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If you want to get the most out of the Ryzen 7 9700X—especially if you’re pushing it past 90 watts—you’ll need a reliable cooler.
In this guide, I’ll highlight three standout choices for any budget, each offering a sweet spot of performance, looks, noise levels, and ease of installation.
Whether you’re aiming for a whisper-quiet build or want a bit of flash with RGB, these coolers can help you keep the 9700X running at its best without breaking the bank.
Let’s jump in!
Our Top Picks
- Be Quiet! Dark Rock 5 (amazon link) – Best Budget CPU Cooler for Ryzen 7 9700X
- Corsair iCUE H150i ELITE LCD XT (amazon link) – Best Premium CPU Cooler for Ryzen 7 9700X
- Cooler Master ML240L RGB V2 (amazon link) – Our Top Choice
How to Choose the Best CPU Coolers for Ryzen 7 9700X
Selecting the right CPU cooler for the Ryzen 7 9700X requires balancing several key factors to ensure optimal performance, compatibility, and value. The goal is to keep temperatures low, maintain quiet operation, and complement the build’s aesthetics without overspending. Here’s a breakdown of the criteria used to identify top-performing coolers for this efficient AM5 processor:
- Thermal Performance: The Ryzen 7 9700X, with its 65W TDP, doesn’t generate excessive heat, but sustained workloads like gaming or content creation can push it to its limits. Coolers were evaluated based on their ability to maintain temperatures below 75°C under full load, ensuring the CPU can sustain boost clocks without throttling. Both air and liquid cooling solutions were considered, prioritizing those with robust heat dissipation for mid-range chips.
- Noise Levels: A quiet PC enhances the overall experience, especially for users sensitive to fan hum. Coolers were tested for noise output at various fan speeds, with preference given to those staying under 40 decibels during typical use. Fans and pumps with high efficiency were favored to deliver strong airflow without sounding like a jet engine.
- Compatibility and Installation: AM5 socket compatibility was non-negotiable, but attention was also paid to clearance for RAM modules and GPU slots. Compact designs that fit mid-tower cases were prioritized, as were coolers with straightforward mounting systems. Simplified installation processes, clear instructions, and included accessories like thermal paste or screwdrivers scored higher for user-friendliness.
- Build Quality and Aesthetics: Durability matters for long-term reliability. Coolers with high-grade materials—like copper heat pipes, aluminum radiators, or reinforced tubing—were favored. Design was also considered, catering to preferences for sleek minimalism or vibrant RGB lighting, ensuring options suit various build themes.
- Value for Money: Price-to-performance ratio played a big role. Budget, mid-range, and premium coolers were assessed to offer choices for different wallets, ensuring no one overpays for unnecessary features. Comparisons with similar products helped highlight options that deliver the best bang for the buck.
| Criteria | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Thermal Performance | Keeps the Ryzen 7 9700X cool under load, preventing thermal throttling. |
| Noise Levels | Ensures a quiet PC, ideal for focused work or immersive gaming. |
| Compatibility | Guarantees fit with AM5 motherboards and case layouts without clearance issues. |
| Build Quality | Ensures longevity and reliability, with designs that match the build’s vibe. |
| Value for Money | Delivers strong cooling and features without inflating the budget unnecessarily. |
By focusing on these factors, the selected coolers strike a balance between efficiency, practicality, and style, tailored specifically for the Ryzen 7 9700X’s needs. Whether prioritizing silence, affordability, or a bit of flair, there’s an option to match every builder’s vision.
Best CPU Coolers for Ryzen 7 9700X Reviews
3. Be Quiet! Dark Rock 5 – Best Budget CPU Cooler for Ryzen 7 9700X
When it comes to CPU coolers, there are few names more iconic than Be Quiet! As the brand name implies, Be Quiet coolers are renowned for their whisper-quiet operation, and sleek, minimalist design. The same is true for the Dark Rock 5, the company’s newest budget offering. While not as flashy as other coolers out there, this all-performance single-tower cooler is a great option for those who value noise levels and performance over everything else.
The Dark Rock 5 is the successor to the legendary Dark Rock 4, and it comes with a lot of notable improvements. First off, it now uses an asymmetrical design for the heatsink which improves compatibility with taller RAM modules. The new cooler also includes a Silent Wings 4 120mm fan, an improvement of the Silent Wings 3 fan seen on the Dark Rock 4. At full speed, the new fan operates at around 30 decibels, which translates to quieter and more efficient cooling.
Its new installation process is simpler, thanks to the pre-fixed mounting bridge and screws. There’s also a new magnetic mesh top cover that provides a sleek finish, allows access to screws, and hides the heat pipe ends.
Speaking of the design, this is one sleek-looking cooler. The fan, heatsink, heat pipes, and even the CPU block at the top are all painted in uniform black color. This gives the Dark Rock 5 an almost inky jet-black appearance. The lack of RGB might bother some, but that’s intentional. This design will speak to those who are anti-RGB, and while that is certainly a bold choice, it works in favor of the right crowd.
As for the structure itself, you get six high-performance copper heat pipes and a robust aluminum fin array. It’s a single-tower cooler, so the overall footprint isn’t that big. You also get the option to install an additional fan at the rear, further improving performance. The CPU block features a nickel-plated base and comes with thermal paste pre-applied.
Out of the box, the Dark Rock 5 comes with everything you need for the setup process: the heatsink itself, a Silent Wings 4 120mm fan, mounting hardware for Intel and AMD, the magnetic mesh top cover, and even a screwdriver. If you’re on an AMD system, you will have to reuse the stock backplate, secure the mounting arms, and tighten the cooler with two screws. The process is nearly identical for Intel’s processors with the LGA1700 socket.
The Silent Wings 4 fan spins between 500 – 1900 RPM, and operates at a 30 decibel max noise level. At lower speeds (under 1200 rpm), the fan is virtually inaudible, making it ideal for noise-sensitive builds.
Overall performance is just as impressive when testing with a CPU like the Ryzen 7 9700X. For the most part, temperatures will stay at around 70–72°C under full load. This is not only proof of Be Quiet’s performance, but also of AMD’s excellent efficiency with the Ryzen 9000 series cpus. If you have a relatively recent AM5 CPU with a 65W TDP, this is a perfect match. Just keep in mind that it doesn’t work as well for power-hungry Intel CPUs like the 14700K, and I recommend you go the dual-tower or AIO route if you have such a CPU.
The closest rival in terms of looks and performance to this cooler is the Noctua NH-U12S. While the NH-U12S matches its performance, it costs 20–30% more and sounds slightly noisier. The differences are slim, but the price gap between the two makes the Dark Rock 5 obvious. There are also cheaper options like the Peerless Assassin 120 that fall under a different price bracket, but those coolers tend to be louder and less sleek in terms of design.
To wrap it up, the Dark Rock 5 is not going to win any RGB contest, and it doesn’t need to. With whisper-quiet operation, a simplified installation process, and a stealthy all-black design, it’s a no-compromise cooler for mid-range builds. It’s slightly more expensive than something like a Peerless Assassin 120, but you’re getting better looks, lower noise levels, and superior build quality in return. I highly recommend it for those with an efficient AM5 CPU like the Ryzen 7 9700X
To sum up, what I like is….
Near-silent operation
Very sleek design
Dead-simple installation process
Great performance for most Ryzen 9000 CPUs
On the downside…
No RGB might turn away some people
Not the best for power-hungry Intel chips
2. Corsair iCUE H150i ELITE LCD XT – Best Premium CPU Cooler for Ryzen 7 9700X
The Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT offers premium heat dissipation and plenty of customization that makes it a great cooler for the 9700x
Corsair has used the H150 model name for their 360 mm AIOs for a very long time and as the name implies, the CPU cooling block has an LCD display.
The lighting and the LCD can be controlled through the iCUE application. The coolest feature of the display is that it can be used to display important information at a glance. If, say, the temperature is getting too hot, you can configure the LCD to glow red with the temperature being displayed either in Celcius or Fahrenheit. I like that because it can even display GIFs, the possibilities are endless since you can customize it to your liking.
The display is a vibrant 2.1” IPS LCD screen with a 480×480 resolution that can produce an ultra-bright 600 nits backlight. The color reproduction is amazing thanks to the 24-bit color depth, it is without a doubt one of the most vivid screens I’ve seen. However the refresh rate is only 30 Hz which can feel choppy at times, but it is more than enough in 99% of cases.
Corsair has also upgraded the fans on the H150i which now uses 3 120 mm ML120 RGB Elite fans. They are essentially the same fans as the previous model with the same motor and blades but the airflow has been improved.
This is because Instead of the usual 4-blade air vanes that are typically found in almost all fans, Corsair redesigned and added 12 blades that they call “Air Guide Vanes”. These vanes are much narrower and unlike the thicker vanes of the older version, they prevent air from being blocked and cause any disturbance in the airflow.
Compared to the older fans, these fans are much more efficient and can offer the same level of cooling at 1900-2000 RPM that the older ones could at 2200 RPM.
Being a 360 mm AIO means that it can only fit in ATX cases. Despite that, the compatibility is great and the cooler fits on just about every socket available. The included brackets are for Intel’s LGA 115X, 1200, 1700, and 2066, and AMD’s AM4 and AM5, as well as AMD Threadripper sTRX4 sockets.
Of course, none of this would matter if the performance of the cooler was subpar. The cooler can remove 200 Watts worth of heat if the fans are allowed to spin at 2100 RPM which however introduces a bit of noise at around 55 decibels. This is still acceptable as long as the case has good noise isolation, but is quite loud in an open bench. Under normal load, the fans spin at just 550 RPM which is practically silent at 15 decibels. Pushing a CPU like the Ryzen 7 9700X is no issue for this cooler as it is still well within its maximum Wattage at a full all-core load.
If we look at other 360 mm coolers that offer a great design, customizable LCD display, and top-notch performance, then the only other cooler I could think of is the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB. The only advantage the Kraken has over the iCUE is that the screen refreshes at 60 Hz instead of 30 Hz. Other than that, there isn’t any significant feature of the Kraken that would make me recommend it over the iCUE H150i.
Also if you decide to go with the Kraken, you do need to pay a hefty premium over the H150i which may not be justifiable for everyone.
All in all, if you are looking for one of the best CPU coolers for the Ryzen 7 9700x and budget is not an issue, then the Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT is a great premium AIO cooler.
To sum up what I like is
Excellent cooling performance
Extensive socket support
Available both in black and white
On the downside
Noisy at full speed
1. Cooler Master ML240L RGB V2 – Our Top Choice
When it comes to AIOs, it is very easy to overspend on features like an LCD display or VRM fans. While those high-end features are nice, buying a CPU cooler that’s beyond $200 can significantly impact your overall budget. Instead, there are a lot of great budget options that still deliver great aesthetics, along with excellent performance. The Cooler Master ML240L RGB V2 is one of these coolers, and it’s one of the most practical choices you can make for a mid-range build.
As the name implies, this is an iterative version of the original ML240L. The V2 trims the fat from its predecessor, swapping out the chunky pump block for a slimmer and more modern design. It also upgrades the fans to SickleFlow 120ARGB Gen 3 units. These fans push more air, have significantly improved RGB LEDs, and feature a maximum speed of up to 1800 RPM.
The rest of the foundation for this cooler is largely the same though. It uses a 240mm radiator that has a matte black coating on it, braid tubing, and a low-profile pump block topped with a mirrored RGB accent. The entire setup is lightweight, and while the plastic pump housing lacks premium heft, it doesn’t feel cheap. The real star is the dual ARGB fans, which cast a vibrant glow through their translucent blades.
Inside the box, you’ll find the 240mm radiator, pump block, two ARGB fans, mounting kits for Intel (LGA 1700/1200) and AMD (AM4/AM5), a tube of thermal paste, and a wired RGB controller. While installation is simple, there are a couple more cables to deal with because of the RGB controller. If you’re not familiar with that sort of thing, the process might take a bit longer than usual.
The radiator will fit easily into most mid-tower cases, the fans attach with standard screws, and the RGB cables can be daisy-chained together.
Circling back to the fans again, these SickleFlow units strike a nice balance between airflow and noise. They’re not as whisper-quiet as something like a Noctua fan, but they are a step up from most cheaper AIOs. At full load (1800RPM), expect noise levels of around 45 to 48 decibels, which is quite respectable.
Performance-wise, this is an AIO that pairs well with AMD’s Ryzen 7000 and 9000 CPUs. While you wouldn’t want to pair it with something like a Ryzen 9 9900X, its performance is more than enough for any Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 5 CPU. With a CPU like the Ryzen 7 9700X, temperatures peak at around 68–72°C under full load. It also does a good job with the 14700K, though temperatures are a bit higher (usually in the 80s). That said, the latest Intel CPUs are way too power-hungry.
The pump emits a faint hum at max speed (27 dBA), while the fans stay relatively quiet below 1,500 RPM. Even at 1,800 RPM, the noise never gets overbearing.
The ML240L V2’s closest rivals are the MSI MAG CoreLiquid 240R V2 and the Corsair iCue Link H100i RGB. While both coolers are great choices in their own right, the Corsair one can often be more expensive at retailers, while the MSI has noisier fans. Depending on which one you can find the cheapest, there is no wrong choice here. However, the Cooler Master is the most well-rounded option.
Apart from the somewhat finicky installation process, the CoolerMaster ML240L RGB V2 is a fantastic AIO for the money. You’re getting a clean, compact design, tasteful RGB lighting, and good performance. The noise levels are great, and it pairs nicely with something like a Ryzen 7 9700X. With the value on offer here, it’s a great choice for mid-range builds.
To sum up, what I like is….
Beautiful, high-performance RGB fans
Great performance out of the box
Respectable noise levels
Fits into 95% of cases with ease
On the downside…
Finicky installation process
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Below are 10 common questions about CPU coolers for the Ryzen 7 9700X, paired with clear, concise answers designed to help readers understand their options and make informed choices. Each answer is tailored to the Ryzen 7 9700X’s needs, based on the provided content, and uses relevant keywords naturally to boost SEO.
- What type of CPU cooler is best for the Ryzen 7 9700X?
The best CPU cooler for the Ryzen 7 9700X depends on budget and preferences, but both air and liquid (AIO) coolers work well. The Ryzen 7 9700X has a 65W TDP, so a single-tower air cooler or a 240mm/360mm AIO can keep temperatures around 68–72°C under load. Air coolers are often quieter and cheaper, while AIOs offer strong cooling for compact builds. - Do I need a CPU cooler for the Ryzen 7 9700X, or is the stock cooler enough?
The Ryzen 7 9700X doesn’t come with a stock cooler, so a separate CPU cooler is required. This ensures the processor stays cool during tasks like gaming or video editing, maintaining performance without overheating. - How loud are CPU coolers for the Ryzen 7 9700X?
CPU cooler noise levels vary, but many options for the Ryzen 7 9700X stay quiet. For example, air coolers can operate at 30 decibels or less at low speeds, while AIOs might hit 45–55 decibels at full speed. Choosing fans with efficient designs keeps noise low, ideal for quiet PC builds. - Will a CPU cooler for the Ryzen 7 9700X fit my AM5 motherboard?
Most CPU coolers designed for the Ryzen 7 9700X support the AM5 socket. Always check the cooler’s specs for AM5 compatibility, and ensure the cooler’s size doesn’t block RAM or GPU slots on the motherboard. - How easy is it to install a CPU cooler on the Ryzen 7 9700X?
Installing a CPU cooler on the Ryzen 7 9700X is usually straightforward. Many coolers come with pre-applied thermal paste, mounting kits, and clear instructions. Air coolers often use simple screw systems, while AIOs may need radiator mounting, which can take slightly longer but is manageable for beginners. - Can a budget CPU cooler handle the Ryzen 7 9700X?
A budget CPU cooler can handle the Ryzen 7 9700X effectively. The processor’s low 65W TDP means affordable air coolers or 240mm AIOs can keep temperatures at 70–72°C under load, offering great value without sacrificing performance. - Should I choose an air cooler or an AIO for the Ryzen 7 9700X?
Choosing between an air cooler and an AIO for the Ryzen 7 9700X depends on needs. Air coolers are quieter, cheaper, and easier to install, ideal for minimalists. AIOs provide better cooling for compact cases and often include RGB for style, but they cost more and can be noisier at high speeds. - How do I know if a CPU cooler will fit in my PC case?
To ensure a CPU cooler fits in a PC case, check the case’s specs for cooler height (for air coolers) or radiator support (for AIOs). For the Ryzen 7 9700X, single-tower air coolers or 240mm/360mm AIOs fit most mid-tower cases, but confirm clearance for RAM and GPUs. - Does the Ryzen 7 9700X need RGB lighting on its CPU cooler?
RGB lighting on a CPU cooler for the Ryzen 7 9700X is optional. It adds visual flair to a build but doesn’t affect cooling. Non-RGB coolers often focus on silence and performance, while RGB options offer customization for those who want a vibrant look. - How much should I spend on a CPU cooler for the Ryzen 7 9700X?
The amount to spend on a CPU cooler for the Ryzen 7 9700X varies by preference. Budget options under $50 can cool effectively, mid-range coolers around $80–$100 add style and quietness, and premium AIOs over $150 offer advanced features like LCD displays. For this CPU, $50–$100 is usually enough.
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