life, the S-FDB bearing ensures the durable operation of the cooler
- It easily fits into medium-sized computer cases
- It is the most powerful air CPU cooler on the list
Cons:
- It is not compatible with the latest AMD AM5 socket
Guide To Buying CPU Coolers For Gaming PC Builds
Effective cooling is crucial for a smooth gaming experience on your PC. Choosing the right CPU cooler can be overwhelming, but understanding key factors will simplify your selection procedure. Let’s explore these factors to help you make an informed decision that suits your gaming needs.
1. Cooling Performance
The cornerstone of any CPU cooler is its cooling performance, which efficiently dissipates heat generated by the processor. This cooling performance is measured in terms of their ability to maintain low temperatures under heavy loads, or during intense gaming sessions. Look for coolers with a track record of effectively managing heat under heavy loads, ensuring your processor remains cool and responsive.
CPU coolers come in two main types: air coolers and liquid coolers, catering to different heat dissipation needs. Air coolers are suitable for moderate temperatures, and utilize metal fins on a heat sink to draw heat away from the CPU. On the other hand, liquid cooling systems are ideal for extreme temperatures. They employ a closed coolant and base plate system, where the CPU’s heat transfers to the base plate, heating the coolant. A pump then circulates the coolant to a radiator for heat exchange. Both types incorporate cooling fans to expedite the cooling process.
Consider the type of cooling technology employed, such as air cooling or liquid cooling. While air coolers are generally more affordable and easier to install, liquid coolers tend to offer better thermal performance, especially in overclocked setups.
2. Compatibility
Ensure compatibility between the CPU cooler and your gaming PC’s case and motherboard. Check the dimensions of the cooler to ensure it fits snugly within the confines of your case without obstructing other components.
Each CPU generation features distinct configurations, necessitating specific motherboard layouts and CPU sockets. If not, this leads to the difference in the mounting holes, which might become a problem while installing an older CPU cooler with the latest generation of CPU sockets. Mismatched mounting can disrupt heat exchange, compromising cooling performance.
It’s crucial to ensure compatibility between the CPU cooler and the motherboard’s socket. For instance, newer sockets like Intel’s LGA 1700/1200 and AMD’s AM5/AM4 require different mounting configurations. Some manufacturers offer additional (or interchangeable) mounting brackets to facilitate compatibility with previous-generation sockets. This ensures seamless installation and optimal cooling efficiency across various CPU generations.
3. Noise Level
A quieter gaming experience enhances immersion and reduces distractions. Consider the noise level produced by the CPU cooler (due to their cooling fans), especially if you prefer quieter gaming environments or plan to use your PC for content creation or productivity tasks. Also, these fans operate at varying rotational speeds, contributing to the overall PC’s noise output.
Recognizing the importance of a quiet gaming environment, manufacturers prioritize the acoustic performance of their coolers. Modern designs aim to maximize airflow while minimizing noise, ensuring a pleasant gaming experience even under heavy loads. Most CPU coolers maintain noise levels below 30 dB during regular operation and around 40 dB under extreme conditions. Liquid coolers, thanks to their radiator setup, tend to offer quieter operation compared to air coolers.
So, look for CPU coolers equipped with quiet/silent fans and noise-dampening technologies to minimize noise without compromising on the cooling performance.
4. Overclocking Capability
If you’re an enthusiast looking to push/maximize your CPU’s performance to its limits through overclocking, opt for a CPU cooler capable of handling the increased thermal loads associated with overclocked setups. Liquid coolers with larger radiators and robust pump systems are generally better suited for overclocking, offering superior heat dissipation and temperature control under extreme conditions.
5. Material
Material selection is critical in CPU cooler construction, as it directly affects heat dissipation. Copper is preferred for base plates due to its excellent heat conductivity, while aluminum is commonly used for radiators or heat sinks owing to its durability. In liquid cooling systems, flexible materials like rubber with multi-layered construction are utilized for cooling pipes to prevent leakage under high pressures. Cooling fans are typically made from steel, plastic, or composite materials, ensuring efficient airflow and durability.
6. Power Connector Type and Voltage
CPU coolers rely on a stable power supply to efficiently carry out the cooling process. This is facilitated through power connectors, which come in various types depending on pin design. The most commonly used options are the 3-pin and 4-pin connectors. These connectors can be linked to the motherboard or directly to the PSU of the gaming PC.
Moreover, the power supply is set within a fixed voltage range to ensure the optimal functioning of the cooler. Contemporary CPU coolers typically operate on a 12V power supply, while older models may require a lower voltage for operation.
7. Build Quality and Durability
Invest in a CPU cooler constructed from high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. Look for coolers with sturdy heatsinks, corrosion-resistant components, and reliable mounting mechanisms. Also, check its warranty which reflects the build quality and performance. Longer warranties assure for years of trouble-free operation.
8. Cooling Fan RPM
The RPM, or Rotations Per Minute, of the cooling fan is a critical factor in both air and liquid CPU coolers. This measurement determines the speed at which the fan blades rotate, impacting the airflow over the radiator or heat sink. Typically, fans operate at speeds ranging from 1000 to 2000 RPM for effective heat dissipation. In more demanding scenarios, some fans may reach speeds of 3000 RPM or higher.
Air coolers, lacking a coolant system, often require higher RPMs to maintain efficient cooling compared to liquid coolers. Employing larger-diameter fans can enhance airflow while minimizing rotational speeds. Additionally, utilizing multiple fans can further improve cooling performance, reducing the need for excessively high RPMs.
9. Aesthetics and RGB Lighting
While aesthetics may not directly impact performance, selecting a CPU cooler that complements your gaming rig’s aesthetic can enhance the overall visual appeal of your setup. Modern CPU coolers feature sleek designs and customizable RGB lighting options to match your preferred theme or color scheme. Balance aesthetics with performance considerations to choose a CPU cooler that looks great and delivers the cooling performance you need for your gaming PC.
Verdict: Prioritize these key factors to make a proper decision according to your specific requirements for enhanced performance, longevity, and visual appeal of your gaming rig.
FAQs:
Ans: The best CPU cooler for your gaming PC depends on various factors. If you want a cooling system with a limited budget and lower maintenance, air coolers are an ideal choice. Liquid cooling is the right choice if your gaming PC runs at extreme settings and prices at high temperatures. Air CPU coolers have a simple design and easy installation, while liquid CPU coolers have more components and a complex installation process.
Ans: Air coolers are a good choice for gaming PCs where CPU overclocking is not done. The current generation of air CPU coolers can handle the operational temperature of high-end gaming setups. Due to the overclocking process, high heat is generated as the CPU works at its limit. Users can also opt for air CPU coolers with multiple fan setups, for efficient cooling.
Ans: Yes, as liquid CPU coolers have various parts working together in a closed-loop layout. The coolant is circulated through the base plate, cooling tube, radiator, and pump. The coolant needs to be checked at a set interval to prevent evaporation or accumulation of impurities. The cooling fan and radiator are cleaned to keep them efficient for the heat exchange process. Various seals also need inspection over time to prevent leakage of coolant via worn-out seals.
Ans: The Thermalright BA120 is the most powerful air CPU cooler. It can handle gaming systems with a TDP rating of 245 W. To allow faster cooling of the CPU, it circulates at the rate of 66.17 CFM. At extreme conditions, this cooler runs at 1500 RPM speed and produces only 25.6 dB of noise. Hence, this unit is a powerful yet silent air cooler for CPUs.
Ans: Both types of coolers can have a longer lifespan. The longevity of both air and liquid coolers depends on various factors. By using high-quality materials, the cooler easily works for years without wearing components. To increase durability, periodic maintenance is also needed on the coolers. For liquid coolers, the coolant needs to be supervised against impurities. The CPU coolers must be used within their allowable temperature limit.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of CPU coolers, we hope this guide has equipped you with the insights to choose the ideal cooler for your gaming PC. Whether your preference lies in high-performance liquid cooling systems like the Corsair CPU Cooler, efficient air cooling options like the Thermalright CPU Cooler, or budget-friendly solutions such as the Thermaltake CPU Cooler, each provides unique benefits to maintain your system’s peak performance during intense gaming sessions.
Remember, the right cooler not only enhances your gaming experience but also safeguards your hardware investment by ensuring it operates within optimal thermal conditions. Feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments section below. We’re here to assist you in navigating the options and making an informed decision that aligns with your gaming goals and budget. Happy gaming, and may your PC always stay cool under pressure!
