Air CPU coolers: over 500 products for desktop PCs, workstations and servers, from tower coolers with heat pipes to low-profile models and standalone fans.
The range includes Noctua, ARCTIC, Jonsbo, DeepCool, Supermicro and other manufacturers. A few items are meant for cooling a chipset or a case rather than a processor, so check the stated purpose.
How to choose an air CPU cooler
Socket. The mounting kit must match your processor socket, for example Intel LGA1700 or AMD AM5. Server and workstation processors use larger sockets, so they need dedicated coolers. Check the manufacturer's list of supported sockets before ordering.
Height. Large tower coolers may not fit a narrow case or may overhang the memory slots. Compare the cooler's height with the maximum height the case manufacturer allows. Low-profile models exist for small cases.
Cooling capacity. The processor's thermal design power (TDP) should be below the cooler's rated capacity. In our range many coolers have 4 heat pipes, while processors that release more heat can be paired with models that have 5, 6 or 7. More heat pipes usually go together with a larger heatsink and better heat transfer.
Fan and noise. Most fans are 12 cm, though 9, 9.2, 10, 13.5 and 14 cm sizes also appear. A larger fan moves the same amount of air at lower speed, so it runs more quietly. FDB and HDB bearings are generally regarded as quieter and longer lasting than basic hydraulic ones, and you will also find hydraulic, rifle and dual ball bearings. Most fans have a 4-pin connector, which lets the motherboard control the speed. Many coolers come with one fan, some with two or three.
Brands in our range
- Noctua: known for very quiet fans and large tower coolers.
- ARCTIC: known for its Freezer series coolers and P series case fans.
- DeepCool: offers Assassin dual-tower coolers and the AK series.
- Jonsbo: specialises in low-profile coolers and cases for small systems.
- Akasa: makes low-profile and passive coolers for small PCs.
- Supermicro and Dynatron: coolers for server and workstation sockets, including low-profile models for narrow server chassis.
- Zalman: recognised for its CNPS series coolers.
Also in our range: Thermaltake, Xilence, SilverStone and Inter-Tech.
Frequently asked questions
Is an air cooler enough for a modern processor?
For most processors, a good air cooler is enough. Dual-tower models with 6 or 7 heat pipes cope with heavy loads as well. Only the hottest processors sometimes call for liquid cooling.
How do I know if a cooler will fit my case?
Compare the cooler's height with the maximum cooler height in the case specification. Also check that it will not cover the memory slots. In small cases, choose a low-profile model.
Do I need to buy thermal paste separately?
Not always. Some coolers come with paste pre-applied or included in the box, while others need it bought separately. The product description states which applies.
How many fans should a CPU cooler have?
One fan is enough for moderate loads. Two fans give more airflow or let you run at lower speeds, which keeps the PC quieter. More than two is rarely necessary.
