CPU Cooler Quick Picks
How to Use These Recommendations
These recommendations are based on Zach's opinion after building and testing around 1,000 gaming PCs over the years. They're designed specifically for gaming PCs, so if your primary use is video editing, 3D rendering, software development, AI workloads, or other productivity tasks, some of these recommendations may change.
These picks are intended to help narrow down your choices, not suggest that these are the only great options. There are plenty of excellent parts that aren't included here, and you're absolutely not limited to what's recommended below.
The price ranges and typical prices are general guidelines. Prices change frequently, so you may see products listed above or below the ranges shown.
None of these recommendations are sponsored. While some links are affiliate links that help support ZTT at no additional cost to you, no manufacturer has paid us to recommend a specific product. Every recommendation is included because Zach genuinely believes it's a great choice for a gaming PC.
Entry Level Coolers
Use these for CPUs that don't require a ton of cooling and have a lower power draw. These work on all modern CPU sockets. (AM4/AM5/LGA 1700/1851/1200)
ID Cooling SE-214-XT V2
$15 - $20
Very reliable and affordable all-black cooler with black heatsink. Super clean and minimal aesthetic.
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Pro ARGB
$20 - $30 USD
Upgraded version of the legendary Hyper 212. Great option if you need ARGB. Comes with a typical 3-pin ARGB connector.
Thermalright AssassinX120 SE ARGB
$15 - $20
Amazing option if you need an affordable all-white with ARGB cooler. Comes with a typical 3-pin ARGB connector.
Mid Range Coolers
Use these for CPUs that can benefit from extra cooling, or if you want to attempt overclocking. These work on all modern CPU sockets. (AM4/AM5/LGA 1700/1851/1200)
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE
$35 - $40
Comes in black, white, or ARGB. One of the best valued dual-tower air coolers. Can properly cool any CPU without breaking the bank.
Thermalright Aqua Elite 360 ARGB
$45 - $55 USD
360mm AIO with 3x 120 ARGB fans. Great water cooling performance without an expensive price tag. There are several versions. The one linked is my favorite.
ID Cooling SE-225-XT
$25 - $30
Great air cooling option if you need a little more cooling than the entry level options. Single-tower, dual-fan design. All-black and minimal aesthetic.
High End Coolers
Use these for high end CPUs that require a lot of cooling, or if you want serious overclocking support. These work on all modern CPU sockets. (AM4/AM5/LGA 1700/1851/1200)
Corsair Nautilus 360 RS
$90 - $100
Not necessarily the very top performer, but a solid all-black option if you don't want ARGB. Easy to install. Very safe option for pure performance builds.
Arctic Liquid Freezer III Pro 360
$75 - $85 USD
One of the very best AIO performers. Comes in various versions, but doesn't stay in stock all the time. Arctic is one of the most trusted cooler brands.
Be Quiet! Light Loop 360
$110-$130
Another one of the very best AIO performers. Lots of flashy ARGB, but don't let that fool you. This will keep any CPU at chilly temperatures. Very reputable brand.
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