CPU being the most important part of the laptops/computers also needs to be taken care of the same eminent way. And thus, to take its performance to a greater level, we will be needing to keep its things cooled down. Since the cooler your CPU is, the faster it is going to work and bring you the no lag experience in your working and gaming.
Since gamers need their devices to work at their pace to match up to their gaming speeds and overclocking times, which together is a nice combination to heat the CPUs and take long hours to cool down. Therefore, cooling down the CPUs is essential for all device users. This brings us to the ways of CPU cooling, which can be done either by air cooling or liquid/water cooling.
We always prefer liquid/water cooling over air cooling because the air cooling uses big and noisy fans paired for the process to get done and also the heat transfer coefficient of the air is lesser than that of the liquid. And so the liquid cooling incorporates the usage of less noisy fans, water blocks, radiators, fittings, and pumps to get the cooling work done.
The water blocks are in connection with the motherboard and GPU to dispel its heat into the liquid. The tubes are connecting the radiators with the water blocks. The pumps are placed to pump the liquid/fluid all through the cycle. And finally, the heat gets rejected at the radiator and hence acts as a heat sink. And that’s how AIO (all in one) liquid coolers help us achieve better clock times and more efficient working of the CPUs.
At a Glance:
Best Premium Liquid CPU Cooler
Corsair Hydro Series H100i Pro
- Warranty of 5 years
- Great fan speed control
- Stainless steel structure
- Quiet operation
- Corsair iCUE software
Best Budget Liquid CPU Cooler
Lian Li Galahad
- Warranty of 5 years
- Triple-chamber designed water pump
- 400m double-braided tubing
- Removable aluminum cap
Best Ultra Cheap Liquid CPU Cooler
Deepcool Captain 240 Pro V2
- Warranty of 3 years
- Anti-leak technology
- Easy RGB and PWM control
- Pressure-regulating radiator
- Our Recommendations For Best Liquid CPU Coolers
- Corsair Hydro Series H100i Pro
- Lian Li Galahad
- Deepcool Captain 240 Pro V2
- NZXT Kraken Z63
- EVGA CLC 240mm
- Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix
- Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240P Mirage
- Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora
- Corsair Hydro Series H60 V2
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Shopping Tips:
TDP (Thermal DesStainless) Rating: TDP means the maximum amount of heat generated by the CPU or GPU while in its efficient running and needs to be removed through the device’s cooling system. And thus, for the same, we will need the cooler with a higher TDP rating than the processor within the system to get a resulting outcome of better coherent working and overclocking hours. Therefore, we need to see a good margin placed between our CPU and the fan’s TDP rating.
Socket Compatibility: The CPU coolers come in different paired sockets depending upon their manufacturers so that it’s compatible with the respective motherboard-processor combination of the device; like, the AMD processor uses the socket of AM4 whereas the Intel processor uses that of the LGA series. And thus, the accessories are also needed to be taken care of supporting the chosen CPU socket size.
Noise: No one would like to have a constant noise running behind while having focused work going on or the gamers having their games on. And that’s the reason why we prefer the liquid cooling method over the air cooling since there’s a lesser no. of fans placed in the system resulting in the least amount of noise possible.
Efficiency: To have better system efficiency, you need a better cooling method and cooler for your device. And this factor concern increased with the increase in overclocking of the PC. Thus the cooler while buying should be checked according to the usage hours of the device by the user to select the perfect match and meet all the requirements of the same.
Budget: Budget is always a major concern of the customer while buying the products. Hence, the same should be kept in mind while making the PCs by the manufacturers. And this leads to a deep and detailed study of the system and parts going to be used and would be willed to be upgraded within the PC, to make a device with the best experience at least price.
Our Recommendations For Best Liquid CPU Coolers
| Award | Design | CPU Coolers | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Premium Liquid CPU Cooler | Best Pick | Check Price | |
| Best Budget Liquid CPU Cooler | Staff Pick | Check Price | |
| Best Ultra Cheap Liquid CPU Cooler | Budget Pick | Check Price | |
| Best 240mm Liquid CPU Cooler |  | Check Price | |
| Best 280mm Liquid CPU Cooler |  | Check Price | |
| Best 360mm Liquid CPU Cooler |  | Check Price | |
| Best RGB Liquid CPU Cooler |  | Check Price | |
| Best Refillable Liquid CPU Cooler |  | Check Price | |
| Best Liquid Cooling At Air Cooling Prices |  | Check Price |
Here, we have provided the list of the CPU coolers available aftermarket. The category and the link to the CPU cooler to check their prices and availability have also been provided above in the list.
Corsair Hydro Series H100i Pro
Best Pick| Socket Support: | Intel and AMD |
| Fans: | 2 |
| Warranty (years): | 5 |
| Base Height: | 27mm |
The best part about this cooler is not the LED lights around the pump and not even the sleeker design of the radiator. Rather it’s the next to no sound feature of this cooler using the maglev fans inbuilt, making it the quietest AIO cooler and the first sight love for any gamer with their perfect near to silent gaming PCs.
It’s a perfectly balanced combination of performance and beauty, with the high-end customized liquid cooling feature to offer all the users. Its PWM fans with magnetic levitation give us the max airflow, static pressure, and least noise levels.
It enables us great control over the PWM fan speed (adjustable between 400 to 2400 RPM) and the RGB LEDs using a single interface through its Corsair iCUE software to employ according to the requirements. The zero RPM control feature even allowed it to stop when the temperature of the coolant was 40 degrees Celsius or below to make it even quieter.
The black braided tubes make it look lovelier, and the tool-free mounting brackets ease the installation process. Also, the offered five years warranty brings better customer trust and surety towards the product and the customer-support relation. You can check the price and availability of the Corsair Hydro Series H100i Pro on Amazon.
Pros
- Warranty of 5 years
- Great fan speed control
- Stainless steel structure
- Quiet operation
- Corsair iCUE software
Cons
- No flexible housing
- No AMD socket sTR4/sTRX4 bracket
Lian Li Galahad
Staff Pick| Socket Support: | Intel |
| Fans: | 2 |
| Warranty (years): | 5 |
| Base Height: | 27mm |
This is the best option available when the cooling and budget are the buyer’s major concerns. It is inbuilt with a high static pressure fan, variable speeds to it, and the speed can be controlled through PWM or DC mode. The device also has two different looks, which can be switched between the magnetic aluminum cap and 47 addressable RGB LEDs for the brighter lighting effect.
The look of the AIO water CPU cooler is amazing as it also provides an aligned logo. It also supports durable pipes, which ensures that the leak has not been happening during the peak hours of work. It supports a water pressure-regulating double blade radiator, which helps to provide best-in-class performance that dissipates heat at a much faster rate.
It also supports multi-chamber technology, which helps transfer heat at a much faster rate. It has the support of aluminum metal sheets provided on both sides, which help support the radiator and provide a metallic look to the system.
It supports a stunning five-year warranty period which increases the lifespan of the AIO water CPU cooler. You can check the price and availability of the Lian Li Galahad on Amazon.
Pros
- Warranty of 5 years
- Triple-chamber designed water pump
- 400m double-braided tubing
- Removable aluminum cap
Cons
- No software to manage
- Complex wiring
Deepcool Captain 240 Pro V2
Budget Pick| Socket Support: | Intel and AMD |
| Fans: | 2 |
| Warranty (years): | 3 |
| Base Height: | Intel and AMD |
Deepcool Captain 240 Pro V2 is the best AIO water CPU cooler which comes under ultra-cheap liquid CPU cooler. It has a price to performance ratio. It has the support of stainless steel structure which helps to keep the CPU cooler looking beautiful and durable at the same time. It supports anti-leak technology, which helps stop the leakage if any present in the whole system.
It supports an automatic pressure regulating radiator that automatically senses its pressure and reacts according to the situation. With the help of this technology, it ensures that leakage has not been able to happen and at the same time makes it safe for the user to use. It supports a base plate, which is made up of copper, which helps in ultra-fast heat transfer even at peak times.
It supports double-blade fans, which helps keep the system as cool as possible. The working of the double blade fan creates less noise when compared to a single fan as well as the work efficiency of the double blade fan is more when compared to a single blade fan. The CPU cooler is easier to install and has a best-in-class design.
It has the support of an assembly plate, which is sturdy. It has a TDP rate of 250 W which is enough for the processor and motherboard to work at peak times. You can check the price and availability of the Deepcool Captain 240 Pro V2 on Amazon.
Pros
- Warranty of 3 years
- Anti-leak technology
- Easy RGB and PWM control
- Pressure-regulating radiator
Cons
- No 4-pin pump connector
- Noisy operation under heavy loads
NZXT Kraken Z63
| Socket Support: | LGA and AM4 |
| Fans: | 2 |
| Warranty (years): | 6 |
| Base Height: | 30 |
The recent launch of the X series in the Kraken series is the best AIO water CPU cooler in the category of 240 mm liquid CPU cooler. The X family is the best combination of price to performance ratio. The 240 mm is the size of the radiator, which makes cooling at a much faster rate for the gamers. It supports the new design of the X series, which provides a large surface area of the other components of the CPU.
The support of the Asetek pump helps to provide the best cooling at the cost of minimal noise. It supports CAM software in which lighting can be customized, and when in which way the flow is there, the NZXT logo will change place accordingly. It supports RGB fans which helps to dissipate heat at a much faster rate.
It supports nylon mesh which makes the tubes more easy and safe for easy handling. It has the support of two fans which is for mid-size cases which are present in the market. It has the support of 6 years warranty which makes the AIO water CPU cooler more durable. You can check the price and availability of NZXT Kraken X53 on Amazon.
Pros
- Multiple-language manual
- High-performance Asetek Pumps
- LCD infinity effect on the block
Cons
- No direct fan control
- No thread Ripper bracket
EVGA CLC 240mm
| Socket Support: | LGA and AM4 |
| Fans: | 2 |
| Warranty (years): | 5 |
| Base Height: | 27 |
This is the best AIO cooler when price and performance are considered, making it an outstanding performing and cost-effective solution brought up by EVGA. The Teflon-Nano bearing technology of it increases the lifespan of a unit. The device is based upon the latest generation Asetek pump helping it deliver its excellent performance with lesser noise, thus being an effective and silent space to work/play.
The copper plate-based use increases the transfer of the produced heat, and the improved design of the cooling block gives an enlarged area for the heat transfer procedure, with a thermal paste at the end of the bottom plate of the block. Its unique design and the round edged square blocks give it an aesthetic look with its braided tubing.
It has a subtle warranty period of 6 years offered to its customer, alleviating the customer service relationship with confidence and trust in the product. You can check the price and availability of EVGA CLC 280mm on Amazon.
Pros
- High operation on low noise
- Teflon Nano Bearing technology support
- Onboard fan control
Cons
- Heavy and bulky product
- No LGA 2066 support
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix
| Socket Support: | LGA and AM4 |
| Fans: | 3 |
| Warranty (years): | 5 |
| Base Height: | 27 |
This cooler is the best 360mm liquid CPU cooler with the largest manufacturing product of one of the oldest PC parts manufacturing companies, ‘the corsair,’ all around. Its big-sized radiator is made for heat removal so that most of the high-end games can run at their full settings without any lags or heat issues.
Its cold plate has a special design, promoting heat transfer within the system. It even goes with overclocking activities, making it an attractive choice for games and high-end GPU users. The cooler pump of the system has 33 ultras bright RGB LEDs fit in, as the count is increasing already. It has easy tool-free mounting brackets and a quick installation feature with compatible sockets.
For smooth and better control over fans and pumps, the new iCUE commander core is also featured with its customized software. The tubing of this has got added flexibility and coating for its longevity. Also provided with a five-year warranty time to build the product reliability and customer trust. You can check the price and availability of Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix on Amazon.
Pros
- iCUE commander software
- Tool-free mounting bracket
- Excellent heat dissipation
Cons
- No motherboard sync software
- No sTRX4 socket support
Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240P Mirage
| Socket Support: | LGA and AM4 |
| Fans: | 2 |
| Warranty (years): | 2 |
| Base Height: | 27 |
The brand’s aesthetic model and high-end sophisticated cooling mechanisms are the best coolers. The product is also awarded the best RGB liquid CPU cooler, and it is the proof for the Cooler Master as a leading brand in cooling solutions. The transparent pump lets its users see the impeller moving inside the pump; the redesigned cap and the larger infinity mirror LED rings have brought its aesthetic beauty.
The double tubing design increases the durability and the flexing look to it. It has adjustable rotating fitting and tubing according to the chores of the user. It is inbuilt with anti-vibration rubber pads technology to deduce the noise. The outer casing with a square design is made for the smooth rotating of the fans with lesser noise.
The radiator is featured with low resistance and higher flow rates for faster cooling. The warranty period offered for the product is two reasonable years for customer satisfaction with the product and their trust-building.
You can check the price and availability of Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240P Mirage on Amazon.
Pros
- Transparent Pump Design
- PWM motor with a silent driver
- Thread Ripper support
Cons
- No graphene coating
- Extra-bright RGB
Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora
| Socket Support: | LGA and AM4 |
| Fans: | 3 |
| Warranty (years): | 2 |
| Base Height: | 30 |
AIO cooler is quite extensive, offering multiple designs which help in giving its users smoothness as a copper alternative. Refiling is the most important aspect of the liquid CPU cooler, and this CPU cooler is listed in the category of the best refillable liquid CPU cooler.
Using copper as a radiator material helps increase the heat transfer significantly compared to aluminum. Copper wins the bet if you consider the difference between aluminum and copper’s heat transfer coefficient. It has a standard-sized radiator of 360mm, that offers lower fin spacing of 15 FPI when compared to the other counterparts.
It has the support of RGB LEDs in the pumps and fans. The pump block also has the support of RGB, which makes it beautiful. The build quality is good. It has a warranty period of 2 years.
Overclocking is one of the factors which generates heat and can damage the connected parts if heat dissipation is not proper. However, the fluid helps to dissipate heat with great efficiency.
The water cooling helps increase the overclocking potential of the PC and takes it to a higher level. Water is suited for most warm climatic conditions. You can check the price and availability of Alphacool Eisbaer Aurora on Amazon.
Pros
- Copper made radiator
- Flexible pump housing
- Digital RGB LED controller
Cons
- Installation is quite difficult
- No thread ripper support
Corsair Hydro Series H60 V2
| Socket Support: | LGA and AM4 |
| Fan Speed: | 1700 RPM |
| Warranty (years): | 5 |
| Noise level: | 28.3 dBA |
Corsair H60 has been over years to see the tubing, fan, pump, and mounting upgraded. It supports a 120mm AIO form factor, which requires a compact cooler with a small volume of ITX that can perform well in the mid-range air cooler. It does not have RGB support. Instead, it has white light all around the CPU cooler.
It is well suited for the processor with a TDP level of 95W level. It has beaten the decent tower cooler or AIO with a large radiator, but the dimensions are too big for the SFF built. Heat is considered the downfall of the SFF system, which has H60 ability, helping it to eject hot air outside the case.
This helps benefit the whole system. Corsair has PWM fans that offer an RPM of 600, which can go up to 1700 RPM. At high RPM, the noise of the fan can be audible.
The Corsair H60 V2 is best for a compact system. It is budget-friendly and should outperform most low-profile air coolers without noise levels. It will not work for the high core count or overclocked processors. You can check the price and availability of the Corsair Hydro Series H60 V2 on Amazon.
Pros
- Good performance for a small radiator
- Quiet operation
- Affordable
Cons
- Not for High-end CPU
- No RGB support
Conclusion
We have listed an ample number of liquid CPU coolers under different categories to choose from. The key features of the CPU coolers and the link to check the price and availability of the cooler are also given. Almost all the coolers in the list have RGB lighting.
RGB makes the CPU cooler look beautiful, and thus, is largely preferred by users as it provides more features. We have also discussed which product will work well for the high-end CPU or overclocking. We have done a detailed study of all the CPU coolers available in the list and then listed out the manufacturers of these CPU coolers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a liquid CPU cooler worth it?
It depends on the work function. Whether the heat generated is too high, it needs to be installed with a liquid cooler. Otherwise, the air cooler will be more than sufficient. For an overclocker enthusiast, a liquid cooler is the best option. It will cool down the system much faster than the air cooler.
Which is better, the AIO or Air cooler?
AIO coolers are better than an air cooler in various aspects. They are more effective. AIO coolers can dissipate heat at a much faster rate. They provide more margin for overclocking and high GPU users. They produce less noise when compared to air coolers. Though comparatively more expensive, it is a better option in most aspects.
How does liquid cooling work anyway?
The coolant is passed through a closed-loop with the help of a plate that is attached to the CPU. Along with that, there is a combination of radiator and fan. All these help to keep the CPU cool.
Is liquid cooling quieter than air cooling?
In general, AIO liquid CPU coolers are quieter than air cooling. It is directly mounted on the processor. The fan provided in the AIO liquid cooler has larger fans that rotate at a much slower pace when compared to air coolers. The water pump is also insulated, which helps to reduce the noise to a greater extent.
