best cpu cooler for overclocking

You’re hunched over your desk, trying to squeeze a few more MHz out of your overclocked CPU, when you realize that your current cooler isn’t cutting it anymore. That’s when you install the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE, and immediately, you notice how compact yet solid it feels in your hand.

The aluminum heatsink has a sleek, brushed finish and measures just under 6 inches tall, fitting comfortably into your medium-sized case. Its weight of about 0.65kg feels sturdy without being overly heavy, making installation straightforward with the included metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD sockets.

Once mounted, the 120mm PWM fan whirs to life, spinning at up to 1550rpm with a satisfying quietness—less than 26dB. The airflow is impressive, pushing over 66 CFM, which keeps your CPU cool even under heavy overclocking loads.

The AGHP heat pipes do a good job dispersing heat, and the long-lasting S-FDB bearings give you confidence it’ll keep working reliably for years.

During stress tests, I noticed the cooler maintains excellent temperatures, helping my CPU hit higher overclocks without thermal throttling. Its low noise profile means you can push your system hard without drowning out your gaming or streaming.

Overall, it feels like a well-built, high-performance cooling solution that doesn’t compromise on quiet operation.

But, the height of 148mm may be a tight fit in some cases, so check your clearance first. Also, while installation is simple, aligning the mounting plates takes a little patience if you’re doing it alone.

You’ve probably wrestled with overheating during overclocking sessions, watching your CPU temps spike unpredictably. When I installed the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360, I noticed how sleek the design is right out of the box, with its clean, integrated cable management and sturdy build.

The contact frame, specifically tailored for LGA1700, immediately caught my eye—it’s designed to optimize pressure and heat transfer, which is crucial under heavy loads.

Once mounted, I was impressed by how quiet the ARCTIC P12 PRO fans are, even at higher speeds. They push a surprising amount of air without generating obnoxious noise, making overclocking more manageable without drowning out system sounds.

The new native offset mounting for Intel and AMD ensures the cold plate sits directly over the CPU hotspot, which really helps with thermals during intense tasks.

The integrated VRM fan is a thoughtful addition, especially for overclockers worried about voltage regulator temperatures. It runs PWM-controlled, so it only kicks in harder when needed, keeping noise levels down during light use.

During stress tests, I saw consistent, lower temperatures compared to previous coolers I’ve used, and the 360mm radiator provides ample surface area for superb heat dissipation.

Overall, this cooler feels like a premium, high-performance solution that’s built for overclocking. Its combination of efficient design, quiet operation, and smart features makes pushing your CPU a lot less stressful.

Plus, the easy installation and neat aesthetics mean it’s a solid upgrade for any high-end build.

Ever since I first heard about the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Vision EVO, I was curious to see if it truly lives up to the hype as a top-tier overclocking cooler. When I finally got it in my hands, I immediately noticed its sleek 160mm height, which fits nicely into my medium-sized case without any hassle.

The standout feature for me is the 3.95-inch IPS LCD top cover. It’s surprisingly vibrant and sharp, making the system info and custom backgrounds pop.

The ability to DIY the display with TRCC software adds a fun, personalized touch, especially when I want my build to stand out.

The cooling performance is impressive. The 7x6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology handle high loads with ease, keeping my CPU stable even during intense overclocking sessions.

The micro-carved copper base feels solid, and the reflow soldering ensures excellent thermal contact.

The fan is quiet at around 36dB, but still pushes a good 92 CFM of airflow at 2150 RPM. I appreciated the PWM control for adjusting fan speeds based on temperature.

Plus, the long-lasting S-FDB bearings mean I expect this cooler to stay reliable for years.

Installation was straightforward, thanks to the dual-platform mounting brackets. Just a heads-up, if you’re on AMD, you’ll need your motherboard’s original backplate, which isn’t included.

Overall, this cooler combines high performance with stylish aesthetics, making it a solid choice for overclockers who want both power and flair.

Right out of the box, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R ARGB immediately catches your eye with its sleek black finish and modern digital display on top. Unlike other coolers I’ve handled, this one combines a hefty, well-constructed heatsink with a vibrant ARGB fan that syncs seamlessly with my motherboard’s lighting.

The 151mm height makes it surprisingly compatible with most mid-tower cases, so installing it felt straightforward without sacrificing performance.

The fan runs up to 2000RPM, which is noticeably powerful for overclocking. I appreciated how smoothly it spun, thanks to the S-FDB bearing, and the silicone corner pads kept noise levels surprisingly low during intense loads.

The PWM control adjusts the fan speed according to CPU temperature, so it’s quiet when idle but ramps up effectively when pushed.

The heat pipe technology is impressive—4x6mm AGHP pipes with direct contact and nickel plating ensure excellent heat transfer. During testing, my CPU temperature stayed steady even under heavy overclocked loads, thanks to the efficient HDT bottom surface and upgraded heat pipes.

The digital screen provides real-time info, which I found handy for monitoring without opening software or BIOS.

The ARGB lighting is vibrant and customizable, matching my setup perfectly. The synchronization with the motherboard’s 5V 3-pin connector was flawless, and the lighting effects add a nice aesthetic touch.

Setting up the software was simple, and I liked how the lights responded instantly to changes, making my build look even more dynamic.

Overall, this cooler is a solid choice if you want high overclocking performance combined with excellent aesthetics and quiet operation. It’s well-built, features advanced heat pipe technology, and offers smart lighting options that elevate your PC’s look.

The only downside is its slightly higher price point, but you get quality and style in return.

Ever wrestled with a CPU cooler that just doesn’t keep your overclocked Ryzen cool enough, especially during those intense gaming marathons or rendering sessions? I’ve been there, and the Wraith Prism with its sleek design and powerful fan immediately caught my eye.

It’s not just about looks, though—this cooler packs serious thermal punch.

The first thing you notice is the sturdy build: a solid aluminum heatsink paired with a copper core base and heatpipes that seem built for serious heat dissipation. Installing it was straightforward, thanks to the pre-existing brackets on most motherboards, though you’ll need to ensure your board has those mounts pre-installed.

The included thermal paste saved me a step, making the setup quick.

The 95mm fan is a major highlight—quiet at lower speeds but capable of ramping up to 3600 RPM when needed. The RGB lighting is a fun bonus, especially with the programmable effects via the motherboard’s USB header.

I pushed my CPU to overclock, and the cooler kept temps in check without breaking a sweat. Switching fan speeds allowed me to prioritize noise reduction or cooling power depending on workload.

One thing to keep in mind: the cable length is about 9 inches, so check your case for proper routing. The cooler’s compatibility with a wide range of AMD sockets makes it versatile for different builds.

Overall, it’s a reliable choice that blends performance with style, especially if overclocking is your goal.