CPU cooler test 2023
Basically, CPU coolers are there to always keep the temperature of a processor in the same range. We all know that. Today, however, other requirements are also placed on the CPU cooler. He should also look good. This is particularly important for so-called “case modding”. This means that you can now choose between many different models. Depending on your ideas, your CPU cooler can look more colorful, larger or unusual.
In the meantime you can also find CPU coolers with water cooling that are affordable and no longer just those with large heat sinks. Our comparison includes air- and water-cooled models and we explain the respective advantages and disadvantages of the different variants. So that you can find the right model for you, we have also put together a lot of other information about CPU coolers for you.
The best CPU coolers at a glance
| # | Preview | Products | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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be quiet! Pure Rock 2 Black, CPU cooler, 150W... |
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Buy now " |
| 2 |
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ARCTIC Freezer 36 - Single-Tower CPU Cooler with... |
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| 3 |
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Thermalright AssassinX120 SE ARGB CPU air cooler,... |
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Buy now " |
| 4 |
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ARCTIC Freezer 36 A-RGB - Single Tower CPU Cooler... |
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Buy now " |
| 5 |
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Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB... |
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Buy now " |
| 6 |
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Xilence I250PWM Intel CPU Air Cooler, LGA... |
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Buy now " |
| 7 |
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be quiet! Dark Rock 4, CPU cooler, 200W TDP,... |
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Buy now " |
| 8 |
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Xilence I402 Intel Tower CPU Air Cooler, LGA... |
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Buy now " |
| 9 |
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Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler, 4... |
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Buy now " |
| 10 |
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Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler... |
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Buy now " |
CPU Cooler Guide: Everything You Should Know!
Homemade PC: The CPU cooler
Mounting the cooler can also cause difficulties, and not just the decision for the right CPU cooler. Of course, this varies between the different models and sockets. It is important that you already have some experience in replacing a CPU cooler. The following list provides information about what might be difficult or can go wrong:
- With certain models, a lot of force is required during assembly, which can lead to slipping.
- Due to the force you have to use, you could do this when you slip mainboard or damage the processor.
- In most cases you will need to remove the motherboard as the CPU cooler brackets need to be attached to the back of the motherboard.
This is how you find the right CPU cooler!
Let's answer the most important question: What do I have to look out for when buying a CPU cooler and which one is right for me? The following points should help you:
- The CPU cooler must fit on the motherboard socket.
- The dimensions of the heatsink with the fan must be such that the cooler fits.
- If it fits, then you have to make sure that it doesn't cover the other components. This leads to problems with air circulation or prevents them altogether.
- Some heatsinks are for that Housing too high.
- Look carefully at the layout of the mainboard so that the CPU cooler does not cover the RAM slots.
- The CPU cooler must have enough power for the processor and the whole system.
- You have to take into account that components such as capacitors, resistors or free-standing pins can be damaged during assembly.
- If the housing is particularly small, then the components are installed very close together. A sure instinct is required there.
If you have never done such an installation, you should ask friends or acquaintances if someone can help you. But you will also find good instructions on the well-known video portals. You can also use this option.
A CPU cooler alone is not enough for cooling!
Not only the processor causes heat in the computer. The other components also heat up the entire system. For this reason, there is little point in cooling the processor if extreme heat builds up in the housing due to the other components. Therefore, also take a look at the following other coolants:
1. Pay attention to sufficient air circulation case Fans.
2. The graphics card should also be well cooled. You can also upgrade in this case.
3. Don't forget to include the motherboard's chipset in your considerations.
4. You should equip high-quality RAM modules with passive heat sinks.
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