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01Best CPU cooler for Intel Core i5 13600kCorsair iCUE H150i ELITE Capellix Liquid cooler
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02Runner up CPU cooler for Intel Core i5 13600kNZXT Kraken Z73
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03budget CPU cooler for Intel Core i5 13600kArctic Liquid Freezer II 240mm
We’re taking a look at the best CPU coolers for Intel Core i5 13600k.
The Intel Core i5-13600K is a popular CPU from the 13th Gen Raptor Lake series. It has gained significant praise for its impressive gaming performance and value for money, coming close to the Core i9-12900KS in tasks that rely on a single thread.
To keep your CPU a normal temperature, it is crucial to choose an effective CPU cooler. We highly recommend opting for a 240mm all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooler or a custom loop to ensure proper cooling for Raptor Lake CPUs, as they can generate a significant amount of heat.
If you’re in the market for a CPU, we have you covered with the best CPU for gaming.
Best CPU cooler for Intel Core i5 13600k
Best CPU cooler for Intel Core i5 13600k – Reviews
Here we will review the CPU coolers that we consider to be the best CPU cooler for Intel Core i5 13600k. We will look at all aspects of each CPU cooler, and discuss why we think they’re the best coolers to pair with the 13600k.
It’s important to note that the 13th gen CPUs get pretty hot under intense load, so while the coolers we have chosen may seem excessive, it’s all in the name of keeping your CPU at a safe operating temperature.
Best CPU cooler for Core i5 13600k – Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix Liquid CPU Cooler
Dimensions
397 x 119.8 x 26.9 mm
Socket Support
Intel LGA: 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 2011, 2066. AMD: AM4, AM5, sTR4, sTRX4
Fans
3 x Corsair AF120 RGB Elite PWM Fans
Features
iCUE Commander CORE RGB
- Incredible cooling performance
- Efficient and quiet water pump
- Premium ML120mm fans
- can be expensive
The Corsair H150i iCUE Elite Capellix is a highly respected CPU cooler that is known for its performance. Made by Corsair, a trusted brand in cooling technology, the H150i lives up to its reputation as a top-notch product.
One of the standout features of the H150i is its impressive cooling capabilities. Equipped with a large 360mm aluminum radiator and three Corsair 120mm RGB fans, this cooler effectively dissipates heat from the CPU, ensuring optimal temperatures and stability even during heavy tasks. Moreover, the H150i is designed to minimize noise, providing a quieter experience.
When it comes to aesthetics, the H150i doesn’t disappoint. It boasts a sleek and attractive design and is available in black-and-white variations. Users also have the option to add RGB fans for an extra touch of visual appeal. This cooler seamlessly integrates into high-end system builds, adding a modern and sophisticated look.
For those who desire customization options, the H150i can be enhanced with an LCD screen. This feature allows users to display system information and personalized images on the 3.5-inch screen, similar to the RYUJIN ii. With this upgrade, the H150i not only excels in performance but also offers a visually pleasing design.
All in all, the Corsair H150i iCUE Elite Capellix is an outstanding choice for individuals who prioritize reliability, visual appeal, and high performance in a CPU cooler. With its exceptional cooling capacity and attractive design, the H150i guarantees a superior computing experience that will satisfy even the most discerning enthusiasts.
Runner up CPU cooler for Core i5 13600K – NZXT Kraken Z73
NZXT Kraken Z73
Dimensions
394 x 121 x 27mm
Socket Support
Intel: Socket LGA 1200, 115X, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066 AMD: AMD Socket AM4, sTRX4*, TR4*(*Threadripper bracket not included)
Fans
NZXT 120mm Aer P
Features
2.36in LCD screen capable of displaying 24-bit color
- Well designed
- Quiet
- High-performance
- Expensive
Enthusiasts highly regard the NZXT Kraken series, and we highly recommend the Kraken Z73 360mm AiO for those seeking a high-end cooling solution for the i5 13600K.
The Z73 excels in cooling performance and features a visually appealing design that enhances the look of any build. It includes three high static pressure Aer P 120mm fans, specifically designed to optimize airflow through the radiator fins, effectively dissipating heat. The Z73 utilizes the 7th Gen Asatek pump with custom housing, delivering exceptional cooling capabilities.
With the Z73, you can fully unleash the potential of the 14 cores inside the Core i5 13600K, allowing unrestricted boosting behavior and even overclocking for additional performance gains, provided you adjust the fan curve accordingly.
One notable advantage of NZXT’s Aer P fans is their quiet operation across different temperature ranges, generating minimal noise even at maximum speed.
One drawback of the NZXT Kraken Z73 is that the fans do not have built-in RGB lighting, which may disappoint users seeking synchronized aesthetics. Although an RGB version is available, it comes at an added cost that may not be justified for all consumers.
However, the Kraken Z73 boasts an iconic design, particularly with its highly customizable LCD pump housing. This feature allows you to display unique GIFs or monitor CPU/GPU temperature readings, which further appeals to enthusiasts.
Considering all factors, the NZXT Kraken Z73 360mm cooler is an excellent choice for a premium CPU cooler for the i5 13600K. Despite its higher price, the combination of impressive thermal performance and captivating design makes it a safe investment for discerning users.
Best budget CPU cooler for Core i5 13600k – Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240mm
Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240mm
Dimensions
277 x 120 x 38mm
Socket support
Intel 1700, 1200, 115X, 2011-3*, 2066* *Square ILM and AMD AM5, AM4
Fans
2x ARCTIC P12 – 120 mm Fan
Features
Intergrated cable management, PWM controlled fan
- Budget
- High performance pump
- Relativley quiet
- Industrial look
- Thermal performance can be beat for slighlty increased price
- Older model
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II is a great choice for those looking for an affordable yet capable cooler, perhaps to go with your top budget CPU. While it doesn’t have fancy features like RGB lighting, it delivers impressive cooling performance at a reasonable price.
We specifically recommend the 240mm variant of the Liquid Freezer II. It’s a good starting point, and if you need more cooling power, you can easily upgrade to the larger 280mm or 360mm versions.
When it comes to keeping the i7 13700K cool at stock settings, the Liquid Freezer II performs well. However, if you plan on heavy overclocking, it may not provide enough room for significant performance boosts.
One notable feature of the Arctic Liquid Freezer II is its custom-designed pump with a small fan. This unique addition helps circulate air over the CPU block, potentially leading to lower VRM temperatures. This feature has earned this cooler a spot in our best budget CPU coolers which you should check out if you’re looking for a wider affordable selection.
Additionally, the fans that come with this cooler operate quietly, with a maximum speed of 1700 RPM. While it would have been nice to have RGB lighting on the fans or pump block, Arctic focused on affordability and value for money with this cooler.
In conclusion, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240mm AiO offers a compelling balance of performance and affordability. If you’re on a tight budget, this cooler is definitely worth considering.
Final Word
Intel’s latest 13th-gen CPUs, known as Raptor Lake, are gaining praise for their impressive gaming performance and value for money. However, they generate a significant amount of heat, so it’s crucial to choose an effective CPU cooler to keep temperatures in check. A 240mm all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooler or a custom loop is highly recommended.
The Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix Liquid CPU Cooler is the best CPU cooler for Intel Core i5 13600k due to its impressive cooling capabilities, sleek design, and option for customization with an LCD screen. The NZXT Kraken Z73 is also a top recommendation for those seeking a high-end cooling solution with its exceptional cooling capabilities and iconic design, although it comes at a higher price and lacks built-in RGB lighting. The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240mm is a great choice for budget-conscious users seeking an affordable yet capable cooler.
In conclusion, choosing the right CPU cooler for your Raptor Lake CPU is crucial to ensure optimal performance and stability. The recommended coolers mentioned above will provide the necessary cooling capabilities for the i5 13600k, allowing users to fully unleash the potential of their 13th-gen CPUs.
We hope you enjoyed our “Best CPU cooler for Intel Core i5 13600k” article and it helped you find your next CPU cooler.
What CPU cooler is best for the i5 13600k?
For the i5-13600K, you have several options for CPU coolers depending on your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few types of coolers that are commonly recommended for this processor:
Air Coolers
Air coolers are popular and cost-effective solutions for cooling CPUs. They consist of a heatsink with heat pipes and a fan that helps dissipate heat. Good air coolers like the Noctua NH-D15 or the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo can provide excellent cooling performance for the i5-13600K while keeping noise levels relatively low.
All-in-One (AIO) Liquid Coolers
AIO liquid coolers offer efficient cooling with a combination of a radiator, water block, and pump. They are easier to install than custom liquid cooling loops and often provide better cooling performance. Recommended AIO liquid coolers for the i5-13600K include the Corsair H150i or the NZXT Kraken Z73.
Custom Liquid Cooling
If you’re looking for maximum cooling performance and are willing to invest more time and money, custom liquid cooling loops can provide exceptional cooling for your i5-13600K. This option requires more expertise in building and maintenance, but it offers the flexibility to customize your cooling system according to your needs.
When choosing a CPU cooler, consider factors such as your budget, case compatibility, noise levels, and cooling requirements. It’s also advisable to check reviews and performance benchmarks specific to the i5-13600K to ensure compatibility and optimal cooling efficiency.
Why does that i5 13600k run so hot?
The i5-13600K is a powerful processor based on Intel’s Raptor Lake architecture. It features high clock speeds and multiple cores, which can generate a significant amount of heat during operation. There are a few factors that contribute to the i5-13600K running hot:
Increased Power Consumption
The i5-13600K has a higher power consumption compared to its predecessors, primarily due to its increased core count and clock speeds. Higher power consumption leads to more heat generation.
Efficient Performance
To deliver optimal performance, Intel designed the Raptor Lake processors to boost their clock speeds dynamically, especially when demanding tasks are being performed. This rapid increase in clock speeds can cause the CPU to generate more heat.
Manufacturing Process
The i5-13600K is manufactured using Intel’s advanced 10nm SuperFin process. While this process allows for better performance and power efficiency, it can also result in higher heat generation due to increased transistor density.
Thermal Design Power (TDP)
The i5-13600K has a TDP rating of 125 watts, which indicates the maximum amount of heat it is designed to dissipate under typical operating conditions. Running the processor under heavy loads or overclocking can push it beyond its TDP limit, resulting in higher temperatures.
For effective cooling of the i5-13600K, we recommend using a high-quality CPU cooler capable of handling its heat output. Additionally, ensuring proper case ventilation, applying thermal paste correctly, and mounting the cooler accurately are crucial for efficient heat dissipation. If you’re interested, we’ve rounded up the best thermal paste for the job.
Additionally, maintaining adequate airflow within the PC case can help in removing the hot air generated by the CPU.
It’s worth noting that while the i5-13600K can run hot under heavy workloads, Intel CPUs are designed to operate within safe temperature ranges. Modern processors have built-in temperature monitoring and thermal throttling mechanisms to protect themselves from overheating.
Frequently asked questions
Here we will cover some of the more frequently asked questions regarding the best CPU cooler for the i5 13600k.
Do you need a CPU cooler for Intel Core i5?
If you like to be on the safe side, or plan to overclock your CPU, then investing in a CPU cooler would be wise for your Intel Core i5 CPU.
What is the temperature for i5 13600K?
Your i5 13600K CPU shouldn’t go above 61-73 degrees, otherwise you risk damaging it.
