Looking for the best CPU cooler for i9 9900k? Core i9 9900k is one of the most powerful commercial processors available on the market. This eight-core and sixteen-thread processor can also breach the 5GHz limit, achieving notable leaps in performance at the expense of heat. In other words, if you want to push the 9900K to the max, you need to equip it with a strong cooling system.
However, if you don’t know your system specifications well, you will have difficulty finding a great cooler to keep the CPU cool and ensure proper efficiency. To help you make your decision, Medcpu has listed some of the best coolers for i9 9900k in 2024. Let’s explore!
Best Air Cooler For I9 9900k – Buying Guides
Air vs. Liquid
You will need to decide whether to cool your CPU with fans and air or prefer a liquid loop. Liquid AIO cooling can be more efficient and quieter than fan cooling. This makes it the ideal thermal solution for serious overclockers who enjoy tinkering as well as playing games.
Liquid cooling can be expensive. Although fan cooling systems may not be as efficient, they are still very cost-effective and can keep your CPU cool.
PWM vs. DC vs. Molex
These terms are used to describe the functionality of a fan. PWM stands for pulse width modification. These fans can be adjusted to your liking, and the RPM can be changed so that you can keep the volume down.
DC fans are a PWM version that can seldom slow down below 40% of its maximum RPM. Molex fans do not allow customization. Molex is all or nothing. They can be installed and either remain stationary or run at maximum capacity. These are the loudest, but they also have the lowest prices.
Socket
Compatibility is not just a problem when you try to pair a motherboard and a CPU. It also affects any device that you want to connect to your mobo. To make your thermal solution work properly, it must have the right socket.
While many coolers can be used with most motherboards, some coolers are made for a single socket. Avoid the pain of purchasing an incompatible CPU cooler. Make sure you have a list of compatible sockets before buying.
Dimensions (Clearance Space).
There are many types of fans, each with different dimensions and different clearance requirements. Low-profile CPU coolers require very little clearance. They will not block RAM slots and won’t rest too close to the wall.
Dual tower fans, which are also very efficient, can be extremely bulky. Before buying one, you will need to measure the clearance space.
Volume
Liquid loops are very quiet, and you don’t need to be concerned about their volume. If you have lots of fans running at high RPM, your CPU will feel fine. However, your case will sound like a jet engine.
This can be avoided by choosing a fan that is larger and quieter. Many models may have automatic fan-stop technology that turns them off when they are not needed.
Most gamers use headphones, so noise is not a major factor. However, if you want to listen to standard audio, the fan running volume should be considered.
RGB
RGB stands for red, green, and blue. These are a type of LED lighting that can produce millions of colors by mixing different primary colors. They are like Marmite in the PC gaming world. People either love or hate them. WPC supports the latter.
RGB fans allow you to personalize your case and give it some personality. You can create stunning light sequences by synchronizing your RGB peripherals. This can make gaming more intense and exciting.
List of 8 Best Cpu Cooler For I9 9900K
1. Noctua NH-D15 Chromax Dual Tower CPU Cooler
Our top-rated CPU cooler for the Intel i9 9900k is first. This air cooler was designed by Noctua’s engineers and is powerful enough to keep the heat from the i9 9900k at bay.
The beige and maroon colors won’t suit everyone’s tastes. Still, the Noctua NH-D15 has dual 140 mm fans backed by a pair of heatsinks that offer heat dissipation comparable to many AIO liquid cooling options.
The Noctua NH-D15 air cooler is widely regarded as being the best on the market. It also has an incredibly quiet level, averaging 25 dB even under the most demanding CPU loads.
Although the Noctua NH-D15’s price is reasonable considering what it contains under the vehicle’s hood, it does cost more than other value options. Noctua includes a tube of their excellent NT-H1 thermal glue and a 6-year warranty.
The Noctua NH-D15 is 165mm in height. This is its only problem. It’s therefore not suitable for small form factors and can dip into RAM heat spreader space. However, Noctua designed it to remove the front fan to allow for RAM modules higher than 32mm.
Pros:
- Excellent build quality.
- Quiet.
Cons:
- It is huge.
2. Corsair H150i Pro
The Corsair Hydro H150i Pro is an All-in-One CPU cooler that uses water to cool. It’s controlled by Corsair iCUE software. This is a great option for those hesitant about going full custom loop but still want liquid cooling in a manageable package.
The Corsair Hydro Pro’s specifications call for a trio of PWN Magnetic Levitation 120mm fans mounted on a large 360 mm radiator. Even with heavy loads and modest overclocking, operational noise levels are below 25 dB. CPU temperatures are also kept in check. The Corsair Hydro H150i Pro is one of the most silent liquid coolers.
Corsair’s modular and tool-free mounting bracket is another great feature. The radiator’s large dimensions require a large chassis and adequate mounting space. Make sure to check the dimensions before you buy.
Although you’ll pay more for an air conditioner than for one, the added cost is well worth it. The closed-loop system offers many benefits that are well worth it.
Pros:
- AIO solutions that work.
- Outstanding Performance
Cons:
- Some builds could have a problem with their size.
3. NZXT Kraken X73
A liquid cooler is the best option if you want to increase the overclocking power of the i9 9900k cooler. The NZXT Kraken X73 is our top choice for overclocking.
Another closed-loop All-in-One CPU Cooler is available. It features three 120mm fans with fluid dynamics bearings, chamfered intake, and a 360mm aluminum radiator.
There are also tubes with ultra-low Evaporation rubber and braided nylon sleeves. NZXT also included easy-to-install RGB lighting effects and customizable RGB lighting effects for the pump.
Fan noise levels are as low as 21dB when idle or under normal loads and temperatures that outperform most air coolers even when the CPU clock is high. The fan can crank out 36 dB when it is trying to cool the rising heat. This is higher than any other models in our guide but still respectable.
The NZXT Kraken X73 is almost twice the cost of traditional air coolers, much like the Corsair H150i Pro. NZXT Kraken X73 has a large footprint, and therefore won’t fit all chassis sizes. Make sure to check the dimensions before you buy.
Pros:
- Perfect for overclocking.
- Installation of AIOs is simple.
Cons:
- Load noise levels are higher than those of other options.
- Size
4. Be Quiet! Dark Rock 4
Be quiet! Dark Rock 4 wins the title for the quietest CPU cooler on the i9 9900k. This noise level peak was recorded even at full load and is equivalent to almost silence. The noise will not be noticeable when it is mixed with ambient noise in most rooms.
Be quiet in terms of the build! Dark Rock 4 stands out for its all-black, brushed aluminum diamond-cut design. It includes a Silent Wings 135mm fan with a six-pole motor, fluid dynamic bearings, and six copper heat pipes measuring 6mm with airflow-optimized waves-contoured cooling fins.
You can also add a 120mm fan to the package if you need it. Quiet CPU coolers are focused on keeping noise levels low.
Although Dark Rock 4 takes a bit more heat than the Noctua NH-D15, it still manages to stay within acceptable limits. Although installation can be difficult, it is not impossible. Be quiet! Dark Rock 4 is the most appealing air cooler available.
Pros:
- Whisper quiet
- Performance.
Cons:
- Installation by Finicky.
5. Thermalright Le Grand Macho RT
Thermalright Le Grand MachoRT is the best choice if you’re looking for a CPU cooler for the i9 9900K. It is our favorite choice because it works quietly and has a higher RAM clearance ( best ram for 9900k ).
This cooler is well-designed and includes a large heatsink as well as seven copper heat pipes. It also features a quiet 140mm fan, which has a maximum noise rating of only 20dBA.
This cooler features a Haswell-E optimized base, VGA clearance, and a Haswell-E optimized base. Many users will love the black nickel color. It is also easy to mount with the included screwdriver, making it an attractive choice.
Heatsinks with an offset design allow for greater RAM clearance and compatibility. Thermalright’s Le Grand Macho RT is available with or without a fan. It can also be used with dual fans.
Pros:
- Efficient performance
- Amazing build quality
- Reasonably priced
- A 140mm fan will provide unmatched performance
- Design that is sleek and ergonomic
Cons:
- Clearance of expansion slots could be increased
- 1-year limited warranty
6. NZXT Kraken X62 AIO Liquid Cooler
This AIO runs a Core i9-9900k CPU at stock speed comfort. You might also want to increase the clock speed to 5 GHz for each core to avoid throttling issues. It looks amazing in your system, thanks to its impressive build quality.
The fan noise level is typically 21-38 DBA, with a fan speed of 5001,800 +/– 300RPM. This is quite impressive. The fan’s durability and excellent quality are highly appreciated. Further, CAM-powered software control will be available.
The cooler is silent and quiet thanks to its shiny metal head unit, stained top lens, RGB LED display, smooth radiator, and sleeves tubes. Although it is more expensive than other coolers, it is well worth the investment. NZXT Kraken X62 is a great choice.
Pros:
- Beautiful aesthetics
- The best fit and finish are important
- Solid performance
- Pump with advanced engineering
- Includes Aer P radiator
- More efficient lighting modes
Cons:
- It is $10 less than the Kraken X52 without any additional features.
7. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition
The Master Hyper 212 cooler is a bit mismatched with the i9-9900K. It’s almost like fitting Aston Martins with cheap rims. But here’s the truth… It’s a great budget option to manage the 9900K’s volatile nature. Although it is a bit excessive to use the 212 at 5GHz, for general usage, it’s fine.
8. EK Water Blocks EK-AIO 360 D-RGB
EK WaterBlocks specializes in making enthusiast-grade water cooling equipment. EKWB is the best choice if you are looking to create a custom loop water cooling unit. The company just released a 360mm AIO cooler, and it is amazing.
It offers the highest performance in its class. This cooler is one of the most popular 360mm options available. It also has excellent RGB effects. The CPU cover houses a multitude of RGB LEDs and three RGB fans. They offer some great RGB effects and look very nice together.
Although not as good as the Corsair RGB Platinum H115i RGB Platinum, it is close. Although the Corsair RGB Platinum is an excellent alternative, it doesn’t offer the same level of performance. The EK-AIO 360 D RGB is the best air cooler for i9 9900k if you are looking for both performance and beautiful lights. This one is also quite costly.
>>> Read also about the best Cpu cooler for I7 9700K 2022. Click here
FAQs about the best CPU cooler for I9
1. Is 240MM liquid cooling enough for i9?
It is sufficient to have a diameter of 240mm. It is possible to increase the cooling performance of your device by using a push-pull configuration and better static pressure fans.
2. Does i9 need a cooler?
A thermal solution/fan is required for the processor and must be ordered separately.
3. What power supply do I need for i9 9900K?
The minimum recommended amperage for your video card is 50 percent. Make sure that your power supply has at least half the voltage. You can purchase a high-quality ATX power source that can be used with 9700K and 9900K.
Conclusion
MEDCPU hopes you found this article helpful in finding the best coolers for 9900k to suit your needs. These coolers are great choices for the 9900k, and they also make excellent CPU coolers.
All models deliver outstanding performance and ensure stability for your CPU. If we missed any of the CPU coolers, tell us about them in the comments!
Eyal Ephrat serves as the co-founder and CEO of medCPU.com, where technology is making significant strides in the field of medicine. Through his experience in purchasing PC and laptop equipment and various other tech products, Eyal Ephrat contributes valuable insights to medCPU’s mission.
