There’s nothing more frustrating than building a new rig only to discover that you don’t have the right CPU cooler. You’ve spent hours researching, looking at hundreds of reviews, and agonizing over your perfect match.
The last thing you want is to end up with a PC that’s underpowered or overheats. With that said, not everyone knows what they’re looking for when it comes to choosing the best CPU cooler. So, in this guide, we’ll explain all you need to know about CPU coolers, from what to look for to buying advice to maintenance.
In addition, we’ll also cover some of the most popular cooler brands on the market and include some of the best CPU coolers under $50. So, let’s get started shall we?
What is a CPU cooler?
A CPU cooler is a device that cools your computer’s central processing unit (CPU). Your CPU will be the hottest part of your system, as it needs to dissipate heat to function. Heat can damage your delicate hardware and slow down your computer’s speed, so it’s important to keep your CPU at optimal temperatures.
There are two types of CPU coolers: air-coolers and liquid-coolers. Air-cooling relies on fans to transfer the heat from the CPU out of the PC case. Liquid cooling involves transferring heat from a processor through a liquid with a pump and tubing.
The liquid absorbs the heat and then changes back to its original state, which is usually water or something like ethylene glycol or propylene glycol.
Air-coolers are smaller and cheaper than liquid coolers, but they also produce more noise and are less efficient in general. Additionally, air-cooling often requires more maintenance than liquid cooling because you may need to clean dust from inside the PC case regularly or replace your fan when it slows down or breaks down completely.
Types of CPU Coolers
When it comes to CPU coolers, there are really two main types: water and air. Water coolers are a type of closed-loop liquid cooler that uses a radiator (usually with multiple fans) to dissipate heat. Air coolers, on the other hand, use a heatsink to disperse heat.
There are also some hybrid options available which use both liquid and air cooling methods. This type is more expensive than either of the two individual types but it’s also more effective at dissipating heat.
Regardless of the type you choose, you will have to make sure you have enough space in your case for whichever option you go with.
If not, you should post-pone buying a new PC until your case can support it or look into upgrading your current one.
Best CPU Coolers for Gaming
One of the most important parts of building a new gaming PC is choosing the best CPU cooler. If you don’t have the right one, your computer will overheat and shut off before you even get to play a single game.
It’s also important to make sure that your CPU cooler has enough cooling power for everything you want to do with it.
There are two major types of CPU coolers: air-cooled and water-cooled. Air-cooled CPU coolers are cheaper, but they can only dissipate heat up to a certain degree without breaking down.
You’ll need a powerful air-cooler if you plan on overclocking or running intensive gameplay sessions. Water-cooled CPU coolers are more expensive, but they last longer than their air cooling counterparts, as well as being quieter and more efficient.
They also allow you to use one or more fans to force air through liquid pipes, which makes them especially great for overclocking and gaming sessions that will put your PC under stress.
Best CPU Cooler for Overclocking
If you need a CPU cooler that can handle overclocking, then you’ll want to look for one with copper heat pipes.
Copper is the best conductor of heat and will be able to conduct heat more quickly and efficiently than other materials. The downside? Copper coolers are usually more expensive than aluminum coolers.
Popular Brands of CPU Coolers
brands offer a wide variety of cooling solutions for different budgets and needs. Corsair is a well-known manufacturer of high-performance PC components and accessories and their CPU coolers are no exception.
Noctua is a Austrian company that specializes in silent PC cooling solutions. Cooler Master is a Taiwanese company that offers a wide range of affordable cooling solutions for budget-conscious consumers.
Best CPU Coolers under $50
If you're looking for the best CPU coolers under $50 you have a few different options. The most popular option is the Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO which offers great cooling performance at a very reasonable price.
If you're willing to spend a little bit more the Corsair H100i is also a great choice. It's not quite as good as the Hyper 212 EVO but it's still a very good cooler.
Conclusion
There are many things that go into choosing the perfect CPU cooler for your system.
For example, are you an overclocking fanatic, or do you primarily use your computer for gaming? The answer to this question will help you decide which type of CPU cooler to invest in, because each has its pros and cons.
Ultimately, it’s important to note that the best CPU cooler for your needs may not be the best for someone else.
Our goal is to help you make a better-informed decision before making that purchase.
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