The CPU is certainly the primary component of the PC as it takes care of all the data management and calculations. But, your work as an owner is not just plugging it in the motherboard socket but also taking care of the component. To facilitate the CPU, the CPU cooler is a necessary add-on to it.
The basic purpose of the CPU cooler is to dissipate the heat caused by the processor. To choose the best CPU and CPU cooler combo, you need to consider several factors, we have listed some of them below.
- CPU: The decision to finalise the CPU depends mainly on two big names in the industry. The first one is Intel, and the next is AMD. Intel has always been ahead in terms of performance, but AMD is not far behind. Intel offers K and KF series, whereas the K series has an extra GPU. AMD offers X and non-X series, whereas the latter has a lower TDP.
- Cores and Threads: Processors with more cores and threads perform better, but the downside is that they produce more heat and hence need a more efficient cooling system.
- Type of Cooling: There are two kinds of cooling which are offered by CPU coolers. They are air cooling and liquid cooling. The former is cheaper but bulkier to set up, while the latter provides better performance but needs higher maintenance.
More discussion on the CPU and CPU coolers details are elaborated in the “Buying Guide” given later in the article. The next section lists the best combination of CPU and CPU coolers with notable features, advantages and drawbacks. This will help you get a clear idea and make a better decision.
Best CPU and CPU Coolers Combo Table
Best CPU and CPU Coolers Combo Reviews
1. Intel i9-13900K & Corsair CPU Cooler
The Intel i9-13900K processor is a high-end product which is suited for all the tasks that you want to pull off with it. It is unlocked and overclockable. With 24 cores and 32 threads is among the top-performing processors in the market.
This processor features a cache of 36 MB and has an LGA 1700 socket with great connectivity and support for all kinds of games. To support this overwhelming processor, the user needs a high-functioning CPU cooler, the Corsair iCUE H1000i Elite Capellix Liquid Cooler.
The above-mentioned cooler features a liquid cooling type powered by 120mm fans to offer powerful cooling. The fan speed can be adjusted from 400 RPM to 2400 RPM and is rated at a voltage of 12V. With efficient cooling, the noise level is also 36dB making it a huge advantage.
This cooler is compatible with the new LGA 1700 socket making it an ideal choice for Intel Core i9-13900K processors. The Zero RPM fan feature enables the fan to stop automatically at lower temperatures when not required.
Best Features
- CPU: Intel Core i9-13900K
- Cores and Threads: 24 and 32
- Type of Cooling: Liquid
- Voltage: 12 Volts
Pros
- A high-functioning duo of CPU and CPU cooler.
- Compatible with each other and enables great connectivity.
- Wide range of adjustable fan speeds.
- Zero RPM fan technology.
Cons
- Some users had issues with the RGB lighting of the CPU cooler.
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2. AMD Ryzen 9 7950X & ID-COOLING CPU Cooler
For a gamer or creator, this is the best bet from AMD. Equipped with 16 cores and 32 threads, it offers more than 100 fps for most high-demand games. Also, the Zen 4 Architecture with a boost speed of 5.7 GHz provides great support.
This processor offers a cache of 80 MB which allows the games to run smoothly without any hindrance. Featuring the AM5 socket, this processor is compatible with most CPU coolers in the market, making ID-Cooling SE-914-XT a good option for it.
This liquid cooler delivers better heat dissipation with 92mm fans and four heat pipes. The automated speed control enables the fans to regulate the speed between 600 RPM to 2200 RPM keeping the noise level within 30 dB.
The required voltage for this cooler is 5V which makes it suitable for all households. The RGB lighting on the top cover is customisable to suit your preferences.
Best Features
- CPU: Ryzen 9 7950X
- Cores and Threads: 16 and 32
- Type of Cooling: Liquid
- Voltage: 5 Volts
Pros
- Offers a cache of 80 MB.
- Noise level below 30 dB.
- Automated speed control.
- Customisable RGB lighting.
Cons
- People had issues with the included hardware.
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3. Intel i7-13700K & ARCTIC CPU Cooler
This K series Intel Core i7 processor has a boost speed of 5.4 GHz, making it perfect for challenging tasks. It comes with 16 cores and 24 threads and an integrated Graphics UHD 770 card for uninterrupted display.
For uninterrupted performance, it offers 30MB of cache. Featuring the LGA 1700 socket, it is compatible with several CPU coolers but the best choice for this processor is the Arctic Freezer 34 Esports Duo-Tower.
This cooler is designed for high-end processors offering enhanced heat dissipation with its 54 cooling fans. The air-cooling technology enables it to work at a 20 dB noise level.
It works at 12V and has an RPM of 2100. It is fast and easy to install and highly compatible with AMD and Intel sockets, making it a perfect fit for the LGA 1700.
Best Features
- CPU: Intel Core i7-13700K
- Cores and Threads: 16 and 24
- Type of Cooling: Fans (Air)
- Voltage: 12 Volts
Pros
- Enhanced heat dissipation.
- Compatibility with high-end tasks.
- Low noise level.
- Maximum RPM of 2100.
Cons
- Some people received products with missing hardware.
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4. AMD Ryzen 7 7700X & Cooler Master CPU Cooler
This Ryzen processor caters to the user’s gaming needs and provides powerful performance with the Zen 4 architecture. It features 8 cores and 16 threads for smooth functioning.
This processor belongs to the X series offering higher TDP and better performance. Offering an 80 MB cache with the AM5 socket, it becomes compatible with a series of hardware products the user wants to install. For the operation of high-demand tasks to run smoothly, the best cooler for this processor is the Coolermaster Hyper 212 Halo White CPU Air Cooler.
This cooler features a stable hybrid frame with aluminium fans and a modern design. Airflow is enhanced with larger fans and an adjustable RPM between 650 and 1800.
The noise level is as low as 27 dB and it works at 12V. It has wide compatibility with a sturdy and durable design.
Best Features
- CPU: Ryzen 7 7700X
- Cores and Threads: 16 and 24
- Type of Cooling: Fans (Air)
- Voltage: 12 Volts
Pros
- Stable hybrid frame.
- Larger fans.
- Adjustable fan speed.
- Durable design.
Cons
- Some people faced difficulties while installing.
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5. Intel i5-13600K & Deep Cool CPU Cooler
The Intel i5-13600K is a budget processor with all the modern technology to facilitate high-end gaming services. It features 14 cores and 20 threads and offers a 24 MB cache, enabling smooth functioning.
This processor features an LGA 1700 socket compatible with several kinds of hardware, making it a good choice. However, the best cooler to go with is this DeepCool AK620 CPU Air Cooler.
This CPU cooler is built with 6mm Nickel blades, enabling air cooling at 1850 RPM and keeping the noise level at 28 dB even at top speed. It runs at 12V and maximises heat dissipation even at 260W.
It is compatible with Intel processors. This has a reliable design and is compact and lightweight.
Best Features
- CPU: Intel Core i5-13600K
- Cores and Threads: 8 and 16
- Type of Cooling: Fans (Air)
- Voltage: 12 Volts
Pros
- Nickel blades.
- Reliable design.
- 28 dB noise level.
- Intel processors compatibility.
Cons
- Not compatible with any other brand of motherboard.
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6. AMD Ryzen 5 7600X & Dark Rock CPU Cooler
This Ryzen processor offers high TDP with 6 cores and 12 threads that help in the smooth functioning of games with more than 100 fps. It has the Zen 4 architecture that enables overclocking to boost the speed.
The maximum core speed of the processor is 5.3 GHz with a 38 MB cache. This processor is compatible with the Dark Rock 4 Pro CPU cooler owing to the AM5 socket compatibility.
The CPU cooler offers amazing performance at 250W TDP with a funnel-shaped frame and 2 silent PWM fans. The air cooling technology keeps the noise level as low as 24.3 dB.
With an RPM of 1450, it is one of the best in the low-budget range. It also enhances RAM compatibility and has optimising cooling fins.
Best Features
- CPU: Ryzen 5 7600X
- Cores and Threads: 6 and 12
- Type of Cooling: Fans (Air)
- Voltage: 12 Volts
Pros
- Low-budget CPU cooler.
- Enhances RAM compatibility.
- Optimising cooling fans.
- Funnel-shaped fan.
Cons
- Some people complained about the durability.
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Things To Consider When Buying The CPU And CPU Coolers Combo
The CPU and the CPU cooler go hand-in-hand. So, choosing the best combo can increase the device’s productivity by a huge margin. However, the choice is not simple, so we have listed the most important factors which will help you determine the best CPU and CPU coolers combo for you.
1. CPU And Speed
When deciding on the CPU, there is a constant battle between Team Blue, Intel and Team Red, AMD. They are the top brands in the race to be number one. We have discussed both of them in detail.
- Intel: This brand has been at the top of its game since its inception. It has been superior in performance and quality, offering high clock speed. The best offer from Intel has been the K and the KF series processors, where the K series have an integrated GPU while the KF series lack it.
- AMD: This brand also offers a fair share of well-functioning CPUs, making it a big name in the market. The best processors from AMD come in the X and the non-X series where the former has a higher TDP than the latter.
Another important aspect when looking at the CPUs is the speed. No one likes a slow PC when performing high-demanding tasks. The speed is measured in GigaHertz. So, any processor with a speed of 5.0 GHz can complete 5,000,000,000 instructions in the given cycle. It is recommended to go for the processor with the highest speed.
2. Cores And Threads
When looking for a high-performance CPU, it is important to look for greater cores and threads. They guarantee better performance and speed for getting through the tasks and instructions. As they are better in performance, they produce more heat and are in need of a better cooler.
3. Cache
The cache is the memory component which helps in the smooth running of the processor even when the task is heavy and highly demanding. It takes care of the whole system and enables improved performance to a great extent. Therefore, more cache storage is ideal for the processor and the whole PC. The minimum cache that one should be looking for is 30MB.
4. CPU Socket
A CPU socket is the slot attachment which connects the processor and the motherboard. Therefore, it is basic to choose a CPU socket compatible with a large variety of modern and highly-competitive motherboards. Intel offers LGA 1700 sockets, while AMD offers AM5 sockets. Both these deliver high-range compatibility.
5. Type Of Cooling
There are two types of cooling for CPU coolers. The first one is Air cooling, and the next one is liquid cooling. We have elaborated on both of them below.
- Liquid Cooling: They are known to achieve better temperatures while cooling and do not damage the case fans, memory or any other parts of the system. However, they have a greater risk of leaking and a low price-to-performance ratio.
- Air Cooling: These deliver better performance at the given price and require very little maintenance. However, it can be difficult to set it up and it is bulky.
6. Noise Level
The noise level is a very important consideration as many manufacturers believe that the CPU cooler is the loudest component of the system. Typically, coolers with larger fans have lower noise levels than the ones with smaller fans. So, the user should look for either larger or more fans to lower the noise levels.
7. Voltage And RPM
The voltage of the CPU cooler should be rated at 12 Volts which is the default and ideal case. The RPM or the rotations per minute for the cooler fans should be between the range of 1000-1500 RPM. This helps to keep a lower noise level for the fans.
8. Warranty
When selecting a CPU and CPU cooler combo, looking at reliability and durability is important. So, to determine this, you can look for the warranty factor for this. The product’s warranty period will help determine how long the product will last.
CPU & CPU Cooler FAQs
Ans: Experts suggest that if your CPU features an integrated cooler, then you do not need an extra one.
Ans: Usually, all the coolers are not compatible with all the sockets. For instance, an AM5 socket-compatible cooler might not fit perfectly in the AM4 socket. However, some coolers are available with extra mounting hardware, which will help to accommodate several different sockets.
Ans: According to researchers, liquid cooling is a better alternative as it distributes the heat efficiently and consumes lesser power.
Ans: Mostly, liquid cooling is overkill for most users. For basic and medium use, air cooling is sufficient, and liquid cooling is only needed if you intend to push the PC to its limits.
Final Word
With this guide at your disposal, choosing the best CPU and cooler combo will be like a walk in the park. We have listed all the criteria you need to know to buy a CPU and cooler combo. Therefore, you must apply these considerations when buying CPU and cooler combos. You can write to us in the comments section below if you still have doubts.
- If you are here for the recommendations, we have listed the top three favourites from the list. The first recommendation for the best overall combo is Intel i9-13900K & Corsair CPU Cooler. It is a high-functioning duo, and the cooler has a wide range of fan speeds.
- The second recommendation if you are on a budget is AMD Ryzen 9 7950X & ID-COOLING CPU Cooler. The processor offers a cache of 80MB and the cooler works at a low noise level of 30 dB.
- The third and final product is Intel i7-13700K & ARCTIC CPU Cooler. The cooler offers enhanced heat dissipation and compatibility with high-end tasks.
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