Best CPU Liquid Coolers

In this guide, we recommend which are, in our opinion, the Best CPU Liquid Coolers for Gaming PC 2024 for Intel and AMD CPUs, so that you can make a wise purchase.

If you’re a computer enthusiast, an avid gamer, or just someone who wants to get the best performance out of their system, chances are you’re considering investing in an advanced and efficient CPU cooler. Liquid coolers are one of the most effective and quiet options for keeping your CPU at an optimal temperature, thus ensuring excellent performance and longer system life.

However, choosing the Best CPU Liquid Coolers for Gaming PC 2024 for your needs is not a task to be taken lightly. This guide has been created to help you navigate the various options available on the market, focusing attention on several key features that you should consider in order to make an informed choice.

In this guide, we’ve focused exclusively on the best liquid coolers for gaming pc available on the current market. We have selected the models that we believe to be the most significant and distinctive, so as to respond to the tastes of each user. In fact, the heatsinks featured in this guide are all top-of-the-range, with minimal performance differences between them. Therefore, the choice of the best model will not be dictated so much by the performance or quality of the heatsink, but by the aesthetic and functional taste of the user. We will update this article periodically so that we can always keep up with current market trends.

How to choose a Best CPU Liquid Cooler

Choosing a heatsink is not always easy, as some factors come into play that cannot be overlooked. In particular, compatibility with the socket, and performance of course, are aspects to keep in mind to make the correct purchase. Below, you’ll find a number of questions you should ask yourself when evaluating a liquid dissipation system.

How is the heatsink compatible with your setup?

Compatibility is one of the crucial factors to consider when choosing a liquid cooler for your CPU. This goes beyond the simple question of “will it work or it won’t work” and touches on several key areas of the system.

The first thing to check is compatibility with your CPU’s socket and motherboard. Each socket has a specific designation, such as AM4 or LGA 1151, and the heatsink must be compatible with it. In addition, make sure that the water block of the heatsink does not interfere with other components near the socket, such as VRM heatsinks or memory banks. The size of the radiator and fans must also be taken into account.

Not all homes can accommodate large radiators, so it’s essential to measure the available space and compare it to the size of the radiator you’re planning to buy. Some modern homes have compartments specially designed to house a liquid cooling system, making it easy to install.

Also check that your power supply can handle the power load of the heatsink and that you have the necessary connectors on the motherboard to power the fans and LED lights. Finally, while it’s not strictly a technical issue, the aesthetic appearance of the heatsink should harmonize with the rest of the system, especially if you have a case with a transparent window showing the hardware.

How powerful is the cooling system?

When choosing a liquid cooler for your CPU, cooling capacity is one of the most critical aspects. This metric expresses how effectively the heatsink can keep CPU temperatures within safe limits, a factor that directly impacts the performance and longevity of your system. Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to take a number of things into consideration. For example, each CPU has a Thermal Design Power (TDP) value, which indicates the maximum amount of heat it is designed to generate. A suitable heatsink should have a cooling capacity that exceeds that value.

And if your goal is to overclock your CPU, you have to keep in mind that the heat generated will be significantly higher. In this case, a high-quality liquid cooler becomes almost indispensable to keep the CPU within safe temperature ranges. The technology and design of the radiator and water block are other crucial factors. A larger radiator or one with a high fin density will offer better performance. The quality of the waterblock, and especially its thermal conduction, can also make a big difference in the effectiveness of cooling.

Fans are another element to consider carefully. Their size, quantity, and design can significantly affect the cooling capacity of the system. High-quality or more fans can dramatically improve efficiency. In addition, many modern heatsinks offer advanced features that allow you to adjust the speed of the fans and pump, allowing you to balance performance and noise to suit your needs.

Finally, in addition to pure cooling capacity, it is vital to take into account the reliability and durability of the system. High-quality materials and positive reviews are generally good indicators of the durability and reliability of the product you’re considering.

What is the noise level?

Noise is an often overlooked element when choosing a CPU liquid cooler, but it’s crucial for a great user experience. Liquid coolers tend to be quieter than air models, but there are significant variations between models. Therefore, it is crucial to consult the manufacturer’s technical specifications, especially the noise levels expressed in decibels (dB), to understand how quiet the device is. In general, a lower noise level is desirable, especially if the system will be used in an environment where silence is precious.

The main sources of noise in a liquid cooling system are the fans and the pump. Choosing high-quality fans with quiet bearings and a pump designed for low-noise operation can make all the difference. Some advanced models also offer the ability to manually or via software adjust the speed of the fans and pump, allowing for additional control over noise levels. The environment in which you plan to use the system can also influence your choice. In a high-volume gaming environment, for example, a slight increase in noise may be less problematic than in a work or studio environment, where even the slightest noise can become annoying.

In addition to the specifics, reading reviews and comparing independent tests can give you a more complete view of reality. These often provide more detailed and reliable information about the actual noise level of the device, helping to make a more informed choice. In summary, when choosing a liquid heatsink, consideration of noise is vital to finding a balance between cooling performance and acoustic comfort.

What does it look like aesthetically?

The aesthetics of a liquid cooler is an aspect that has gained relevance, especially in contexts such as gaming or advanced work systems. RGB lighting is a key element for those who want to visually customize their setup. This technology offers a wide range of colors and effects, and in many cases, is controllable via software, allowing the user to change the look of the system easily. The design of the waterblock and radiator is another aesthetic factor to consider. Some heatsinks feature designs that make the flow of liquid visible, while others adopt a more minimalist or industrial aesthetic.

It’s also crucial to consider how the heatsink design will integrate with the rest of the system. Some models come in various colors and styles to better match existing components such as the motherboard, fans, or case. In addition, the location and visibility of the heatsink within the case can affect the overall aesthetic effect; Some cases with tempered glass panels allow you to show off the liquid cooler in all its glory.

However, it’s important to remember that aesthetics, while an important factor, shouldn’t outshine other practical considerations such as cooling capacity, noise, and compatibility with your system.

How easy is installation and maintenance?

Ease of installation and maintenance is a critical factor when choosing a liquid cooler, especially for less experienced users or those who don’t want to spend a lot of time on these aspects. Pre-assembled kits, known as “All-In-One” (AIO) solutions, are generally the easiest choice. They are ready to use, pre-filled with coolant and often accompanied by detailed instructions. In contrast, custom or custom “loop” systems offer greater flexibility and cooling potential, but require more expertise for installation and maintenance.

The tools needed for installation are another point to consider. Some kits include all the necessary tools and accessories, further simplifying the process. In addition, clear instructions and online support from the manufacturer can be of great help, both during installation and for subsequent maintenance.

Speaking of maintenance, AIO kits generally require less intervention than custom kits. For the former, periodic fan cleaning and checking for leaks is often sufficient, while custom systems require more active maintenance, such as coolant replacement. Warranty and after-sales service are other factors that should not be overlooked, as good support can greatly simplify any future maintenance or troubleshooting. Let’s take a look some of the Best CPU Liquid Coolers for Gaming PC 2024 below:

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT

The Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT represents the ultimate expression of CPU liquid cooling technology, positioning itself as the best liquid cooler in this guide. Thanks to an advanced design, this All-in-One (AIO) system can efficiently handle the heat generated by the most powerful processors, both from Intel and AMD, with its generous 420 mm radiator.

One of its standout features is the pump head, which incorporates Capellix LED technology, offering aesthetic customization options through sophisticated RGB lighting. The Corsair AF ELITE 140mm fans are designed to provide optimal airflow, ensuring efficient and reliable cooling. Corsair iCUE software gives you total control over the performance and aesthetics of your system, with options for adjusting fan speed and lighting level, making the user experience extremely comfortable and personalized.

Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 ARGB

The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 ARGB liquid cooler isn’t just another piece of hardware; It is a masterpiece of thermal engineering. This All-in-One (AIO) system is the perfect choice for those looking for not only performance, but also a touch of aesthetics in their gaming or work setup.

First of all, let’s talk about its cooling power. Equipped with three 12 cm fans, this heatsink pushes the concept of thermal efficiency to new heights. The fans provide a constant and powerful airflow, which is essential for keeping processor temperatures under control, even during the most intense usage sessions. But the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 ARGB isn’t just performing, it’s also beautiful to look at. The system’s built-in ARGB LEDs offer an amazing range of customization options: you can synchronize the lighting with the other components of your PC, creating a truly immersive environment customized to your tastes.

Another plus point is the installation. Often, such advanced cooling systems can be difficult to install, but not this one. The AIO design of the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 greatly facilitates the process, making this heatsink an excellent choice even for those who are new to liquid cooling. Finally, we can’t forget about its versatility. The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360 ARGB is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, meaning it’s a flexible option that fits almost any type of hardware configuration.

MSI MAG Core Liquid P240

If you’re looking for a liquid cooler that delivers outstanding performance without the lights and frills of RGB models, then the MSI MAG CoreLiquid P240 might be just what you need. This product stands out precisely because of the absence of RGB LEDs, a choice that may not please everyone, but which will be greatly appreciated by those looking for an efficient machine rather than a display piece.

Performance-wise, the MSI MAG CoreLiquid P240 comes with a 240mm radiator, which is ideal for high-end CPUs that require an excellent cooling system. Don’t let its understated appearance fool you: underneath that discreet façade hides state-of-the-art cooling technology. In terms of design, MSI has opted for a rebellious yet unobtrusive approach. There are no blinding lights or fancy effects, but a clean, functional design that puts an emphasis on efficiency. Last but not least, one of the most underrated features of this model is its quietness. Unlike other heatsinks that can get quite noisy, especially under load, the MSI MAG CoreLiquid P240 is designed to be as quiet as possible.

NZXT Kraken Z73

The NZXT Kraken Z73 liquid cooler is a solution that stands out mainly for the presence of a customizable LCD display. This unique feature makes the NZXT Kraken Z73 the best liquid cooler with display on the market. Not only can it show information such as processor temperature or fan speed, but it can also be customized with images or GIFs, making your PC truly unique.

With a 360mm radiator, the NZXT Kraken Z73 is designed for efficient and quiet cooling. It is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, making it suitable for almost all types of PC setups. The look of the NZXT Kraken Z73 is clean and sophisticated, thanks to the no-frills RGB design that highlights the LCD display. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want a balance between aesthetics and functionality.

Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora 360

The Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora 360 is arguably the best rechargeable liquid cooler on the market. Its AIO (All-in-One) design makes it easy to install, but the real selling point is its rechargeability. Unlike many other AIO systems, the Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora 360 allows the user to open the cooling loop to add new components or replace coolant, thus ensuring much longer life and efficiency over time.

The heatsink comes with RGB Digital lighting, which not only adds an aesthetic touch but also a functional one, allowing for complete customization of the look and feel of your PC. In terms of performance, the radiator ensures excellent cooling even for the latest generation of processors. Thanks to these features, the Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora is positioned as the ideal choice for users looking for a durable, efficient, and customizable liquid cooling system.

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