Best CPU Cooler For i9 9900k | AIO and Air
The i9 9900k processor might not be the latest CPU from Intel, but it's still undeniably one of the most powerful processors currently available on the market. It's the fastest and most updated chip of 2019 flagship models, which is why it still holds a worthy spot when it comes to gaming.
This octa-core 16 thread processor has a guaranteed maximum single-core clock speed of 5.0GHz. Pushing the processors beyond their limits by overclocking will allow you to get a noticeable leap in performance but at the expense of thermal dissipation.
Getting a CPU cooler is arguably the best way to handle the processor's temperature. In other words, if you are planning to push the i9 9900k to its max by overclocking, then you need to equip it with a potential cooling system.
Now that you know why you need to get a CPU cooler, it's time to find the best CPU cooler for i9 9900k. Don't worry; we've got you covered with this comprehensive guide on the best CPU coolers for the i9 9900K. Whether you are looking for a liquid cooler, craving RGB motherboards, or just wanting a simple cooler, you will find it here.
Table of Contents
- TOP CPU COOLER FOR I9 9900K
- The BEST CPU COOLER FOR I9 9900K
- CORSAIR HYDRO H150I - BEST LIQUID COOLER FOR I9 9900K
- BE QUIET! DARK ROCK PRO 4- BEST AIR COOLER FOR OVERCLOCKING
- NZXT KRAKEN M22 - BEST CPU COOLER FOR GAMING
- CORSAIR H115I - BEST AIO COOLER FOR I9 9900K
- NOCTUA NH-D15 - BEST AIR COOLER FOR I9 9900K
- THERMALTAKE FLOE 360MM AIO CPU LIQUID COOLER
- COOLER MASTER LC240E RGB CPU LIQUID COOLER
- EVGA CLC 280MM AIO RGB LIQUID CPU COOLER
- COOLER MASTER MASTERLIQUID ML240R
- ARCTIC FREEZER 34 eSPORTS DUO - TOWER CPU COOLER
- WHAT'S THE NEED OF CPU COOLER?
- tHINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A CPU cooler for i9 9900k
- CONCLUSION
TOP CPU COOLER FOR I9 9900K
The BEST CPU COOLER FOR I9 9900K
1
CORSAIR HYDRO H150I - BEST LIQUID COOLER FOR I9 9900K
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The Corsair Hydro H150i Pro is an AIO CPU cooler that uses water to cool your CPU. It’s controlled by Corsair iCUE software. It is important to know what you’re looking for in a CPU cooler before buying one for your i9 9900K. If you are hesitating to go for a full custom loop but still want a liquid CPU cooler, then this cooler is for you.
Corsair's AIO liquid CPU cooler stands out for its beautiful design, aesthetics, and low noise production. The backlit head pump offers a great lighting effect which gives your PC an attractive look.
The Corsair Hydro Pro has three ML120 PWM fans mounted on a large 360 mm dimensions radiator the provide more cooling for your heavily overclocked computers. Even with heavy loads and overclocking, it keeps the operational noise levels below 25 dB. It also keeps the CPU temperatures in check if you are planning to overclock to improve your pc gaming performance. The Corsair Hydro H150i Pro is one of the most silent liquid coolers.
Moreover, it is easy to install and thus, even beginners can use it to mount on Intel i9 9900k processor sockets without additional expenditures of professional help. Corsair’s modular and tool-free mounting bracket is another excellent feature.
Since the radiator is large, you have to get a large case with adequate mounting space. So make sure you check the dimensions of the liquid cooler before you buy. The cooler fits in pretty much everything you look for, enhancing the performance of your system. In short, it is durable, quiet, and reliable in performance.
Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1366, LGA2011, LGA2011-3, LGA2066 .
- AMD: AM2, AM3, AM4, FM1, FM2.
Pros
Cons
2
BE QUIET! DARK ROCK PRO 4- BEST AIR COOLER FOR OVERCLOCKING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Be Quiet! CPU cooler is known and identified as the best CPU cooler so far! It shows immense cooling power and is imbued with inaudible and quiet wing fans. As the name suggests, Dark Rock cooler gives an outstanding, quieter performance.
The front face of its fan has this funnel-shaped frame and always tolerates high air pressure. Most importantly, it's surrounded by copper heat pipes which have the highest performance of all.
You shouldn't miss buying this PC air cooler because it has optimized airflow and premium cooling fins. It promises to give virtually inaudible operations and that is the best selling point of this product. Beyond that, the fan in this cooler have smooth dynamic bearings and also six-pole motors.
All its blades ensure optimized time for maximum and maximum airflow. No air will get through that block, obviously, and it’s taking the place of heat-spreading fins. Finally, it cutouts have also been successful in improving and improving RAM compatibility. As you can well notice and observe that this CPU cooler comes with a black coating and is guaranteed to deliver the perfect amount of heat transfer.
So, have you decided to buy this Be Quiet! CPU cooler for your i9 9900k processor? You should be! It showed no compromise on quality, performance, and quiet operation.
Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA 1366, LGA 2011, LGA 2011-3 Square ILM, LGA 2066 .
- AMD: AM2(+)/ AM3(+)/ AM4/ FM1/ FM2(+).
Pros
Cons
3
NZXT KRAKEN M22 - BEST CPU COOLER FOR GAMING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
This Kraken liquid cooling systems are equipped with the most advanced controls ever used. Everything, including the pump, radiator and fans, has been redesigned to provide the ability to use your PC to its full potential!
"CAM" software - designed to fully control the functionality of the system and remains a top priority. It includes an Aer P120 radiator optimized fan which provides an incredible level of cooling. Using the CAM software interface, users can adjust settings to ensure peak performance even during the most intense gaming sessions.
The new high performance pump is good for performance. It contains customizable RGB lighting that users would simply love. Advanced backlight modes can also fix lighting issues that gamers are having. The product is also durable as it is made of a reinforced and extended tube for added durability.
Kraken M22 offers individually customizable RGB channels with a signature mirror effect for lighting. The advanced lighting mode gives it a fully dynamic lighting experience. No air will get through that block, obviously, and it’s taking the place of heat-spreading fins.
With premium-quality fan and precisely engineered design, this model of AIO CPU cooler comes with manufacturers six years extended warranty and it is also the best CPU water cooler. It provide quiet operation more exceptional durability and outstanding cooling performance with i9 9900k computers.
Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA1366, LGA 2011, LGA 2011-3 Square ILM, LGA 2066.
- AMD: AM4, FM2+, FM2, FM1, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2.
Pros
Cons
4
CORSAIR H115I - BEST AIO COOLER FOR I9 9900K
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Once again, Corsair comes in our list, but this time in the range "Hydro." So what is it worth? Corsair is known for its robust and high-quality products. Corsair H115i RGB Platinum is a 360mm cooler with visually pleasing aesthetics.
The pump housing is square in shape, and its size has been reduced compared to the previous models. RGB looks great in the form of the ring with a wide variety of effects.
The iCUE software can be used to customize individual LEDs and other hardware components that you have connected to your motherboard. Thus it also allows you to manipulate the fan speeds easily. Since you can customize the fan speed, it helps find the perfect balance between optimal heat dissipation and low noise.
Fortunately, the power of Corsair water-cooling is high, so that you won't have to push the number of rotations per minute too high. The cooler can be connected using a micro-USB and USB-A header cables. Micro-USB is susceptible to damage and may not be a durable solution, so it is recommended to go with i9 9900k processors' USB-A header cables.
The tube is flexible with braided sleeves, and the connectors allow some sway of the tube. The radiator is aluminum-based with a dual-fan configuration. The fan have four addressable LEDs to enhance the overall appearance of the setup.
Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA 1200, LGA 1366, LGA 2011, LGA 2011-3, LGA 2066 .
- AMD: AM2, AM3, AM4, FM1, FM2, sTR4, sTRX4.
Pros
Cons
5
NOCTUA NH-D15 - BEST AIR COOLER FOR I9 9900K
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Noctua is one of the leading brands in market known for making the best CPU cooler; that's why we brought you this model. More importantly, this air cooler is premium in nature.
It cutting-edge design is the unique part of it. The cooler includes a double-turn fan design, and it is for this main reason that it has become so popular. This CPU cooler comes with 2 fans and 6 heat pipes which claims and guarantees top-notch and superior cooling performance.
If you plan to overclock your i9 9900k processor, then this cooler will be a perfect fit for your system hardware. This cooler is, in fact, the successor to this classic, high-end NH-D14 model.
As you can see, the air cooler includes highly optimized dual fan with a PWM support factor. These fans have low noise adapters, so you can automatically control the speed and ensure ultra-quiet operations at all times.
The package is included with premium thermal paste and also a secure mounting system. It will be easy to install and therefore you will not find any difficulties. Therefore, this CPU cooler offers top-notch quality. You will get 6 years warranty from the manufacturer when you purchase it.
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Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA2011, LGA2066.
- AMD: AM4, AM3(+), AM2(+), FM2(+).
Pros
Cons
6
THERMALTAKE FLOE 360MM AIO CPU LIQUID COOLER
PRODUCT DETAILS:
This premium edition is the world’s first patented 1.8 million colors liquid CPU cooler. It comes with three consecutive RGB processor cooling fan and LED waterblock. With brilliant looks, high performance and superior quality this is a fantastic product for the ultimate CPU cooling effect.
It comes with Tt LCS certification that qualifies its best cooler for i9 9900k performance and amazing features. Added up with a similar function like Corsair but a higher version, this product also comes with TT RGB Plus patented software. This software can easily control lighting, speed, brightness, fan speed and even supports AI voice control in iOS and Android devices through a mobile app.
Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA1366, LGA 2011, LGA 2011-3 Square ILM, LGA 2066.
- AMD: TR4, AM4, FM2, FM1, AM3+, AM3, AM2.
Pros
Cons
7
COOLER MASTER LC240E RGB CPU LIQUID COOLER
PRODUCT DETAILS:
A good option for tech system builders with great features for closed-loop liquid CPU cooler. Unlike traditional water cooling systems, this liquid cooling system provides efficient cooling even if high load situation and overloading.
This product is optimized for low noise and performance, which makes it one of the most impressive choices for best cooler for i9 processor and system builders. The liquid cooling system delivers efficient cooling by separating the heated coolant in a separate chamber. Its enhanced technology keeps your processor and other hardware components running smoothly without overheating .
A custom-designed low resistance radiator permits a higher flow rate and improves heat exchange capacity, thereby increasing the cooling action. The precise balance of air pressure tends to reduce more cooling vibrations and makes it perfect cpu coolers for i9 9900k processor.
Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA1366, LGA 2011, LGA 2011-3 Square ILM, LGA 2066.
- AMD: AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, FM1.
Pros
Cons
8
EVGA CLC 280MM AIO RGB LIQUID CPU COOLER
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The EVGA Closed Loop CPU Cooler (CLC) is an all-in-one, plug-and-play liquid cooling solution that requires no filling, no custom tubing, or no maintenance.
This is a all in one liquid cooling system that is self-contained with no additional feature of filling, custom tubing or extra maintenance, just as easy to use as you can think of. The latest fan design of this liquid cooling system comes with indentations at the center of the wings is meant for reducing noise without interrupting the work performance. This will be one of the best fit for i9 9900k processor.
With heatsink situated just next to the fan, the cooling efficiency is far greater than any other cooling system in the same range. The large diameter of the radiator and high-efficiency Asetek pump combines to deliver the best result possible.
Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA1366, LGA 2011, LGA 2011-3 Square ILM, LGA 2066.
- AMD: AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, FM1.
Pros
Cons
9
COOLER MASTER MASTERLIQUID ML240R
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Cooler Master has once again made it to the list of CPU cooler for i9 9900k and for a lightning effect close to your processor. With RGB controlled fans and pump the color option can be easily varied by Cooler Master software centimeter plus. Made of PPS and glass fiber its chamber is highly resistant to any kind of chemicals and completely moisture-free.
MasterFan MF120R ARGB provides a specific air cooling solution ideal to maximize air pressure for AIO liquid cooling. It is very lightweight and impervious to oxygen and corrosion, thereby increasing the durability of the product. A custom-designed radiator provides low resistance, a high flow rate, and incredible cooling performance.
Facing a stalwart market of closed-loop liquid coolers, the ML240R RGB offers enough value, performance and visual appeal to carve itself a respectable spot among other AIOs, both within and even above its class.
Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA1366, LGA 2011, LGA 2011-3 Square ILM, LGA 2066.
- AMD: AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, FM1.
Pros
Cons
- No USB connectivity software.
10
ARCTIC FREEZER 34 eSPORTS DUO - TOWER CPU COOLER
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Arctic freezer 34 Esports duo turns out to be the best i9 9900k coolers, and overall this product with its amazing cooling performance is available at low price range of $39.20. This twin tower CPU cooler with push-pull configuration sets a fantastic example of a price per performance ratio.
With two powerful, fans and thermal coated heatsink, Freezer 34 Duo offers optimized air pressure and outstanding performance to cool your PC system. The air cooler's upgrade fans with high-quality bearings deliver higher RPM at lower power consumption.
You will encounter no problem even when you are overclocking your i9 9900k processor with its high cooling efficiency and more exceptional performance, and things will run smoothly.
Socket compatibility:
- Intel: LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 2011-3 Square ILM, LGA 2066.
- AMD: AM4.
Pros
Cons
WHAT'S THE NEED OF CPU COOLER?
To get most out of this high tech CPU, you need to keep it cool for high-end performance. Suppose you want to upgrade your CPU with RTX 2080 Super with The latest i9 processor for excellent performance and overclocking will end up in overheating. In that case, you need to install a CPU Cooler. You would surely not like to get interrupted because of any reason when you have spent a hefty amount.
To help you all out there, here is a list of outstanding air or liquid CPU coolers to keep the beast in control because the traditional fans cannot handle such tremendous heat generation.
Just to reduce some workload for you, I have decided to pick the best cooler for i9 9900k for you. So you don't have to choose the CPU cooler by turning hundreds of pages. This task is quiet tiring sometimes if you don't have the right guide, but you need not worry anymore since you are on the right page.
tHINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A CPU cooler for i9 9900k
1. Analyze your needs:
Make sure to choose the cooler as per your system requirements. In this article, we are talking about the coolers for the Intel i9 9900K setup. So If you gamer or an overclocker, you will surely go for a high-end cooler as it need to fulfill certain benchmark. On the contrary, if you are not into that genre, a simple budget-friendly cooler will work well for you.
2. Air cooler vs. Liquid cooler
The first and foremost thing you need to decide is whether you want an air cooler or a liquid cooler. Air cooler is the most commonly used coolers because of its efficiency and low cost. They use fans alongside a heat sink, and when coupled with a radiator, the cooling system absorbs the heat from the processor and other components that dissipate heat.
Liquid CPU coolers offer better performance when compared to air coolers. They are a lot quieter than air coolers and work more efficiently, making them the best thermal solution for power users and overclockers.
Here it should be understood that while liquid cooling does a great job, it doesn't seem necessary for more basic users.
3. CPU Socket Compatibility
You won't be surprised to learn that not all coolers are compatible with all processors. However, many new builders seem to be making this mistake.
All the CPU coolers for i9 9900k we suggested above are compatible with universal socket LGA 1151. Suppose the cooler model doesn't specify as having a compatible universal socket. In that case, it is important to carefully check its product description or reach out to customer supports service for compatibility information.
4. dimensions
The size and dimensions of the CPU cooler are other important factors to be considered for compatibility. If the cooler dimension is not compatible with your motherboard model or form factor, there might be an inconvenience in fitting into your case.
Air coolers can be bulky, but they are limited to one zone and are not distributed throughout the system. On the other hand, with a liquid cooler, you will need space for the radiator and need to be sure to properly orient and align the CPU water block and the hoses for the coolant.
That said, if you're working on a smaller build, a bulky air cooler might not be the best option. A compact air cooler or an all-in-one with a small radiator might work better. When planning to upgrade, it is recommended to consider a moderate-sized one which fits both mobo and case.
5. Noise Level
When it comes to air cooler, the larger the fan, the better will be the flow of air. At the same time, the better the fan speed, the louder will be the fan noise. If the fan noise is loud, it will create distractions. Hence it is important to choose an efficient CPU cooler that will offer a noiseless cooling system. Gamers highly prefer low noise or no noise cooling systems. Liquid CPU cooler has an advantage on this factor, as the much quieter when compared to air coolers.
6. Overclocking possibilities
Since the price will be the prime factor, it is worth considering the aims for your build. If you're planning to overclock your i9 9900k, then you will need a high-end CPU cooler.
This discipline is popular with gamers, which allows the processor to work above its maximum capacity. Overclocking is rather water-cooling oriented.
In other words, unless you plan on really pushing the processor, there is no need to go for a Liquid CPU cooler, then there's no sense in looking beyond a quality air cooler.
For those extreme overclockers out there, an AIO liquid cooler is by far the best option, and you may even want to explore open-loop or custom liquid cooling setups. They come with the price tag to match and their fair share of tinkering, but the heat dissipation is unparalleled.
CONCLUSION
Without a second thought, i9 9900k is one of the most advanced CPU cooler launched in the market to date and with such a high-performance workload, there arises a need for an efficient CPU cooler to keep it running smoothly.
And not to mention finding a perfect CPU cooler for i9 9900k that matched to your needs is quiet a long process and it requires a lot of time.
To save your time, I have made a lot of effort here to curate this ultimate guide for best CPU cooler for i9 9900k to help out in the task. Though choices may vary with different users, I have enlisted all the highly-rated products here to get all that you require.
You can find the most efficient, quiet working and a budget pick as well in this guide. All you need to do is check all the products and choose the best for you. Good luck!!
