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If your budget build revolves around the Ryzen 5 5500, picking the right cooler can still be tricky.
Although this Zen 3 chip doesn’t run too hot, going too cheap can lead to problems and at the same time you don’t want to overspend.
Buying a CPU cooler is never simple, that’s why I’ve narrowed it down to two CPU coolers. One is a budget-friendly cooler that offers decent performance, wide compatibility, and a bit of RGB and the other is a dual-tower design that delivers high-end cooling at a mid-range price.
Why Should You Trust Us?
Konstantinos Chiotis has been building PCs for over 24 years, starting at age 14, and has more than a decade in the tech industry. With a deep passion for gaming and hardware, he’s tested tons of components—especially CPU coolers—to find what works best for chips like the Ryzen 5 5500. His hands-on experience and knack for breaking down tech details into clear advice make this guide a reliable resource for your build. You’re getting tips from someone who’s lived and breathed PC building, ensuring your rig runs cool and smooth.
How We Chose The Best CPU Coolers For The Ryzen 5 5500
Selecting the right CPU cooler for a chip like the Ryzen 5 5500 isn’t about grabbing the flashiest option or the most expensive one on the shelf. It’s about finding a balance that makes sense for this specific processor—a Zen 3 chip that’s efficient but still needs proper cooling to perform at its best. The goal here was to pinpoint coolers that deliver solid thermal performance, keep noise in check, and don’t break the bank, all while being a perfect match for this mid-range CPU.
The process started by focusing on the Ryzen 5 5500’s needs. With a TDP of 65W and a tendency to stay relatively tame under load, it doesn’t demand extreme cooling solutions like you’d see with high-end chips. That said, skimping too much can lead to thermal throttling or louder-than-necessary fan noise, so a baseline of efficiency was key. Coolers were evaluated based on a few critical factors:
- Thermal Performance: Testing focused on how well each cooler keeps temperatures under control during typical workloads—think gaming, multitasking, or light productivity tasks. Options that could maintain temps below 75°C at full load with this CPU scored high.
- Noise Levels: Since this chip isn’t a power hog, there’s no need for fans screaming at max RPM. Coolers that stayed quiet—ideally under 45 decibels—while still moving enough air were prioritized.
- Compatibility: The Ryzen 5 5500 uses the AM4 socket, so universal mounting support for AMD platforms was a must. Bonus points went to designs with easy installation and clearance for RAM or smaller cases.
- Value for Money: Price-to-performance ratio was huge here. The sweet spot? Coolers that punch above their weight without costing more than the CPU itself.
- Build Quality: Durability matters. Heat pipes, fin density, and fan reliability were all considered to ensure long-term performance.
From there, the field was narrowed down by comparing single-tower and dual-tower designs. Single-tower coolers were favored for their compact size and affordability, making them ideal for budget builds. Dual-tower options, on the other hand, were tested for those wanting extra headroom or a quieter experience, though case compatibility was double-checked to avoid fitment headaches. Real-world testing data—like temperature readings at stock settings and ambient conditions—helped separate the winners from the rest.
Extras like RGB lighting or premium thermal paste were noted but didn’t outweigh the core metrics. For a chip like this, practicality trumps flair every time. The result? A shortlist of coolers that hit the mark for the Ryzen 5 5500, whether you’re after a budget-friendly steal or a mid-range powerhouse that overdelivers.
Key Selection Criteria:
- Temperature control: Under 75°C at full load.
- Noise level: Ideally below 45 dB at maximum RPM.
- Compatibility: AM4 socket support, fitting standard cases.
- Build quality: Copper and aluminum materials, durable mounting systems.
- Value: Competitive pricing with high performance relative to cost.
Best CPU Coolers For Ryzen 5 5500 Reviews
Best Budget CPU Cooler for Ryzen 5 5500 – Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB
The Thermalright Assassin X120 is a CPU cooler that puts many pricier coolers to shame. If you have a cheaper and less demanding CPU like a Ryzen 5 5500, this is arguably your best option. It rivals the performance of the best single-tower coolers on the market and even features an ARGB fan.
The lineage of the Assassin X120 Refined SE is interesting, as it’s an improved version of the original Thermalright Assassin X120. That original cooler was a single-tower option with a 120mm fan, basic design, and no RGB. The Assassin X120 Refined SE brings a more polished heatsink design, better mounting hardware, and a slightly upgraded fan. The version we’re looking at today is the ARGB version, which simply adds an ARGB fan on top of the Refined SE.
Out of the box, this cooler comes with a tube of Thermalright TF4 thermal paste, mounting hardware for Intel and AMD platforms, the single-tower heatsink, and the addressable RGB 120mm fan.
In terms of design, Thermalright uses four direct-touch copper heat pipes that effectively move heat away from the CPU. These are arranged in a U-shape at the bottom and have a nickel-plated pure copper coating on top of them. The fin stack is constructed of 99% pure aluminum, and the top of the cooler has a matte black cover to round off the look.
The appearance is relatively simple, its fin array is silver, while the fan and the top of the cooler are painted black. Thankfully, the ARGB fan does add some color to the mix, but this is an otherwise basic-looking cooler. That’s not exactly a downside for the price, but something that might steer you away if you’re looking for something flashy.
The ARGB TL-C12C-S fan is a 120mm fan with a maximum speed of 1550 RPM. It’s a high static pressure fan that moves an air volume of 66.17CFM. Noise levels are also quite respectable, as it maintains a maximum level of 41 decibels at full load. If you’re using a less power-hungry CPU like the Ryzen 5 5500, those noise levels will drop even further.
Testing with an ambient temperature of 23 degrees Celsius, the Ryzen 5 5500 maintains a maximum temperature of 70 to 75 degrees Celsius. Even with higher-end processors like the 14700K, the temperature never exceeds 83 degrees. Of course, you won’t be using this cooler with high-end CPUs, so its performance is quite impressive when paired with the right chip.
Installation is also dead simple for both Intel and AMD processors. You just have to remove your old bracket, install the new one included in the box, and attach the heatsink with two simple screws. Next, attach the fan with the included clip, and you’re good to go.
In terms of competition, the only comparable coolers around the same price are the ID-Cooling SE-214XT and the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Spectrum V3. All three coolers look about the same, but the Thermalright has the best performance in terms of acoustics and thermals. Since performance is the most important metric at this budget, it’s my go-to recommendation.
So, the Assassin X120 won’t blow you away with its design, but its impressive thermal and acoustic performance is excellent for the price. For entry-level and less demanding CPUs, this is a very easy recommendation from my side.
To sum up, what I like is….
Fantastic price-to-performance ratio
Compact single-tower design
ARGB fan at a dirt cheap price
Low noise levels
On the downside…
Somewhat basic-looking
Ratings
Design: 7/10
Performance: 8/10
Installation: 8/10
Noise levels: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Overall Rating: 8/10
Best Value CPU Cooler for Ryzen 5 5500 – Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO
The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO is currently the best air cooler on the market. It has a sleek all-black appearance, tasteful RGB lighting, highly impressive performance, and a very aggressive price point. It easily beats higher-end competitors both in terms of performance and price, so it’s a safe recommendation as the best-value CPU cooler these days.
This variant builds on the foundation of its predecessor, the original Phantom Spirit 120, which already earned praise for its dual-tower efficiency. This time around, the EVO version features 7 heat pipes instead of 6, a denser fin array for better heat dissipation, and improved high-performance fans.
Design-wise, the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO has a very stealthy appearance. It’s a dual-tower cooler with a staggered aluminum fin array (58 fins per tower) and has a matte black coating on top that gives it a sleek industrial look. The fin stacks are asymmetrical, which improves RAM clearance. It comes with two TL-K12 fans with RGB lighting zones at the corners, and they are rated for 1500RPM with a quiet 25.6-decibel noise level.
Out of the box, you get a generous tube of Thermalright TF7 thermal paste, a universal mounting kit for Intel LGA 1700/1200 and AMD AM5/AM4, and a low-profile screwdriver for hassle-free installation. The cooler’s dual-tower design adds some heft at 750g, but the reinforced backplate ensures motherboard flex isn’t an issue.
However, this cooler does have a gigantic footprint, meaning it won’t fit into most ITX cases. In fact, it might even have some trouble fitting into microATX cases, which is something to be aware of.
Thankfully, all that size is put to good use with impressive performance. When testing with high-end processors like the Ryzen 9 9800X3D, the temperatures peak at around 82 degrees Celsius depending on the application. That’s while pushing the CPU to 100% load, so the results are nothing to scoff at. Noise levels at full load were around 45 decibels.
It’s important to note that since this is a relatively affordable cooler, it’s perfectly useable for cheaper CPUs like the Ryzen 5 5500. With less power-hungry CPUs, expect temperatures of around 60 to 65 degrees, even at full load. Noise levels will drop similarly, staying at or around the 40-decibel mark.
Installation is straightforward for a dual-tower cooler. The spring-loaded screw mounts eliminate uneven pressure, and the pre-applied silicone fan gaskets dampen vibrations. AMD users can install it in minutes using the stock AM5 brackets, while Intel builders get a no-nonsense backplate-and-standoff system.
In terms of competition, the only cooler that provides such high-end performance at a low price is the Deepcool AK620. Both coolers have clean designs, fantastic performance, and low noise levels. The only problem is that Deepcool products are not available anymore in the US due to sanctions, giving the Thermalright cooler an anticlimactic win by default.
In summary, the only thing that might bother you about this cooler is its gigantic size. However, if you can fit into your case, you’re getting a beast that can outperform competitors that are twice its price. I highly recommend it for both entry-level, mid-range, and even some high-end CPUs.
To sum up, what I like is….
Unparalleled performance for the price
Sleek design and appearance
Low noise levels at full load
Plenty of clearance for RAM
On the downside…
Not compatible with most mini-ITX cases
Ratings
Design: 8/10
Performance: 9/10
Installation: 9/10
Noise levels: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Overall Rating: 9/10
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What kind of cooler does the Ryzen 5 5500 need?
The Ryzen 5 5500 needs a cooler that handles its 65W TDP and keeps temps below 75°C under load. A single-tower air cooler with a 120mm fan, like the budget option tested, works great, hitting 70-75°C. For extra quietness or headroom, a dual-tower design can drop it to 60-65°C.
2. Does the Ryzen 5 5500 come with a cooler?
The Ryzen 5 5500 does come with a stock cooler—the AMD Wraith Spire. It’s fine for basic use, but aftermarket coolers outperform it in noise and cooling. The budget cooler’s 41-decibel fan and 70°C temps beat the stock option, especially for gaming or multitasking.
3. How hot does the Ryzen 5 5500 get with a good cooler?
With a good cooler, the Ryzen 5 5500 stays at 60-75°C under full load, depending on the design. The single-tower budget cooler keeps it at 70-75°C, while the dual-tower top pick lowers it to 60-65°C. Both are safe and cool for this chip’s needs.
4. Can I use a liquid cooler with the Ryzen 5 5500?
Yes, you can use a liquid cooler with the Ryzen 5 5500, but it’s overkill for its 65W TDP. Air coolers like the ones tested—single-tower at 70°C or dual-tower at 60°C—handle it easily. Liquid cooling fits AM4 sockets too, just costs more and takes up space.
5. Will a big cooler fit my Ryzen 5 5500 build?
A big cooler might not fit your Ryzen 5 5500 build if you’ve got a small case. The dual-tower pick (750g) won’t work in mini-ITX cases and struggles in microATX. Check your case’s CPU cooler height limit—single-tower options fit most setups without issues.
6. How loud is a cooler for the Ryzen 5 5500?
A cooler for the Ryzen 5 5500 can be as quiet as 40-45 decibels under load. The budget cooler’s 120mm fan hits 41 decibels max, dropping lower with this chip. The top pick’s dual fans reach 45 decibels but stay around 40 decibels—both are whisper-quiet.
7. Do I need RGB fans for my Ryzen 5 5500 cooler?
You don’t need RGB fans for your Ryzen 5 5500 cooler—they’re just for looks. The budget cooler’s ARGB fan adds color at 66.17 CFM, while the top pick’s RGB fans run at 1500 RPM. Cooling stays solid either way, so it’s your call on style.
8. How easy is it to install a cooler on the Ryzen 5 5500?
Installing a cooler on the Ryzen 5 5500 is easy—takes 5-10 minutes with AM4 support. The budget cooler uses two screws and a clip, while the top pick has spring-loaded screws and a backplate. Both include AMD brackets and simple steps for quick setup.
9. Can a cheap cooler work well with the Ryzen 5 5500?
Yes, a cheap cooler can work well with the Ryzen 5 5500 if it’s efficient. The budget pick, with four heat pipes and a 1550 RPM fan, keeps temps at 70-75°C and noise low. It’s proof you don’t need to spend big for this chip.
10. What’s the best cooler upgrade for the Ryzen 5 5500?
The best cooler upgrade for the Ryzen 5 5500 depends on your needs—quiet or budget. The dual-tower top pick (60-65°C, 40 decibels) beats the stock cooler for silence and performance. For value, the single-tower budget option (70-75°C) is a solid step up.
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