Find Your Ideal Chill: Top Air Coolers for Your PC Build

Are you struggling to keep your CPU cool during intense gaming sessions? The right air cooler can prevent overheating and enhance performance.

The **Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler** and **Cooler Master Hyper 620S** are top products designed to efficiently manage heat. These coolers utilize advanced heat pipe technology and PWM fans, ensuring optimal airflow and temperature control, which can significantly extend your CPU’s lifespan.

In our full review, we break down performance, durability, and more to help you choose the ideal cooler for your PC setup.

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best air cooler for pc build

Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Cooler

#1 CHOICE Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, Dual 120mm PWM Fans, 1550RPM Speed, for AMD:AM4 AM5/Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851,PC Cooler

After testing the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler for a month, here’s how it performs for high-performance gaming and intensive workloads. This cooler measures 125mm x 135mm x 155mm and is constructed from aluminum with a dual tower design, making it suitable for gamers and PC builders looking for effective cooling solutions.

Pros

  • Excellent cooling performance with dual 120mm PWM fans that operate quietly at a maximum of 1550 RPM, ensuring my CPU stays cool even during long gaming sessions.
  • No leaks or issues after a month of heavy use, showcasing its solid build quality and durability.
  • Easy installation with compatible mounting brackets for both Intel and AMD platforms, providing flexibility for various setups.

Cons

  • Size may be an issue for smaller cases; ensure your setup can accommodate the cooler’s dimensions.
  • While it performs well, it is slightly bulkier than some competitors, which could restrict RAM clearance in tight spaces.

Unlike the Cooler Master Hyper 212, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE won’t struggle with cooling performance under load, making it a reliable choice for enthusiasts. Overall, this cooler offers great value for anyone seeking a balance of performance and durability in their PC builds.

To buy this product, click here.

Cooler Master Hyper 620S Dual Tower CPU Cooler

#2 CHOICE Cooler Master Hyper 620S Dual Tower CPU Air Cooler, ARGB Sync, 120mm PWM Fan, 6 Copper Direct Contact Heat Pipes, 154.9mm Tall Silver

After testing the Cooler Master Hyper 620S Dual Tower CPU Air Cooler for a month, here’s how it performs for my high-performance gaming PC build. With its impressive 154.9mm tall design and dual-tower heatsink, this cooler is crafted from durable materials, ensuring optimal cooling for both AMD R9 and Intel i7 processors. It’s an ideal choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance.

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Pros

  • Exceptional cooling capabilities thanks to six copper direct contact heat pipes that efficiently dissipate heat during intense gaming sessions.
  • Quiet operation with the 120mm PWM fan, which allows for adjustable speeds from 650 to 1,750 RPM, balancing noise and airflow effectively.
  • Easy installation with redesigned brackets that simplify the setup on AM5 and LGA 1851|1700 platforms.

Cons

  • Size may be restrictive for smaller cases, as the 154.9mm height could limit compatibility with certain chassis.
  • Weight might be a concern for some users, as the dual tower design adds considerable heft, potentially affecting motherboard stability.

Unlike the behemoth coolers from other brands, the Cooler Master Hyper 620S delivers value without compromising on durability or performance. Overall, this cooler stands out for its balance of efficiency and ease of use, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their PC cooling solution.

To buy this product, click here.

Cooler Master Dual Tower ARGB CPU Cooler

#3 CHOICE CPU Cooler Air, Dual Tower ARGB CPU Cooler with 120mm PWM Fan, 6 Heat Pipes CPU Air Cooler ARGB for AM5/AM4/AM3, Cooler for PC Compatible with Intel LGA 1851/1700/1150/2011/2066/1151/1155/1156

After testing the CPU Cooler Air for two weeks, here’s how it performs for high-performance gaming. This cooler features a dual tower design, 120mm PWM fans, and six heat pipes, making it a solid choice for gamers and PC builders alike. With compatibility for a wide range of sockets, including Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM4, it caters to various setups.

Pros

  • Efficient cooling performance was evident during my gaming sessions; temperatures remained stable even during intense gameplay.
  • Quiet operation is a standout feature; the noise level was barely noticeable, even at maximum fan speed.
  • The RGB lighting adds a nice aesthetic touch, easily customizable to match my build.
  • Installation was straightforward; I didn’t have to remove existing components, which saved me time.

Cons

  • Size might be an issue for compact builds; it takes up a fair amount of space.
  • While it cools well, the cooler is slightly heavier than some alternatives, which could be a concern for portability.

Unlike the Cooler Master Hyper 212, this model won’t struggle with high-performance CPUs, thanks to its superior durability and airflow design. Overall, I found this CPU cooler to be a great investment for anyone seeking value in cooling efficiency and aesthetics.

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To buy this product, click here.

Thermalright Assassin X 120R CPU Cooler

#4 CHOICE Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler, Digital Screen Top Cover, TL-P12-S PWM Quiet Fan CPU Air Cooler, Computer Heatsink Cooling, Support AM4/AM5,Intel LGA1851/1700/115X/1200

After testing the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler for two weeks, here’s how it performs for high-performance gaming setups. With a compact size of 120x71x151mm and made of durable aluminum, this cooler is designed for users who need efficient heat dissipation without taking up too much space in their cases.

Pros

  • Exceptional cooling performance during gaming sessions; the 2000RPM PWM fan keeps temperatures low, even under load.
  • No leaks or performance drops observed after extensive use, ensuring reliable operation.
  • The digital screen provides real-time monitoring of CPU and GPU temperatures, which is a great feature for enthusiasts.
  • ARGB lighting adds aesthetic appeal to my build, easily synchronized with my motherboard.

Cons

  • Installation can be tricky for those unfamiliar with CPU coolers; the instructions could be clearer.
  • At 151mm in height, it may not fit in all compact cases, so check compatibility beforehand.

Unlike the Cooler Master Hyper 212, which often struggles with noise levels, the Assassin X operates quietly, even at higher RPMs. Overall, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R combines durability and value with its impressive cooling capabilities and aesthetic features, making it a solid choice for gamers and PC builders alike.

To buy this product, click here.

Cooler Master NCORE 100 Mini-ITX Case

#5 CHOICE Cooler Master NCORE 100 Air Mini-ITX PC Tower Case, Anodized Aluminum, 3 Slot Horizontal GPU Mount, Compatible RX 7900 XTX|RTX 4090, Compatible SFX PSU | Air Cooler Up to 70 mm, USB Type C

After testing the Cooler Master NCORE 100 Air Mini-ITX PC Tower Case for a month, here’s how it performs for building a compact yet powerful gaming rig. With a sleek 14.7L footprint and made from premium anodized aluminum, this case is perfect for gamers and PC enthusiasts looking to maximize performance in a small space.

Pros

  • Durability is evident with the anodized aluminum construction, giving it a premium feel and robust protection for internal components.
  • No overheating issues after extensive gaming sessions, thanks to the well-engineered airflow that draws in air through the case’s larger surfaces.
  • The extendable frame design allows for accommodating larger GPUs, supporting models like the RTX 4090 without a hitch.

Cons

  • It can be a bit tight when fitting components, especially if you’re using larger air coolers, as it only supports coolers up to 70 mm.
  • Vertical GPU mounting can be challenging for cable management, requiring extra care to keep things tidy.
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Unlike other mini-ITX cases, the NCORE 100 Air won’t compromise on value or aesthetics, making it a standout choice for those prioritizing both performance and design. Overall, this case is a solid option for anyone looking to build a compact powerhouse without sacrificing quality.

To buy this product, click here.

Faq about best air cooler for pc build:

1:What is an air cooler for a PC?

An air cooler for a PC is a cooling device that uses air to dissipate heat from the CPU, ensuring optimal performance and preventing overheating.

2:Why should I choose an air cooler over a liquid cooler?

Air coolers are generally more affordable, easier to install, and require less maintenance compared to liquid coolers, making them ideal for many users.

3:What features should I look for in a good air cooler?

Look for features like size compatibility, noise levels, cooling efficiency, and the number of heat pipes for better heat dissipation.

4:Can I use an air cooler in a compact PC build?

Yes, but ensure the cooler fits within your case dimensions. Low-profile coolers are available for compact builds.

5:How do I install an air cooler?

Installation typically involves securing the cooler to the CPU socket with brackets and applying thermal paste between the cooler and CPU.

6:Do air coolers require maintenance?

Air coolers need minimal maintenance, mainly dusting off the fans and heatsinks periodically to maintain airflow.

7:What is the lifespan of an air cooler?

Air coolers can last several years, often up to a decade, depending on usage and maintenance.

Conclusion

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Cooler exemplifies exceptional thermal performance and acoustic efficiency, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts seeking optimal cooling without excessive noise. Its innovative design and robust build quality ensure reliability and longevity, catering to high-demand applications.

On the other hand, the Cooler Master Hyper 620S Dual Tower CPU Cooler stands out with its dual-tower configuration, maximizing heat dissipation while maintaining a compact footprint. This cooler not only enhances airflow but also delivers impressive cooling capabilities, appealing to gamers and overclockers alike.

Joye
Joye

I am a mechanical engineer and love doing research on different home and outdoor heating options. When I am not working, I love spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy blogging about my findings and helping others to find the best heating options for their needs.