BEST AM5 CPU Coolers In 2023 [We Tested All]

The new AM5 platform has swiftly taken over the gaming scene, thanks to the powerful AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPUs that came with it. Harnessing the generational improvements of the new Zen 4 architecture, the new Ryzen 7000 series CPUs have shown a monumental leap in overall performance over the previous generation. With that said, the new AM5 CPUs also have higher power demands, necessitating the need for high-quality aftermarket CPU coolers for optimal operation.

Here’s a quick look at our selected AM5 CPU coolers and a brief comparison of their specs:

Last update on 2023-12-13

Best AM5 CPU Coolers

Here is a selection of the best AM5 CPU coolers that you can buy right now:

1. DeepCool AK620 DIGITAL Performance Air Cooler
2. ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 A-RGB
3. Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT LCD Cooler
4. Corsair iCUE H170i Elite LCD XT Liquid CPU Cooler
5. Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360
6. Noctua NH-L9a-AM5 Chromax Black

DeepCool AK620 DIGITAL Performance Air Cooler

Best AM5 Air Cooler

Cooler Type: Dual Tower Air Cooler | Dimensions (LxWxH): 129 × 138 × 162 mm | Fans: 2x 120mm 4-pin PWM Fans | Fan Speed: 1850 RPM | Noise Level: 28 dBA | Socket Support: Intel LGA 2066, 2011-v3, 2011, 1700, 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, AM5, AM4 | RGB: Yes 

One may not think of air coolers when looking for the best cooling solution for an AM5 CPU but don’t overlook this category just yet. The DeepCool AK620 Digital is one of the finest cooling products I have tested, and it has redefined the air cooling space with its unique approach.

Dimensions: The DeepCool AK620 Digital CPU Cooler boasts a distinctive Dual Tower design, enhancing its cooling efficiency over standard air coolers. Equipped with two 120mm fans, it ensures optimal airflow and heat dissipation. With dimensions of 129 x 138 x 162mm (LxWxH), it offers a large footprint while being quite manageable in most cases. While its slightly elevated height could potentially impact case compatibility, its RAM compatibility remains unaffected, allowing seamless integration with various setups.

Cooling Performance: From a performance standpoint, the AK620 from DeepCool stands as an excellent cooling solution, particularly tailored for mid-range AM5 CPUs like the Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 7. Thanks to its 260W heat dissipation capacity, it confidently manages moderate overclocking demands, ensuring stable and efficient performance even at high clock speeds. The dynamic fan profile plays a pivotal role in maintaining optimal gaming temperatures, contributing to an enhanced gaming experience. The AK620 can be regarded as one of the very best air coolers on the market in terms of cooling performance, particularly when paired with AM5 processors.

Build Quality: With six advanced copper heat pipes, the DeepCool AK620 efficiently dissipates heat, resulting in superb thermal capacity for sustained performance. Its large fin array maximizes surface area, enhancing heat dissipation, while the pure copper cold plate ensures direct contact with the CPU for efficient heat transfer. The cooler’s dense dual tower heatsink further enhances its cooling prowess, making it an ideal match for high-performance AM5 CPUs like the Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 7 series, ensuring optimal thermal management for uninterrupted gaming experiences.

Aesthetics: The DeepCool AK620 stands out with its striking all-black design, exuding a sense of sleek elegance. Its sharp edges add a touch of personality to its aesthetic, creating a unique visual appeal. The two strips of RGB lighting provide a touch of exquisite flair, allowing for customizable illumination that can complement various setups. Perfectly suited for all-black stealthy builds, the AK620 seamlessly integrates into modern gaming rigs. The inclusion of a customizable screen adds an extra layer of sophistication, making it not only a capable cooler but also a stylish centerpiece for any enthusiast’s system.

Noise Level: Operating at a maximum fan speed of 1850 RPM, the two 120mm fans of the DeepCool AK620 maintain a commendable noise level of up to 28 dBA. This noise profile strikes a harmonious balance between performance and tranquility, ensuring a quiet and comfortable environment for users. The inclusion of dual ball bearing fans further enhances the cooler’s noise performance, delivering smooth and quiet operation. The dynamic PWM range contributes to an improved level of silence, making the AK620 an excellent choice for those seeking efficient cooling without compromising on peace and quiet.

Value For Money: DeepCool’s AK620 Digital CPU Cooler offers superb value for money, particularly for users seeking top-tier air cooling solutions. It’s a perfect match for mid-range AM5 CPUs like Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 7, enhancing their performance and providing an efficient cooling solution. While it may come across as slightly more expensive for an air cooler, the unique features such as the customizable screen contribute significantly to its overall value proposition, making it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts looking for a blend of performance and innovation.

Buy It If:

You want the best air cooler for AM5 CPUs: With its exceptional cooling performance and superb build quality, the DeepCool AK620 is ideal for the job.

Don’t Buy It If:

You prefer water cooling: One may simply prefer the elegance of water cooling over the brute force of air cooling, and that is a purely subjective choice.

What Makes It The Best Air Cooler For AM5?

Thanks to its exceptional build quality, commendable thermal performance, and innovative features, the DeepCool AK620 Digital is the best air cooler for AM5 right now.

• DeepCool AK620 CPU Cooler Review
• Best CPU Coolers in 2023

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

ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 A-RGB

Best AM5 240mm AIO CPU Cooler

Cooler Type: 240mm AiO Liquid Cooler | Dimensions (LxWxH): 277 × 38 × 120 mm | Fans: 2x 120mm 4-pin PWM Fans | Fan Speed: 1800 RPM | Noise Level: 22.5 dBA | Socket Support: Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1156, 2011-3, 2066, AMD AM4, AM5 | RGB: Yes 

ARCTIC has been a household name in CPU cooling for a while now, and its products have garnered quite a reputation among value-hunters and enthusiasts alike. For the 240mm AiO category, it is hard to find a better fit for the new AM5 processors than the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 A-RGB.

Dimensions: The Liquid Freezer II is a very versatile and reasonable choice for a new AM5 build, thanks to its compact frame and mainstream radiator size. The 240mm radiator allows the widest compatibility range for any AiO cooler among modern cases, while the 38mm width is not cumbersome at all. It has a bit of a thicker radiator than some competing options in this category, but the extra thickness only furthers the thermal performance of the radiator and does not act as a hindrance toward compatibility.

Cooling Performance: One can be quick to discard the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II simply due to its 240mm radiator size, but don’t let that fool you. Despite being on the compact end of AiO sizes, the Liquid Freezer II is one of the strongest performers in its category when it comes to cooling AM5 CPUs. With its 200 watts heat dissipation capacity, the Liquid Freezer II can handle any AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPU that you can pair with it, with the possible exception of overclocked Ryzen 9 parts. That said, the Liquid Freezer II punches way above its weight in relation to its pricing.

Build Quality: ARCTIC has not made any major compromises with the build quality of the Liquid Freezer II, despite its mainstream price point. The tubing stands out particularly, thanks to its fiber-reinforced outer covering that allows for extra protection against evaporation and external scrapes. The cold plate uses a custom offset mounting mechanism that allows it to sit directly on top of the AM5 CPU hotspots. ARCTIC has a unique addition to the pump block as well; a 45mm fan provides airflow to your motherboard’s VRM components to improve heat dissipation and maximize their performance.

Aesthetics: The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240mm AiO cooler boasts an exquisite aesthetic with its sleek all-black pump block, exuding a sense of sophistication and performance. The inclusion of customizable RGB fans is an attraction for those who prefer a splash of lighting. The subtle yet striking black-and-white pattern on the tubing adds a touch of elegance to the overall design, accentuating its modern appeal. While the absence of RGB lighting on the pump block is a minor missed opportunity, the cooler’s overall aesthetics remain an impressive blend of form and function.

Noise Level: ARCTIC often prides itself on remarkably quiet operation, and the Liquid Freezer II is no exception. With fans capable of reaching up to 1800 RPM, the cooler effectively balances cooling performance and noise reduction. Its noise level, peaking at a mere 22.5 dBA, remains impressively low, allowing for undisturbed usage even under heavy loads. The inclusion of a soft default fan curve further contributes to its hushed acoustics, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize both efficient cooling and minimal noise disruption.

Value For Money: In the 240mm AiO category, the Liquid Freezer II offers exceptional value for money with its combination of affordability and performance. As one of the best options in the 240mm AIO category, it provides a cost-effective solution for achieving efficient liquid cooling for AM5 CPUs. Particularly well-suited for pairing with Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 7 CPUs, the cooler delivers solid thermal management without breaking the bank, making it a smart investment for any discerning PC builder.

Buy It If:

You want the ideal 240mm AiO: In this performance category, the ARCTiC Liquid Freezer II remains the undisputed recommendation for AM5 CPUs.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want the highest overclocking results: While the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II can definitely handle manual overclocking, it may not produce the highest sustained results due to its 240mm size.

What Makes It The Best 240mm AIO CPU Cooler For AM5?

Equipped with a superb custom pump block, quiet 120mm fans, and unique features, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II is the best 240mm AiO CPU cooler for AM5.

• ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 A-RGB Review
• Best 240mm AiO Coolers

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

Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT LCD Cooler

Best AM5 360mm AIO CPU Cooler

Cooler Type: 360mm AiO Liquid Cooler | Dimensions (LxWxH): 397 × 26 × 120 mm | Fans: 3x 120mm 4-pin PWM Fans | Fan Speed: 2100 RPM | Noise Level: 34.1 dBA | Socket Support: Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1156, 2011, 2066, AMD AM4, AM5, sTR4 | RGB: Yes 

One cannot go through a list of CPU cooler recommendations without mentioning Corsair and for good reason. Corsair has gained the trust of enthusiasts for well over a decade, and their new H150i Elite Capellix XT cooler is one of the finest options for AM5 CPUs.

Dimensions: The Corsair H150i Elite Capellix XT AiO cooler boasts specific dimensions of 397 × 26 × 120 mm (LxWxH), making it a relatively large CPU cooler that is more ideally suited to mid-tower and full-tower PC cases. Equipped with three 120mm fans, the cooler favors raw performance over compactness, and that is a fair bargain in this performance class. The relatively thick radiator enhances its cooling performance and durability further. However, potential buyers should exercise caution and verify case compatibility before purchasing to ensure seamless integration within their systems.

Cooling Performance: The H150i Elite Capellix XT 360mm cooler stands out as a top-tier cooling solution, boasting remarkable heat dissipation capabilities. Its impressive thermal performance makes it a prime choice for overclocking enthusiasts, and it’s particularly well-suited for managing the heat generated by overclocked Ryzen 9 CPUs. The H150i thus stands out as the ideal 360mm radiator for AM5 CPUs. This is achieved through an exceptional combination of a high-quality pump and a well-built radiator, cementing its reputation as one of the best AiO coolers available in the market.

Build Quality: The Capellix series from Corsair has always been a step ahead of the competition in terms of build quality. The H150i Elite separates itself from the crowd on the basis of its extraordinary Corsair AF-series 120mm fans, as well as the reinforced fiber-coated tubing that provides a premium feel to the product. Of course, the pump block and radiator combination are top-notch for extraordinary performance, and even the 480×480 screen leaves nothing to be desired. All the components betray a sense of luxury that is hard to match in this product category.

Aesthetics: Corsair has never been one to shy away from daring design, and the same trend continues here. The H150i boasts stunning aesthetics, highlighted by its exceptional iCUE RGB lighting that adds a captivating visual dimension to any setup. With its elegant all-white design, the white variant is a perfect choice for those aiming to create immaculate white-themed builds. The inclusion of a customizable screen further enhances its visual appeal, making it not only a cooling powerhouse but also one of the most attractive AiO coolers available, enhancing the overall aesthetics of any PC build.

Noise Level: The Corsair H150i Elite Capellix XT 360mm AiO cooler offers a reasonable noise profile, although its fans can become slightly loud at a maximum noise output of 34.1 dBA. Operating at a maximum fan speed of 2100 RPM, the cooler leans a bit towards maximum performance while still keeping acoustics within a reasonable range. While it may be a touch louder, its noise profile remains comfortable and comparable to other 360mm coolers in its class. The default fan curve favors silence as the H150i is equipped with ZeroRPM mode as well.

Value For Money: While the Corsair H150i Elite Capellix XT is priced on the higher side, its impressive features and performance make it a worthwhile investment. With a solid price-to-performance ratio, it offers top-notch cooling capabilities, especially for the premium AM5 CPUs, making it a prime choice for enthusiasts and overclockers seeking optimal thermal management. Despite its relatively higher cost, its extraordinary performance and compatibility contribute to its reputation as one of the top-performing AIO coolers in its class, providing reasonable value for the money spent.

Buy It If:

You want the ideal 360mm AiO: The 360mm AiO size is considered the sweet spot for AM5 CPUs, and the Capellix H150i Elite is one of the finest examples of this category.

Don’t Buy It If:

You have a limited budget: While it provides a positive value proposition, the price tag of the Capellix H150i Elite is rather steep.

What Makes It The Best 360mm AIO CPU Cooler For AM5?

Featuring extraordinary thermal performance, quiet AF-series fans, and a unique display, the Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT is the best 360mm AiO CPU Cooler for AM5.

• Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT Review
• Best 360mm AiO Coolers
• Best White CPU Coolers

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

Corsair iCUE H170i Elite LCD XT Liquid CPU Cooler

Best AM5 420mm AIO CPU Cooler

Cooler Type: 420mm AiO Liquid Cooler | Dimensions (LxWxH): 454 × 27 × 139 mm | Fans: 3x 140mm 4-pin PWM Fans | Fan Speed: 1700 RPM | Noise Level: 33.8 dBA | Socket Support: Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1156, 2011, 2066, AMD AM4, AM5, sTR4 | RGB: Yes 

While 420mm AiO liquid coolers were considered overkill a few years ago, they are slowly making their way into the mainstream market. With the rise of power-hungry CPUs like the Intel Raptor Lake and AM5 series, a 420mm AiO cooler like the Corsair iCUE H170i Elite makes a lot of sense.

Dimensions: It comes as no surprise that a 420mm AiO cooler might raise compatibility issues with a lot of standard mid-tower PC cases. The sheer size and heft of the radiator is the major contributing factor to the cooler’s dimensions of 454 × 27 × 139 mm. While the radiator is not exceptionally thick, it does take up 3x 140mm fan slots which is a lot of surface area in a modern PC. You will need a full-tower or a larger mid-tower PC case for this particular AiO cooler, so be sure to check the case compatibility beforehand.

Cooling Performance: Once you get past the compatibility layer, however, the Corsair H170i Elite is allowed to truly stretch its wings. It offers extraordinary thermal performance, which one might expect with the combination of a 420mm radiator and 3x 140mm fans. The H170i Elite is the CPU cooler to buy if you plan to overclock the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X, or 7950X CPUs from the Ryzen 7000 series. The cooler is perfectly capable of handling PBO and manual overclocking on these CPUs without breaking a sweat.

Build Quality: The premium iCUE AiOs from Corsair have maintained a premium level in terms of build quality, and the H170i Elite is another iteration that follows the same trends. Besides the well-built radiator and premium pump combo, the fiber-reinforced tubing plays a vital role in establishing the H170i Elite as a high-end product with unmatched build quality. Of course, the AF-series fans add to the elegance of the product due to their premium quality, and the sharp, crystal clear screen is another added bonus that elevates the look and feel of the H170i Elite.

Aesthetics: One cannot talk about a Corsair iCUE product without paying attention to its aesthetics. The H170i Elite is one of the most attractive liquid coolers on the market, particularly due to its impressive RGB implementation. The RGB lighting in the fans is well-diffused, and the same can be said about the illumination around the pump block. The 480×480 resolution screen is another significant part of the product’s design, and it can allow you to personalize the look of your AiO cooler by adding custom GIFs, images, or text messages.

Noise Level: It is realistic to expect that a 420mm AiO will produce a slightly higher noise signature simply due to the sheer volume of air that it has to move. The H170i Elite performs slightly above average in terms of acoustics, as it manages to keep the noise profile very comfortable in most scenarios. The fans have a maximum speed of 1700RPM with a maximum noise output of 33.8 dBA, which is on par with some high-end 360mm AiOs. However, the 140mm fans of the H170i have the advantage of higher airflow and more static pressure.

Value For Money: Of course, with the performance levels that it offers, the Corsair H170i Elite is not an inexpensive cooler by any means. It comes with a premium price tag that is targeted at enthusiasts and overclocking hobbyists. However, its value proposition is still acceptable due to its unique position in the market. For someone who wants to unlock the full power of the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X through manual overclocking, it may not make a lot of sense to go for cheaper options.

Buy It If:

You want to overclock Ryzen 9 CPUs: With the power of the 420mm radiator and premium AF-series fans, the Corsair H170i Elite is the ideal cooler for this job.

Don’t Buy It If:

You have a limited budget: Despite its unique position in the market, the Corsair H170i Elite will surely leave a dent in your wallet.

What Makes It The Best 420mm AIO CPU Cooler For AM5?

With its extraordinary cooling capabilities, unmatched overclocking potential, and unique features, the Corsair iCUE H170i Elite XT is the best 420mm AiO CPU Cooler for AM5.

• CORSAIR iCUE H170i Elite LCD XT Cooler Review

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

Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360

Best Budget AM5 CPU Cooler

Cooler Type: 360mm AiO Liquid Cooler | Dimensions (LxWxH): 394 × 27 × 120 mm | Fans: 3x 120mm 4-pin PWM Fans | Fan Speed: 2000 RPM | Noise Level: 32.6 dBA | Socket Support: Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1156, 2011-3, 2066, AM5, AM4, AM3+, FM2+, FM1 | RGB: Yes 

While the AM5 CPUs are quite power-hungry by nature, that does not mean that you need to invest in an overly expensive cooling solution in order to handle them. The Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 is a relatively affordable 360mm AiO cooler that is perfectly capable of handling most Ryzen 7000 series CPUs at a reasonable price point.

Dimensions: Being a 360mm AiO cooler, the Aquafusion ADV 360 is not the most compact liquid cooling solution out there. Its 394 × 27 × 120 mm dimensions fall right in the average size bracket when it comes to comparable AiO coolers in its performance category. The radiator is a bit thick at 27mm, but it uses its added thickness to increase the surface area of the fins and thus improve heat dissipation.

Cooling Performance: The Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 does not make any significant compromises when it comes to cooling performance, as it is still one of the finest 360mm AiO coolers on the market. With its sky-high 380W thermal dissipation capacity, the Aquafusion ADV 360 is ideally suited for AMD Ryzen 7 and Ryzen 9 CPUs at stock or even overclocked settings. You may not hit the highest sustained clocks on an overclocked Ryzen 9, but the cooler is more than capable of handling the majority of day-to-day scenarios with this CPU.

Build Quality: Enermax has made a name for itself in the AiO cooling space with its approach to build quality and attention to detail. In the Aquafusion ADV 360, Enermax has utilized the dual-chamber pump design that maximizes the lifespan of the pump while maintaining performance. Moreover, the Central Coolant Inlet (CCI) technique introduces coolant at the highest temperature point to avert sudden rises in heat. The Shunt-channel Technology (SCT) configuration reduces the path of coolant flow, leading to quicker heat transfer.

Aesthetics: Enermax does not exactly have a set design language that is consistent through its product stack, so there is more room to experiment here. The pump block of the Aquafusion is especially attractive thanks to the infinity mirror effect that is implemented using RGB lighting. The Enermax fans have a slightly squared shape with RGB strips in the same layout, thus creating a unique design profile that separates it from the crowd. The central lighting in the fans is very nicely diffused, which gives off a sleek and sophisticated look.

Noise Level: If I were to nitpick, the noise profile of the Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 is slightly inferior to the competitors in the same size category. The 3x 120mm fans have a maximum speed of 2000 RPM, with a maximum noise level of 32.6 dBA. While this is slightly higher on paper, it does not create any noticeable disturbance in real-life operation, even when operating under load. Moreover, we have to take into account the lower price point of the Aquafusion ADV 360 compared to other 360mm AiOs on the market. All in all, the noise level may be slightly higher, but it does not alter the buying decision.

Value For Money: As the Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 is one of the more affordable 360mm AiO coolers on the market, it really excels in terms of value. Its heat dissipation capabilities are on par with more premium options from other brands, but the cut-down cost allows the Aquafusion to deliver a superior price-to-performance ratio. Thanks to its unique position in the market, the Aquafusion ADV 360 is the ideal pick for value hunters who want the best budget cooler for their Ryzen 7000 series CPU.

Buy It If:

You want the best budget AM5 cooler: With its affordable price tag and superb cooling performance, the Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 is the ideal value pick for AM5 CPUs.

Don’t Buy It If:

You prefer a quieter experience: Although the Aquafusion ADV 360 is not loud by any means, it has a slightly higher noise output than competitors in this category.

What Makes It The Best Budget AM5 CPU Cooler?

The Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 delivers excellent cooling performance, a unique look, and versatile features at an affordable price point, making it the best budget AM5 CPU cooler.

• Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 Review
• Best Budget CPU Coolers
• Best CPU Cooler Under $100

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

Noctua NH-L9a-AM5 Chromax Black

Best Low Profile AM5 CPU Cooler

Cooler Type: Low Profile Air Cooler | Dimensions (LxWxH): 92 × 114 × 37 mm | Fans: 1x 92mm 4-pin PWM Fan | Fan Speed: 2500 RPM | Noise Level: 23.6 dBA | Socket Support: AM5 | RGB: No

With the rising tide of small form factor PCs, enthusiasts are now turning to low-profile CPU coolers to handle the CPU cooling in their systems. It is hard to find a low-profile CPU cooler that provides satisfactory thermal performance without sounding like a jet engine, but the Noctua NH-L9a-AM5 fits the bill just nicely.

Dimensions: Perhaps the most important feature of the NH-L9a from Noctua is its unique small form factor design. With compact dimensions of 92 × 114 × 37 mm, the NH-L9a has immensely wide case compatibility, especially thanks to its low height of only 37mm. Moreover, the cooler also does not interfere with any memory sticks on either side due to its flat design as opposed to a tower style. The cooler also uses just a 92mm fan instead of a regular 120mm one, further saving space on all sides of the cooler and enhancing compatibility.

Cooling Performance: The compact size and single-fan configuration of the Noctua NH-L9a might raise some initial concerns at first glance, but don’t let that fool you. With Noctua’s acclaimed engineering, the cooler punches way above its weight and delivers admirable cooling performance with the majority of Ryzen 7000 series CPUs. In my testing, the Noctua NH-L9a kept the AMD Ryzen 7 7700X at a reasonable 85.3C during an all-core Cinebench R23.2 load. The Noctua NH-L9a is perfectly suited for AMD Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 7 CPUs from the AM5 line.

Build Quality: The Noctua NH-L9a is an exceptionally well-built heatsink, which conforms with Noctua’s reputation in this product category. The heatsink uses two large 6mm copper heat pipes that curve through the heatsink array and maximize heat dissipation. The copper baseplate is in continuation with a very dense fin-stack, further increasing the surface area of the metal. The NF-A9x14 fan uses Noctua’s SS02 bearings, giving it a projected lifespan of 150,000 hours.

Aesthetics: Noctua has kept it simple regarding the design of the Noctua NH-L9a Chromax Black, simply due to its one-tone theme. This variant of the NH-L9a uses an all-black design, with black heatsink fins, a black fan, black blades, and even all-black heat pipes. There is a lack of RGB lighting on the cooler, but we have come to expect that from Noctua products. The cooler actually looks pretty nice and understated and will pair perfectly with an all-black-themed build or if you want to build a stealthy workstation PC.

Noise Level: Despite its single-fan configuration, the NH-L9a performs exceptionally well in terms of noise. Of course, being a Noctua product, that comes as no surprise. The 92mm NF-A9x14 PWM fan has a maximum speed of 2500 RPM and produces a maximum noise of only 23.6 dBA. These are exceptional numbers for a single-fan CPU cooler, especially one that is as compact in size as the NH-L9a. The anti-vibration pads of the fan also do an exceptionally good job of minimizing unwanted noises from the cooler.

Value For Money: The Noctua NH-L9a Chromax Black is slightly more expensive than competing air coolers in this performance category, but it brings some unique features to the table as well. It offers an impressive value proposition thanks to its low-profile design and extraordinary acoustic performance, which is a trademark of Noctua products. When building a small-form-factor PC around the AM5 platform, it might make sense to opt for the Noctua NH-L9a instead of saving a few bucks and going with an inferior option.

Buy It If:

You want a low-profile cooler: If you’re building a small-form-factor AM5 PC, then the Noctua NH-L9a is the ideal cooler to get.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want RGB lighting: Noctua does not indulge in the trend of RGB lighting, and that may be an inconvenience for some users.

What Makes It The Best Low Profile AM5 CPU Cooler?

The Noctua NH-L9a-AM5 Chromax Black is the best low profile AM5 CPU cooler thanks to its excellent thermal performance, low noise output, and extremely compact form factor that makes it ideal for SFF PCs.

• Noctua NH-L9a-AM5 Cooler Review
• Best Low Profile CPU Coolers

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

More AM5 CPU Coolers:

• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 7950X3D
• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 7950X
• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 7 7700
• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 5 7600X

Best AM5 CPU Coolers Benchmarks

At Tech4Gamers, we subject every product to a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure its quality and performance before it earns a spot in our roundup. As for the AM5 CPU coolers, our meticulous evaluations reveal a lineup of coolers that exhibit exceptional thermal performance and efficiency:

Important CPU Cooler Key Terms

Here’s a rundown of essential CPU cooler terms that you should know when shopping for an AM5 CPU cooler:

1. TDP: Thermal Design Power, or TDP, is the maximum heat a CPU cooler can handle, measured in watts.
2. FPI: FPI or Fins Per Inch is a measure of the density of fins on a radiator per inch.
3. Heatsink: Metal structure with fins that draws heat away from the CPU.
4. Liquid Cooling: A system that uses liquid coolant to cool the CPU, often in a closed-loop setup.
5. Radiator: A radiator is a crucial part of a liquid cooling loop, as it uses tiny metal fins to dissipate heat from the loop using airflow from fans.
6. Thermal Paste: The material applied between the CPU and heatsink for better heat conduction.
7. Heat Pipes: These are tubes with heat-conductive liquid, moving the heat from the CPU to the heatsink.
8. Noise Level: Measured sound output of the CPU cooler in decibels.
9. Clearance: Available space in the PC case for the CPU cooler, accounting for size.

How We Picked The Best AM5 CPU Coolers

Choosing the best CPU cooler for your AM5 system can be a bit of a challenge. Even if you are familiar with the thermal demands of your CPU of choice, there are so many other factors that are crucial in the purchasing process.

Here are some of the key factors that I considered when making my selection.

Cooling Performance

When purchasing a new AM5 CPU cooler, considering the cooling performance is crucial for maintaining optimal system temperatures and overall longevity. As such, you should check the Thermal Design Power (TDP) specifications of your CPU and cooler to ensure the cooler can handle the heat output effectively. Additionally, researching and comparing benchmark results of different coolers can provide valuable insights into their actual cooling capabilities under varying workloads. A well-performing CPU cooler not only keeps temperatures in check but also contributes to improved system stability and enhanced overclocking potential of your AM5 processor.

Acoustic Performance

Considering acoustic performance is equally vital when selecting a CPU cooler to strike a balance between efficient cooling and a quiet computing environment. Pay attention to the maximum fan speed of the cooler, as higher speeds can lead to increased noise levels. Opting for a cooler with adjustable fan speeds or PWM control allows you to fine-tune the noise-to-performance ratio according to your preferences. Additionally, researching user reviews and acoustic benchmark results can offer valuable insights into how different coolers perform in terms of noise levels, helping you choose a solution that ensures efficient cooling without compromising a peaceful computing experience.

• Best Quiet PC Cases

Compatibility

Ensuring compatibility between your chosen CPU cooler, motherboard, and case is crucial before making a purchase. Verify that the cooler supports the socket type of your CPU, as mismatches can prevent proper installation. For air coolers, check the height to ensure it fits within your case without obstructing the side panel or the memory sticks. In the case of water coolers, confirm the radiator length and compatibility with your case’s mounting points to guarantee seamless installation. Taking these compatibility factors into consideration will help you avoid potential installation issues and ensure a hassle-free setup for efficient and effective cooling.

Build Quality

Assessing the build quality of a CPU cooler is a critical aspect of the purchasing process to ensure reliable and long-lasting performance. In an air cooler, begin by examining the construction of the heatsink, looking for sturdy materials and high fin density for efficient heat dissipation. The number of heat pipes can also impact cooling efficiency, with more heat pipes generally translating to better heat transfer. Additionally, scrutinize the radiator fin density and the quality of the included fans, as these factors influence overall cooling capabilities and noise levels in liquid coolers. Investing in a well-constructed cooler contributes to sustained and effective thermal management for your system.

Aesthetics

Taking aesthetics into account when selecting a CPU cooler can enhance the visual appeal of your system while maintaining its functionality. Look for coolers with customizable RGB lighting options on both the fans and pump block, allowing you to match your preferred color scheme or create dynamic lighting effects. Some premium coolers even offer customizable screens that can display system information or personalized graphics, adding a unique touch to your build.

Value For Money

Ultimately, achieving value for money is the decisive factor when choosing a CPU cooler. Assess the cooler’s price in relation to its performance, features, and build quality, as a cheaper cooler does not necessarily translate to a better value. Striking the right balance between cost and benefits ensures you make a wise investment that meets your cooling needs without overspending. Thoroughly researching and comparing options based on their performance, features, and pricing will help you find a CPU cooler that offers the best value for your budget.

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