6 Best CPU Air Coolers In 2024
Looking to amp up your computer’s performance without breaking the bank? Say goodbye to overheating and loud fan noises with the best CPU air cooler on the market. Designed to keep your processor running smoothly, this cooling solution is perfect for gamers, designers, and everyday users alike. Stay cool, stay quiet, and take your computing experience to the next level!
6 Best CPU Air Coolers
| Serial No. | Product Name | Check Price |
| 1 | Noctua NH-D15 | Check Price |
| 2 | Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo | Check Price |
| 3 | be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 | Check Price |
| 4 | Corsair H100i RGB Platinum | Check Price |
| 5 | Cryorig H7 Tower Cooler | Check Price |
| 6 | Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M | Check Price |
1. Noctua NH-D15
| Specification | Details |
| Product Name | Noctua NH-D15 |
| Compatibility | Intel LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x |
| AMD AM5 & AM4 | |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 165 x 150 x 161 mm |
| Weight | 1320 g |
| Heatpipes | 6 |
| Fan Size | 140mm |
| Fan Speed | 300 – 1500 RPM |
| Noise Level | 19.2 dB(A) |
| Warranty | 6-year manufacturer’s warranty |
Noctua NH-D15 is a true powerhouse when it comes to CPU cooling. When it comes to finding the best CPU air cooler, the Noctua NH-D15 takes the crown. With an impressive track record of over 300 awards and recommendations from international hardware websites, this premium heatsink is a force to be reckoned with.
One of the standout features of the NH-D15 is its extra-wide 140mm dual-tower design. Equipped with six heat pipes and dual fans, it delivers exceptional cooling efficiency that rivals many all-in-one water coolers. Whether you’re an overclocker or a silent enthusiast, this cooler ensures your CPU stays cool and performs optimally.
The dual-fan setup includes the renowned NF-A15 140mm fans, which come with Low-Noise Adaptors and PWM for automatic speed control. This means you get the best of both worlds: full cooling performance under heavy loads and whisper-quiet operation during idle times. No more annoying fan noises distracting you from your work or gaming sessions!
Installing the NH-D15 is a breeze, thanks to the included high-end NT-H1 thermal paste and SecuFirm2 mounting system. It offers compatibility with Intel LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x, and AMD AM5 & AM4 sockets, ensuring a hassle-free installation process.
Noctua’s commitment to quality is evident in the NH-D15, backed by a generous 6-year manufacturer’s warranty. It’s the go-to choice for those rocking Intel Core i9, i7, i5, and i3 processors, as well as AMD Ryzen CPUs.
Pros:
- Exceptional cooling performance on par with all-in-one watercoolers
- Whisper-quiet operation even under heavy loads
- Easy installation with included thermal paste and mounting system
- Compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets
- Reliable Noctua quality with a 6-year warranty
Cons:
- Large sizes may not fit in compact PC cases
- Premium price point compared to entry-level coolers
2. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo
| Specification | Details |
| Product Name | Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo |
| Compatibility | LGA2066, LGA2011-v3, LGA2011, LGA1366, LGA1200, |
| LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, | |
| AM4, AM3 plus, AM3, AM2 plus, AM2, FM2 plus, FM2, | |
| FM1 | |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 120 x 80 x 159 mm |
| Heat Sink Dimensions | 116 x 51 x 159 mm |
| Fan Dimensions | 120 x 120 x 25 mm |
| Heat Sink Material | Aluminum Fins, 4 Direct Contact Heat Pipe |
| Heat Sink Weight | 465 g |
| Heat Pipe Dimensions | 6 mm |
| Fan Noise Level | 9 – 36 dBA |
| Fan Speed | 600-2000 RPM (PWM) +/- 10% |
| Fan Airflow | 24.9 – 82.9 CFM +/- 10% |
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo is a reliable and efficient CPU air cooler that strikes the perfect balance between performance and cost. If you’re in search of the best CPU air cooler that strikes the perfect balance between performance and affordability, look no further than the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo. This cooler delivers well-balanced cooling performance with an optimized fin design, ensuring your CPU stays cool even during demanding tasks.
One of the standout features of the Hyper 212 Evo is its wide-range PWM fan with a unique wave-shaped blade design. This innovative design enhances airflow, maximizing cooling efficiency. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or simply a PC enthusiast, this cooler keeps your processor running at optimal temperatures.
The Hyper 212 Evo is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel’s LGA2066, LGA2011-v3, LGA2011, LGA1366, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, and AMD’s AM4, AM3 plus, AM3, AM2 plus, AM2, FM2 plus, FM2, FM1. This versatility ensures that you can use this cooler for various builds without worrying about compatibility issues.
When it comes to installation, the Hyper 212 Evo is a breeze. The aluminum fins and four direct-contact heat pipes provide efficient heat transfer, while the compact dimensions of the cooler make it easy to fit into most PC cases. You’ll appreciate the simplicity and ease of setting up this cooler, even if you’re a first-time builder.
Pros:
- Well-balanced cooling performance for optimal CPU temperatures
- Unique wave-shaped blade design for improved airflow
- Wide compatibility with a range of CPU sockets
- Easy installation and compact dimensions
- Affordable price point compared to high-end coolers
Cons:
- May not provide the same level of cooling performance as premium coolers
- Louder fan noise at higher RPMs compared to some competitors
3. be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4
| Specification | Details |
| Product Name | be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 |
| Compatibility | AMD: AM5 / AM4 |
| Intel: 1700 / 1200 / 2066 / 1150 / 1151 / 1155 / | |
| 2011(-3) Square ILM | |
| Fans | Two virtually inaudible Silent Wings PWM fans |
| Front Fan Design | Funnel-shaped frame for high air pressure |
| Maximum Fan Speed | 24.3 dB(A) |
| Heat Pipes | Seven high-performance copper heat pipes |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 5.7 x 5.35 x 6.40-inch |
| Cooling Fins | Airflow-optimized with cutouts for RAM |
Be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is a top-tier CPU air cooler that excels in both cooling performance and silent operation. If you’re searching for the best CPU air cooler that combines exceptional cooling performance with near-silent operation, then be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is an excellent choice. This cooler is designed to keep your processor cool while ensuring your PC remains whisper-quiet, even under heavy loads.
One of the standout features of the Dark Rock Pro 4 is its two virtually inaudible Silent Wings PWM fans. These fans provide powerful cooling without generating excessive noise, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful computing experience. The funnel-shaped frame of the front fan further enhances air pressure, maximizing cooling efficiency.
With a maximum noise level of only 24.3 dB(A) at maximum fan speed, the Dark Rock Pro 4 lives up to its promise of near-silent operation. Whether you’re working, gaming, or engaging in content creation, this cooler ensures that your PC remains cool and quiet.
The Dark Rock Pro 4 boasts seven high-performance copper heat pipes, which efficiently transfer heat away from your CPU. This design, combined with the airflow-optimized cooling fins, allows for excellent heat dissipation. Additionally, the cutouts on the cooling fins enhance RAM compatibility, ensuring that you can use high-profile memory modules without any issues.
Pros:
- Exceptional cooling performance
- Virtually inaudible operation
- Funnel-shaped front fan for enhanced air pressure
- Low noise level at maximum fan speed
- High compatibility with various CPU sockets
- RAM compatibility with cutouts on cooling fins
Cons:
- Large and bulky designs may not fit in all PC cases
- Higher price point compared to some other air coolers
4. Corsair H100i RGB Platinum
| Specification | Details |
| Product Name | Corsair H100i RGB Platinum |
| Fans | Two 120mm ML PRO Series RGB magnetic levitation |
| PWM fans | |
| Airflow | 75 CFM |
| Noise Level | 37.0 decibels |
| Pump RGB Lighting | 16 individually controlled RGB LEDs |
| Software | CORSAIR iCUE software |
| Compatibility | Intel: LGA 115x, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066 |
| AMD: FM1, FM2, AM2, AM3, AM4, TR4 |
Corsair H100i RGB Platinum is a top-tier liquid CPU cooler that offers both exceptional cooling performance and stunning RGB lighting effects. If you’re in search of the best CPU air cooler that combines exceptional cooling performance with stunning RGB lighting effects, the Corsair H100i RGB Platinum is a fantastic choice. This liquid cooler offers a powerful cooling solution for your CPU while adding a touch of brilliance to your PC build.
The H100i RGB Platinum comes equipped with two 120mm ML PRO Series RGB magnetic levitation PWM fans. These fans not only provide improved airflow for extreme CPU cooling performance but also deliver a blast of vibrant color. With a maximum airflow of 75 CFM and a noise level of 37.0 decibels, this cooler strikes a balance between cooling efficiency and noise reduction.
One of the standout features of the H100i RGB Platinum is the pump head with 16 individually controlled RGB LEDs. These LEDs produce stunning lighting effects that can be customized to match your build, allowing you to create a visually captivating PC setup. The Corsair iCUE software gives you complete control over the cooler’s RGB lighting, allowing you to personalize your lighting effects.
The H100i RGB Platinum also excels in performance and quiet operation. With a thermally optimized cold plate and a low-noise pump design, this cooler ensures high-performance cooling while keeping noise levels to a minimum. You can enjoy the benefits of liquid cooling without sacrificing a peaceful computing experience.
Pros:
- Excellent CPU cooling performance
- Vibrant and customizable RGB lighting effects
- User-friendly control with CORSAIR iCUE software
- Thermally optimized cold plate for efficient cooling
- Low-noise pump design for quiet operation
- Wide compatibility with various CPU sockets
Cons:
- Larger radiator size may not fit in all PC cases
- Higher price point compared to some air coolers
5. Cryorig H7 Tower Cooler
| Specification | Details |
| Product Name | Cryorig H7 Tower Cooler |
| Cooling Type | Air Cooling |
| Heatpipes | Four Pure Copper Heatpipes |
| RGB Lighting | Software Controlled Lighting System |
| Fan | White LED 1600 rpm PWM Fan |
Cryorig H7 Tower Cooler offers reliable air cooling performance for your CPU while adding a touch of style with its RGB lighting system. If you’re in search of the best CPU air cooler that combines efficient cooling performance with stylish RGB lighting, the Cryorig H7 Tower Cooler is worth considering. This tower cooler offers a reliable cooling solution for your CPU while adding a touch of visual appeal to your PC setup.
The Cryorig H7 Tower Cooler features four pure copper heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from your CPU. With its air-cooling design, it provides excellent thermal performance, ensuring that your processor stays cool even during intense workloads or gaming sessions.
One of the standout features of the H7 Tower Cooler is its RGB lighting system. The lighting effects can be fully controlled using software, allowing you to customize and synchronize the colors and patterns to match your style or the overall theme of your build. The RGB lighting adds a vibrant and eye-catching element to your PC, enhancing its visual appeal.
The H7 Tower Cooler comes equipped with a white LED 1600 rpm PWM fan. This fan provides efficient airflow and helps dissipate heat from the CPU. The PWM feature allows for automatic fan speed adjustment based on the CPU temperature, ensuring optimal cooling performance while maintaining a quiet operation.
Pros:
- Efficient CPU cooling performance
- Stylish RGB lighting with software control
- Four pure copper heat pipes for effective heat transfer
- White LED fan adds a touch of elegance
- PWM fan for automatic speed adjustment
Cons:
- Limited compatibility with certain CPU sockets
- May not fit in compact PC cases with height restrictions
6. Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M
| Specification | Details |
| Product Name | Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M |
| Hexagon Hologram Aluminum Fin | Specialized hologram cutout for unique color lighting and excellent heat dissipation |
| Air Flow | 53.38 CFM |
| Noise Level | 31.0 decibels |
| Thermal Detection Sensor | CPU temperature is monitored by a sensor and displayed through color lighting effects |
| Air Guide Armor | Specially designed armor to guide airflow and reduce dead spots |
| 28 Addressable RGB LED | Fully addressable RGB certified to sync with RGB motherboard or controlled by Master Plus+ |
| Continuous Direct Contact Technology 2.0 (CDC 2.0) | Compresses heat pipes for 45% more surface area on the cooler base, improving heat dissipation |
| CPU Socket Support | Intel: LGA2066, LGA2011 v3, LGA2011, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1366, AMD: AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, FM1 |
Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M offers a powerful cooling solution for your CPU while adding a visually captivating element to your PC setup. When it comes to finding the best CPU air cooler that combines exceptional cooling performance with mesmerizing RGB lighting effects, the Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M stands out as a top contender. This cooler not only keeps your CPU operating at optimal temperatures but also adds a visually captivating element to your PC setup.
The MasterAir MA410M features hexagon hologram aluminum fins, which not only enhance the cooler’s aesthetics but also contribute to excellent heat dissipation.
The specialized hologram cutouts create unique color lighting effects, making your PC stand out from the crowd. With an impressive airflow of 53.38 CFM, this cooler ensures efficient heat dissipation, allowing your CPU to handle demanding tasks with ease.
One notable feature of the MA410M is the thermal detection sensor. This sensor monitors the CPU temperature and displays it through color lighting effects, providing a real-time visual indication of your CPU’s thermal performance. This not only adds a cool visual element but also helps you keep an eye on your CPU’s health.
The air guide armor is another thoughtful addition to the MA410M. This specially designed armor guides the airflow, reducing dead spots and ensuring efficient cooling throughout your CPU. This feature helps maintain stable temperatures and prevents hotspots, maximizing the cooler’s performance.
With 28 addressable RGB LEDs, the MA410M offers a fully customizable lighting experience. These LEDs are certified to sync with RGB motherboards or can be controlled using Cooler Master’s Master Plus+ software.
You can unleash your creativity and create stunning lighting effects that match your style or synchronize with other RGB components in your build.
The MA410M incorporates Continuous Direct Contact Technology 2.0 (CDC 2.0). By compressing the heat pipes together, this technology increases the cooler base’s surface area by 45%, resulting in improved heat dissipation compared to the previous version. This ensures that your CPU remains cool even during intense workloads or gaming sessions.
Pros:
- Exceptional cooling performance
- Mesmerizing hexagon hologram aluminum fin design
- Real-time CPU temperature monitoring through color lighting effects
- Efficient airflow with reduced dead spots
- Fully addressable RGB lighting with synchronization options
- Improved heat dissipation with CDC 2.0 technology
Cons:
- May not fit in small form factor cases with height restrictions
- Compatibility is limited to specific CPU sockets
Buying Guide: Best CPU Air Cooler
Are you in the market for a new CPU air cooler but feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of options available? Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Choosing the right CPU air cooler is crucial for maintaining optimal temperatures and ensuring the smooth operation of your processor.
To assist you in making an informed decision, we’ve compiled a detailed buying guide that covers six essential factors to consider. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect CPU air cooler for your needs!
1. Cooling Performance
- The primary purpose of a CPU air cooler is to keep your processor cool, so it’s crucial to consider its cooling performance. Look for coolers with high airflow (measured in CFM) and low noise levels (measured in decibels). A balance between efficient cooling and quiet operation is key.
- Consider the size and design of the cooler as well. Larger coolers often have more surface area and larger fans, resulting in better heat dissipation. However, they might not fit in smaller cases, so make sure to check the dimensions before purchasing.
2. Compatibility
- Ensure that the CPU air cooler you choose is compatible with your processor socket. Different CPUs have different socket types (such as Intel’s LGA or AMD’s AM4), and coolers are designed to fit specific sockets. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility.
- Additionally, consider the clearance and installation requirements of the cooler. Some coolers may interfere with RAM modules or other components on your motherboard. Make sure there is enough space for installation without any conflicts.
3. Design and Aesthetics
- While the primary function of a CPU air cooler is cooling, it doesn’t hurt to consider the design and aesthetics. Many coolers come with stylish LED lighting options or unique designs that can enhance the overall look of your PC. If visual appeal is important to you, opt for a cooler that matches your desired aesthetic.
4. Budget
- Set a budget for your CPU air cooler. Prices can vary significantly depending on the brand, features, and cooling performance. Determine how much you are willing to spend and look for coolers that offer the best value within your budget. Remember, a high price doesn’t always guarantee the best performance.
5. Reviews and Recommendations
- Before making a final decision, read reviews and seek recommendations from trusted sources. Look for reviews that focus on the specific cooler models you are interested in. Pay attention to the experiences of other users and their feedback on cooling performance, noise levels, and reliability. This will give you a better understanding of the cooler’s real-world performance.
6. Brand Reputation and Warranty
- Consider the reputation of the brand and the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Established brands with a good reputation often provide better customer support and reliable products. Additionally, check the warranty period offered, as it reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
Based on the factors above, we recommend considering the following options from the list provided:
1. Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M: This cooler combines excellent cooling performance with mesmerizing RGB lighting effects. It features hexagon hologram aluminum fins for enhanced heat dissipation and comes with a thermal detection sensor for real-time CPU temperature monitoring. The MA410M offers efficient airflow and improved heat dissipation with its Continuous Direct Contact Technology 2.0 (CDC 2.0).
2. (Optional) Noctua NH-D15: If you prioritize cooling performance and silent operation, the Noctua NH-D15 is an excellent choice. It features a dual-tower design with two high-quality fans, providing exceptional cooling capabilities. With its renowned build quality and reliability, Noctua is a trusted brand in the air cooling market.
FAQ’s
1. What’s the ideal size of the CPU air cooler for my processor?
The ideal size of a CPU air cooler depends on various factors, including the case size, clearance, and compatibility with your motherboard. It’s best to consult your motherboard’s specifications and the cooler’s manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure a proper fit.
2. Can I use a CPU air cooler with liquid cooling capabilities?
No, CPU air coolers and liquid coolers are separate cooling solutions. CPU air coolers rely on heat sinks and fans, while liquid coolers use a closed-loop system with a pump and radiator. They are not interchangeable or compatible with each other.
3. Will a CPU air cooler hinder the performance of my RAM modules?
In some cases, larger CPU air coolers can obstruct the RAM slots or interfere with high-profile RAM modules. Consider the dimensions and clearance of the cooler to ensure compatibility with your RAM configuration.
4. Can I install a CPU air cooler without removing the motherboard from the case?
Unfortunately, installing a CPU air cooler typically requires removing the motherboard from the case. This allows for easier access to the backplate and ensures a secure installation. However, some smaller coolers may have alternative mounting options that allow installation without motherboard removal.
5. Is it necessary to apply thermal paste when installing a CPU air cooler?
Yes, applying thermal paste is crucial for efficient heat transfer between the CPU and the cooler. It helps fill microscopic gaps and improves thermal conductivity. Most CPU air coolers come with pre-applied thermal paste, but it’s always recommended to double-check and reapply if necessary.
Conclusion
Choosing the best CPU air cooler is a crucial decision that can greatly impact the performance and longevity of your processor. By considering factors such as cooling performance, compatibility, design, budget, reviews, and brand reputation, you can make an informed choice.
Remember that what works best for one person may not be the ideal option for another, so it’s essential to assess your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize overclocking capabilities, silent operation, or aesthetics, there is a CPU air cooler out there that will meet your requirements.
So go ahead, do your research, and find the perfect CPU air cooler to keep your processor running cool and efficient for years to come. Happy cooling!
