Best CPU Coolers for Ryzen 9 5950X

Finally, AMD just released their new lineup of Ryzen 5000 series Zen3 CPUs, which will provide unparalleled gaming and single-core dependent content creation performance.

The flagship CPU of this new series of processors: The Ryzen 9 5950X contains two maxed out core complexes (CCX), with eight cores and 32 MB of L3 cache; for a total of 16 cores, 32 threads, and 64 MB of level 3 cache. The CPU operates at speeds of 3.4 GHz but can be overclocked to an impressive 4.9 GHz, given that it has sufficient cooling.

Despite the price increase for all of the new Zen3 CPUs, none of the three higher-end models – Ryzen 7 5800X, Ryzen 9 5900X, and Ryzen 9 5950X – will include a thermal solution in their package.

Luckily, there are several exceptional CPU coolers in the market, by means of both air cooling and AIO liquid cooling. Due to the high performance of the Ryzen 9 5950X, its cooler must be capable of equivalently powerful performance, so only the best models available in the market will do for this flagship processor.

To help you find the most compatible cooler for the Ryzen 9 5950X and your individual preferences, we’ve compiled a list of all the best the market has to offer –  according to the mode of cooling, price, style, and performance.

Read Also: Best Motherboards for Ryzen 9 5950X

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Best CPU Coolers for the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X

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Noctua NH-D15

Best Air CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 5950X

Brand	Noctua
Item Dimensions LxWxH	5.91 x 6.34 x 6.5 inches
Power Connector Type	4-Pin
Voltage	12 Volts
Wattage	1.56 watts
Cooling Method	Fan
Compatible Devices	Desktop
Noise Level	24.6 dB
Material	Copper (base and heat pipes), aluminium (cooling fins), soldered joints & nickel plating
Maximum Rotational Speed	1500 RPM

When it comes to air coolers, nothing competes with Noctua’s NH-D15. This high-end CPU cooler has proven its worth time and time again, and its benchmarks (carried out by TweakTown) display not only its superior cooling ability but also its low noise emissions.

The NH-D15 achieves these metrics via the use of two NF-A15, 140 mm, fans that are equipped with SSO2 magnetic levitation bearings. The NF-A15 fans output a static pressure of 1.51 mmH2O and 68 CFM of airflow each, with a maximum of 1,200 rotations per minute (RPM).

The low rotations and the magnetic bearings allow for silent operation of below 35 decibels (dB), as well as a meant time between failures (MTBF) of 150,000 hours – backed by a six-year warranty. Finally, the heatsink is all aluminum, and it makes vicarious contact with the CPU via six nickel-plated heat pipes and a pre-applied, top-of-the-line, Noctua NT-H1 thermal paste.

The NH-D15 can be found for a modest $89.95, which is a small price to pay for cooling the Ryzen 9 5950X’s intense performance.

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Noctua NH-U14S

Best Upgradeable Air CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 5950X

Brand	Noctua
Item Dimensions LxWxH	5.91 x 3.07 x 6.5 inches
Power Connector Type	4-Pin
Voltage	12 Volts
Wattage	1.56 watts
Cooling Method	Fan
Compatible Devices	Desktop
Noise Level	24.6 dB
Material	Copper (base and heat pipes), aluminium (cooling fins), soldered joints & nickel plating
Maximum Rotational Speed	1500 RPM

The Ryzen 9 5950X does not come cheap, and nor do all the other hardware components it needs in order to run optimally, which is why you may be shopping for a CPU cooler on a budget. Worry not, as Noctua have you covered with the NH-U14S: A cooler capable of chilling the R9 5950X, and that can also be upgraded with an additional fan if you need some extra cooling power down the line.

Like all Noctua coolers, the NH-U14S proves its worth in both CPU temperatures, as well as remarkably low noise levels, in real-world benchmarks via the use of its premium-built fans. The included NF-A15 is identical to that included with the NH-D15 and has a similar MTBF of 150,000 hours.

The NH-U14S’s slim, 52 mm, full-aluminum heatsink, is made so that it doesn’t interfere with any RAM modules; making it an easy fit for any setup. The best aspect of the NH-U14S is that it has all the necessary components needed to house a second NF-A15 – or any other 140 mm – fan, if need be.

The Noctua NH-U14S can be found for only $63.75, while an additional NF-A15 fan will cost an additional $21.95; an exceptional price for the performance delivered, with or without the second fan.

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Corsair H115i RGB Platinum

Best Performance AIO Cooler for Ryzen 9 5950X

Brand	Corsair
Item Dimensions LxWxH	12.6 x 5.51 x 1.18 inches
Cooling Method	Water
Compatible Devices	Desktop
Noise Level	37 dB

Liquid, all-in-one (AIO), coolers are a stylish and efficient way of cooling a CPU and, when it comes to performance, few can rival Corsair’s H115i RGB Platinum: A CPU cooler with performance proven in real-world benchmarks.

Making use of Corsair’s premium ML140 Pro 140 mm fans, which include magnetic levitation bearings and PWM controls, the H115i RGB Platinum chills the CPU via the back-and-forth motion of a liquid that circulates between the heat pump and the 280 mm radiator. The liquid is heated by the CPU, then cooled by the fans which can output a static pressure of 1.27 mm H2O, and an impressive airflow of 97 CFM; operating at speeds between 400 and 2,000 RPM. The fans also feature eight individually controlled LEDs, while the pump head has 16 LEDs, all of which can be synchronized via Corsair’s iCUE software.

The H115i RGB Platinum has three preset modes: Quiet, Balanced, and Extreme, with the CPU maintaining optimal temperatures and low noise levels during both Quiet and Balanced modes, according to benchmarks.

For $169.99, this CPU cooler offers both style and function and can be found in an Elite Capellix variant for the same price.

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Thermaltake Water 3.0 ARGB

Best RGB AIO Cooler for Ryzen 9 5950X

Brand	Thermaltake
Item Dimensions LxWxH	7 x 5.74 x 18.5 inches
Cooling Method	Water
Compatible Devices	Desktop
Noise Level	25.8 dB
Material	Rubber, Copper

If you want to take AIO cooling to the extreme, both in size and in RGB pizazz, then the Thermaltake Water 3.0 ARGB cooler is exactly what you need. With three 120 mm fans and a 360 mm radiator, the Water 3.0 ARGB is massive. Benchmarks (by KitGuru) show sub-70 C° CPU temperatures throughout all testing and a noise level that maxes out at 46.5 dB.

The Thermaltake Water 3.0 ARGB makes use of three nine-blade fans with hydrodynamic bearings, capable of 56.45 CFM airflow and 1.59 mmH2O static pressure production. Due to their hydraulic bearings, as well as the pump’s reinforced sleeves and low-evaporation tubing, this CPU cooler offers a level of longevity not usually found in AIO coolers.

 Each of the three fans also comes equipped with nine addressable LEDs, capable of displaying 16.8 million colors that can be customized through either a physical controller, or any ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI, or ASRock RGB synchronization software.

The Thermaltake Water 3.0 ARGB can currently be found for $163.99, down from its original $179.99 price tag.

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Factors to Consider When Choosing a CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 5950X

When choosing a CPU cooler for your Ryzen 9 5950X, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that you get the best performance and value for your money.

Type of Cooler

There are two main types of CPU coolers – air coolers and liquid coolers. Air coolers are generally cheaper, easier to install, and require less maintenance. Liquid coolers, on the other hand, offer better cooling performance and are more efficient at dissipating heat. However, they are more expensive, harder to install, and require more maintenance.

Size

The size of the cooler is an important factor to consider as it will affect how well it fits in your PC case. You should ensure that the cooler you choose is compatible with your motherboard and case and that there is enough clearance for the cooler’s dimensions.

Noise Level

The noise level of the cooler is another important consideration, especially if you want a quiet PC. Some coolers are quieter than others, and it’s important to check the noise levels of the cooler you’re interested in before making a purchase.

Price

CPU coolers come in a range of prices, from budget options to high-end models. It’s important to choose a cooler that fits within your budget while still providing the performance you need.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance of the cooler is perhaps the most important factor to consider. You should look for a cooler that can handle the Ryzen 9 5950X’s high heat output, and ensure that it provides adequate cooling under heavy loads.

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Tips for Installation and Maintenance

Installing a CPU cooler can be tricky, especially if you’ve never done it before. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that the cooler is installed correctly. Additionally, regular maintenance such as cleaning dust and debris from the cooler can help to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right CPU cooler for your Ryzen 9 5950X is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity. In this article, we have reviewed some of the best CPU coolers currently available on the market.

We have also provided a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best CPU cooler for your specific needs and budget.