There are two types of air coolers: radial and tower. In the case of radial coolers, the heat sink sits directly on the processor (example: ALPINE 12), in the case of tower coolers, (example: FREEZER 34) the heat sink and base plate are connected to one another via so-called heat pipes. Inside is an extremely fast-boiling liquid that maximizes the speed of heat transfer within the pipe.

CPU Coolers for AMD and Intel

CPU coolers for maximum performance and reliable protection

Whether for gaming, video editing, or other complex processes, modern CPUs from AMD and Intel are becoming more and more powerful. The complex microarchitecture of today's computers enables faster calculation and more complex processes than ever before. But the higher the computing power, the more important a proper cooling becomes.

To ensure long-term use, it is essential to adequately cool the processors with a suitable CPU cooler (or “processor cooler“).

Finding a suitable CPU cooler can quickly become confusing and frustrating due to many different sizes, shapes, and terminology. That where we from ARCTIC want to offer a hand.

What types of coolers exist and which CPU cooler is suitable when will be explained here.

1. How does a CPU cooler work?

2. What are the different types of processor coolers are there?

3. Should I go for water cooling or air cooling?

4. Which CPU cooler is the Best?

5. CPU Cooler Test & Comparison

6. What should be considered when buying a CPU cooler?

7. Which CPC cooler fits my motherboard?

8. How do I mount a CPU cooler?

1. How does a CPU cooler work?

Simply put, a CPU cooler cools the CPU by removing the heat generated during operation. For this purpose, a cooler has a contact surface that connects the cooler with the CPU. The heat is conducted into a heat sink and is thus conducted away from the heat source. This heat sink is typically made of metal with good thermal conduction properties such as aluminum or copper. High quality thermal compound, like ARCTIC’s MX-4 improved this contact again and significantly increases the cooling performance.

2. What are the different types of processor coolers are there?

CPU coolers can be constructed in different ways. A basic distinction is made between air and water coolers.

Air coolers

There are two types of air coolers: radial and tower. In the case of radial coolers, the heat sink sits directly on the processor (example: Alpine 12), in the case of tower coolers, (example: Freezer 34 eSports DUO & Freezer 35 Series) the heat sink and base plate are connected to one another via so-called heat pipes. Inside is an extremely fast-boiling liquid that maximizes the speed of heat transfer within the pipe.

Water coolers

With liquid coolers, the heat generated by the components is pumped by means of a pump over water into a heat exchanger, which is cooled by fans. In the field of water cooling, a distinction is made between closed systems -- so-called "AIO coolers" such as our award-winning Liquid Freezer II Series series-- and complex "custom liquid cooling".

3. Should I use water or air cooling?

This is principally a matter of taste. Water cooling systems are often more powerful, but they also have a pump, which makes these coolers more complex. This means that, in addition to the fans, they have another source of noise and a potential weak point, which is why many enthusiasts still swear by air cooling.

4. Which CPU cooler is the Best?

There is no definitive answer to this question. Basically, the selected CPU cooler must be able to keep the CPU at moderate temperatures. The higher the temperature, the higher the power consumption, which also means higher potential loss of lifespan and performance. Keeping the CPU temperature as low as possible protects your components and ensures stability.

Depending on the intended use and the case available, different types of CPU coolers are recommended.

Ein Low-Profile Top-Blower ist für einen kompakten HTPC ideal, während er in einem High End System mit Overclocking-Ambitionen überfordert wäre. Ebenso ist ein großer Tower CPU-Kühler oder eine AIO-Wasserkühlung für Gaming-PCs oder andere leistungsstarke System angemessen, für einen kleinen Bürorechner aber überdimensioniert. A low-profile top blower is ideal for a compact HTPC, while it would be overkill in a high-end system with overclocking ambitions. Likewise, a large tower CPU cooler or AIO water cooling is appropriate for gaming PCs and other high-performance systems, but oversized for a small office computer.

5. CPU Cooler Test & Comparison

As cooling experts, we at ARCTIC offer a comprehensive selection of varying types of CPU coolers; this means we are able to provide exactly the right cooling solution for every requirement. High quality and innovations at an excellent price-performance ratio have always been our trademark. We also regularly have our products tested by independent tech experts and hardware enthusiasts worldwide and confirmed by awards. This year, for example, the Liquid Freezer II 240 was additionally awarded the "European Hardware Award 2020" for the best liquid cooler after receiving numerous awards.

6. What should be considered when buying a CPU cooler?

You should ask the following questions before buying a CPU cooler:

Which applications are running on the computer?

In a pure office PC a small low-profile cooler or possibly even passive cooler is usually sufficient. However, if demanding tasks like gaming or video editing are intended, a powerful CPU cooler is essential.

What are the requirements regarding the cooling capacity and noise level?

Will the system be overclocked? Then a big tower CPU cooler or a water cooling is needed. If a silent PC is the goal, something like a multimedia HTPC in the living room? Then a passive cooling would be ideal or a low-profile cooler a good alternative.

What kind of PC case will be used?

With big- or midi- towers there is enough space for powerful tower CPU coolers or AIO water coolers. In a compact system with small dimensions, the space for bigger cooling solutions is probably missing.

How expensive may the CPU cooler be?

Depending on the available budget, more expensive solutions such as passive coolers or water cooling might be too expensive.

7. Which CPU cooler is compatible with my motherboard?

It is essential to ensure the compatibility of the CPU cooler with the processor and socket used. Many ARCTIC coolers are multi-compatible with various sockets from AMD and Intel: Intel's LGA 775, 1150/1155/1156, 1366, 1700, 2011, 2066 or AMD's AM2(+), AM3(+), FM1 /2 and AMD AM4 Ryzen.

8. How do I mount a CPU cooler?

There are a variety of methods for installing CPU coolers. The installation process varies depending on the type of cooler. Generally, the motherboard should be removed - if there is no recess for installing coolers.

Learn more about the different installation methods in our FAQ