They are designed to keep your CPU cool, but they don’t always do so, especially if you use the computer for lengthy periods of time and do strenuous tasks. Due to the inability of most standard coolers to keep up with increased demand, temperature spikes occur. Even though a CPU cooler’s TDP is lower than the CPU’s, it can still function. The CPU, on the other hand, will gradually throttle down to a lower frequency to allow it to cool. Moreover, there are a lot of different websites from where you can get the finest CPU cooler reviews. Nevertheless, here are some of the best considerations you need to make when choosing a CPU cooler.
Price
Air-based coolers will, on average, be less expensive than liquid cooling systems. CPU coolers that support a greater TDP are usually more expensive. The more complex lighting options are usually more expensive. You have the option of choosing between a practical, low-cost solution as well as a spectacular light display.
Lighting
Another one of the most essential as well as most important consideration you need to make is for lighting. LED illumination is available on several CPU cooling fans. Pump heads for liquid cooling can also include LEDs or even LCDs! Make sure your CPU cooler has the ability to switch off the lights when they get irritating.
Size
Before purchasing the largest cooler available, make sure your case and motherboard arrangement allow for it. Also, owing to space limits, make sure that other components on your motherboard won’t interfere. Dual-fan coolers are notorious for taking up a lot of space. Fans for liquid cooling systems are usually mounted at the top or bottom of the casing.
Brackets for Mounting
CPU coolers come with a variety of brackets for mounting in order to accommodate various socket sizes. Check to see whether the cooler that you are planning on purchasing, comes with a mounting bracket that fits. Searching by socket type is the simplest approach to discover a CPU cooler that will work with your machine. The 9900K, for example, utilises an LGA 1151 socket, therefore you’d look for an LGA 1151 CPU cooler. There may not be many appropriate coolers available in some circumstances including but not limited to when a socket size is announced. In these circumstances, a supplementary mounting kit to accommodate the additional dimensions is frequently available.
Noise
More fans usually equate to better cooling. They do, however, mean greater noise. Because they can move the same quantity of air at lower speeds, larger fans are often quieter than smaller fans. If a cooler is having trouble cooling a CPU, it will operate at maximum speed, making it noisier. The decibel level of fan noise is measured. The lower the dB rating, the quieter it is. You can usually set the BIOS on your motherboard to utilise specified fan speeds at specific temperatures. When your computer is idle, this customizable fan speed allows you to enjoy a near-silent PC.