Choosing the Quietest CPU Cooler
When it comes to CPU coolers, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the infamous Noctua NH-P1 to the Artic Samurai Z, you can find a number of choices for your CPU cooler. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a CPU cooler. Firstly, you need to consider the noise level. If you need a quieter option, the NH-P1 and the PH-TC12DX are both great choices.
Be Quiet Dark Rock Pro 4
If you are looking for a CPU cooler with excellent performance and an attractive price tag, the Be Quiet Dark Rock Pro 4 is a great choice. The cooler is compatible with Intel and AMD processors and can handle up to 250W of TDP.
The Dark Rock cooler is constructed of 90 aluminum fins and a highly conductive copper base. The cooler also features a ceramic-coated heat pipe. The caps on the heat pipe tips are anodized black and feature a “be quiet” logo.
The cooler is made to fit most sockets and is designed to offer a low noise profile. It has a stepped design layout to maximize clearance for RAM modules.
Noctua NH-P1
The Noctua NH-P1 is the quietest CPU cooler available. This passive cooler uses natural convection to dissipate heat and eliminates dust buildup. This CPU cooler is compatible with all modern AMD and Intel CPUs and is an ideal choice for those seeking a silent PC build.
The Noctua NH-P1 features thick, widely spaced heatsink fins and soldered-on heat pipes. The Noctua NH-P1 comes with an award-winning NT-H2 thermal compound and a 6-year manufacturer’s warranty. The NF-A12x25 LS-PWM fan can be used with the Noctua NH-P1 to keep the heatsink cool and provide extra thermal headroom.
The Noctua NF-A12x25 has a range of RPMs from 450 to 1200, which is perfect for enthusiasts who like near-silent computing.
Phanteks PH-TC12DX
The Phanteks PH-TC12DX is a mid-range CPU cooler, that competes with Thermaltake’s Frio air cooler. While it does not make the best choice for noise reduction, it has the performance to match.
The TC12DX’s U-type design allows for improved thermal transfer between the CPU and the base plate. The cooler also comes with a pair of 120mm fans, one with a Maelstrom Vortex Booster. The fans provide up to 63.5 CFM airflow.
The PH-TC12DX has four 6mm heat pipes that are arranged in a U-shape. The vertically-aligned pressure-adjusting channel creates a natural flow of air through the heat pipes.
The TC12DX’s fans also feature Maelstrom Vortex Booster technology on each blade. This improves heat dissipation and reduces noise.
Scythe Fuma 2
The Scythe Fuma 2 is an air cooler that’s a good choice for anyone looking to cool their CPU. It offers excellent performance for a mid-range air cooler, and it’s also very quiet. It’s also one of the cheaper CPU coolers around.
The Fuma 2’s features include a dual-tower design and a fan with a slim profile. This allows the cooler to fit into more cases, and it still retains 100% RAM compatibility. The cooler also features a pair of Kaze Flex II PWM fans, which have improved airflow and static pressure.
The cooler is 154.4 mm tall, which is a lot taller than the original Fuma. This increases the height of the cooler by a bit, but it doesn’t impact its thermal performance.
Cooler Master MasterLiquid 240L
Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 is the latest attempt from Cooler Master to produce a cost-effective all-in-one liquid cooler. It features a new pump, updated with a 3rd generation design for improved flow and less noise output.
This 240mm AIO liquid CPU cooler is designed to be affordable and easy to install. Featuring RGB lighting, a dual-chamber pump, and an addressable LED pump head, it is one of the most efficient ways to dissipate heat. It also supports AMD AM4 and Ryzen processors.
Featuring a 240mm radiator, the ML240L has a heat dissipation area of 615 square centimeters. MasterLiquid 240L tubing is made of reinforced rubber and has a smooth surface. It connects via rotatable 90deg fittings.
Artic Samurai Z
If you’re looking for a small but not insignificant CPU cooler, the Scythe Samurai ZZ is probably for you. This compact top-down design is packed with features. The SY9225SL 12M-P fan has a good amount of RPM at low settings and offers 56 CFM of airflow. The cooler also comes with a handy VTMS (very thin metal shield) and a few mounting clips.
The Samurai ZZ comes with three copper heatpipes and 47 aluminum fins. The cooler has a polished base, which should provide good contact with your CPU. The base is also home to a square of thermal compound.
Also see: The Best CPU Coolers Available