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Best CPU Liquid Coolers in 2023

Are you irritated by your CPU shutting itself off? Are you looking for the best CPU liquid cooler to keep your computer running at its best? You’re in luck. We’ve created a list of the 10 best CPU water coolers out there, with helpful FAQs and other information that will help you make an informed decision on which one is right for you.

In today’s rapidly evolving computer hardware market, innovative technologies constantly develop and offer consumers higher performance standards and greater convenience in today’s rapidly evolving computer hardware market. Such high standards suck more power and require a more high-end cooling system. The best way to maintain these standards is by investing in the best CPU cooler that can keep up with an increasingly intense pace of work without overheating the components. Only then can you rest assured that you are getting the most out of your work or gaming station.

List of 10 Best CPU Liquid Coolers

Liquid CPU coolers come in several shapes, sizes, and features. It can be a bit tiresome to keep all the factors into account while purchasing the best CPU liquid cooler. But with the following list, the perfect cooler for you will be in your thumb’s reach.

NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm

Best Overall CPU Liquid Cooler

NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm
NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm
(image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Max Airflow: 98.17 CFM | Dimensions: 13.8 x 8.3 x 6.2 inches | MAX RPM: 2100 | Noise: 21 dB | RGB: Available

A fully customized RGB system lets this mesmerizing liquid cooler show its true colors. NZXT has outdone even themselves with the Kraken Z63 280mm. This all-new liquid cooler can be personalized through CAM’s unique software interface. Changing the functionality and look of your liquid cooling setup is a matter of seconds. The fully programmable display enables you to choose from a variety of images and animated gifs or system information like time and date or CPU usage brackets (or both). With unmatched customization options for performance and looks alike, this product is perfect for any user.

Fine nylon mesh sleeves provide durability and protection against mishandling, so it won’t be a problem even if you’re not careful. Silicone gaskets ensure everything stays sealed up nice and tight so you don’t have to worry about leaks. With fine fluid dynamic bearings providing silent operations, all in all, this is one pretty good CPU liquid Cooler.  If you are looking for durability, noise ratio, and overclocking ability paired with being able to customize your CPU cooler’s appearance, then this cooler is perfect for you.

Pros:

  • Customizable RGB
  • Compatibility at its peak
  • Noise levels are low
  • Airflow is amazing

Cons:

  • Price is a bit higher

Corsair Hydro Series H60 AIO Liquid CPU Cooler

Best Compact CPU Liquid Cooler

Corsair Hydro Series H60 AIO Liquid CPU Cooler
Corsair Hydro Series H60 AIO Liquid CPU Cooler (image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Material: Aluminum | Dimensions: 14.17 x 6.29 x 4.72 inches | MAX RPM: 1700 | Noise: 28.3 dB | RGB: White LED Illuminated Pump Head

Corsair H60 is the latest and greatest addition to the fleet of Hydro series coolers by Corsair. AIO stands for All-in-One, meaning that this radiator will fit into even the most narrow of spaces inside your case. Dynamically adjusted fan speed between 600 RPM to 1,700 RPM with a 120-millimeter Corsair SP Series PWM fan, minimizing noise or maximizing airflow is a piece of cake. You will experience lower CPU temperatures while enjoying a quieter system with a 120mm high-density slim radiator that even doesn’t take that much room.

With its low 27 dBA noise level and excellent thermal performance, this cooler will keep your PC running smoothly for many years to come. There are just so many reasons to love this liquid CPU cooler from Corsair. White LED-lit pump head adds a touch of brilliance to any system build. This product features single-channel Radiator Material, Aluminum.  This means that all of those hard-earned dollars on high-end parts won’t go wasted because the heat will have nowhere to accumulate. 

Also, it doesn’t require a modular tool to install it onto all the current AM4, LGA 1151 and LGA 2066. If you’re tired of laggy gameplay from overheating components during heated battles in GTA Online, let’s bring some chill back to your high-performance machine with this perfectly balanced cooling solution! 

Pros:

  • Attractive build with white LEDs
  • Ease of installation
  • Affordable price
  • Noise levels are also acceptably low

Cons:

  • Airflow could have been better

Enermax Aquafusion 120 White

Best Gaming CPU Liquid Cooler

Enermax Aquafusion 120 White
Enermax Aquafusion 120 White (image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Material: Aluminum | Dimensions: 10.79 x 4.72 x 2.13 inches | MAX RPM: 2000 | Noise: 17 dB | RGB: Available

The ENERMAX Aquafusion 120 White is a one-of-a-kind custom gaming rig cooling solution that any builder would be lucky to have in their PC. The product has innovative-looking components, immersing you in convenient and controlled lighting effects that come with this best aio water cooler. It also includes vibrant colored fans that are vortexed for stronger air pressure on the radiator. This ensures that every last drop of power gets channelled by these high-quality components for heat expulsion.

Breaking down this beast’s many features is not an easy task. One thing we can’t stop praising though is its 400 mm woven tubing and its perfect compatibility with most mainstream system builds. Anti-Vibration rubber pads are also embedded into this safe design to eliminate that buzzing sound. 

The centerpiece of this water cooler is equipped 3D layer design, which gives off 16 million colors in one go. For added flair, it also has rainbow effects. Customization is also effortless as no extra hardware is required. It also utilizes the innovative Shunt Channel Technology(SCT) for stronger air pressure and better cooling performance.

Pros:

  • Comes with a 5-year warranty
  • Low noise
  • Amazing RGB system
  • Innovative blade design

Cons:

  • Size can be a bit too much

Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240 Illusion White Edition

Best Mid-Range CPU Liquid Cooler

Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240 Illusion White Edition
Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240 Illusion White Edition (image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Material: Industrial-grade EPDM | Dimensions: 10.91 x 4.71 x 1.07 inches | Air FLow: 62 CFM | Noise: 30 dB | RGB: Available

Looking to take your liquid cooling experience up a notch, the MasterLiquid ML240 Mirror will wow you with its translucent pump that showcases a wide array of colors. But this best aio cooler is not just about looks, it also packs quite a powerful punch. Thanks to the newly updated Dual Chamber pump and Sickleflow Silent fans, this cooler has all the cooling power you need. So if ambiance doesn’t excite you as much as horsepower, we’ve got your back.

The low resistance 240mm aluminum radiator lets you remove excess heat from the CPU. Dual 120mm fans cool your processor with maximum efficiency while keeping it toned down from 30dB. In terms of size, this best aio water cooler contains a compact 240mm radiator designed to pack high performance and space efficiency. A dual-chamber pump with industrial bearings ensures that even the most extreme overclockers can use this cooler for extended periods of time. The Sickleflow 120 Non-LED fans give you a dust-reducing anti-dust mechanism other than providing the cooling power you need. 

It’s impossible not to be impressed by this sleek, stunning product that is also sturdy and will last for a long time. Don’t take our word for it. The manufacturers offering a 3-year warranty is evident of its longevity. Additionally, this water CPU cooler features an enclosed appearance package, finished with bold exterior panels on front, top, and sides, making it easy for those looking to turn heads from afar.

Pros:

  • Addressable RGB
  • Leak-free
  • Impressive airflow
  • A powerful air cooler

Cons:

  • A bit noisy operations

Aigo AC240 240mm CPU Liquid Cooler

Best Budget CPU Liquid Cooler

aigo AC240 240mm CPU Liquid Cooler
aigo AC240 240mm CPU Liquid Cooler (image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Material: Metal | Package Dimensions: 12.52 x 10.67 x 5.59 inches | Air FLow: 50.7 CFM | Noise: 30 dB | RGB: Available

Kick your PC performance up a few notches with this fantastic cooler! The Aigo AC240 CPU Liquid Cooler is one of the most efficient cooling systems on the market, and with its all-inclusive mounting clips, you don’t need to worry about setting it up. The leakproof feature and absolute sealing guarantee optimal functioning for many years to come. 

This excellent liquid cooler is equipped with the latest 7-blade fan technology. These 7 blades are slim in profile, potent in performance, and backed up by a lifespan of 30,000 hours! The spray-type copper bottom technique maximizes the efficiency by enhancing the circulation of liquid and absorbing the noise for a soothing tone from your rig. 

You’ll have no problem dealing with the intense heat from your powerful processor. The water block adopts a double-pipe design to get every ounce of power from the channel, as well as ensuring the longevity of your cooler. With a silver-coated acrylic shell and copper base that provides an excellent platform for heat dissipation, this high-quality CPU cooler will keep all of your chips cool!

Pros: 

  • Innovative blade design
  • Affordable price
  • 30,000 hours of proven lifespan
  • Impressive airflow

Cons:

  • RGB isn’t customizable

Thermaltake Floe DX 280 Dual Riing Duo

Best Effective CPU Liquid Cooler

Thermaltake Floe DX 280 Dual Riing Duo
Thermaltake Floe DX 280 Dual Riing Duo (image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Material: Rubber and Copper | Package Dimensions: 13.7 x 8.3 x 6.3 inches | Air FLow: 60.8 CFM | Noise: 26.2 dB | RGB: Available

If you want to enjoy dual-Ring Duo fans and 16 color spectrum at full capacity, we have got just the product for you. This 280mm cooler from Thermaltake delivers 16 million colors that change by just a single click or vocal command. Built with high-quality components, including a robust PWM fan and self-lubricating hydraulics, know that you’re getting precisely what you will ever need when it comes to airflow and noise.

The Thermaltake Floe DX 280 Dual Riing Duo features are loaded with innovation in both software and hardware. The designer patterns on the core cover look like someone playing piano keys in two different colors for maximum visual appeal. Wave-shaped cooling fins help dissipate heat more efficiently while still being able to support push-pull configuration. Pair with the TT RGB plus software/app or an Alexa-enabled device to control fan speed, lights, and even temperature, all while enjoying bold colors in your gaming rig.

This unit contains 2 120mm Riing fans, which provide exceptional airflow while maintaining up to 26dbA of cool operation at max speed. The fully sealed pump head prevents leakage and the 3D active blade design offers a lower noise level and optimal airflow efficiency, keeping your CPU running at safe temperatures even under load. Staying cool in the heat of battle is not an easy task.

Pros:

  • Silent operations
  • Excellent airflow
  • Highly compatible and can even be controlled by Alexa
  • Innovative and effective blade design

Cons:

  • Installation could be a bit hectic

EK 120mm AIO D-RGB CPU Liquid Cooler

Best Vibrant CPU Liquid Cooler

EK 120mm AIO D-RGB CPU Liquid Cooler
EK 120mm AIO D-RGB CPU Liquid Cooler (image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Material: Rubber and Copper | Dimensions: 5.35 x 8.5 x 10.24 inches | MAX RPM: 2200| Noise: 33.5 dB | RGB: Available

The EK 120mm AIO D-RGB is a CPU cooler that lets you enjoy the benefits of a water cooling system with a single compact box. It includes a pre-filled CPU water block, as well as a pump and reservoir combo for those who don’t have those essentials already installed. The RGB lighting makes your PC feel like a magical place.

The EKx120mmAIO can be used with any case and it’s easy to assemble. It doesn’t matter which socket type you own, because the EKx120mmD RGB All-In-One comes with a universal compatibility CPU water block. It fits all recent Intel sockets as well as AMD AM4. Moreover, this product has been designed in such a way that it features an easy installation process that takes only minutes to complete, without the need for tools or fittings.

With two preinstalled Vardar fans, your PC will be whisper quiet. An adjustable 2200 RPM speed brings more than enough fan power to your system. 

Pros:

  • Ease of installation
  • Customizable RGB
  • Durable build
  • Affordable price

Cons:

  • Operations are a bit louder

ASUS ROG Strix LC 360 RGB

Best Premium CPU Liquid Cooler

ASUS ROG Strix LC 360 RGB
ASUS ROG Strix LC 360 RGB
(image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Material: Rubber and Copper | Dimensions: 18.5 x 9 x 5.5 inches | Airflow: 81 CFM | Noise: 37.6 dB | RGB: Available

Take your gaming rig’s style and cooling to the next level with the ROG Strix LC 360 White Edition. Featuring a closed-loop design and addressable RGB radiator fans, this cooler lets you unleash the full potential of your unlocked Intel or AMD CPU for high performance. The elegance and masterful engineering on show in the ROG Strix LC White Edition coolers can’t be found anywhere else. This sleek cooler comes assembled and can maintain overclocked performance with ease. 

Since we are talking about ASUS here, looks are guaranteed. Its clean aesthetics won’t ever get old. By installing this cooler into your rig, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the best overclocking potentials while giving off a luxurious vibe whether you are at work or home. It contains the upgraded cooling-plate technology that contains microchannels which enhances heat dissipation.

With four-pin PWM control for both the pump and radiator fans, you’ll never have to worry about hearing those pesky fan blades. And best of all, this system has that universal compatibility. Frankly, we can’t see a reason anymore about why you will settle for anything less. 

Pros:

  • Eye-catching build and design
  • Noise levels are also acceptable
  • Impressive airflow
  • Amazing overclocking potential

Cons:

  • A bit over-priced

ID-COOLING AURAFLOW X 360 Snow CPU Water Cooler

Best RGB CPU Liquid Cooler

ID-COOLING AURAFLOW X 360 Snow CPU Water Cooler
ID-COOLING AURAFLOW X 360 Snow CPU Water Cooler (image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Material: Aluminum and Copper | Dimensions: ‎‎‎18.5 x 9 x 5.75 inches | MAX RPM: 1800| Noise: 35.2 dB | RGB: Available

The Auraflow X 360 Snow CPU Cooler is here to cool your CPU off. With its enthusiast-grade cooling capabilities and stunning signature looks, just think of the possibilities! Mega wipe-outs? No problem! Bring on those heavy engineering or designing softwares. It can handle everything you throw at it thanks to its 3-fan 360mm PWM controlled system. Plus, there’s LED illumination with complete customization potentials.

The ID-COOLING AURAFLOW X 360 is top of the line in innovation with an elegance unparalleled by its competitors. Imagine your PC crafted to perfection and glowing with a brilliant, soothing multi-color. With this CPU water cooler, you can stream up to five colors that can be adjusted according to your rig’s color scheme and ambiance. It also comes with pre-mounted and sleeved FEP tubes for an elegant look that won’t get in the way when installing it with most case designs.

If that wasn’t enough, it is also packaged with a digital lifestyle pack featuring a built-in joystick plus four lighting modes – turbo, spectrum cycling, breathing effect & single LED border collage. What else can you ask for?

Pros:

  • Customizable RGB
  • Equipped with 3 powerful fans
  • Durable build
  • Great value for money

Cons:

  • Installation could be tiresome

DEEP COOL Castle 280EX AIO Liquid CPU Cooler

Best Design CPU Liquid Cooler

DEEP COOL Castle 280EX AIO Liquid CPU Cooler
DEEP COOL Castle 280EX AIO Liquid CPU Cooler (image credit: Amazon)

Specs:

Material: Copper | Dimensions: ‎‎‎12.68 x 5.44 x 1.07 inches | Voltage: 5 V| Noise: 17.8 dB | RGB: Available

Get more silent performance with the DEEP COOL Castle 280EX! Its anti-leak technology regulates pressure build-up and enhances the longevity of the cooler and minimizes leakage. Two TF140 S PWM fans are installed to provide blazing airflow and maintain pressure in the cooling radiators. Now don’t be fooled by its compact size. It packs a punch that can compete with some of the large units on the market today! So if you are looking for silence without sacrificing any performance, then look no further than DEEP COOL’s newest release.

If we talk about features, this powerhouse contains a larger copper base with 25% more skived fins providing more surface area for effective cooling. Addressable RGB LEDs on the pump block brightly light up your build to perfection and feature an interchangeable logo, so that your gaming rig can be as customizable as it deserves to be! Plus, its rounded corner design offers supreme cooling performance even in cramped quarters by conveniently directing cool air across all heat sources within the chassis.

Pros:

  • Inaudible operations
  • Compact design
  • Equipped with innovative Anti-leak design
  • Addressable RGB lights

Cons:

  • Price is a bit higher

Buying Guide

In the past, CPU liquid cooling was not a necessity. However, CPUs nowadays generate so much heat that they require water or air to be cooled. The best CPU liquid coolers are those which can dissipate heat quickly and efficiently while using less energy than other methods. This buying guide will give you some advice on what to look for in your next purchase of cpu water cooler.

Size: Size is an essential factor to consider when buying any CPU cooler, but especially with water cooling equipment. CPU Coolers usually come in 3 sizes, i.e., 120mm, 240mm, 360mm. There are other sizes such as 140mm and 280mm, but they aren’t used extensively.

 If you buy a 120mm liquid cooler which has the same size as your processor, there will be no problems fitting it into place or attaching it properly to your motherboard. However, you need to keep in mind that there are certain limitations with smaller CPU coolers. For example, 120mm liquid coolers cannot be used on processors with a higher wattage than the cooler is rated for. On the other hand, If you plan on overclocking your processor, it’s best to get something larger, like a 240mm Liquid Cooler.

Quantity of fans and Radiators: The quantity of fans in a Liquid Cooler is another crucial factor to consider before making your purchase. The number and types of fan that comes with the CPU water cooling equipment can significantly impact how well it performs when under heavy usage. 120mm liquid coolers usually come with one large fan and 240mm or 360mm Liquid Coolers come with two or three fans, respectively. The larger the size of the fan blades, the better cooling potential they have at low speeds.

On the other hand, 120mm liquid coolers usually only contain one radiator, whereas 240mm Liquid Cooler will either have two or even three radiators depending on its design. Some 120mm Liquid Coolers may also include more than one set of tubing as well as pumps. So it’s important to consider everything before making your purchase decision. You will have to find out what size your CPU is compatible with? Also, how much fan power does your system require?

Type of Tubing: The type of tubing used in a Liquid Cooler has an impact on the performance as well as its installation. Plastic tubes are less expensive, but they can also create air bubbles that cause problems with circulation. However, if you opt for the best CPU water cooling equipment that uses rubberized silicone, you will not have any issues getting good airflow, even when under heavy use. The length and quality of the hose connections should also be considered before making your purchase decision. Because having longer hoses makes installation much more effortless than short ones do.

Liquid storage: Liquid storage plays a significant role in determining which liquid cooler you should get. If there is not enough storage, your water pump will have to work harder than it needs to, reducing its lifespan over time. However, if there is too much storage, then the risk of leakage increases significantly.

Conclusion

The 10 best CPU coolers are featured in the list above, but if you need more information about these products or how to pick a CPU liquid cooler for your computer system, check out our buying guide. We also have answers to some frequently asked questions like “An air cooler vs. water cooler?”. If you want even more details on any of them before making your decision, click through and read their individual reviews!

FAQs

A CPU liquid cooler is an advanced version of the traditional fan and heat sink cooling system used in desktop computers for over a decade now. It uses a pump to circulate water through small tubes fitted with radiator fins which dissipate heat from the central processing unit (CPU) using coolant.

It works just like your car’s radiator, with water flowing through small tubes and air passing over the fins. The pump circulates water through a radiator, drawing heat from your PC components and passing it to the coolant in the loop. A fan on top of the radiator exhausts warm air back into your case.

Liquid coolers are more effective than air coolers at keeping your processor running at lower temperatures. This is because water has a higher heat transfer rate. This means that it can move the heat away from your CPU faster than the air cooler. Also, air coolers tend to disperse the heat in the case while liquid coolers expel it away. And if we talk about aesthetics, then liquid coolers are unparalleled in that domain too.

On the downside, liquid coolers can be more expensive to purchase upfront if you are on a tight budget. Few models of liquid cooler can also be challenging to install sometimes. But at the end of the day, it depends upon your preferences. We have given you a detailed difference between both coolers, now it depends on your choice. Happy cooling! 

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Related Article: Best CPU Air Coolers in 2022

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Related Article: CPU Cooler – Liquid Cooling Vs Air Cooling
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