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Looking to cool down your Intel Core i5 12600k but not sure which is the best cooler? You’re in the right place.
I’ve picked out three CPU coolers that offer great performance at different price points.
We’ll check out a budget-friendly option that packs a punch, a premium cooler, and finally my top choice that hits the sweet spot between performance and value.
Stick around, and if you find this helpful, please give the video a thumbs up, subscribe for more, and share your thoughts in the comments below.
Our Top Picks
- ARCTIC Freezer 36 (amazon link) – Best Budget Cooler For Intel Core i5 12600k
- Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 A-RGB (amazon link) – Best Premium Cooler For Intel Core i5 12600k
- Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 (amazon link) – Our Top Choice
Why Should You Trust Us?
Konstantinos Chiotis, the author of this guide, has over 24 years of PC building experience since age 14 and more than a decade in the tech industry. His passion for PC buidling and hardware, paired with hands-on testing, ensures reliable advice for cooling your Intel Core i5 12600k.
With a knack for breaking down tech simply, Konstantinos draws from years of assembling rigs and reviewing components. You’re getting insights from a seasoned builder who knows how to keep your CPU cool and your build thriving.
How We Chose The Best CPU Coolers For Intel Core i5 12600k
Picking the perfect CPU cooler for your Intel Core i5 12600k can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. The selection process focused on key factors to ensure top performance, compatibility, and value for the 12600k.
The Intel Core i5 12600k, a strong mid-range chip from Intel’s 12th-gen lineup, offers great performance for gaming and productivity. With a TDP of 125W, it can heat up under heavy workloads or overclocking, so cooling solutions need to handle at least 150-200W to keep temperatures stable.
Key Criteria for Selection:
- Cooling Performance: Prioritized coolers that efficiently manage the i5 12600k’s heat, especially during demanding tasks like gaming or video rendering.
- Noise Level: Favored options that stay quiet, even when the CPU is pushed to its limits.
- Compatibility: Ensured full support for the LGA 1700 socket and a fit that works with various case sizes and RAM setups.
- Installation Ease: Looked for straightforward setups, ideal for both beginners and experienced builders.
- Aesthetics: Considered sleek designs or customizable lighting as a bonus for style-conscious users.
- Value for Money: Balanced performance with cost, covering budget-friendly to premium options.
Cooling Types Compared:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Air Coolers | Affordable, easy to install | May lack in extreme cooling |
| Liquid Coolers | Superior cooling, polished look | Higher cost, more complex setup |
The chosen coolers stood out after thorough testing, user feedback, and expert insights. The budget pick delivers impressive cooling for its price, the premium option excels in heat dissipation and design, and the top choice balances performance, quiet operation, and affordability. Whether it’s a budget build or a high-end rig, these selections keep the i5 12600k cool and reliable.
Best CPU Coolers For Intel Core i5 12600k Reviews
3. ARCTIC Freezer 36 – Best Budget Cooler For Intel Core i5 12600k
While there are a lot of great AIOs you can buy these days, they’re usually a bit on the pricier side. If you’re on a budget and you are fine with air cooling and want an easier installation process cooler to pair with the I5 12600K , the Arctic Freezer 36 is probably your best bet. It’s an improvement over its predecessors, the already popular Freezer 35 and 34 Esports Duo, and is very reasonably priced.
The cooler comes in four variants: the standard version, the all-black version, an A-RGB version, and a white A-RGB version. All models have slightly different pricing, but the standard and black versions are the most affordable ones. There’s no difference in performance, so it really just comes down to the aesthetic you’re looking for.
Either way, the Freezer 36 uses four copper heat pipes, two 120mm high-pressure PWM fans, and features complete support for the AM5 and Intel’s LGA1700 socket. It even promises support for Intel’s upcoming LGA1851 socket for Arrow Lake.
Design-wise, this is a single-tower cooler that uses two 120mm fans. This makes it easier to install in tight spaces, meaning if you have a small case and tall RAM modules, it will fit in without any trouble. Speaking of which, the installation is dead simple for AM5 motherboards.
For a budget CPU cooler, you get a surprising amount of accessories in the box. You get mounting hardware for both Intel and AMD, a custom contact frame for LGA1700, a custom Arctic sticker, and a generous tube of their highly regarded MX-6 thermal paste.
In terms of performance, it is rated to handle CPUs that have a TDP of 200 watts or above, so the i5 12600k is no problem for it at all. The new fans do a lot of the heavy lifting here, and the refined fin stack array makes it a major improvement compared to the Freezer 35 and 34 Esports Duo.
It’s surprising how air coolers are improving to the point that they are close to many AIOs. The Freezer 36 can easily match the performance of a lot of 240 and even 280mm liquid coolers, and that’s saying a lot. At full maximum load, it does get a little loud compared to other single-tower coolers, but that’s mainly because of the two fans. Regardless, the noise never reaches uncomfortable levels, which is always good.
As for the competition, the main alternative to this is the DeepCool AK400. Both coolers trade blows in terms of performance, but the Freezer 36 is a bit cheaper.
All in all this cooler offers exceptional value and performance for its price, so if you want a cooler that provides excellent cooling performance, silent operation and easy installation, the Arctic Freezer 36 is the perfect choice.
To sum up, what I like is…
Superb performance for the money
Dead simple installation
Includes contact frame for Intel
On the downside…
Slightly louder than other single-tower cooler
A-RGB version is slightly overpriced
RATINGS:
Design and Aesthetics: 8/10
Cooling Performance: 9/10
Noise: 8/10
Installation: 9/10
Value for Money: 8/10
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
2. Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 A-RGB – Best Premium Cooler For Intel Core i5 12600k
Enermax is a Taiwanese company that has been in the CPU cooling game for quite some time, and if you have never heard of them, that is about to change. The Enermax Aquafusion ADV is a CPU cooler that not only gives some of the best cooling for performance, it also offers great acoustics after a little tinkering. This cooler can not only handle easily the 12600k but it can even handle higher end CPUs like the 13700k, and more, so there’s even room for upgradability. Let’s find out how it holds up.
Starting off with the packaging, the Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 comes with three 120mm ADV fans, mounting brackets for supported processors, a fan noise reduction cable, and an RGB control box, along with other typical accessories to install the cooler. There’s also a thermal paste tube included, meaning you will have to manually apply the thermal paste before installation. This is not something you usually see as most AIO coolers come with thermal paste pre-installed on the cooler.
From a design perspective, the cooler comes in two colors, black and white, making it perfect even for white-themed builds. The radiator is 394mm long and 27mm thick, which is fairly common for modern 360mm AIO coolers. The two tubes are nylon-braided with a length of 400mm, allowing you to move them around freely without any damage worries. This is also complimented by the 90 degrees rotation of the tubes at the base of the pump, which can help make the installation easier. On the top of the pump, you will find what the company calls the Infinity Mirror with ARGB and the Enermax text. There could have been room here for an LCD screen that allowed for more customizations other than just the lighting, but considering the sub $100 price point, it really is acceptable.
What’s more than acceptable is the performance of the cooler. The Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 is able to keep the temperatures well within the 65 to 70 degrees celsius range under an intensive workload for a 30 minute test run. These results outperform competitors like NZXT Kraken X73 and even CORSAIR iCUE H510 Elite, both of which are more expensive than the Aquafusion ADV 360. In terms of acoustics, the fan noise can become audible at speeds of 2800 RPM and beyond. However, with a little tinkering of fan speeds, you can achieve great overall noise levels that are barely audible.
For installation, the cooler offers vast support for both Intel and AMD. Along with the 12600k based on the LGA 1700 chipset, the cooler also supports other chipsets such as 1800, 1200, 1366, and more. As for AMD, you are looking at support for AM5 and AM4 along with older chipsets like AM3+, and more. The installation procedure is also not complicated, thanks to the included manual. You will have to mount the respective Intel bracket since it does not come pre-installed, apply thermal paste on the CPU, plug in the RGB and power cables, and you should be good to go. The cooler comes in smaller radiator variants of 240mm and 120mm as well, which you can use for compact cases.
In conclusion, the Enermax Aquafusion ADV 360 is a cooler that does not compromise on anything, be it performance, overall looks and RGB, or even acoustics, though it does require a little customization.
To sum up, what I like is that the…
Cooling performance is superior to pricier competitors
Easy installation
On the downside…
The Stock acoustics are slightly loud
Thermal paste is not pre-applied
Ratings:
Design and Aesthetics: 9/10
Cooling Performance: 9/10
Noise: 8/10
Installation: 9/10
Value for Money: 8.5/10
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
1. Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 – Our Top Choice
Thermalright is a well-established name in the cooling industry at this point, and they are certainly not compromising anything with their Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 either. This cooler has a high speed external pump with speeds of 5300 RPM, which is not a common sight, allowing it to handle intensive workloads with ease. Let’s find out exactly how well it performs.
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 is packaged with cardboard, foam, and plastic to protect the components. Inside the box, you get the 240mm radiator with two 120mm fans that are pre-installed, mounting brackets for Intel and AMD platforms, fan adapters, and a user manual. The cooler does not come with thermal paste pre-applied, so you also get a thermal paste tube for manual application.
Looking at the design and build of the cooler, it is well built just like you would expect from Thermalright products. CPU coolers are often based on Asetek designs with some modifications, but the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 features an external pump. And as mentioned before this pump can reach a max speed of 5300 RPM. Such designs are not commonly found in the cooling market and it surely is a nice addition. The top of the pump features an Infinity Mirror with ARGB lighting and the Thermalright logo in white, while the bottom features a copper contact plate directly touching the CPU. The radiator is 277mm in length with a thickness of 27mm, meaning it should fit most cases without any worries. The cooler comes in two traditional colors, black and white. There’s also a 360mm radiator option available, which comes with a triple fan setup and a much bigger radiator, offering even better cooling
In performance, the Frozen Notte 240 really hits a home run. The cooler is able to provide better results than competitors like the DeepCool AG500 and even BeQuiet Pure Loop 2 FX. When running Cinebench, the Frozen Notte 240 maintains the temperature well within the 50 degrees celsius range. On the other side, DeepCool AG500 and BeQuiet Pure Loop 2 FX allow the temperatures to go up to 55 degrees celsius and higher. The acoustics levels are also great. Even here, the cooler outperforms BeQuiet Pure Loop 2 FX, and it goes head to head with the DeepCool AG500. Noise levels reach up to 42 dBA, which means you should not be able to hear the fans even at high speeds.
In terms of installation, the user manual lists five simple steps to install the cooler. These are pretty easy to follow, even for beginners, and include installing the mounting bracket, mounting the radiator to the case, and plugging in the cables. However you must make sure not to forget to apply thermal paste before installing the cooler since there is no pre-applied thermal paste. That said, the cooler supports Intel LGA 1700, and 1200, among others along with a much wider AMD chipset support. Starting from AM2 all the way to AM5, your options are unlimited when it comes to AMD.
All in all, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 is a cooler that matches the performance of 360mm radiators, offering exceptional cooling. You would expect high noise levels for such a show, but even there, there is not much room for complaints. This is truly an overall champion product.
To sum up, what I like is…
Exceptional cooling
Great price-to-performance ratio
Competitive price
On the downside…
Thermal paste is not pre-applied
Ratings:
Design and Aesthetics: 8.5/10
Cooling Performance: 9/10
Noise: 9/10
Installation: 9/10
Value for Money: 9/10
Overall Rating: 9/10
FAQ
1. What is a CPU cooler and why do I need one for my Intel Core i5 12600k?
A CPU cooler is a device that keeps your computer’s processor (CPU) from getting too hot. The Intel Core i5 12600k can heat up when you’re gaming, editing videos, or doing other heavy tasks. Without a good cooler, the CPU could overheat, which might damage your computer or slow it down. A CPU cooler helps keep everything running smoothly and safely.
2. What types of CPU coolers are available for the Intel Core i5 12600k?
There are two main types of CPU coolers: air coolers and liquid coolers. Air coolers use fans and metal fins to cool the CPU, while liquid coolers use water or other liquids to move heat away from the processor. Both types work well for the Intel Core i5 12600k, but they have different benefits depending on your needs and budget.
3. How do I know if a CPU cooler is compatible with my Intel Core i5 12600k?
To know if a CPU cooler is compatible with your Intel Core i5 12600k, check if it supports the LGA 1700 socket. The i5 12600k uses this socket, so any cooler that lists LGA 1700 as compatible will work. You can usually find this information on the cooler’s packaging or product page.
4. What is the difference between air coolers and liquid coolers for the Intel Core i5 12600k?
Air coolers are usually cheaper and easier to install, but they can be bulky and take up more space inside your computer. Liquid coolers are more expensive but often provide better cooling and a cleaner look. For the Intel Core i5 12600k, both types can keep your CPU cool, so it depends on what you prefer and how much you want to spend.
5. How much should I spend on a CPU cooler for the Intel Core i5 12600k?
You can find good CPU coolers for the Intel Core i5 12600k at different prices. Budget options start around $30-$40, while premium coolers can cost $100 or more. A mid-range cooler around $50-$70 usually gives you the best balance of cooling performance and value for this processor.
6. Can I use the stock cooler that comes with the Intel Core i5 12600k?
Yes, the Intel Core i5 12600k comes with a stock cooler, but it’s basic and may not cool as well as aftermarket options, especially if you’re doing heavy tasks like gaming or overclocking. If you’re just using your computer for everyday tasks like browsing or schoolwork, the stock cooler might be enough. But for better performance, consider upgrading to a better cooler.
7. How do I install a CPU cooler on my Intel Core i5 12600k?
To install a CPU cooler on your Intel Core i5 12600k, you’ll need to attach it to the CPU using mounting brackets and apply thermal paste (a special paste that helps transfer heat). The exact steps depend on the cooler, but most come with instructions. Make sure to use the correct bracket for the LGA 1700 socket, which the i5 12600k uses.
8. What is thermal paste and do I need it for my CPU cooler?
Thermal paste is a special paste that helps transfer heat from the CPU to the cooler. It fills tiny gaps between the CPU and the cooler to make cooling more efficient. Most coolers come with thermal paste already applied or include a tube for you to apply it yourself. Yes, you need it for good cooling performance.
9. How do I maintain my CPU cooler to keep my Intel Core i5 12600k running cool?
To maintain your CPU cooler, regularly clean dust from the fans and fins using compressed air. Dust can block airflow and make the cooler less effective. For liquid coolers, also check for any leaks or strange noises. Keeping your cooler clean helps it work better and last longer.
10. What are the signs that my CPU cooler isn’t working properly?
Signs that your CPU cooler isn’t working properly include high CPU temperatures (above 80°C when under heavy use), loud fan noises, or your computer shutting down unexpectedly. If you notice these issues, check if the cooler is dusty, make sure it’s installed correctly, or consider replacing it if it’s old or damaged.
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