A CPU cooler is responsible for keeping your CPU cool and enhancing your PC’s overall heat dissipation system. If you’re not much interested in getting a high-end CPU cooler, you may be unaware of the benefits of a super-efficient CPU cooler for your PC. You should pay more attention to this brainy component, especially if it helps you with nerve-racking gaming or serious workloads like crypto mining and web development. It would be better for gamers and savvy users to support their CPU with the best aio cooler to make it more cool and efficient. While dealing with data processing and heaps of information, it has to keep the performance upright. It is assigned the job of coordinating with other components simultaneously. You can’t expect your processor to play it cool even in such intense circumstances.
It will undoubtedly face some overheating. But what if the overheating gets out of hand? Your processor will stop functioning well, and not to mention the internal damage hardware will suffer from, it’s all beyond the processor’s control. In extreme conditions, the system might burst, and you will not want to deal with that. At this point, a CPU cooler proves to be a savior and takes matters into its own hands. The cooler cools the system down with its efficient fans and radiators and enhances the performance much fold.
Coolers are the most suitable way to avoid shortening your CPU’s lifespan. They come in two kinds; air cooling and liquid cooling, but liquid one is preferable due to the performance boost you get through it. But where and how to find the best liquid cpu cooler? It sure is a problem to get the perfect product with dozens of features and all that on a budget. No worries, fellow! Let’s get going with the topic and peek into some of our top recommended and tested coolers. But before that, don’t neglect the quick tips given below.
Quick Shopping Tips
Size: CPU coolers come in various types and shapes. It is essential to mainly focus on size since it is part and parcel of your whole build. If the size doesn’t match well, you will have to suffer from returning your cooler. Unquestionably, the larger the fans are, the better cooling they provide. But if that doesn’t go well with the size or wattage of your CPU, it’d be of no use. What a waste of time, money, and effort, though! Avoid this by keeping the cooler’s dimensions and the size of your already existing or fancied components in mind.
Purpose: If your PC is used for regular and casual use, a stock cooler will work just fine for you. There’s no need to spend your hard-earned money on an expensive liquid cooler. But if your job is demanding, like content creation or professional gaming, you are in dire need of the best liquid cpu cooler to protect your system from being wrecked due to overheating. For lower workloads, low-profile coolers would be sufficient.
Noise: No one fancies a noisy system. People tend to work in a calm and tranquil environment. Companies use this strategy and use as many advanced technologies to cut short on the noise factor. Liquid cooling is one of those ultimate technologies. But to select the best aio cooler, you need to have a keen observation of the specifications. Noise level is often mentioned there. Or research more about the desired product’s tested noise performance.
CPU Socket: Most coolers come with a wide range of sockets supported. They have both Intel and AMD sockets supported. But some coolers lack support for some sockets or are built to compliment a specific socket only. Keep an eye out for this factor, and make sure to get the cooler that is compatible with other components of your build. Don’t miss the point of checking the spec sheet thoroughly.
Best Liquid CPU Coolers: Best AIO Coolers For Your PC! at a glance:
- Corsair Hydro Series H100i Pro
- Lian Li Galahad
- Deepcool Captain 240 Pro V2
- NZXT Kraken X53
- EVGA CLC 280mm
- Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix
- Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240P Mirage
- Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora
The Best Liquid CPU Coolers: Best AIO Coolers For Your PC! You Can Buy Today
Corsair Hydro Series H100i Pro
Best Liquid CPU Cooler
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 276mm X 120mm X 27mm | Base Height: 27mm | Weight: 70.1 oz / 1987.3 g | Fans: 2 | Socket Support: Intel 2066, 2011x, 1366, 115x; AMD AM2, AM3, AM4, FM1, FM2, TR4, TRX4 | Warranty: 5 years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ UI control and customization
✓ Excellent 240mm AIO cooling
✓ Magnetic levitation bearing PWM fans
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ No RGB sync with motherboard
✗ No mounting bracket for sTR4/sTRX4
Corsair Hydro Series H100i Pro is an outstanding accomplishment of the brand. With a broad list of CPU sockets supported, easy installation, and impressive qualities, it gave tough competition to most coolers of this range and even some expensive ones. That makes it the Best liquid cpu cooler. The RGB lights provide an attractive flair to its elegant design. You even have the choice to turn them off if you desire. The color scheme fits most of the custom builds. As for the build quality, you will find it pretty intense and above average, which is a pretty fine feature.
The material used for fans further improves the quality of this cooler. However, it lacks in a few areas as it does not support Intel’s aging socket 775. And its performance is not as loud as its noise. At its best, the noise it produces is almost irritating. Thus, the performance to noise ratio could use some more improvement. But the performance per dollar It delivers is excellent, which is a relief to those who consider their pockets first. This product by Corsair excels for the most part. And there’s much more to love about it.
Lian Li Galahad
Best Budget Liquid CPU Cooler
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 240mmx273x123.5x27mm | Base Height: 27mm | Weight: 51.3 oz / 1455g | Fans: 2 | Socket Support: Intel 775,115X, 1200, 1366, 2011x, 2066; AMD AM2, AM3, AM4, FM1, FM2 | Warranty: 5 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ LED indicator included
✓ Triple chamber pump design
✓ High-density aluminum radiator
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ higher noise at 100% RPM
✗ No low-noise adapter included
Lian Li Galahad impressed us at first glance with its qualities. It supports the majority of modern sockets of both AMD and Intel. After all the testing and getting to know this cooler, it deserves to be called the Best Budget Liquid CPU Cooler. Have you perceived its performance to be mid-tier based on the average price tag? Well, that impression will soon turn out to be wrong. The natural cooling performance exceptional it delivered was superfluous. The mounting hardware is incredibly commendable. Build quality is good but not as extravagant as some of the same range other bit expensive ones.
The fans, at full speed, are noisy to a certain extent. But you can lower the speed down, and our testing showed a minor temperature difference with it. When it comes to socket clearance, there is enough room for other components—however, the lighting setups not that convenient since you’ll have to use different cables and connectors. But you don’t have to keep playing around with it. Once it gets done, everything works just right. It won’t be wrong to call it an affordable yet the best aio cooler. The company has paid significant attention to the design and minor details, making us appreciate it more as it is not just a hollow product.
Deepcool Captain 240 Pro V2
Best Ultra Cheap Liquid CPU Cooler
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 282mm X 120mm X 27mm | Base Height: 27mm | Weight: 40.7 g / 1153g | Fans: 2 | Socket Support: Intel LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1366, LGA2011(-3), LGA2066; AMD AM2, AM2+, AM3, AM3+,FM1, FM2, FM2+, AM4, TR4 | Warranty: 3 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ TR4 socket compatible
✓ A large copper cold plate
✓ Patented Anti-Leak Technology
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Loud at maximum RPM
✗ No software to control cooler configuration
Deepcool Captain 240 Pro V2 is one of our most recommended and the perfect liquid cpu coolers. The visuals and looks of this cooler are very appealing. Pump and mirror-like radiator take the looks to the next level. This cooler is a user-friendly product since you can install it pretty quickly. The build quality is reliable and robust. Anti-leak tech protects this cooler and enhances its lifespan. Along with all this cooler has to offer, the clearance is not affected at all. The user can easily install tall and bulky components to it. The dazzling RGB lighting keeps things interesting even during dull and rough workloads.
For gamers of basic or beginner level, this is the Best Ultra Cheap Liquid CPU Cooler. one can have this cooler for significantly less amount and still enjoy a rather commendable liquid cooling. The warranty, though, is not praiseworthy, but it is still far better than the expensive ones with hardly a guarantee of a year or two. And the functions like being dust-proof, oil-leakage-proof, and water-proof, making this cooler an irresistible pick. The fans are workaholics and can be configured with 3-to-4 pin adapters included in the package. The fans aren’t noisy in normal conditions, but the noise can be troublesome under stress.
NZXT Kraken X53
Best 240mm Liquid CPU Cooler
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 275mm X 123mm X 30mm | Base Height: 30mm | Weight: 1859g | Fans: 2 | Socket Support: Intel LGA 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066; AMD Socket AM4, sTRX4, TR4 | Warranty: 6 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ NZXT CAM Software
✓ 400mm Long-Sleeved Tubes
✓ Infinity Mirror Rotatable Top Cap
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Brittle backplate
✗ No fan control via software
NZXT Kraken X53 is a masterpiece that is well-known in the liquid cooling world. It is the available option and leaves everyone wonder-struck with its performance. The cooling it offers is above average and generates reasonably low levels of noise. This cooler is one of the best picks for distinctive building exceptional setups and casual gamers who don’t exceptionally severe stress out the system. All this persuades us to rank it as the Best 240mm Liquid CPU Cooler. If you are a keen-eyed buyer and prefer reading the manuals first, this product comes with a Multi-language manual for your ease.
The RGB fans, apart from being excellent performers, are beautiful as well. The airflow is quite notable, and the RGB factor makes the system illuminated and well-groomed. Another factor that made our experts root for this product is its warranty. Six years of warranty is an insane offer! That shows how trustworthy the build quality and performance of this cooler are. Even though some of the materials used are not flexible and robust, overall design and quality are a big yes for almost every user. Simple installation and a long list of compatible sockets make us decide that this cooler is out and out the most suitable one out there.
EVGA CLC 280mm
Best 280mm Liquid CPU Cooler
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 312mm X 140mm X 27mm | Base Height: 27mm | Weight: 1179g | Fans: 2 | Socket Support: Intel LGA 2066 / 2011-v3 / 2011 / 1366 / 1156 / 1155 / 1151 / 1150; AMD Socket sTR4 / AM4 / AM3 / AM2 / FM2 / FM1 | Warranty: 5 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Teflon Nano bearing fans
✓ Adjustable pump and fan seed
✓ Wide-ranged socket compatibility
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Little RGB effects
✗ No powder-coated on fan blads
Let’s welcome the latest EVGA CLC 280mm, which has had quite an impact overall on the PC builders and especially the less affording ones. The aluminum radiator, along with the dual fans, does its job pretty well. It keeps the temperature optimal; thus, overall performance is relatively better than others of this range. This high-end product is awarded as the Best 280mm Liquid CPU Cooler. to stand out from the crowd, the company gave it a touch of all the superior features, and it became a go-to option for most people. It is almost a low-profile cooler, but it does better than many others.
It is, however, notable that at this price, it would not tick all the boxes. You better not deny the almost high noise levels. The RGB lighting is far less than competitive. But this is the best liquid cpu cooler you would need if your budget is low. You can sacrifice a chunk of performance and if your case can accommodate its radiator. To be honest, if not the top-tier product, it’s not of the lowest quality or with unaesthetic looks either. The tailor-made fans and other features make it a nice aio cooler. Plus, it supports a variety of cpu sockets of both Intel and AMD.
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix
Best 360mm Liquid CPU Cooler
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 97mm X 120mm X 27mm | Base Height: 27mm | Weight: 1598g | Fans: 3 | Socket Support: Intel LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA2011, LGA2011-3, LGA2066; AMD AM2, AM3, AM4, FM1, FM2, sTR4, sTRX4 | Warranty: 5 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ iCUE software sync
✓ Tool-free mounting bracket
✓ Auto fan stop at low-temperature
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ No anti-leak technology
✗ Noisy fans at 100% speed
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix, as represented by its name, is elite. With more fans than any other high-end coolers, you can expect as much from it as you can. It would not let you down no matter how much heat you throw at it to dissipate. It can get louder under extreme conditions; other than that, its noise levels are almost quiet. That said, it has the honor to be the Best 360mm Liquid CPU Cooler. The build quality is good enough, but the fins could use some improvement. Everything works just fine regardless of what sort of usage your processor bears.
Let’s have a look at the reliability of this liquid cooling system. The warranty of 5 whole years is such a peace of mind for the builders and upgraders. The famous iCUE software worked well, and our experts were satisfied with the most effortless installation too. The phenomenal design and aesthetics of this one of the best liquid cpu coolers leave no room for complaint. Corsair, being one of the most reputable brands in the industry, has done a great job in the form of this cooler. The price is somewhat high, but the memory clearance, socket support, and other factors justify it. If your case can adjust the haft radiator of this product, there’s no real reason to avoid considering it.
Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240P Mirage
Best RGB Liquid CPU Cooler
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 277mm X 120mm X 27mm | Base Height: 27mm | Weight: 1237g | Fans: 2 | Socket Support: Intel 2066, 2011x, 1366, 115x, 775; AMD AM2(+), AM3(+) AM4, FM1, FM2(+), TR4 | Warranty: 2 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Transparent Pump Design
✓ PWM motor with a silent driver
✓ Fully-sleeved & flexible FEP tubing
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Short warranty
✗ No direct-contact technology
Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240P Mirage is the most impressive closed-loop cooler that you would ever come across. At its maximum performance, the noise levels it delivers are almost calm. The aesthetics make it the most suitable nominee for being the Best RGB Liquid CPU Cooler. It has a smooth and elegant finish which makes the overall look sumptuous and pleasing to the eyes. When compared to other products, it showed an almost perfect memory clearance. Threaddripper support and the company’s software succeed to make it a sensation among builders. It is one of the top-quality coolers that no one would hesitate to have.
Howsoever, there are certain drawbacks to this cooling system, including the 2-year warranty, which is not quite understandable when others take the warranty up to 5 years. This cooler does not perform as well as you’d expect a top-end cooler like it to do. Not that it doesn’t worth it, but the price to performance ratio is a little disappointing. Nevertheless, that settles with its addressable RGB lighting. Another area where a vast improvement is required is the manual. There are no proper instructions which can help user to set it up quickly and get started. But the quietness and abundant lighting options are good enough to let people enjoy this purchase. With this, thermal throttling isn’t an issue anymore.
Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora
Best Refillable Liquid CPU Cooler
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 397 x 124 x 30 mm | Base Height: 30mm | Weight: 1525g | Fans: 3 | Socket Support: Intel 2066, 2011x, 1366, 115X; | AMD AM2(+), AM3(+) AM4, FM1, FM2(+), TR4, C32, G34 | Warranty: 3 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Quick-Lock Mechanism
✓ Digital RGB LED controller
✓ Quiet & powerful 6-pole motor
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Tired installation
✗ No anti-vibration pads
Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora has a sophisticated structure. During testing by our experts, the power-hungry components remained quite cool thanks to the excellent performance it delivers. The list of supported sockets is remarkable as it shows how compatible this product is. Apart from performance, it is beyond extraordinary in other aspects. The build quality is exceptionally well. It seems like the company has paid extra attention to it. It is very uncomplicated to install. The upgraders would love it, and so will the first-time builders due to the ease it provides. When it comes to cooling, every manufacturer claims his product to be noiseless.
But this cooler is an exception even among the quietest ones. This Best Refillable Liquid CPU Cooler has caused a stir in PC builders at it possesses everything they want. It is not widely available, especially in the US, yet. But with limited stocks, there’s a rule. The sooner you decide, the more likely you are to achieve. If you want an economical product, think twice because it does not fall in that category. It has its advantages, but it doesn’t come cheap. We reckon that they have done a perfect job. It is definitely worth the price it claims.
Conclusion
So you have ended up choosing liquid cooling to squeeze the most out of your system? Liquid coolers do come up to scratch even if you select a mid-tier one, which means you don’t have to go bankrupt and broke just for a liquid cooler. Well, by now, you must have got a handful of knowledge about picking the best aio cooler. If you still have some vague questions that keep you from choosing the right one, we’ll shorten it up for you. If you are a high-end gamer who wants a liquid cooler to go hand in hand with his system and give the best possible results, the Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240P Mirage is something dreamily suitable.
It does well in all areas. Despite the pricing, it has everything a gamer or a serious user would ever wish for and being the most suitable option, this product is worth its price for the most part. But if you aren’t that much indulged in gaming or other demanding chores, a low-profile cooler can work wonders too. Some coolers are fractions of the price of a highly renowned cooler with a minimal difference in performance. EVGA CLC 280mm is at the top of the list of such affordable aio coolers. With a notable difference in the cost compared to expensive, insanely famous products, this one is bound to be the best liquid cpu cooler.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best aio cooler 2021?
The Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240P Mirage is bound to be out and out the best one. If you have dedicated quite a bit to get the best aio cooler, this would be the best purchase you’ll be making this year. It will complement your other components and make you wholly satisfied with its performance. However, a low-profile and pocket-friendly yet breath-taking performer like Deepcool Captain 240 Pro V2 would be a highly recommended cooler for a limited budget and lower loads.
Is a liquid CPU cooler worth it?
An aio coolers are expensive, no doubt. But you will be amazed to see the way they handle your tense workloads. The overheating gets settled before it’s too destructive for the components. Being far more efficient than air coolers, they deliver astonishing performance. It’s high time everyone with serious PC usage should get a fine liquid cooler like Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora so that things never get out of your hands due to overheating.
What is the best CPU cooler 2021?
Corsair Hydro Series H100i Pro is one of the best aio coolers. Not only it excels in liquid cooling, but it also has aesthetically pleasing looks. The brand has assured the product’s reliability through its sturdy quality and extended warranty. You can’t go wrong with this cooler for your extreme workloads, as it will keep calming and cooling the temperature down as your gaming or multitasking intensifies.
Which is better AIO or air cooler?
Both have their pros and cons, but liquid cooling takes over air cooling when compared neck to neck. Aio coolers are more efficient performers. Not only do they dissipate heat, thus protect the processor, but they also excel in looks. For instance, Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix being one of the most stunning aio coolers performs exclusively well and takes multitasking to new heights. They demand a few more bucks but are worth it. Affordable options are available as well, with a bit shorter feature list.
