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01Best overall CPU cooler for gaming
We’re here you help you find the best CPU cooler for gaming.
Building a gaming PC means researching a tonne of components and the CPU cooler is one that is all too easy to overlook. The fact you are here means that you have not made this mistake.
Best CPU cooler for gaming at a glance
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition CPU Air Cooler
Dimensions
28.5 x 33.5 x 51.5
Power connector
4-pin
Voltage
12 Volts
Noise level
30 dB
NZXT Kraken X73
Dimensions
80.0 x 80.0 x 55.0 mm
Power connector
4-pin
Voltage
12 Volts
Noise level
40dB
NZXT T120 RGB
Dimensions
5.51 x 6.5 x 7.68in
Socket Support
Intel LGA 115x, 1200, and 1700, AM4, AM5
Fans
1 x NZXT F120 RGB
Features
Option to swap out RGB fan for F120 P
That’s a wise move, as there is no point in forking out a tonne of cash on a high end processor only to purchase an inadequate cooler. The result of this will either be lower speeds, reduced overclocking, or even damage to the CPU or other expensive components.
There are a few different options for CPU coolers, with the main technologies being liquid or air. Liquid coolers can be more efficient but you need to make sure you know what you’re doing when you install them. The last thing you want is loose liquid in a high-end gaming PC. If this is a worry for you WePC has a great guide on how to install Liquid Cooling.
With that out of the way let’s get into our picks. We’ve provided a description of each cooler as each one is slightly different. This should help you decide which to go for.
Best overall CPU cooler for gaming – Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition CPU Air Cooler
Dimensions
28.5 x 33.5 x 51.5
Power connector
4-pin
Voltage
12 Volts
Noise level
30 dB
- Easy installation
- Good value
- Cool RGB
- Potentially better value from other Cooler Master products
This cool looking cooler is one of the best you can buy. With four heat pipes, a nickel-plated copper base and direct contact technology, this will keep your CPU at a low enough temperature to ensure it can operate at full steam.
On top of its cooling ability, it boasts a sleek look and quiet operation. While there are quieter options out there, they aren’t much quieter, and we think the RBG fan and brushed aluminium surface finish look great.
With AM5 and Intel LGA 1700/115X/2066 compatibility, it will only work with the newer high-end CPUs, so make sure yours is suitable before going for it. If it is, this is certainly a cooler to consider, with high performance, low volume, and a nice aesthetic.
Best CPU liquid cooler for gaming – NZXT Kraken X73
NZXT Kraken X73
Dimensions
80.0 x 80.0 x 55.0 mm
Power connector
4-pin
Voltage
12 Volts
Noise level
40dB
- 7th generation Asetek pump
- Compact design
- Durable
- Pricey
- Lacks direct fan control
NZXT is known for their well-designed and efficient CPU coolers, and their abilities are on full display here. This liquid cooler is seriously powerful and will keep your CPU temperature low enough to ensure high performance.
One thing to note is this cooler is only compatible with mid-tower cases. However as the best cases for the RTX 4080 and other similar high-end GPUs are also these dimensions, it could be a good idea to upgrade if you want to pinnacle of gaming performance. This cooler will work well with the best CPUs for gaming, giving you the cooling abilities necessary for overclocking.
It also looks great. With three tasteful RBG fans and a backlit logo.
Best CPU air cooler for gaming – NZXT T120 RGB
NZXT T120 RGB
Dimensions
5.51 x 6.5 x 7.68in
Socket Support
Intel LGA 115x, 1200, and 1700, AM4, AM5
Fans
1 x NZXT F120 RGB
Features
Option to swap out RGB fan for F120 P
- Option to install second fan
- Compact
- No thermal paste included
This is an adaptable and powerful cooling option from NZXT. It may come with a modest single fan, but there is the option to expand this to a second. You also have the freedom to choose between either an F120P or F120 RBG Fan when you purchase it.
Even with just one fan it still carries a lot of cooling ability. This is partly due to its direct contact technology. This means that the conductive copper pipes which direct the cool air are placed directly onto the processor itself. As a result, the cooling power is increased.
It’s also one of the cheaper options on our list, meaning it is good to pair with the best budget CPU. These chips can still have great performance, despite their low price, and that performance will only be aided by getting the right cooler.
Frequently asked questions
When it comes to picking the best CPU cooler for gaming, there are a few questions that come up the most often. We’ve answered a few of them here.
Will a better CPU cooler help with gaming?
Yes, a CPU cooler can improve gaming performance. This is because your components stop themselves from overheating and that sometimes limits their performance.
Are liquid CPU coolers worth it?
It depends on your exact needs. Liquid coolers are more efficient and much quieter but often come with higher prices and more complicated installation processes. If you are confident in your ability to implement one into your build without risk, it can be a good option to go for.
