Best CPU Coolers for i7 11700K

A CPU Cooler is one of the most essential components when custom building a PC, especially when you are considering overclocking. A CPU cooler can make an apparent difference in noise output too. A good CPU cooler will take care of the CPU’s thermal output which is important if you wish to avoid throttling and achieve the full potential of your system, without it making any noise.

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CPU coolers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Broadly they can be categorized under three types:

• Custom/open loop cooling setup
• Air
• Closed look or AIO (All-In-One) coolers

Remember, open-loop coolers happen to deliver the best results and look smart too. They are also expensive than the other two types of CPU coolers.

Air coolers are designed by combing fans and metal heatsinks. They vary in thermal dissipation capacity (at times listed as TDP) and come in different sizes and shapes. Some companies are manufacturing high-end Air coolers that are giving tough competition to AIO liquid coolers which is the most common type of CPU cooler used by people.

Compared to the air coolers, closed-loop coolers or AIO are usually quieter, often without having to cut or fit custom tubes and maintaining optimum levels of coolant after setting it up. AIO coolers are easy to install and sturdy against leakages. However, you would require space for a radiator and you may have to get a larger case for it compared to certain air coolers.

If an AIO or air cooler doesn’t suffice the requirement for the clock speed you are trying to maintain for your PC then the best option would be to get a fully custom loop with a large radiator. This will enable the cooler to remove more heat from the system. Overall, the bigger the radiator on the custom loop cooler or AIO, the better it will function. Other factors contribute too but this is one of the significant points to consider. However, if you are not looking forward to overclocking, you don’t require to install a large radiator with the cooler.

Along with performance, another important factor to consider is a quiet operation which is important especially when the PC setup is meant for the office or in the living room. Most gaming enthusiasts prefer playing in a quiet environment.

We have curated a list of the best CPU coolers for i7 11700K. So, have a read to make a better choice.

Our Recommendations For Best CPU Coolers for i7 11700K:

 

10 Best CPU Coolers for i7 11700K

1. ASUS ROG Strix LC 240 RGB

It is an AIO liquid CPU cooler with a 240 mm radiator.

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Here are some features and functions of this cooler:

It features the ROG fan which has been tuned to offer distinct performance. The special design ensures superior cooling for your PC.

• The CPU cooler is fortified with a modern cooling-plate design that features micro-channels and offers a better thermal dissipation area for processor heat. This unique feature lowers thermal resistance and ensures optimal performance and cooler temperatures for the CPU.
• Along with several unique features that enhance its function and make it superior for use, this CPU cooler also has slash-cut patterns and a ROG logo on the pump that glows with Aura RGB lighting. The effects and color can be personalized to create a distinct look for your system.
• You can achieve seamless audibility and performance as the four-pin PWM control of radiator fans and the pump helps in controlling the speed flawlessly.
• This brilliant CPU cooler is compatible with a variety of AMD and Intel motherboard platforms that make it easy to couple it with the processor of your choice. To make routing and mounting easy for users, the company has fitted a 38cm tubing.

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2. Noctua NH-D15 chromax

Noctua’s NH-D15 chromax is a high-quality premium cooler that the company offers in a fully black version. Made of durable metals such as aluminum fins, copper heat pipes, and base and nickel plating, this CPU cooler is bound to perform well.

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Here are some features and functions of this cooler:

• Unlike the conventional single tower heatsinks, Noctua’s NH-D15 CPU cooler features six heat pipe dual-tower design which offers the better distribution of heat, more surface area, and good airflow when in the dual-fan mode.
• This CPU cooler also features two high-quality NF-A15 140 mm black fans that give a sleek and stealth look. The fans have been made in compliance with the AAO standard of Noctua. They also feature aerodynamic and sophisticated measures like Flow Acceleration Channels. These fans from Noctua have become very popular in the 140 mm range.
• Sunken lower fins offer 64 mm clearance for the elevated memory heatsinks when in single fan mode. This unique design ensures that the cooler goes for most high-end RAM modules that are available. The ND-D15 when in dual mode, should be used with regular height RAM which is usually 32 mm.
• This CPU cooler can be customized according to your favorite color combination. The heatsink covers, anti-vibration pads, and the optional NA-HC3 are available in green, black, white, yellow, blue, red, and blue. You can mix and match the colors to create your favorite color theme that matches your CPU.

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3. ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360

ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360 is a black multi-compatible CPU AIO cooler that offers fan speed between 200 and 1800 RPM.

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Here are some features and functions of this cooler:

• ARCTIC has made this CPU cooler with a cold plate that boasts to be efficient than others. It also features fans and a proprietary pump that is optimized for static pressure. This liquid freezer definitely offers interesting features that make it different from the AIO water coolers.
• Everyone likes their gadgets to function and look good too. The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer features 24 digital RGB LEDs that are placed neatly along with the transparent rotor and the fan hubs. Since it has an enclosed design it illuminates beautifully.
• The company has smartly manufactured the CPU cooler, reducing the visibility of cables. The RGB and PWM cables of the radiator have been integrated within the sheathing of the hoses to create a flawless look.
• Imagine running your PC as long as you want without overheating and without having to worry about the cooler absorbing excessive power to cool it down. The CPU cooler from ARCTIC consumes 80% less power and works noiselessly.
• To avoid the coolant from evaporating, the manufacturer has sealed and fitted the water circuit with an EPDM tubing which is fiber-reinforced. This also means you don’t need to refill it.
• A 40 mm PWM controlled VRM fan (can be replaced) on the pump enhances the cooling strength to help cool down the voltage converter and socket area. You can experience up to 15 C lower temperature of the voltage converter.

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4. be quiet! BW007 Pure Loop 280mm

This can be a compelling choice for people who are looking for a good 280 mm CPU cooler.

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Here are some features and functions of this cooler.

• The cooling performance of this CPU cooler is truly impressive. It can work even in the most demanding conditions. It has been built to provide immense cooling power when your CPU is performing at its peak. Your PC will stay cool and you can enjoy long hours of usage.
• The pump makes very little noise as it has been doubly decoupled. The effective damping warrants that the pump makes minimal noise, in fact, it runs almost noiselessly.
• The 140 mm fan offers superior cooling without making any noise. The Pure Wings 2 fan featured in this CPU cooler has nine air-flow optimized blades, making it the perfect choice of fan for this unique aluminum radiator.
• Refilling the coolant is an easy process as the port has been placed in an easy-to-access position. The manufacturer has also added a coolant bottle which ensures that it lasts for a long time.
• This striking CPU cooler is a full black machine that features LED lights for contrasting illumination. An aluminum-style cooling block further enhances its elegance, making it perfect to be used for any type of system.

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5. Scythe Fuma 2 CPU Air Cooler

Made of copper the Scythe Fuma 2 CPU cooler has been designed with a new modern approach. It uses the dual Kaze Flex 120 fans and offers a 15% more cooling effect compared to its previous version.

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Here are some features and functions of this cooler:

• It has a smart asymmetrical cut-out design that offers affinity to RAM zoom. There are six heat pipes with dual radiators that have been sintered to the component to offer premium performance. It also features a third fan which can be used optionally to enhance the cooling performance – specifically meant for overclocking or gamers. The fans and heatsinks are perfect for maximum heat dissipation and permit enhanced airflow within to keep the system cool.
• The product is 155 mm tall and will easily fit in almost all types of computer cases that are usually available in the market.
• Its asymmetrical design offers more space for the memory slots and the cut-out fin helps in easily installing a memory heatsink that can be as tall as up to 55 mm for certain motherboards.
• It features two fans of 25 mm and 15 mm that rotate in opposite directions which creates high static pressure and continuous airflow to push the cooling ability to its max while running noiselessly. There are fan clips included which if the user wants to can add a third fan and improve the heat-dissipating ability of this distinct cooler.
• It features a mounting system that has been manufactured to offer exact contact pressure to the processor and support a variety of motherboards and sockets available in the market.

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6. Scythe Mugen 5 Rev.B CPU Air Cooler

This latest model of CPU cooler from Scythe has been created with a unique and novel mounting system offering compatibility with the latest platform of AMD which is AM4.

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Here are some features and functions of this cooler:

• The Mugen 5 Rev. offers safe and even pressure distribution to the processor and permits easy installation. Expect enhanced performance if the TDP of your CPU is high because it features a copper base and 6 heat pipes that have been sintered to offer top-class performance. The heatsink has a wide fin stack that offers great heat transfer and dissipation making it perfect for processors with high TDP and for gaming purposes where overclocking is common.
• The 120 mm Kaze Flex fan runs noiselessly and has been manufactured to offer cool airflow for 120, 000 hours. Experience high static pressure and airflow without the fan being too loud. There are rubber pads in the corner of the fan that reduce vibration and enhance its longevity. It also comes with additional fan clips so if you want to add a second fan to increase its potential then you can use these clips to make your addition.
• The cut-fin and offset design makes sure that you can access the memory easily even if you have a tall heat spreader. The asymmetrical design ensures that the RAM slots don’t outcrop offering clear access to front bank memory. There is a 55 mm clearance because of the cut-out fin, at the back, making it compatible with almost all types of motherboards and platforms.
• Mugen 5 is 154.5 mm tall and will fit in easily in most standard cases available.

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7. Noctua NH-U12S, Premium CPU Cooler

The NH-U12S is a part of the U-series of Noctua that manufactures single tower CPU coolers. It is a 12 cm model in this series, widely in demand, and has drawn appreciation from critics worldwide. The U12S version is a 45 mm CPU cooler that has been designed in a slim shape to ensures its compatibility with tall RAM modules.

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Here are some features and functions of this cooler:

• It also features a finely designed fan that has a PWM (Pulse With Modulation) support for complete speed control. This enhances the cooling performance of the component. NF-F12 120mm Focused Flow fan is a superb amalgamation of static pressure, heatsink performance, and noiseless operation.
• The SecuFirm2 multi-socket mounting system along with the NT-H1 thermal compound makes this a perfect CPU cooler that offers both compatibility and excellent performance without making loud noises. It is safe, high-quality, and easy to use providing precise contact pressure, and can be conveniently used on all recent sockets.
• Noctua’s NH-U12S CPU cooler is 158 mm in height and easily fits almost all types of latest mid and high-end cases available On the market. It is just 125 mm in width (fan and fan clips are included) which lets the CPU cooler stay far from the top PCIe slot (especially on ATX or Micro-ATX motherboards). Its sizes also make it highly compatible with CrossFire and SLI (Scalable Link Interface) setups.
• Users will not experience overhung RAM slots even if you have dual fans installed because it features 45 mm fin depth – super slim design! This is what enables the user to be able to access the memory modules present on the CPU sockets. Its shape and design promise compatibility with several optional memory fans and tall heat spreaders.

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8. PHANTEKS PH-TC14PE 5x?

The PHANTEKS PH CPU cooler is made of sturdy materials like Alum, Nickel, and Copper (heat pipes and base). It is an excellent choice for people who are looking for a mid-end, medium-budget air cooler for their processor.

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Here are some features and functions of this cooler:

• One of the features that stands out from the other CPU coolers is the patented P.A.T.S (Physical Antioxidant Thermal Shield) that is guaranteed to enhance the cooling performance of the component. It removes thermal radiation and heat from all types of heat sources in the system like North and South Bridge, GPU, etc. This patented technology has been tested in a closed environment, open environment, tech station, and other extreme conditions. The results were amazing and PATS displayed that it could withstand high temperatures up to 200°C. The results also revealed that it was not toxic and environment friendly.
• This CPU cooler features another patented technology – C.P.S.C (Cold Plasma Spraying Technology). The technology uses a deposit that transfers heat on corresponding metals at a faster rate. CPSC technology enables the CPU cooler to augment the thermal conductivity of the sintered heat pipes through copper deposits.
• It features dual-tower radiators. There are five 8 mm wave heat pipes that are in a straight line ensuring maximum cooling. It has been created to hold very little air and thermal resistance.
• This CPU cooler from PHANTEKs features 140 mm fans that ensure that the CPU achieves huge airflow and keeps your processor cool. It also emits a low dBA with the help of an anti-acoustic rubber bar and pad that removes vibration and hence produce very little noise.
• The mounting kit offers easy installation for both Intel and AMD systems because it features a rotational backplate. One of the best thermal compounds’ for heat sinks is made of nanodiamonds (high-purity) which betters the thermal conductance between components. The heat generated by the processor transfers to the heatsink without impacting the resistance and efficiency of the CPU.

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9. be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4

Be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is made of copper and is an excellent CPU cooler that is compatible with a variety of systems.

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Here are some features and functions of this cooler:

• Expect the fan to run noiselessly as this fan with two wings have fluid-dynamic bearings, fan blades that are airflow optimized, and six pole motors. The air inlet in the frame has been made in the shape of a funnel which maintains high air pressure. The dissociated fan mounting on the heat sink has components that isolate vibrations and make the fan noiseless.
• Despite the noiseless fan working to keep your CPU cool, the performance of the CPU cooler is not impacted for systems that have been overclocked. This product offers a TDP of 250W and keeps the processor cool even when it is performing at its peak.
• The CPU cooler features 6mm copper heat pipes that enhance its heat conducting ability. Wave contoured cooling fins having tiny dots over their surfaces helps in better air circulation. The ceramic particles over the black coating helps in the easy transfer of heat.
• The CPU cooler has two heat sinks (aluminum) and the cutouts over them make them compatible with a variety of RAM. It already has two fans and gives you the option to add an additional fan of 120 mm if you wish to add to the cooling effect.
• The black color of this product, the diamond cut finish gives this CPU cooler a supercool finish. It will compliment your system once you set this cooler in its place.

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10. Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2

This version of the CPU cooler has received an upgrade from its previous versions. It features a 3^rd generation dual chamber design which gives the AIO cooler enhanced capacity to provide a cooling effect.

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Here are some features:

• It has been made from superior quality EPDM material which provides it with superior strength, durability, and endurance. The material is also anti-leak.
• The radiator fans of the CPU cooler have a large surface which helps in greater dissipation of heat from the processor.
• The latest dual-chamber pump improves the efficiency and performance of the cooler, ensuring that your system stays cool at all times.
• The exterior of the CPU cooler has a beautifully designed exterior. The RGB lighting enables the users to custom create the lighting effects that they best like to have on their system.

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Some Tips to Purchase a Good CPU Cooler

• Intel Core CPU’s Ryzen CPUs are better at multitasking and they can handle moderate overclocking. So, if you have a Ryzen CPU but don’t require overclocking too much then you can quit buying a CPU cooler, however, if you want to go overboard with overclocking or have an Intel CPU then you definitely need a CPU cooler.
• You must make sure that you check for clearance before purchasing a CPU cooler. Low-profile models and bigger air coolers can collide with RAM that is taller. Some will also bump against VRM heat sinks. A tall CPU cooler can knock against the case door too. Make sure you have checked for the clearances and dimensions of the CPU cooler and the case before you purchase them.
• Undeniably, the more the fans the more cooling it offers! However, the noise produced by the many fans cannot be ignored. It may sound weird but the loudest of fans tend to remove the hot air from your system better than the other fans. Thus, if you want something that doesn’t make noise then you must buy a cooler that offers to cool and makes less noise.
• CPU cooler manufacturers these days are manufacturing their products with RGB lighting or fans. This tends to make the PC look smart and attractive. However, you must ensure there is a built-in controller so that the lights can be easily switched off without you having to turn off your system.

How do I know what will fit in my system?

As discussed above there are three major types of CPU coolers that are available on the market – Air, AIO, and custom water loop. Every cooler type offers its own set of pros and cons. So, how do you decide which cooler will fit in your system and offer the best cooling for your CPU?

• Several points must be considered before purchasing a CPU cooler including the size of the radiator, cooler height, CPU socket, etc. However, most closed-loop coolers and air coolers are compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD Ryzen sockets and processors.
• Most CPU coolers are built with mounting hardware that comes with many sockets that increase their compatibility with a variety of sockets for the system. For instance, AMD Ryzen support includes AM4, AM2, AM3 etc. Models supported by Intel include 2011-v3, 1200 sockets. There are certain processors such as the RyzenThreadripper, which have a large cold plate and mounting that offers better cooling effects to the acreage on the integrated heat spreader. CPU coolers for these types of CPUs are limited and their sockets should have TR4 sockets.
• Significantly, you pay attention to the specification details such as the size of the radiator or size heatsink. Chassis manufacturers mention the maximum height of the cooler that would fit and heatsink makers will mention the dimensions of the coolers they are manufacturing. You must also consider the clearance area under the cooler for RAM slots before buying a CPU cooler. If you want to use DIMM (Dual In-Line Memory Module) along with tall heat spreaders over them then check that the cooler is offering clearance space above the motherboard for your memory to fit properly.
• If you are looking to purchase a liquid cooling cooler – custom loop or AIO, you must check for the number and size of radiators the case is compatible with. This will help in understanding the size and number of radiators that require installation. Radiator sizes and locations are usually mentioned by the case manufacturers.
• When it comes to top-mounted radiators you must choose wisely because the height of the radiator and the fans may clash with the top of the motherboard and the power connector. Make sure that you plug in the power connector before you install the radiator and the fans.

What Type of CPU Cooler is best – Air or water?

When it comes to cost and ease of installation then air coolers are likely to be the best choice. There are some good choices for air CPU coolers available in the list above, you can go for one that you like the best.

• For those who don’t have a restrictive budget, are looking to work on your system in a quiet environment, and want their CPU temperatures to be cool then water-based CPU coolers should be their choice. There is a great choice of water-based CPU coolers in the list mentioned above that will outperform most air coolers. Just make sure to check for dimensions and sizes before making your purchase.
• There are some great expandable kits easily available on the market that will let you expand the cooling loop into various components like a custom loop instead of a sealed kit.
• For those who have mid-range budgets then both mid-range AIOs and aftermarket air coolers can keep the temperatures of your CPU down even when it has been overclocked. It then comes down to price and aesthetics, which usually are the final decision-makers for the purchase of a CPU cooler.
• The TDP (Thermal Design Power) rating should be checked before purchasing any type of CPU cooler. It is a great way to understand the capacity of the CPU cooler because the TDP rating explains – how much heat the cooler can dispel. If your processor has a high TDP rating than what is mentioned by the CPU cooler then the fan will always be noisy or your processor may throttle. However, if the TDP rating of the cooler is higher than that of the processor then your system will run noiselessly and the processor temperatures will be under control.

Summary Best CPU Coolers for i7 11700K in 2021

 

Conclusion

The CPU cooler is an important component that helps in exploiting the potential of your PC. From overclocking to preventing throttling at extreme speeds, a good CPU cooler will keep things under control. Make sure you check the space, TDP requirements, size, etc. before selecting a CPU cooler that best fits your needs and the system that you are using.

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