Top CPU Coolers for Your Gaming PC

A central processing unit (CPU) is the heart of your gaming PC, and it requires effective cooling to ensure it operates at its maximum potential. Among the variety of CPU coolers available, our favorite is the Noctua NH-D15S. However, there are several capable alternatives that can help maintain ideal temperatures for your CPU. In this article, we will explore the top CPU coolers to keep your gaming PC running efficiently.

1. **Noctua NH-D15S**
– Compatibility: LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x, LGA2011, LGA2066, AM4, AM5
– Size (h x w x d): 160mm x 150mm x 135mm
– Heatpipes: 6
– Materials: Copper baseplate and heat-pipes, aluminum fins
– Fans: 1 x 140mm NF-A15 PWM
– Fan Airflow: 82.52 CFM
– Fan Pressure: 1.51 mmH2O (each)
– Fan Noise: 24.6 dBA

The Noctua NH-D15S is a high-quality CPU cooler that comes with a slightly higher price tag, but it offers excellent performance. Its wide compatibility makes it suitable for a broad range of processors, making it a worthwhile investment that can last through multiple PC upgrades. The unique asymmetrical layout of this cooler ensures compatibility with various RAM sizes. It features six heat pipes and a 140mm PWM fan, delivering efficient cooling with minimal noise.

2. **Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO V2**
– Compatibility: LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1151, LGA2066, AM4
– Size (h x w x d): 120mm x 80mm x 155mm
– Heatpipes: 4
– Materials: Aluminum fins, copper heat pipes
– Fans: 1 x Sickleflow 120 120mm
– Fan Airflow: 62 CFM
– Fan Pressure: 2.5 mmH2O
– Fan Noise: 8-27 dBA

The Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO V2 is a budget-friendly and reliable CPU cooler. It features an updated design with improved RAM clearance and brackets for easier installation. This cooler is compatible with both AMD and Intel builds, including the latest LGA1700 socket. With four heat pipes and effective ventilation, it offers great cooling performance at an affordable price.

3. **Corsair iCUE H100i Elite Capellix XT**
– Compatibility: LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1151, LGA2066, AM4, AM5
– Size (h x w x d): 277mm x 120mm x 27mm radiator; 120mm x 25mm fan
– Materials: Copper cold plate, aluminum radiator
– Fans: 2 x AF120 RGB ELITE 120mm
– Fan Airflow: 65.57 CFM
– Fan Pressure: 2.68 mmH2O
– Fan Noise: 34.1 dBA

If you prefer liquid cooling, the Corsair iCUE H100i Elite Capellix XT is an excellent choice. It offers socket support for the latest AMD and Intel processors and is suitable for AMD’s powerful Threadripper CPUs. This 240mm cooler features a copper cold plate and a 240mm radiator with two 120mm fans, providing efficient cooling. Corsair’s iCUE software allows for easy management of fan and pump speeds, ensuring optimal processor performance.

4. **Corsair H60x RGB Elite**
– Compatibility: LGA1200, LGA1151
– Size (h x w x d): 95mm x 95mm x 37mm
– Heatpipes: 6
– Materials: Copper baseplate and heat-pipes, aluminum fins
– Fans: 1 x NF-A9x14
– Fan Airflow: 33.8 CFM
– Fan Noise: 23.6 dBA (14.8dBA with Low-Noise Adaptor)

The Corsair H60x RGB Elite is a compact and efficient AIO liquid cooler designed for small spaces. It features a copper cold plate and a 120mm radiator with a 120mm fan, ensuring effective cooling without excessive noise. This cooler is a cost-effective solution that comes with individually addressable RGB LEDs for customization.

5. **Noctua NH-L9i**
– Compatibility: LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1151, AM5, AM4
– Size (h x w x d): 158mm x 154mm x 152mm
– Heatpipes: 6
– Materials: Copper baseplate and heat-pipes, aluminum fins, soldered joints, nickel plating

For compact PC builds with limited space, the Noctua NH-L9i is an excellent low-profile CPU cooler. While it may not provide extreme cooling, it offers a sizable radiator and quality Noctua fan. It’s compatible with various Intel chips and can even support AMD chips on an AM4 socket with an additional adapter. The included adapter allows for low-noise operation, maintaining a quiet environment.

6. **Noctua NH-P1**
– Compatibility: LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1151, AM5, AM4
– Size (h x w x d):
– Heatpipes:
– Materials: Copper baseplate and heat-pipes, aluminum fins, soldered joints, nickel plating

The Noctua NH-P1 is a unique fanless CPU cooler that relies on innovative design to dissipate heat effectively. This passive cooler is designed without fans, water pumps, or moving parts. It’s suitable for a wide range of systems, including those with the latest LGA1700 socket. This cooler’s design promotes efficient heat dissipation without any noise generation.

In conclusion, selecting the right CPU cooler depends on your specific needs, budget, and available space. Whether you prefer air or liquid cooling, there are options available to keep your gaming PC running at optimal temperatures.