The Best CPU Cooler and Fan Buyer's Guide

When electricity flows through a wire that has resistance, heat is generated. A similar phenomenon happens inside the CPU. When we perform computationally heavy tasks like gaming, rendering, or compiling code, the processor draws a lot of power to perform the calculations. The power draw causes it to heat up, and that is where CPU coolers come in. They remove the generated heat. If the heat is not properly removed, the system could become unstable, leading to shutdowns, BSOD, or hanging.

This guide is all about finding the ideal CPU cooler for your PC. You can opt for a liquid or an air-based cooling system. The choice depends on factors like CPU thermal design power, PC usage scenario, and budget. We will provide you with the guidelines to select the best CPU cooler, whether air-based or liquid-based, in detail. Continue reading to find your next CPU cooler.

Why You Need a Good CPU Cooler

Before we dive into the specifics, let's first address why you need a good CPU cooler. Why isn't the stock cooler enough for CPU cooling requirements? Here are the top three reasons.

Thermal Throttling

The stock coolers are noisy and typically cannot handle high TDP processors that require high heat removal. The heat will cause the temperature of the CPU to increase, and at 90-100 C it will start to thermal throttle. It means that the CPU will increase its processing speed (Hz) to decrease the heat production and control temperature.

Overclocking

Enthusiast gamers like to push their CPU operating frequency or speed to a higher value. It helps gain those extra frames per second for the competitive edge. However, it leads to higher heat production as processors push beyond their optimum frequency and become inefficient. A high TDP CPU cooler will ensure stable performance.

Quiet Operation

Using a high-end CPU cooler will result in quieter PC operation. New buyers might not understand the importance of noise. A high-noise PC will feel overwhelmed and may even disturb your workflow or gaming sessions. A high-TDP and well-designed CPU cooler will run quieter at higher loads.

Types of CPU Coolers

There are mainly two types of CPU coolers: liquid and air. Let's study them in detail to find out which one is the right choice for your next build:

Air Coolers

The air coolers work by conducting heat from the CPU's Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS). An air cooler has heat fins that increase the surface area of heat transfer to maximize heat. Then it pushes air over these fins to take away heat from the metal.

There are two variations in air coolers: single tower and dual tower. The single tower has one set of fins, making it ideal for compact configurations. Whereas the dual tower has two sets of fins for larger heat transfer and better thermal performance.

There are tower and downdraft designs in air coolers. The tower is much better for heat transfer as it has more surface area for heat removal.

Liquid Coolers

Liquid cooler circulates liquid over the CPU's Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS), which is much more efficient at carrying heat. Then it pumps the liquid to the radiator, where the heat is transferred to the fins and carried away by fans pushing air. There are two main types of coolers. Most users will opt for the AIO coolers, but enthusiasts may choose custom loops for customization.

• AIO (All-in-one) Coolers: These are free-filled and sealed loops of liquid with a pump, tubes, and a radiator. Owing to their design, they are easier to install, fit, and operate.
• Custom Loops: These are built from scratch, selecting pump, radiator, reservoir, liquid, seals, routing, and everything is done by the user.

How To Pick the Best Air CPU Cooler

Best for reliability, budget-conscious builds, and simplicity.

Step 1: Check the Socket and TDP

The socket is basically the fitting on the motherboard that holds the CPU. It depends on the CPU's physical parameters. CPU manufacturers provide the socket type in their specifications. Make sure that you match the socket type so that the Air cooler can securely and firmly sit on its top. Another thing to check in the specification is the TDP (Thermal Design Power). It defines the heat the CPU will release, and your air cooler TDP should be higher.

Tip: Look for at least 6 heatpipe air coolers capable of handling 200W.

Step 2: Measure Case Clearance

For this, you will have to check the PC case specification. The height of the air CPU cooler is significant. It can be incompatible with PC cases with a lower width. Ensure that the CPU cooler you are targeting doesn't hit the side panel.

Note: Standard air cooler towers can go up to 160mm high.

Step 3: Choose the Tower Design

Choose a single tower for the size constraints of a PC case. In larger PC cases, go for the dual tower to get the most out of the air cooler. In a dual tower, look for the counter-blading design or push and pull design for maximum efficiency.

Step 4: Verify Fan Quality

Fans come in different designs. The key factor that dictates their life is bearing design. Look for the fluid dynamic bearing (FDB). These can provide 100,000 hours of working life, unlike the cheap sleeve or rifle bearings.

Step 5: Refine Aesthetics

If you have a see-through glass as a side panel, consider going for the ARGB design or an air cooler with a display for statistics.

Selecting the Best Liquid Cooler

Best for high-end overclocking, sleek aesthetics, and small-form-factor cases.

Step 1: Match Radiator to Case

The PC case may have limited spaces, typically on the front or top, for the installation of a radiator. It's vital to ensure that the PC case can support the radiator size of your selected liquid cooling system. They can be:

• 360mm: For high-end overclocking 300+W TDP
• 240mm: Ideal for small PC cases, outperforming many air coolers.

Step 2: Evaluate the Pump

Look for dual-chamber designs. They have higher operating hours. A pump needs to operate at 3000rpm to circulate the liquid efficiently. Look for high-rpm capability with a variable speed option. For aesthetics, some pump or water blocks will feature displays that provide either simple information or a full LED screen for customization.

Step 3: Check for "Bonus" Features

Liquid coolers typically do not blow air around the CPU, which can cause localized heat spots. Look for water blocks or a pump section with VRM coolers for additional cooling. It can extend the life of electronics like RAM and VRM, which surround the CPU socket.

Step 4: Prioritize Silence

Always prefer liquid coolers with low noise. Select models with pump noise under 30dBA. Also, the fans on the radiator should have high static pressure to avoid running at high rpm and generating loud noise.

Step 5: Optimize Control

Consider liquid coolers that come with control software. You can set the fan curves based on the coolant temperature rather than the CPU temperature. It helps fans from increasing speed every time the CPU performs a quick, intensive task.

Conclusion

Overall, we can say that the CPU coolers, either air-based or liquid-based, both have their own significance. It depends on the buyer's budget and PC case constraints. To select the best CPU cooler, the key takeaway that is applicable to both types is:

• Check Socket Compatibility
• Compare CPU and Cooler TDP
• Review PC Case Dimensions for Fittings
• Prioritize Low Noise

If you are looking for a CPU cooler that has the ideal price/performance ratio and offers the features of any modern cooler, then visit the ESGAMING website. They offer both air and liquid coolers with high-end features and a premium build.

About ESGAMING

Founded in 2017, ESGAMING has quickly become a recognized emerging brand in high-performance computer components and accessories. From PC cases and power supplies to cooling systems, ESGAMING is dedicated to delivering creative, reliable, and well-crafted E-sport solutions for gamers, creators, and PC builders around the world.

For more information, visit www.esgamingpc.com