The 17 Best CPU Cooling Systems

Modern desktop CPUs, with few exceptions, require some serious active cooling. And the more powerful processor, the more effective and reliable cooling should be – here there is almost direct correlation between the power of the processor in the broad sense and the requirement for cooling. Expertology magazine’s Expert Council has studied the market in early 2020 and has offered a selection of the best CPU cooler models according to a number of important criteria.

What cooling systems for the processor there are

To begin with let’s clarify the main points about the types of cooling systems themselves, so that each of our reader can make a reasonable and informed choice.

1. All cooling systems for microprocessor systems fall into two large groups –Passive and active cooling. Passive – this is, in fact, just a radiator, and this type of accessory we will not consider within this review.
2. Active cooling implies, in addition to the radiator, the presence of a block that actively acts to remove heat from the processor. Here, too, there are two types of systems – air, which is a fan or group of fans, and liquid – in this case, in addition to the radiator and fan (cooler) uses a circulating liquid, mostly water.
3. Another detail that is often forgotten for some reason, although it is important.Contact Group Mountingcooling systems, which will be directly connected to the processor, must be compatible with the socket. it often happens that a cooler comes with several different mounts which allow using it on different sockets, but in any case this point should be clarified.
4. Less obvious, but also an important point –cooling system dimensions. It is important to realize that a powerful, massive cooler might not fit into a certain case type, it might fail to “run into” the memory slots or even deform the motherboard’s textolite with its weight (some of them weigh over a kilo), thus damaging it sooner or later.
5. I must say that the demand of the processor to massiveness of cooler+heatsink combination with uncomfortable location of RAM strips is not a verdict at all. There are tower models with a beveled radiator design, and this form factor can completely solve the problem of a “collision” between the radiator and the CPU slots.
6. An important point that many people may not even be aware of. if it is supposed to use a standard thermal paste even with metal micro-particles as a thermal interface, it makes no difference what material will be used for the radiator. But if you plan to use liquid metal, the contact part of the radiator in any case should not be aluminum, as in contact with elements of liquid metal aluminum rapidly deteriorates.
7. Secondary characteristicnoise level. Even efficient and expensive models of comparable class from different manufacturers can differ greatly in this regard. And if you need maximum silence, it is worth to study not only claimed characteristics, but also real users’ reviews.
8. Finally, purelyaesthetic detail– presence and nature of lighting. If the PC case with a transparent wall, the presence of such an element can become a real decoration of the workstation. But this is a matter of taste and has nothing to do with the direct purpose of the cooling system.

The criteria for choosing the cooling system for the processor, depending on the heat dissipation

Now let’s touch on the points that relate directly to the function of the cooling system for the processor, regardless of the form factor. namely about the physical ability of the system to conduct heat away from the chip with any intensity. This definition is based on the main parameter – the heat dissipation of the processor. Is identified in the specs of each specific model by the following abbreviation

(thermal design power). To be precise

shows not exactly the heat dissipation of the processor, but directly indicates how much heat the processor cooling system should be designed to dissipate. Measured in watts (W).

up to 35W

Such figure is typical for modern but most modest in power processors – AMD Pro A-series or Intel Core T-line. The rated clock frequency of such processors is within 2.5-3GHz, in Turbo Boost mode for Intel Core – up to 4GHz, but the heat dissipation at the same time remains low. For these models will be enough the simplest cooler on the aluminum radiator, even without heatpipes.

Up to 50W

This group includes processors of Intel Celeron family, Pentium of G-range, Core i3 and comparable 2-core models. The clock frequency can even reach up to 4GHz, but the modest architecture does not allow the crystal to heat up above the 50W. Even for models with hyperthreading

50W is most often overpowering. So here the same variant as in the previous group will do – a simple aluminum heatsink with an elementary cooler.

Up to 65W

Here we are talking about more serious processors – 4 core Intel Core i5 and i7, AMD Ryzen without X index, with or without hyperthreading. Clock speed can be up to 4GHz, but without overclocking the heat dissipation will be within these limits. AMD models can be even 8 core but with lower clock frequency which keeps heat dissipation in reasonable limits. In any case we will need a more serious cooling system. Nominally – a tower cooler 72-90 mm on a radiator with one or better two heat pipes.

up to 95W

Such heat dissipation is typical for processors in top user segment – Intel Core i5 and i7 with index K, AMD Ryzen with index X. Clock speeds here can be up to 4.5GHz with Intel and 4GHz with AMD. With this architecture and with the current possibilities of the processor this is the limit of a reasonable increase in heat dissipation. Minimal overclocking causes avalanche-like increase of heat. So let’s assume you don’t overclock such powerful “stones” and in this case a super cooler of 90-120 mm entry class on a heatsink with three or four copper tubes will be enough for cooling. And it makes sense to think about liquid cooling. It does not hurt in the previous case as well, but it is still more relevant here.

up to 200W

Here we are either talking about overclocked processors from the previous group or top models of the Intel Core i7 and i9 X-series or AMR Ryzen Threadripper. In any case only top-of-the-line super coolers or a water cooling system can cope with such an extreme heat dissipation and it is highly desirable to have at least two fans instead of just one.

Rating of best CPU coolers

The best CPU coolers with aluminum radiator

Now let’s proceed directly to the review of specific models and start with the most budgetary options, which cost literally a few hundred rubles, but for cooling a low- and medium-powered processor they are completely sufficient. The unifying feature of all these models is the aluminum radiator – no other metals and alloys. This is not a disadvantage, but only a feature that limits the scope of application – such heatsinks degrade in contact with liquid metal, so as a thermal interface is suitable only classic thermal paste.

Deepcool CK-11508

Rating: 4.9

Let’s start with the simplest and the most elementary but more than capable and reliable cooler which is optimal for office PCs. This is the cheapest model in the set, but famous Chinese manufacturer hasn’t made a mistake with quality.

On the outside the cooler looks very ordinary and without extravagances. The fan dimensions – 92x92x25mm, the total dimensions – 95x70x95mm, weight – 245g. The heatsink is made entirely of aluminum. Designed for LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156 sockets. Technically it makes it possible to use it for cooling Intel Core i7/i5/i3 / Pentium G processors. However, its rather modest maximum power dissipation (not more than 65W) questions its ability to cool Intel Core i7 even without overclocking.

Anyway the straight technical specifications of the model shows a maximum fan speed of 2200 rpm, providing an airflow of up to 40.9CFM and maximum claimed noise level of 20dB. Yeah, the cooler is really quiet. There is no backlight and the speed can not be regulated. Hydrodynamic bearing.

In general, a rather modest performance of this model can not be qualified as a drawback, as the cooler initially does not pretend to any superpowers, and its extremely affordable price combined with a well-built, reliable and durable, makes it one of the best solutions for office desktops.

The only disadvantage of this model even at such a negligible price – when replacing you probably have to remove the motherboard from the case. Fortunately, you will have to do this operation only once.

Advantages

• exceptionally quiet.
• Reliable and durable;
• The most affordable price in the group.

Disadvantages

• inconvenient installation.

Deepcool THETA 9

Rating: 4.8

Continues the selection with a super-popular model of the same brand. THETA 9 is the youngest model in the THETA family. There is a slightly more advanced model THETA 20 in the series, we will briefly tell you about its features.

So THETA 9 is an ordinary cooler on aluminum radiator. The fan dimensions – 92x92x25mm, fan+heatsink dimensions – 100x47x100mm, weight – 269g. Compatible with LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156 socket. the cooler is not backlit, but the fan blades are light blue, which the manufacturer has already given himself the moral right to call it a gaming cooler, but of course this is only a symbolic definition. Nevertheless, the cooler looks nice in an open case or behind the transparent wall.

The technical features of the THETA 9 are as follows. Speed of rotation of 2000 rpm, which in combination with the diameter and shape of the blades provides an airflow of up to 36.5CFM. Noise level at that (stated) does not exceed 22.5dB, which is quite good. The fan on the hydrodynamic bearing. Taken together, these specifications according to the manufacturer should provide a maximum power dissipation up to 82W. But this is exactly the maximum, which the device in real working conditions is not always able to achieve. Recommended for Intel Core i3 to i7 processors, but of course, without overclocking and not at maximum loads.

The THETA 9 is powered by the motherboard via a 3-pin connector. There is no speed control. More senior model of THETA 20 line differs, in fact, only by more massive (considerably) aluminum radiator and bigger diagonal fan size. The heat sink capability is actually the same, and the price is almost exactly the same – less than 300 rubles.

There are some inconveniences with installation. When self-assembly is recommended first to install the cooler on the motherboard, and then mount the motherboard in the case. Otherwise it would be difficult to mount the cooler to an already installed motherboard.

THETA 9 comes with 183 days manufacturing warranty. Thermo paste is included.

Advantages

• quiet;
• combination of price and durability;
• thermal paste included;
• neat appearance.

Disadvantages

• No speed regulation;
• Not the easiest to install.

Ccooler Q100

Rating: 4.7

The Q100 line of PCcoolers produced by Chinese company Shenzhen Fluence Technology PLC continues the selection of the most budget CPU coolers. This is also an elementary cooler at a higher price than the previous one with comparable capabilities, but in absolute terms this is still the cheapest segment – less than 500 rubles.

Externally the fan blades, like in the previous case, also have a bright coloring, only this time it is orange and only because of this the manufacturer positions the cooler as a gaming one. Of course, there is no backlight either. The fan dimensions are 100x100x25mm, total dimensions are 100x50x100mm, so, like in the previous example, the heatsink here is not too massive. Weight 215g. Fits LGA775, LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156, AM2, AM2+, AM3/AM3+/FM1, AM4, FM2/FM2 sockets+. Hydrodynamic bearing.

This model has heat sink capacity up to 75W. But this is also the maximum value, and for powerful and overclocked processors the model is certainly not suitable. The fan speed varies from 1200 to 2000 rpm, but the cooler “decides” by itself at what speed to spin and there is no manual rpm adjustment. Noise levels are also variable, ranging from 16 to 20dB.

Powered by motherboard via 4-pin PWM. Declared uptime – 30,000 hours.

Some users have unpleasant mishaps when the fan does not start with the system, presumably because of insufficient electrical impulse, and starts spinning if you “help” it with your finger. Our experts did not consider this a drawback, as such cases are isolated, and most likely the cause is not in the cooler.

Advantages

• quiet;
• Long life;
• automatic speed regulation;
• Thermal paste included;
• a budget, but “high-tech” radiator;
• Attractive look.

Disadvantages

• no manual rotation speed adjustment.

AeroCool BAS

Rating: 4.6

Now let’s have a look at another interesting cooler model with an aluminum heatsink from AeroCool brand. There is nothing really exceptional about it, but the design of the fan blades allows the fan to deliver sufficient airflow at far below maximum rpm which, together with some other design features, results in a record low noise level.

The fan here is quite big – 120x120x25mm, which is another factor for its low noise level. The cooler measures 122x63x122mm. Compatible with LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156 sockets. Hydrodynamic bearing. Gives airflow up to 55.6CFM at maximum speed of only 1200 rpm. No manual or automatic speed control. The cooler is powered by the motherboard via a 3 pin connector.

all listed technical characteristics in sum give not only maximum noisiness of 19dB (practically silent), but also ability to dissipate maximum power up to 100W. And this figure is quite realistic – a lot of independent tests show that in most cases, this model is quite “pulls” such a load.

Manufacturer’s claimed lifespan of 60,000 hours. The warranty period is 183 days.

Taking into consideration that the cooler is very noisy at maximum efficiency, Expertology specialists decided not to consider the lack of RPM regulation as a disadvantage. The cooler is virtually silent and needs no adjustment.

Advantages

• High efficiency at relatively low RPM;
• reasonable price
• durability and reliability;
• the lowest noise level in the selection.

Disadvantages

• no apparent disadvantages revealed.

Xilence I250PWM

Rating: 4.5

Completes a selection of the most inexpensive coolers for cpu from the category of the best according to the expert group of the magazine Epertology even slightly more expensive, but still generally inexpensive (less than 700 rubles, and in some outlets even much cheaper) cooler made by a relatively young German-Chinese company Xilence Technology.

With the positioning here is exactly the same situation as in the previous two cases – since the blades are brightly colored, it means that the cooler is a gaming. Not so, though bright red blades in a black “hoop” look certainly impressively, though there is no lighting here too.

Dimensions of the fan – 92x92x25mm, total dimensions – 95x70x95mm, weight – 326g. Aluminum radiator, hydrodynamic bearing. Fits LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156 socket.

the fan speed is variable from 800 to 2500 rpm but without any manual rpm regulation. Noise levels can vary from 17.6 to 26.4dB. Provides airflow up to 44.25CFM. Powered by motherboard via 4 pin PWM. The real cooling capabilities allow us to recommend this model for Intel Core i3, maximum i5 processors without overclocking potential.

There is a very similar model in the Xilence line of coolers but with a different index – A250PWM. It is characterized by a slightly wider fan speed range and a wider range of socket compatibility. The price is almost the same.

Advantages

• quiet;
• reliable and long lasting;
• quite easy to install, though the springs are quite tight;
• spectacular appearance.

Flaws

• no manual speed adjustment.

The best CPU coolers with aluminum-copper heatsink

The second selection in Expertology’s review of the best CPU coolers includes a selection of the same models in the classic design, which involves direct fan mounting on the heatsink and the same direct mounting on the socket. The only important difference is the presence of a copper contact insert in the heatsink design, which itself increases the heat-removal capability of the cooler and also gives the opportunity to use liquid metal as a thermal interface.

Deepcool ARCHER BIGPRO

Rating: 4.9

First of all we will consider the most inexpensive model in the selection, which even asks for the budget category, but its features are much better than any copy of the previous group. This is a representative of ARCHER line by a Chinese manufacturer which has already appeared in our review.

In some points the cooler reminds us of the above THETA 9 model – the same blue fan blades in a similar casing. But the size is different: the fan dimensions – 120x120x25mm, overall dimensions – 124x70x121mm, weight – 380g. Designed for LGA775, LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156, AM2, AM2+, AM3/AM3+/FM1, AM4, FM2/FM2 socket+. Hydrodynamic bearing. No backlight. Powered by 4-pin PWM.

Another point that fundamentally distinguishes this cooler from any of the previous group is the composition of the heatsink material. Beside aluminium there is also copper – polished contact insert that improves heat sink possibilities and allows to use liquid metal as a thermal interface.

The fan speed varies from 900 to 2000 rpm, but only in automatic mode. There is no manual adjustment of the fan speed. Maximum claimed noise level is 29.The sound of the fan is 7dB, which is in principle within normal limits, but some users find the sound uncomfortable at maximum load. Maximum airflow – 60.19CFM.

If you add up all these factors, we get the claimed heat dissipation capability of up to 125W. As with the above models by the same manufacturer, this figure is clearly exaggerated, and in reality such heat dissipation is not worth counting on.

In general this model can be safely recommended for Intel Core i5 level processors and below, but care and caution should be taken when overclocking. In any case for stock processors in terms of price to features ratio this is one of the best solutions on the market in early 2020.

Advantages

• quiet;
• copper contact insert;
• branded thermal paste included;
• is a simple enough installation;
• price/performance ratio;
• attractive appearance.

Disadvantages

• no manual rpm adjustment;
• some users find it noisy.

Cooler Master CK9-9HDSA-PL-GP

Rating: 4.8

The second number in this selection we will consider a cooler manufactured by famous Taiwanese private corporation Cooler Master Co., Ltd. – model CK9-9HDSA-PL-GP. Its distinguishing features are orientation to AMD sockets and twice higher rotation than any of the above models.

Externally the cooler does not dazzle with a variety of paints as above described examples, it looks modest – black case, black blades, aluminum radiator with a copper contact insert. Fan dimensions – 95x95x25mm, total dimensions – 95x71x95mm. Sleeve bearing. No backlight. Power – from motherboard via 4-pin PWM. Fits AM2, AM2+, AM3/AM3+/FM1 sockets. This means compatible with AMD Phenom II / Phenom / Opteron / Athlon II / Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / Sempron processors.

As it was already said, this model is distinguished by the speed of. Indeed, this ranges from 800 to 4200 rpm, but you still can’t manually set the rpm here. Provides airflow up to 64.1CFM. Taken together, these characteristics give the manufacturer’s claimed ability to dissipate heat up to a maximum of 125W, and here this is more like the real capabilities of the device. In stress-tests, however, the maximum rating of this model can not be achieved, but in any case, it is close to this.

Manufacturer’s stated uptime is 40,000 hours. In general this is not too far from the real situation as according to user reviews the Cooler Master CK9-9HDSA-PL-GP has been working properly for years.

The complaints of users are caused by regular thermal paste, already applied on the contact surface. It is recommended to replace it with something more powerful, even if it is KPT-8. And one more quite expected moment – at maximum rpm it becomes uncomfortably noisy.

Advantages

• quiet enough, but not at maximum speed;
• high rpm;
• copper core;
• Value for money;
• Overall high efficiency;
• durability;
• easy installation.

Disadvantages

• “Inadequate” standard thermal paste;
• harsh noise at high RPM.

Cooler Master C116 (CP6-9GDSC-0L-GP)

Rating: 4.7

We finish our selection with another very cheap, but Intel processor oriented cooler from the same Taiwanese manufacturer with the same features as the previous one. There is no such a crazy maximum speed as in the previous model, but it’s not a drawback, but a feature, because the claimed dissipated power surprisingly corresponds to reality.

Externally, the cooler looks more interesting than the previous model, but slightly ambiguous, because in the traditionally black case fan blades pink (!) colors. This is something to consider for those who have gender prejudices about the color design of gadgets and accessories.

The fan dimensions of this model – 92x92x25mm, overall dimensions – 92x60x92mm, weight – 373g. Structurally compatible with LGA775, LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156 socket. The radiator is mostly aluminum, but with a copper core.

The maximum fan speed for this model is 2200rpm providing a maximum airflow of 41.43CFM. The claimed noise level should not exceed 30.82dB. These specifications add up to a maximum heat dissipation capability of 100W. And surprisingly in stress tests the cooler is really able to handle these loads. Generally speaking, for Intel Core i5 level processors even with TurboBoost it can be highly recommended.

This model like previous one uses plain bearing. Powered by motherboard via 3pin connector. No backlight, no manual or automatic speed control – the cooler is always maxed out. And there are some more difficulties with installation – it is possible to confidently install the cooler to the motherboard not in the case. So if you’re replacing, you’re likely to have to first dismantle the motherboard from the chassis.

Manufacturer’s declared uptime – 25000 hours.

Advantages

• Match the advertised performance to the actual performance;
• reliable and durable;
• copper core;
• Value for money, quality and features;
• Cute appearance.

Flaws

• inconvenient installation;
• RPMs are adjustable neither manually nor automatically.

The best CPU tower coolers

The third selection of devices in the review of the best CPU coolers by Expertology includes coolers of a fundamentally different type than the previous two groups. These are so called tower coolers. They differ from the classic ones first of all by their design. In this case, the fan is not on top in relation to the processor and heatsink (very massive), but on the side. Most often, the heat transfer to the radiator in tower models is carried out by copper tubes with high thermal conductivity. Modern tower coolers by their technical characteristics are designed for cooling of certainly “hot” chips of processors like Intel Core i7 or higher and of AMD processors comparable to them. Of course, such coolers are incomparably more expensive than even the top classical models – the cost on average is estimated in thousands of rubles.

Thermalright Macho 120 Rev.A

Rating: 4.9

The first number in a selection of turret coolers, we look at the new revision of a very successful and well-tested model of air cooling system for the CPU Macho 120 from the well-known manufacturer Thermalright. However, it’s also been years since its release, and the Rev.A earned the most positive user feedback.

The overall dimensions of the cooler are 150x120x102mm, the fan dimensions are 120x120x25mm. Looks reserved but nice due to the combination of black housing and white fan blades. The radiator’s construction and dimensions allow for the installation of another fan (Thermalright TY-121BW fan with plain bearing). The weight of the device is 745g of which 600g goes to the heatsink.

In terms of construction and materials it’s quite a typical tower cooler, using a copper base with five nickel-plated copper heat pipes running through it. The diameter of the tube cut is 6mm. Heat pipes transfer heat to main heatsink made of 30 thin aluminum fins.4mm each with a spacing of 3.1mm.

Thermalright Macho 120 Rev Fan Speed.A ranges from 600 to 1300 rpm. Maximum airflow is 46.2CFM. Maximum claimed noise level is 25.4dB.

This model is compatible with socket for Intel – LGA775/115x/1366/2011 processors, as well as AMD – Socket 939/AM2(+)/AM3(+)/FMx(+).

Comes with branded thermal paste and even a surprisingly high quality chrome-moly screwdriver for mounting. By the way, the difficulty of installation is the weakest point of this model. The initial assembly is time-consuming and requires some level of skills and knowledge.

The manufacturing warranty on this model is 24 months.

Advantages

• effective power dissipation up to 120W;
• quiet;
• It is suitable for both Intel and AMD processor socket;
• equipment (quality, good quality screwdriver including);
• nice appearance.

Disadvantages

• installation difficulties.

be quiet! THE DARK ROCK PRO 4

Rating: 4.8

The second place among the best processor tower coolers by Expertology magazine, we take a look at the real “monster” – DARK ROCK PRO 4 by German company be quiet! The model was unveiled at CES in early 2018 and caused quite a sensation. In some circles this cooler is even called “Liquid Cooler Killer”. This model costs twice as much as its predecessor. Let’s see what makes it so good.

Overall dimensions of the cooler – 136x163x146mm, fan dimensions – 120x120x25mm, total weight – 1130g. The device looks extremely impressive – the severe black coloration, uni-colored, ribbed blade surface – all this looks very impressive. The fan runs on a hydrodynamic bearing. No backlighting. Power supply via 4 pins PWM.

Compatible with LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156, LGA2066, LGA1356/S1366, LGA2011/2011-3 (Square ILM), AM2, AM2+, AM3/AM3+/FM1, AM4, FM2/FM2 sockets by design and with the help of mounting kits+.

Maximum fan speed – 1500 rpm. Maximum noise level is less than 24.3dB. From the copper base, the heat is transferred via seven copper heat pipes to the aluminum heatsink. The maximum dissipated power of this model inspires respect – up to 250W, and with the declared characteristics the device easily copes with in real working conditions.

Its extreme efficiency makes DARK ROCK PRO 4 quite suitable for gaming computers with overclocked processors.

Advantages

• high power dissipation;
• silent
• reliability and durability;
• Compatible with many sockets for Intel and AMD processors.
• spectacular appearance;
• equipment;
• packaging.

Disadvantages

• Some users think the price is overpriced.

Thermalright AXP-100R

Rating: 4.7

This review is continued by another Thermalright model, but in this case the cooler is more specialized, namely for low-profile systems. That means that its size allows you to put it in a compact case if you have limited space. The placement is also facilitated by the beveled design, allowing the cooler to easily “squeeze” into the block of memory cards.

Overall dimensions of this model are 122x58x106mm, fan dimensions are 100x100x14mm, total weight is 360g. The design allows for the installation of another fan up to 120mm in diameter. The heatsink material is aluminum and copper. As in previous models, here six copper heat pipes go through the copper base to a low-profile aluminum heat sink.

The fan speed of this model varies from 900 to 2500 rpm. Speed-appropriate airflow from 16 to 44.5CFM. Noise level is 22 to 30dB. With these characteristics the cooler is able to cope with the heating of the processor up to

150W. It doesn’t look too impressive against the mighty DARK ROCK PRO 4, but we should remember that this is a low-profile cooler after all and its heatsink is not even close to the size of the previous two models. And by and large, this is a top-of-the-line model specifically for low profile.

Advantages

• efficient heat dissipation;
• Reliability and durability;
• sloped design, allowing the cooler to fit into a low profile system;
• you can install a larger fan;
• impressive appearance.

Disadvantages

• some users find it noisy.

Ccooler GI-X6R

Rating: 4.6

Now let’s turn our attention to one more extremely interesting model of the PCcooler brand. This cooler is interesting because of the amazing combination of performance, quality and price. The latter is several times cheaper than any of the tower coolers reviewed above, even nearly two times cheaper than Thermalright Macho 120 Rev.A. There are reasons for that, but the GI-X6R has more than decent performance.

It’s the first cooler in our review that is equipped with backlight. this is a simple luminous ring around the circumference of the case, but its reddish glow on the background of other carbon-black details certainly adds to this model pluses, if the cooler to complete a PC with a transparent side wall, or open.

The total size of this model is 148×126×80mm, fan dimensions are 120×120×25mm, total weight is 638g, from which 493g goes to the radiator. The design is based on HDT technology – five copper heat pipes with a diameter of 6mm each, and the pipes themselves are part of the base contacting the chip. The fins are made of aluminum, a total of 40 pieces, each with a thickness of 0.45mm, spacing is 2mm. The total projected area of the heatsink is 4,810 cm. square.

A few words about the fan. This cooler uses the SilentPro PWM Corona LED with speeds ranging from 1000 to 1800 rpm. Provides an airflow between 35 and 65 CFM. The maximum noise level is 26.5, can be exceeded by no more than 10%. All these features combine to give the PCcooler GI-X6R the ability to remove heat from the CPU with heat at the level of

160W. By design the cooler is compatible to Intel LGA775/115x or AMD Socket AM2(+)/AM3(+)/AM4/FM1/FM2(+) sockets.

Astonishingly affordable price couldn’t help but affect at least something. In this case this was the case with the package. So, it only comes with a plastic frame with clips and thermal paste. The manufacturing warranty on this model is 1 year.

Advantages

• effective heat dissipation;
• quiet;
• reasonable price;
• backlighting;
• Spectacular appearance in general.

Disadvantages

• low price.

Deepcool ICE EDGE MINI FS V2.0

Rating: 4.5

To finish our picks of the best tower coolers according to Expertology magazine we take a look at another extremely remarkable solution by Deepcool. And it is remarkable first of all by its super affordable price, which does not go with tower form factor and average prices of such coolers. The price of this model is about 500 rubles, which is almost free for a tower cooler.

At this incredible price point, the ICE EDGE MINI FS V2.0 is surprisingly functional and well assembled from quality materials. We also need to take the wording “MINI” in the model nomenclature seriously since the cooler is really very simplistic, which is to be expected considering the price of.

Overall dimensions of the cooler – 112x130x75mm, fan dimensions – 80x80x25mm, total weight – 276g. In the appearance of the cooler is a good guess from the manufacturer – exactly the same blue blades as in the other models from Deepcool in our review. Big plus of ICE EDGE MINI FS V2.0 – Wide enough socket compatibility even with such simplified format – LGA775, LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156, LGA1356/S1366, AM2, AM2+, AM3/AM3+/FM1, AM4, S754, S939, S940. Powered by the motherboard via a 3-pin connector.

An active role in heat dissipation is played by two copper heat pipes passing through the contact base and transferring heat to a rather compact aluminum radiator. The fan uses a hydrodynamic bearing. The fan speed is 2200 +/-10% rpm with an airflow up to 25.13CFM. The noise rating should not exceed 24.7dB.

Cooler power dissipation is not as impressive as in the above models, but it’s not a disadvantage – do not forget about the compact size and negligible cost. And there is a slight differentiation depending on the socket. So, according to the manufacturer, the cooler manages to cool Intel processors with

up to 95W and AMD with

up to 100W.

The manufacturer’s warranty on this model is 183 days.

Advantages of

• sufficient efficiency with compact size and only two heat pipes;
• Wide socket compatibility;
• nice appearance;
• The most inexpensive tower cooler.

Disadvantages

• Most motherboards will have no speed control;
• Some users find it a bit noisy.

The best liquid CPU cooling systems

Last but not least and probably the most interesting selection of the best CPU coolers by Expertology magazine are liquid cooling systems (LCCS). These are complex systems that include a radiator, one or more fans, plus circulating fluid, mostly water. It is reasonable to install such systems on the most productive and, therefore, hot processors. Most often the coolers are installed on gaming desktops due to knowingly prohibitive loads on the CPU even with a powerful video card.

Arctic

quid Freezer 360

Rating: 4.9

Continuing the list of best CPU liquid coolers by Expertology magazine, this model is comparable in price and may seem much more modest in appearance. But this impression is deceptive, and the Kraken X62 is able to surprise in some places. Manufactured by NZXT, an American company headquartered in California and producing in China.

The Kraken X62 has gone through several series of improvements and modifications since it was announced in the fall of 2016 – it’s NZXT’s normal policy to constantly improve their products. That is why we specify at once that within the limits of this review we will consider the particular modification RL-KRX62-02.

So let’s first look at the design features of the Kraken X62. Overall system dimensions – 315×143×30mm. The radiator is 315×143×16mm aluminum with 17 channels and 20FPI ribbed fins. Total system weight with two fans 1328g. It is compatible with Intel LGA115(x)/1366/2011/2011-v3 socket AMD Socket AM2(+)/AM3(+)/FM1/ FM2(+).

The system is equipped with two Aer P140 fans sized 140×140×25mm each with hydrodynamic bearings. RPM varies from 500 to 1800 rpm with a fairly large tolerance of about 300 rpm in both directions. Provides airflow from 27.27 to 98.17CFM. Noise, depending on the speed, is from 36 to 64dB. Nominal voltage – 12V, starting voltage – 2.7v.

Pump diameter is 80mm, height is 52.9mm. The claimed speed of the pump rotor – from 1600 to 2800 rpm. Measured by independent researchers, not only are the speeds no lower than the advertised ones, they are even slightly faster. The pump is connected to the radiator by flexible 400 mm hoses, reinforced with a nylon braid. The outer diameter of the hose is 11mm, the inner diameter is about 6mm, which is more or less standard. The water block is made of nickel-plated copper with an optimized microchannel structure. The pump impeller is software-controlled and can reach speeds ranging from 1600 to 2800 rpm. Noise levels range from 36 to 41dB, which means it is virtually inaudible, especially from a closed box.

The NZXT Kraken X62 boasts a record-breaking 9200 cm total heat dissipation area for this class of SSH. kv. The manufacturer does not explicitly specify with which

can cope with this model, so our experts had to get the information themselves in a series of tests and compare the results with other researchers. In all cases the results were above reproach – Kraken X62 playfully cools Intel Core i7-4960X overclocked to acceptable temperatures, leaving far behind top-of-the-line super coolers such as Noctua NH-D15S.

The Kraken X62 has a manufacturer’s declared rated life of 60k. hours.

Advantages

• efficient heat dissipation;
• High-performance pump;
• Noisiness/heat dissipation efficiency ratio;
• Software which allows the fine tuning of the system;
• configurable LED backlighting;
• The most positive feedback from users;
• rich package.

Disadvantages

• Very noisy at maximum load (I rarely have to deal with this problem).
• it is impossible to replace or refill the refrigerant.

Cooler Master

quid ML240R RGB

Rating: 4.7

And to round out the review of the best CPU coolers, Expertology’s single-section liquid cooling system is the best on the market in this category. Eisbaer LT120 is part of a family which includes two more models – LT240 and LT360. The numbers in the nomenclature indicate the size of the heatsink – 120mm, 240mm and 360mm respectively. These dimensions automatically imply the number of fans installed – 2 on both sides, 2 on one side and 3 on one side respectively. We will focus on the most compact single-section LT120, but for higher performance we can look at the other two.

This model is compatible with socket LGA775, LGA1150/1151/1155/S1156, LGA2066, LGA1356/S1366, LGA2011/2011-3 (Square ILM), S604, LGA771, AM2, AM2+, AM3/AM3+/FM1, AM4, FM2/FM2+, G34, S939, S940. “The trick” of it is that the radiator is made entirely of copper – recall that in all the other models described above, the radiators are aluminum, and only the heat sinks are copper, except for the very first set in the review, where the material is only aluminum.

Alphacool Eisbaer LT120 fan dimensions are 120x120x25mm. Total dimensions of the fan plus heatsink bundle – 150x120x75mm. Dimensions of waterblock are the same for all modifications – 69×69mm horizontally and 39mm vertically. The size of the copper contact plate is 56×56mm. The water system hoses are made of PVC and have 320mm length and 8mm inside diameter. The pump in this model runs at 2600 rpm and cycles up to 70l of liquid per hour. Pump Power Consumption – 4W. The fans on the Eiswind 12 run on plain bearings with speeds from 550 to 1700 rpm. Noise levels should not exceed 29dBA. Powered by 4pin PWM.

Advantages

• performance;
• Reliability and reliability;
• fairly quiet operation;
• High-quality, high-performance fans;
• Wide compatibility with different sockets, new and old;
• Fully copper heatsink.

Disadvantages

• some users still find it excessively noisy.