Best Budget CPU Coolers: RGB, Overclocking, AIO [2023]

Processor chipmaking giants, Intel and AMD, are constantly improving their CPU performance to overtake each other in the PC market. Higher clock speeds and high-density CPUs are exhibiting an increase in the temperature of these CPUs. However, the majority of the users do not wish to compromise on the performance packages delivered to them and still want to see improvements in this sector. High temperatures in a chip cause thermal throttling, affecting its performance. In most Budget cases, aftermarket CPU coolers are necessary for countering these high temps. For the same reason, we have gathered the Best Budget CPU Coolers, making your purchase decision easy for CPU coolers easy on your pocket. 

Here are all our picks, showcasing different audience focus, types, and comparison:

Last update on 2023-12-13

Best Budget CPU Coolers

Following are our picks for the Best Budget CPU Coolers:

1. DeepCool Gammaxx GT
2. DeepCool AK400 White
3. SilverStone Technology VIDA 240 Slim High
4. CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML 120L RGB V2
5. Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 A-RGB AIO

Other Budget Coolers To Consider – Competition:

1. Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4
2. DeepCool Castle 240EX
3. be quiet! Pure Rock 2
4. Noctua NH-L9i
5. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB

DeepCool Gammaxx GT

Best Budget Air Cooler

Specifications: Type: Single Fan AIO | TDP: 140W | Radiator Size: 120mm | Lighting: A-RGB | Dimensions: 135 mm x 156 mm x 84.4 mm

Deepcool has vowed to provide consumers with the best cooling solutions and has continued to do so over the years. They have released many great air and water cooling solutions in recent years. Deepcool intends to bring forth newer and innovative solutions with a growing and solidifying marketplace for their coolers.

Deepcool Gammaxx GT is a budget-friendly single-tower RGB air cooler that fulfills your aesthetic demand while keeping your PC cool. The dimensions of this cooler are 135 mm x 156 mm x 84.4 mm. It features a 120 mm PWM fan that can rotate between 500 – 1500 RPM. Its TDP rating varies for Intel and AMD, with 150w and 140w, respectively. 4 copper heat pipes and a copper-plated heatsink make it possible for this setup to be perfect for heat and electrical conductivity. Copper gets uniformly warmer, helps in quick heat transfer, and has a high melting point and corrosion resistance. Meanwhile, the noise output rating is excellent and is rated at 17.8 – 29.5 dBa. With an MSRP of 54.99, it supports RGB controlling using headers on the motherboard. Similarly, it can be found at lower prices due to market competition. 

What we liked about this:

We liked the RGB, installation process, clearance, and the noise out of the Deepcool Gammaxx GT continues the RGB trend. It is not something extraordinary but it fulfills your aesthetic hunger by providing you with a typical and true RGB design. It comes with pretty good mounting hardware, making it easy to install, and overall build quality is excellent. The user can set up a dual-fan configuration since Deepcool provides extra fan clips with the package. On top of that, the GPU clearance is excellent, even on Mini-ITX and Micro-ATX motherboards. Additionally, it beats some of its competitors in noise reduction by a small margin. It can be dubbed the Best Budget Air Cooler.

What we disliked about this: 

It does not provide the level of performance some of the other air coolers can provide. Sadly, it might not be the one for mid-core overclocking enthusiasts. However, it is still a sweet deal for the users compared to Noctua NH-U12S, where the users have to pay almost double the price for better performance. One of the significant design flaws that make it lose its reputation is memory clearance. While its design does not pressure the DIMM, it still forces it out of alignment if you use high-end memory with a large heatsink in all four slots.

What distinguishes the DeepCool Gammaxx GT from its competitors:

The DeepCool Gammaxx GT poses an intriguing bargain. Offering addressable RGB capabilities with a relatively low noise output measuring at a maximum of 29.5 dB(A), the Gammaxx GT combines a streamlined installation process with the ability to add a secondary fan later on using the bundled fan clips at a reasonable price point hovering around $45-50. 

Who is this for?

To summarize it all, it is designed for RGB lovers who have no problem with in-line RGB controllers. With RGB aesthetics, it offers decent performance on a budget. 

Performance: 7/10	Value: 10/10
Features: 8/10	Design: 9/10

DeepCool AK400 White

Best Budget White Air Cooler

Specifications: Type: Single Fan Air | TDP: 220W | Fan Size: 120mm | Lighting: No RGB | Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm

The DeepCool AK400 White is a budget-friendly cooler that strikes a great balance between thermal performance and noise output. It is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable yet efficient cooler. 

Despite a relatively simple design, the AK400 White is an aesthetically pleasing heatsink with a carefully considered layout. The heatsink features 54 aluminum fins with folded edges that maintain optimal spacing, allowing the conical airflow of the fan to pass smoothly through the fin stack. Additionally, the fins are impressively sturdy with minimal flex, demonstrating high quality. 

The top plate of the AK400 White features a checkerboard pattern with the DeepCool logo on the bottom right. As the design is kept simple, it does not include any ARGB lighting; the only touch of color comes from the logo. The cooler’s base is a direct touch design heat pipe with 4x 6m heat pipes, two positioned centrally and two slightly offset. Interestingly, the base is mostly flat, with only the outer corners slightly lower than the centre; moreover, the design ensures optimal heat transfer and contributes to the cooler’s impressive performance.

DeepCool uses a 120mm Fan for the AK400, having a maximum PWM RPM of 1850 and a CFM rating of 66.47. Additionally, the fan is completely silent even when operating at high speed; noise levels only reach up to 29 dbA. Moving over to the power ratings, it uses 12V to power the fan but only consumes 0.13A, drawing 1.56W. Additionally, this cooler can handle a thermal load of 220W, which enables it to handle high power-consuming CPUs even under overclocked conditions.

The performance of DeepCool AK400 White is pretty good when tested on manually overclocked processors on our testing rig. We observed that when the fans were operating at 100% full speed, the cooler maintained a steady temperature of 68°C, which then grew to 69°C when operating at 90% fan speed. 

Moreover, AK400 White has good clearance for RAM and PCIe slots and does not hinder the IO side of the motherboard. DeepCool has also made the installation pretty simple, as there are only ten components to mount the installation kit.

What we liked about this:

AK400 White comes with a slim design, and the convenient installation process also makes it a minimal yet elegantly designed system. Moreover, DeepCool AK400 White is a straightforwardly designed system that only prioritizes cost and efficiency.

What we disliked about this:

The Cooler’s lack of ARGB lighting will likely cause a few to pass on the AK400 White. Additionally, the pre-applied thermal paste is insufficient as it can be damaged easily during the cooler installation. Also, a slightly low 2-year warranty is another shortcoming that you should consider.

What distinguishes the DeepCool AK400 White from its competitors:

DeepCool AK400 White sets itself apart from its competitors by its price tag; this cooler can take the crown in the low-cost coolers giving adequate cooling performance. Add a decent level of performance, and the almost silent fan makes it a well-rounded offering, a great entry for gaming rigs.

Who is this for?

Overall, DeepCool AK400 White is a good cooler in terms of quality and budget, dwelling well with our category of Best Budget White Air Cooler. People who prefer pocket-friendly cooling systems with decent performance over aesthetically designed high-end systems should add this cooling system to their bucket list.

• DeepCool AK400 White Review

Performance: 8/10	Value: 9/10
Features: 8/10	Design: 7/10

SilverStone Technology VIDA 240 Slim High

Best Budget 240mm AIO Cooler

Specifications: Type: Dual Fan AIO | TDP: 285W | Radiator Size: 240mm | Lighting: RGB Leds | Dimensions: 442 x 277 x 122 mm 

SilverStone Technology has released a new AIO cooler named VIDA 240 SLIM; it stands out for its compact size, with an overall thickness of 38mm, including the radiator and fans. This makes it ideal for small-factor builds where space is limited. In contrast, regular AIOs on the market are typically around 52mm thick, with radiators usually measuring 27mm in thickness; the VIDA 240 SLIM has a radiator thickness of 22mm and fan height of 16mm, yet still manages to feature A-RGB lighting on both the block and fans.

Despite the slim profile, VIDA 240 SLIM is a visually appealing AIO cooler. Moreover, the CPU block is rotatable, allowing users to align it according to their preference to avoid bumping into RAM sticks, thus providing enough clearance for tall RAMs.

As discussed earlier, the VIDA 240 SLIM comes with a 22mm thick radiator and 16mm thin, 120mm fans, combining a thickness of 38mm. These fans are designed with nine pressure-optimized blades for high static pressure and maximum airflow and operate at a maximum speed of 1800 RPM without making much noise; fans are usually quiet and only have noise levels up to 15.9 dbA. On heavy loads, the fans get noisy; overall, the noise is bearable. Despite its slim profile, the VIDA 240 SLIM can still handle a 285W load; a TDP rating of 285W is excellent as it can cater to many new CPUs. 

Additionally, the VIDA 240 SLIM, when tested on a CPU overclocked at 5.2GHz all cores, has displayed a better performance than many high-quality cooling systems and has shown significantly better noise performance, producing noise levels up to 33dbA.

SilverStone’s VIDA 240 SLIM AIO features a unique three-phase, six-pole pump motor integrated with the radiator; it helps reduce overall noise levels. Next to the pump exists a refill port, allowing users to refill the AIO without having to send for a repair. 

Discussing further, the VIDA 240 SLIM comes with an A-RGB controller, which allows the user to change the light settings of the fans and CPU block of the cooler with just a button click.

What we liked about this:

Some nice features, such as a rotatable CPU block and controllable A-RGB lighting, come at a budget-friendly price tag. Additionally, the ARGB elements that come with this cooler can also be connected to the motherboard. 

What we disliked about this:

Though everything is impressive about the VIDA 240 SLIM AIO cooler, a few points can be considered a drawback, like its very minimum time manufacturer warranty, which is only two years. Furthermore, the fans can be noisy at higher temps, and there might also be a concern regarding the RGB wiring, which is very unorganized, like a nest.

What distinguishes SilverStone Technology VIDA 240 Slim High from its competitors:

Along with all the features that VIDA 240 SLIM comes with, its Slim profile design is unique and a better choice for PC enthusiasts without sacrificing the cooling system’s attractiveness. Additionally, an impressive thermal design rating of 285W and all that coming at an affordable price makes it a top-notch AIO cooling system. 

Who is this for?

SilverStone VIDA 240 SLIM is quite impressive regarding both performance and design, especially for those who prefer an AIO cooling system that takes up low space, making it the Best Budget 240mm AIO Cooler on our listicle. This cooling system can be on the list of those geeks who prefer high-performing AIO cooling systems with RGB lighting.

• SilverStone VIDA 240 Slim Review

Performance: 9/10	Value: 8/10
Features: 8/10	Design: 9/10

CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML 120L RGB V2

Best Budget AIO Liquid Cooler

Specifications: Type: Single Fan AIO Liquid | TDP: 180W | Radiator Size: 120mm | Lighting: RGB | Dimensions: 157 x 119.6 x 27.2 mm 

MasterLqiuid ML 120L RGB V2 is the latest cooling system from CoolerMaster which promises to deliver excellent performance, compact design, and funky RGB LED lighting. As suggested by the name, the ML120L RGB V2 is a 120mm radiator design AIO liquid cooler. Of course, this indicates that it is small and compact, making it a good choice for small system builds with limited space. In addition, because it fits on the rear 120mm fan exhaust mount, it guarantees high support levels even in the chassis that don’t natively have water cooling support.

Furthermore, the MasterLiquid ML 120L RGB V2 has a sleek design with a black matte finish and customizable RGB lighting on the pump and fans. An RGB controller is provided with the cooler, which allows the customization of RGB lightning; however, when the cooler is fit inside the case, the controller might not have any way of controlling the lights. The low-profile pump fits easily into most PC cases and features a dual chamber design that separates the pump from the hot CPU. 

Moreover, MasterLiquid ML 120L is designed for high-performance cooling; it uses low-evaporation rubberized tubing with the radiator to quickly dissipate heat from the CPU. Additionally, the dual chamber design ensures efficient cooling, and the low-profile design allows for maximum clearance of RAM modules.

Furthermore, it features a 120mm fan that can reach speeds up to 2000 RPM, producing noise levels up to 15 dbA. Moreover, the fan speed is adjustable using PWM control, allowing for customized fan speed based on the user’s preference. Also, the TDP of MasterLiquid ML 120L RGB V2 is around 180W, which isn’t great but works for the budget category. 

In addition to other features, the installation process is straightforward; it comes with all the necessary mounting hardware and pre-applied thermal paste.

What we liked about this:

Several things to like about the MasterLiquid ML 120L RGB V2 include the efficient cooling performance, system design, simple installation, and adequate noise levels. Overall, this product offers a combination of performance and aesthetics at a handsome price, making it a popular choice.

What we disliked about this:

One of the potential drawbacks or points of concern to keep in mind is that the MasterLiquid ML 120L RGB V2 is a relatively compact liquid system with a 120mm radiator, which may limit its ability to cool more demanding CPUs or handle heavy overclocking. 

What distinguishes CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML 120L RGB V2 from its competitors:

CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML 120L RGB V2 offers features and capabilities that distinguish it from other cooling systems, like its customizable RGB lighting.

Who is this for?

Overall, the CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML 120L RGB V2 is particularly well-suited for gamers and overclockers who need a slight splash of overclocking as this cooler can’t take on very high temps. However, it is a reliable cooling solution that can handle heavy workload’s high temperatures well, putting it under the domain of Best Budget AIO Liquid Cooler. Additionally, it is a relatively low-profile liquid cooling system making it a good option for users with limited space or those who want a liquid cooling system that doesn’t take up much space.

Performance: 7/10	Value: 10/10
Features: 8/10	Design: 8/10

Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 A-RGB AIO

Best Budget 360mm AIO Liquid Cooler

Specifications: Type: Triple Fan AIO Liquid | TDP: 380W | Radiator Size: 360mm | Lighting: Addressable RGB LEDs | Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 26 mm

AQUAFUSION ADV 360 ARGB is the latest cooling system launched by Enermax, with enhanced cooling performance compared to its predecessors. It also features the same design as the previous models but with a black heat exchanger, a glassy logo, and two large notches on each side.

Regarding the design components, AQUAFUSION ADV 360 comes with 400mm long water hoses covered in black sleeves, which end at two adjustable joints on the pump block. This design provides users with flexibility when positioning the radiator. Moreover, the radiator has an FPI count of 20, which requires high-speed fans for adequate cooling. 

The cooler’s pump block also has an ARGB ring and a mirror featuring the Enermax logo on its lid. The pump can rotate at a maximum speed of 3200 RPM and uses ceramic bearings. Moreover, the pump has a large copper plate to transfer from the processor, ensuring quick heat dissipation and cooling the system faster. Copper is a good thermal conductor that releases heat quickly and enhances the system’s cooling performance. Additionally, the pump is designed on the Enermax Patent dual chamber mechanism, which allows it to work steadily.

Moreover, the processor generates heat which gets transferred to the first chamber; the pump draws in the heat from the chamber and directs it to the radiator, thereby preventing the pump from heat damage.

Additionally, the black SquA ADV ARGB fans on AQUAFUSION ADV 360 have a speed range of 500 RPM to 2000 RPM. When at full speed, fans produce noise levels up to 32.6 dbA, usually louder. Regarding the TDP, we see that AQUAFUSION ADV 360 has a TDP rating of 380W, which is exceptional for a liquid cooling system. 

On testing the thermal performance of this cooler, the AQUAFUSION ADV 360 maintained its excellent AIO cooling performance up to 60% PWM cycle while operating at 40% of its rated speed.

Moreover, fan corners have small rubber bumpers to prevent vibrations from transmitting to the radiator or case. When the radiator and fans are mounted together, the combined thickness is 52mm, making the AQUAFUSION ADV 360 suitable for cases with limited space for water-cooling components.

What we liked about this:

The cooler’s dual chamber design, central coolant inlet, and shunt channel technology all contribute to quicker and longer-lasting heat transmission. Additionally, it controls the CPU with its excellent cooling ability. Moreover, Enermax gives a 5-year warranty for AQUAFUSION ADV 360, which is quite good.

What we disliked about this:

However, the loud noise of fans proves to be a disadvantage for AQUAFUSION ADV 360. Also, the RGB wiring is quite unorganized and is very difficult to hide, which is very unusual in the case of an RGB cable system.

What distinguishes Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 A-RGB AIO from its competitors:

Enermax AQUAFUISON ADV 360 stands out from its competitors because of its good cooling performance and attractive design, all at a reasonable price tag. Additionally, the appealing design gives it an edge over other high-quality cooling systems, as some companies only focus on performance capabilities, while nowadays, users prefer performance and aesthetics. This cooling system offers flexibility, longevity, and efficiency, making it a value-for-money product and a better choice than others.

Who is this for?

Community, who prefer high-level cooling performance alongside attractive designs at an affordable price tag, AQUAFUSION ADV 360 is for them. If you’re looking for the Best Budget 360mm AIO Liquid Cooler, look no further, as Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 A-RGB AIO stands unchallenged on the spot.

• Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360mm Review

Performance: 9/10	Value: 9/10
Features: 8/10	Design: 9.5/10

Competition

Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4

Best Budget AM4 Cooler

Specifications: Type: Single Fan AIO | TDP: 65W | Radiator Size: 120mm | Lighting: No RGB | Dimensions: 158 mm x 125 mm x 45 mm

Noctua is one of the few companies defining silent heat dissipation systems globally. Whether mounting hardware upgrades following the market or providing the fastest cooling solutions for the latest releases, Noctua behaves in a customer-oriented way, which is what people love about this company. 

Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4 CPU Cooler is not very budget-friendly and comes under its premium mid-range lineup due to its demand and its target market. The users can expect no surprises about the price and performance. Nevertheless, it features a relatively small size factor with dimensions 158 mm x 125 mm x 45 mm. Similarly, it comprises a 120 mm U-type aluminum fan that can provide rotations rated between 300-1500 RPM. Considering the white tint all along the cooler’s body, you can also call it a White CPU Cooler. Noctua NH-U12S doesn’t come with RGB support, but that can be compromised if a cooler’s performance is the dominant feature. On top of that, it features 5 copper heat pipes and a U-Type copper-plated heatsink, the optimal standard for head dissipation nowadays due to its high electric and heat conduction.

What we liked about this:

Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4 features a brilliant NF-F12-focused fan flow that features rings of focusing fins to help direct airflow in a straight column. Like most Heatpipe coolers, Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4 has locking clips to connect and separate the radiator fins. In this set-up, these clips are used as shrouds, keeping the fins’ exposure to a minimum. Additionally, it has excellent memory and GPU clearance due to its thinner build. 

What we disliked about this: 

Overall performance is good, but it underperformed in specific tests. In some tests, Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4 started to lose efficiency at 115W, which is a cause for concern. Hence, it is entirely debatable if we can attribute this slight setback to a less aggressive fan curve or to the inaccurate thermal readings from Ryzen systems, as reported by AMD.

What distinguishes the Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4 from its competitors:

The Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4 resides in a league of its own. Boasting incredible features such as a Low Noise Adaptor (L.N.A), which drops the maximum speed of the bundled Noctua NF-F12 120mm PWM fan from 1500 RPM to 1200 RPM, thereby reducing noise output from an already silent 22.4 dB(A) to a whisper-quiet 18.6 dB(A). 

Who is this for?

Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4 is a bit expensive compared to some other products in this guide. The hour’s question demands to know if it’s worth your hard-earned dollars. The simple answer is Yes. Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4 has an adequate cooling performance being highly compatible with many Ryzen options; you can even slap it on Ryzen 9 5950x build for decent Overclocking. We can say that this is the Best Budget AM4 Cooler.

• Noctua NH-U12S-SE-AM4 Review

DeepCool Castle 240EX

Runner-Up For Best Budget AIO Liquid Cooler

Specifications: Type: Dual Fan AIO liquid | TDP: 120-240W | Radiator Size: 240mm | Lighting: Addressable RGB LEDs | Dimensions: 274 mm x 120 mm x 27 mm

There are very few companies that can accomplish being on similar lists more than once. It turns out that DeepCool is one of them. A massive trend of RGB lighting started in the early 2010s, and now, gamers mostly think it is a must-have aesthetic demand. DeepCool wanted to provide something that has both form and function in its specifications. 

According to DeepCool’s design, the 240mm radiator of DeepCool Castle 240EX is made of aluminum, making it lightweight. Increased skived fins increase the non-polished surface area by almost 25%, helping heat dissipation. DeepCool in this set-up used pressure charging impellers driven by a 3-phase x-life motor making it silent yet effective for liquid cooling. RGB controllers have been provided, giving the user many customization options. 

Although DeepCool Castle 240EX does support the Ryzen Threadripper 4th generation CPUs, it lacks support for the first three generations. So, the usability for overclocking is quite the latest in this regard. As more powerful CPUs become the banner heads for the advancements in performance, the newer models of coolers are expected to increase their performance by comparison. Even an above-average performance here will get the job done for anyone but extreme overclockers. For those interested in overclocking and who don’t come across the word very often, it is a process by which a user can surpass the maximum clock frequency of a CPU/GPU to increase performance.

What we liked about this:

The anti-leak valve allows for internal pressure relief and provides a smooth flow. Premium RGB lighting options with addressable LEDs are a very well-received feature. Its massive compatibility options also put it well above others, along with the features that it holds for dissipation.  

What we disliked about this: 

The price of DeepCool Castle 240EX is relatively high, which could have been compensated for if it had an excellent thermal performance. A lot of the focus from Deepcool seems to be focused on aesthetics once again.  

What distinguishes the DeepCool Castle 240EX from its competitors:

For the price, the 350W TDP, RGB looks, and the Anti-Leak technology of the DeepCool Castle 240EX distinguishes it from the competition.

Who is this for?

DeepCool Castle 240EX liquid cooler is definitely for you if you don’t mind a slight performance drop in exchange for an excellent hardware build and elegant design. Overall build quality screams the word “premium,” making it a perfect candidate for the category of Runner-Up For Best Budget AIO Liquid Cooler.

• DeepCool Castle 240EX Review

be quiet! Pure Rock 2

Best Budget CPU Cooler for Overclocking

Specifications: Type: Single Fan AIO | TDP: 150W | Radiator Size: 120mm | Lighting: No RGB | Dimensions: 119.9 mm x 119.9 mm x 24.9 mm

‘be quiet’ is a German-based company specializing in power supplies, CPU coolers, and case fans. As its name suggests, this company strives to deliver performance with legendary silent options. The company has established itself in the 20 years of its presence in the PC market. Some people prefer their products because of their massive efforts to reduce noise and deliver performance firsthand. ‘be quiet’ capitalized on the trend, which led to the demand for premium designs and high performance.

Another fantastic addition to our Best Budget CPU Coolers list was ‘be quiet’! Pure Rock 2. ‘be quiet! Pure Rock 2′ is a well-designed and durable cooler. It focuses on thermal performance and achieves this while being brilliantly quiet. ‘be quiet! Pure Rock 2’ has no GPU or memory clearance issues with easy installation. At the cost of a bit of performance bump, you get all the quiet in the world. However, you can switch to a faster fan speed, and then there would be noticeable but relatively quiet noise. 

The be quiet! Pure Rock 2 has a compact design and is one of the smaller builds of the ‘be quiet’ company. There are no RGB set-ups on the device, which is a blessing and an absolute turn-off for some. Indeed, its shining point is its price because of its availability in the range of $30-$40 in the market. ‘be quiet’! Pure Rock 2 is one of the most silent coolers in our budget coolers listicle. 

What we liked about this:

It is very attractive for users who wish for a simple yet performance-packed package with an offset design and a sleek body. ‘be quiet! Pure Rock 2′ is exceptionally quiet, and the performance it delivers is a significant contender against much more heavily priced coolers. However, everyone doesn’t like RGB set-ups because they distract them during gaming sessions.

What we disliked about this: 

There is not much to say about possible improvements due to its price point, as it says a lot about this device. Further progress in this price point is unfair; however, if there were some more stabilizing shock absorbers in the build, the device would be quieter. 

What distinguishes the BeQuiet! Pure Rock 2 from its competitors:

The BeQuiet! Pure Rock 2 performs a terrific job of supporting overclocking enthusiasts with a limited budget, offering a 120mm PWM fan (dubbed ‘Pure Wings 2’) that produces a maximum sound output of 26.8 dB(A) within a monochromatic enclosure, making it stand out from the competition. 

Who is this for?

‘be quiet! Pure Rock 2′ is a perfect mid-range cooler for users who prefer performance and quiet. Even under tremendous loads, it manages to run silently. Without a doubt, it offers performance, a sleek design, and a beautiful price point. If you despise the traditional RGB tower cooler, this product is definitely for you. Considering its remarkable performance and no-disturb-zone feels, if there were one title this cooler could get away with, it would be the Best Budget CPU Cooler for Overclocking. 

Noctua NH-L9i

Best Budget Low Profile CPU Cooler for Mini-ITX

Specifications: Type:  Single Fan AIO | TDP: 140 w |Radiator Size: 120mm |Lighting: A-RGB |Dimensions: 95 mm x 95 mm x 37 mm

As discussed earlier, Noctua is a customer-oriented company and tries to fill in the gaps of demand in the market by targeting very specific users. CPU cases come with different specifications and sizes, just like motherboards. The cooling solutions in these devices need to be compact yet powerful to solve thermal issues. “A solution for every problem” seems to be the focus for Noctua.

Noctua NH-L9i, at first look, does not seem to give any impressions of excellent performance. Enthusiasts interested in small-factor PCs needed something compact and effective, and this device does just that. The point to be noted here is that this device only targets Intel-based users. If you wish to go for the AMD model, check out the Noctua NH-L9a, and please note that you cannot compare both versions as they target different products. With 95 mm x 95 mm x 37 mm in dimension, Noctua NH-L9i is relatively small and effectively makes a low-profile cooler.

There is a strict TDP setting for this device where the user will not have much say in performance. Now, as to how it is built, there is a debate whether old manufacturing methods where pipes are soldered are a backtrack to developing these devices. The price point of $45-$55 is an absolute deal-breaker for some. The enthusiasts have different opinions on the matter, and if you are one of them, you can go for this device. 

What we liked about this:

From the design of the smallest things like fan blades to the more significant parts like a heat sink, Noctua has nailed the performance part of the device. Now the implementation is debatable, but what matters is the results. Results in this matter suggest that this device is quieter than most devices out there, and the sheer amount of airflow that it gives out despite its smaller form factor is astonishing. The build quality standards have not been compromised at all by Noctua here, making this the reason for the price bump in this cooler. If you want to save money and want performance from a smaller fan, this is a perfect choice.

What we disliked about this:

There are slight disagreements on the manufacturing methodology of this specific device, but since Noctua made it work, it is not a topic that is necessary to discuss. Since they decided to have this price point on a device like this, Noctua reflects this in their dedication to the market, where a particular set of people would want this specific cooler. So, yes, the only slight fault that we could find with this device would be the absence of RGB.

What distinguishes the Noctua NH-L9i from its competitors:

Delivering record-breaking performance in an SFF (Small Form Factor profile sporting a deceivingly low height of 37mm, the Noctua NH-L9i rises above the bar with its trademark brown aesthetic, combining whisper-quiet operation with a revolutionary mounting system backed up by a soothing 150,000-hour MTTF and an extensive 6-year warranty to grab a spot on our selective list of the Budget CPU Coolers in 2023, each of which is chosen to suit differentiating needs.

Who is this for?

Noctua NH-L9i  has been made for particular consumers, and it is not meant for everyone. If you are motivated to build your mini ITX set-ups or something similar, this device promises performance. If we were to assign it a title, we would define it as the Best Budget Low Profile CPU Cooler for Mini-ITX. If interested, take a look at our unboxing video as well.

• Noctua NH-L9i Review

Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB

Best Budget Intel CPU Cooler

Specifications: Type: Single Fan AIO | TDP: ~150W | Radiator Size: 120mm | Lighting: RGB Lighting | Dimensions: 123 mm x 77 mm x 158.8 mm

Coolermaster is a Taiwan-based company founded in 1992. So, it has been in business for nearly two decades, which suggests that they are experienced in the market. As its name suggests, the company focuses on cooling solutions for several products, including PCs. Cooler Master is the company that targets every single specification of a product out there are different price points and tries not to create a chink in its armor. The brand has built its reputation in these 20 years while sponsoring many Esports events and teams. They succeeded because they kept their quality up to par with their brand name building. 

Coolermaster has never had the best mounting options up its sleeves. Still, they made an exception and put everything they had into the design, performance, and installation easement for this model. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB checks all of your checklists and does so at a very competitive price. Similarly, this particular model targets mid-level performance in a budget option while not sacrificing performance or build quality. The device’s dimensions are not very big per se, so the GPU and memory clearance is excellent.

After a few tests, the performance we have judged has been adequate. Cooler Master Hyper 212 does make an above-average noise, but that, too, is accounted for by the Cooler Master. The company has built a stealth version of this same cooler to keep the noise factor down. The device features a perfect RGB set-up and ensures an aesthetically pleasing set-up along with a very detailed and sleek build. Additionally, the sheer airflow and static that the fan can direct are amazing. After checking all the breakpoints, we can say that this device is perfect for someone willing to spend just $70. However, there are always better and pricey options available, but this device is one of the best in the market for mid-level users.

What we liked about this:

A very simple answer would be EVERYTHING. The airflow that Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB lets out is very well-directed and designed to dissipate the heat with a very well-designed heatsink and heat pipes. However, the RGB might not be addressable, but it comes out with a very good controller to switch colors and lighting patterns. Indeed, the build quality is excellent, and very few competitors can come close to this performance, making its entry significant in the Best Budget CPU Coolers guide. For this price point, this is a very well-rounded device. 

What we disliked about this:

There is absolutely NOTHING that we could find that was a design fault or related to its price point. If it were absolute that there would be a fault, then the greatest fault would be the slight difference in performance in competition with some other devices with similar specifications. 

What distinguishes the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB from its competitors:

The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB packs serious potential into a 120mm conventional air cooler form factor with an alluring price tag that can drop to as low as $30 after discounts depending on the vendors you’re sourcing the cooler from. 

The Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB is specially engineered to cool down even the latest Alder Lake processors from Intel (which use an LGA 1700 CPU socket). Nonetheless, the Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB also supports a wide variety of older Intel and AMD CPUs as well as the latest Ryzen 5000 Series processors based on the AM4 platform. 

Armed with a 9-blade, 120mm PWM RGB fan (SF120R RGB) that’s rated at a spectacular MTTF of 160,000 hours and a sound profile maxing out at 30 dB(A), the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB is here, complete with a sleek appearance bearing a dark undertone to rock your world without requiring you to break out your wallet while staying under-the-radar in terms of noise output and visuals. 

Who is this for?

Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB is built for anyone that can spare a few more bucks out of their pocket to get a well-rounded CPU cooler. Priced at $70, Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB has a very sleek design along with proper aesthetics. Performance is the king in this deal, and it is quite noticeable in many benchmarking tests. Build quality is focused on directing the airflow properly. This device does not leave much to be desired at this price point. However, this device shows increased performance for Intel CPUs, so it is highly recommended for Intel systems simply by making it the Best Budget Intel CPU Cooler.

What Are Budget CPU Coolers?

CPU coolers are a significant category on their own. Like all other products, they also fall into multiple price ranges for each type of user base. However, due to the numerous options provided by the manufacturers and vendors, it is challenging for a newbie to decide when buying a CPU cooler for themselves, as each category is filled with unique options. There are numerous variations considering the CPU coolers based on CPU compatibility, GPU and RAM clearance, and performance, among others,s. Considering multiple possibilities, choosing the Best Budget Coolers In 2023 wasn’t easy. Our team had to take many steps to reach the final moment of bringing the top budget coolers, categorized according to their traits.

Firstly, we had to determine what we meant by the word ‘Budget.’ After a thorough analysis of the market and a clear view of the variety of options available in the space, a price range of less than $110 was finalized for the Budget category. This guide aims to facilitate the users falling in the bang-for-the-buck category that reaches out for the best options they can get for less, and these users cover the major segment of the market.

These users want an adequately built and performing CPU cooler on a budget that can extricate them from the thought of buying an expensive CPU Cooler for their budget build. After defining the budget category, we started exploring our options according to each famous CPU Cooler manufacturer like DeepCool, Cooler Master, and Noctua.

Benefits of Budget CPU Coolers

Stock coolers can surely get a lot done regarding the cooling of processors from both AMD and NVIDIA camps. However, a slight overclocking and the noise from their fans will make you think otherwise. Budget CPU coolers make it worth anyone’s while due to their prices. A little extra expenditure on your CPU cooler provides you with a better cooling solution and less noise from the fans. Without an excellent cooling solution for your PC, the system itself will take your CPU chip to oblivion. It is important to consider a budget CPU cooler to avoid that.

Drawbacks of Budget CPU Coolers

When it comes to budget coolers, in some cases, you might see a lack of expected performance during slight overclocking sessions. It might be possible that a budget option might not be the cooling solution that your system needs if it is a very high-end system. The majority of the new chips come with high clock speeds and thermal output. A budget option, in this case, might not be the product you want to go for.

How We Tested These Budget CPU Coolers

Testing out the coolers was a hectic task as all CPU Cooler manufacturers had a series of options lined up by air and liquid coolers, and compatibility and variance caused problems with testing. Firstly, after shortlisting the coolers, each cooler was separately put onto the compatible processor in three differently sized PC cases, ATX sized PC case, a microATX-sized PC case, and a mini-ITX-sized PC case. Putting the CPU cooler in different PC cases helped us determine the GPU and memory clearance of the cooler. 

As far as liquid coolers are concerned, we examined the piping space and proper liquid flow alongside the optimality of the cooler. Not only that, radiator sizes like 360mm, 280mm, and 240mm were also brought into consideration as they matter because increasing the radiator thickness increases the cooling capacity of the CPU Cooler. Secondly, the PC rig used was pushed to its limits, increasing the amount of heat generated by the CPU itself alongside other components.

The temperatures before and after the heavy load tasks were recorded, and gradual cooling time was also observed for each cooler which helped us determine the actual performance of the cooler in high-load cases. On top of that, the CPU cooler’s fan noise was also measured using a sound level meter, helping us determine the loudest and quietest Budget CPU cooler out there. Lastly, we checked the overall quality of the CPU cooler and how it was put off in tight spaces alongside the fit and grip on the CPU itself.

That’s how we analyzed each cooler, tested it thoroughly, and brought to you the Best Budget CPU Coolers in the market categorized by the qualities that define them.

Our Criteria For Selecting the Best Budget CPU Coolers

We conducted our research for the Budget CPU Coolers based on some criteria used to render our final verdict on the matter. However, the user can opt to prioritize their factors for their future purchases. This guide will help them make better purchase decisions leading to ultimate satisfaction.

For your convenience, we’ve mentioned and explained a couple of crucial points to brood over while attempting to complete your quest for handpicking the Budget CPU cooler in accordance with your unique workflows.

Compatibility

It’s no surprise that even some of the Budget CPU Coolers will not be compatible with your particular CPU since every cooler has a differing mounting procedure and installation process. Manufacturers may launch two variants of the same cooler, one for Intel and the other for the AMD guys and gals. 

That’s why it’s essential to cross-match your desired Budget cooler’s support for the processor you’re planning to pair it with. As you must’ve already noticed, for your convenience, we’ve already highlighted all the CPU sockets that are supported by each of the Budget CPU Coolers.

(Sidenote: If you’re showing off the all-new Intel Alder Lake CPUs, you may reach out to the coolers’ manufacturers to see if they’ll provide you with an upgrade kit for the LGA 1700 socket should you wish to utilize any of the Budget CPU Coolers listed above, and of course, assuming the manufacturer hasn’t already included the kit in the packaging. That being said, have a look at our recognized list of the Best LGA 1700 CPU Coolers as well. 

Efficiency

Even the Budget CPU Coolers will differentiate from each other in terms of operational efficiency. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a CPU Cooler with the capacity (and some extra clearance) to capably cool down your entire PC alongside the CPU without needing to induce thermal throttling to maintain satisfactory temperatures.

For example, if you happen to be running an AMD Ryzen 9 5950X, the TDP (Thermal Design Process) for that processor is rated at 105W, so you should be searching for a cooler rated at 110-130W+ so as to give you slight overclocking clearance as well, should the day ever come for that.

Thermal performance

We are focused on judging the cooler’s airflow and heat dissipation ability. The mechanical design that helps heat dissipation and prolongs the cooler’s life is also brought into the discussion. 

TDP Configurations 

The lower the amount of TDP required, the smaller the cooler. This relationship works across all coolers. In fact, higher TDP usually means more coverage area, speed, and fans, as more TDP generates more heat.

Noise

As the CPU ramps up its temperatures under load, its fan automatically gains more speed when controlled by the motherboard to cool the system down, producing noise that can be very off-putting. So the noise that a cooler produces is a very important factor when choosing the right product.

Build Quality and Aesthetics

Since we judge a book by its cover, we tend to look at the most obvious features first. Aesthetics like RGB LEDs, mechanical features like the build material that helps in heat dissipation, and apparent build quality matter a lot if you are buying one of these in person. Surprisingly, these products’ performance and actual benchmark are usually considered after all these features. Almost no modern CPU coolers perform noticeably badly, so almost all of these perform on average, at the very least.  

Manufacturers tend to distinguish their respective offerings for the Budget CPU Coolers by offering their unique take on the cooler’s aesthetics and build quality. Some brands might opt for more premium construction and dazzling RGB capabilities, leading to a higher price tag. In contrast, others may favor a slightly unexotic or more practical approach, sacrificing their design flair for perhaps improvised cooling performance and, with luck, a lower cost price.

Manufacturer Support

We make it a habit of closely scrutinizing each of the Budget CPU Coolers listed in terms of after-sales customer service care provided by each manufacturer, keeping in mind past experiences and track records while also inspecting the MTTF of individual components such as the fan, pump (if any), and the entire unit itself.

Of course, we don’t let warranty periods slide by, actively encouraging manufacturers to stand by their products for an extended period of time, often up to 6-years.

Price to Performance

What separates a budget CPU cooler from every other cooler is a particular device’s price-to-performance ratio. Our core focus when selecting a device is the thermal performance the device exhibits during a benchmark test. We figure out the optimal and the worst settings of the said cooler. At the end of the list, we sort out the types and classify them to make it easy for all of you to go through them in a hurry if you must.

Why trust Tech4Gamers?

Tech4Gamers team has a passion for these emerging technologies. Featuring products free of any external influence, we aim to provide you with credible and in-depth reviews. We try our best to cover a wide horizon of technologies associated with the most popular ones in demand to ensure that you get the best device for your needs. In return, we demand nothing but your satisfaction.

Our dedicated team has been refined consistently to produce a potent group of knowledgeable individuals who are known to relay the most accurate information to our valued consumers, thanks to the extensive research and reviewing we conduct before we publish every piece of journalism.

In addition to this, we have been explicitly featured on a majority of the top-notch gaming and tech brands, such as Gigabyte, MSI, Asus, and DeepCool, to name a few, as reliable and trusted sources for Hardware and Technology.

These and other reputed manufacturers such as Noctua, Thermaltake, Xigmatek, and many others regularly send samples to us, based on which we formulate unbiased reviews to give our readers a genuine representation of the product from an objective perspective.

Subsequently, we instill confidence in our esteemed consumers, who may rely on us to give them the best advice for building, customizing, and modifying their personal gaming computers.

Budget Coolers vs AMD Wraith Spire

Aspect	Budget Coolers	AMD Wraith Spire
Cooling Performance	Offers satisfactory cooling for most needs	Decent cooling performance
Build Quality	Average build quality	Good build quality
Noise Output	Moderate noise levels	Barely noticeable noise output
Installation	Relatively straightforward installation process	Easy-to-install setup
High-Temperature Performance	Can be good	May struggle under high temperatures
Price	Affordable	Included with AMD CPUs (stock cooler)

The Wraith Spire is AMD’s stock cooler that ships out with all of its CPU coolers. It is a very compact cooler with an easy-to-install set-up along with a decent cooling performance and good build quality. The output noise is barely noticeable. Under stress, it does not, however, farewell. So, it is still suggested to go for budget cooler options if you have a few bucks to spare. Overclockers and little over-the-edge casual users will feel that the AMD stock coolers lack the mechanical capacity to survive under high temperatures. The decision on this matter completely lies with the users.

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