The computer’s processor is the major component in the entire system. To make it function properly, you must ensure it gets the right amount of everything. But, the most important aspect you need to consider is cooling. If your CPU heats up quickly, then you should check for its cooler. Fortunately, there are tons of options available on the market, but if you are looking for a CPU cooler specifically for gaming, you need to make extra considerations.
It is highly recommended to use cpu coolers compatible with i7 if you are building a new PC build or upgrading your existing framework. It can make a big difference in temperatures, noise as well as performance — particularly if you’re overclocking.
In this guide, I will help you understand how to choose the best CPU cooler for gaming and how you can make your selection easier.
How To Choose The Best CPU Cooler For Gaming?
1. Noise Level
If you are looking for a CPU cooler that gives you maximum efficiency, you must raise your budget slightly. Many engineers put a lot of effort into components as quietly as possible. The noisiest component of the computer system is the cooler, especially the fan associated with the cooler.
Some coolers come with large fans and smaller fans. Large fans are typically quieter than smaller fans because the large fans don’t have to spin very fast as small fans to deliver the same amount of cooling. This is why you should buy CPU coolers with larger fans so that you are not interrupted while your gameplay.
You should go for CPU coolers that offer 140mm fan diameter so that even if the cooler has multiple fans spinning at a higher speed. It would not cause much noise in the background, and you can enjoy your gaming peacefully.
2. Aesthetics
The cooler’s aesthetics is also an important consideration you need to make because it brings life to your entire system. Some buyers prefer sleek and low-profile AIO coolers, some choose custom liquid cooling coolers, and some prefer bulky high-end air coolers.
If you are not sure about any of these designs and styles, you should check out some pictures where all of the systems are installed and pick the one that fits your taste and style. Whichever style you are opting for, AIO, air, or custom water loop, just make sure the coolers are not too big to fit in your processor unit.
3. Clearance
Now that you have chosen the CPU cooler style, and after ensuring that your CPU cooler is compatible with your motherboard’s socket, it’s time you consider some additional parameters associated with it, such as Height, Weight, and Size of the radiator.
For height, make sure you check the CPU cooler’s height on the specification page and compare it with the height specification of the case you plan to buy. Therefore, you have to buy a cooler that easily fits in the case.
For weight, you need to make sure that the high-end air cooler you are planning on buying isn’t too bulky. If it is bulkier, then it may interfere with the other components in the CPU. Therefore it is better to check out all the clearance issues before making a purchase. You would need a lighter, stylish, and compact air cooler to look good in your room space, especially being a gamer.
For most buyers, the biggest determining factor is the radiator size. Most of the AIO cooler radiators come in a lot of size options. Thus, before you choose the radiator size, check the size of the computer case so that it fits perfectly in it.
4. Budget
Budget is the foremost thing you should consider because this decides the quality and aesthetics of the cooler. The air coolers are the cheapest of all that may cost around $25 to $100. AIOs, on the other hand, are expensive that may fall around $60 to $150 or more. The cost of the CPU cooler also depends on the size of the radiator, brand, size of RGB lights, long fans, etc.
Custom water coolers are the costlier of all types. These are only useful if you are planning on building a custom liquid loop. Otherwise, AIO and high-end air coolers can be your top choices. So, do in-depth research on the cooler types, so you don’t regret it later.
5. Socket Compatibility
Most of the CPU coolers are made in such a way that they fit in the CPU sockets. But, certain CPU coolers will go with a certain type of socket. So make sure the cooler that you buy is compatible with the motherboard or processor.
Conclusion
If you consider all these factors, you can pick the best and the most affordable CPU cooler for a seamless gaming experience.
