What are some of the best CPU coolers for overclocking your PC?

1 Air vs liquid cooling

The first thing you need to decide is whether you want an air cooler or a liquid cooler for your CPU. Air coolers use fans and heatsinks to dissipate heat from the CPU, while liquid coolers use pumps, radiators, and tubes to circulate liquid coolant through the CPU. Both have their pros and cons, depending on your budget, space, noise, and performance preferences. Generally, air coolers are cheaper, easier to install, and more durable, but they also take up more room, make more noise, and have lower cooling capacity. Liquid coolers are more expensive, complex, and prone to leaks, but they also offer better cooling, aesthetics, and compatibility with other components.

2 Size and compatibility

The next thing you need to check is the size and compatibility of the CPU cooler with your PC case, motherboard, and RAM. You don't want to buy a cooler that is too big or too small for your case, or that blocks your RAM slots or other connectors on your motherboard. To avoid this, you should measure the dimensions of your case and the clearance for the CPU cooler, and compare them with the specifications of the cooler. You should also check the socket type of your CPU and the mounting system of the cooler, and make sure they are compatible. Some coolers come with adapters or brackets for different sockets, while others are designed for specific platforms.

3 Noise and airflow

Another factor to consider is the noise and airflow of the CPU cooler. Noise is measured in decibels (dB), and airflow is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). Generally, the higher the airflow, the lower the noise, and vice versa. However, this also depends on the fan speed, size, shape, and blade design of the cooler. You should look for a cooler that has a low noise level, but also a high airflow to keep your CPU cool. Some coolers have PWM (pulse width modulation) fans that can adjust their speed according to the CPU temperature, while others have manual or software controls to customize the fan settings.

4 Thermal performance and durability

The most important factor to consider is the thermal performance and durability of the CPU cooler. Thermal performance is measured in degrees Celsius (°C), and it indicates how well the cooler can lower the temperature of the CPU under load. Durability is measured in hours, and it indicates how long the cooler can last without failing or degrading. You should look for a cooler that has a low thermal resistance, but also a high lifespan. Some coolers have copper or aluminum fins, heat pipes, or vapor chambers to enhance heat transfer, while others have ceramic or metal bearings, rubber pads, or anti-vibration mounts to reduce wear and tear.

5 Reviews and ratings

The last thing you should do is read some reviews and ratings of the CPU coolers you are interested in. Reviews and ratings can give you an idea of the real-world performance, quality, and reliability of the coolers, as well as their pros and cons, installation tips, and customer service. You should look for reputable sources, such as tech websites, magazines, blogs, or forums, and compare different opinions and experiences. You should also check the warranty and return policy of the coolers, in case you encounter any issues or defects.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?