Processor coolers in our range cover air CPU coolers, AIO liquid coolers, case fans, laptop fans and thermal modules, and server heatsinks. They suit desktop builders, upgraders and repairers. Brands include Thermaltake, ARCTIC, Corsair, NZXT, be quiet! and Noctua. Thermal paste, mounting kits and water cooling parts are also available for fitting and maintenance.
How to choose a processor cooler
Socket compatibility. Check that the cooler supports your CPU socket, such as LGA1700, LGA1851, AM4 or AM5, before looking at anything else. Server and laptop parts are model-specific, so match the exact model or platform rather than the socket name alone.
Air or liquid cooling. A good air CPU cooler handles most mainstream processors and has no pump that can fail. An AIO liquid cooler moves heat to a radiator, which helps with high-end, heavily loaded chips and gives a tidier area around the socket. Radiator sizes vary, and larger ones generally cool better.
Size and clearance. Measure the maximum cooler height your case allows, and check that tall air coolers do not block RAM slots. For an AIO, confirm that your case has a mounting position for the radiator size you want, whether at the front, top or rear.
Noise. Larger fans spinning slowly are usually quieter than small fans working hard. If silence matters, look for 120 mm or 140 mm fans, PWM speed control and a cooler rated well above your processor's heat output, so the fans rarely need to speed up.
Looks and extras. Black is the most common finish in our range, with white, silver and some aluminium or copper-toned models for lighter or showcase builds. Check whether thermal paste is included and whether you need spare mounting hardware for a different socket.
Brands we carry
- Thermaltake: known for a broad cooling lineup that includes air coolers, AIO liquid coolers and fans, as well as cases and power supplies.
- ASUS: makes ROG-branded AIO liquid coolers that are designed to pair with its motherboards.
- Corsair: known for iCUE-controlled AIO coolers and fans with software-managed lighting and speed profiles.
- ARCTIC: known for the Freezer air coolers, P-series fans and MX thermal pastes, usually at modest cost.
- NZXT: best known for Kraken AIO liquid coolers with a display on the pump block.
- be quiet!: focuses on low noise, with the Dark Rock and Pure Rock air coolers and Silent Wings fans.
- DEEPCOOL: known for the AK series of air coolers, which are popular for mainstream desktop builds.
- Noctua: known for large air coolers such as the NH-D15 and for fans with a distinctive brown and beige finish.
- Supermicro: a server hardware maker, relevant if you are looking for server fans and heatsinks.
Also in our range: Lenovo, Inter-Tech and Zalman. Subcategories include air CPU coolers, AIO liquid coolers, case fans, laptop fans and thermal modules, server fans and heatsinks, water cooling parts, thermal paste and pads, dust filters, mounting kits and M.2 SSD heatsinks.
Processor cooler FAQ
Is an air cooler or an AIO liquid cooler better?
Neither is better in every case. Air coolers are simpler and have fewer parts that can fail, and a large one can match a small AIO. An AIO suits high-end processors, cases with limited space around the socket, or builds where you want a clean look.
How do I know if a CPU cooler fits my processor?
Check the socket list in the cooler's specifications and compare it with your processor's socket. Then confirm the cooler height against your case and RAM clearance. For laptops and servers, match the part to the exact model.
Do I need thermal paste with a new cooler?
Yes, the processor and cooler need a thin layer of thermal paste between them to transfer heat properly. Many coolers include paste or have it pre-applied. If you are refitting an old cooler or want a different paste, you can buy it separately.
Do I need to replace the stock cooler?
Not always. A stock cooler is usually enough for office work and light use at default settings. An aftermarket cooler is worth considering if your processor runs hot, if the fan is loud under load, or if you plan to overclock.
