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Looking for the best CPU cooler for the Ryzen 9 9900X?
While this new Ryzen 9000 series chip has notably better power efficiency than its predecessor the 7900X, you will no doubt need a good cooler to get the most of it. Fortunately, I’ve done all the hard work for you and hand-picked the 3 best CPU coolers for the 9900x while prioritizing performance, value, and noise levels.
Why Should You Trust Us?
This guide is backed by over 24 years of hands-on PC building experience and more than a decade in the tech industry. Author Konstantinos Chiotis has been assembling and testing systems since the age of 14, with a deep focus on components like CPU coolers, motherboards, and GPUs.
His recommendations are based on real-world performance, not just spec sheets—ensuring every cooler listed here is tested with the needs of Ryzen 9 9900X users in mind.
Our Top Picks
- Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE – Best Budget CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 9900X
- Lian Li Hydroshift 360TL AIO – Best Premium CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 9900x
- Corsair Nautilus 240 RS – Our Top Pick
How We Chose the Best CPU Coolers for the Ryzen 9 9900X
Picking the ideal CPU coolers for a high-performance processor like the Ryzen 9 9900X requires much more than merely looking at brand names or prices. Careful consideration was taken regarding specific factors that directly impact performance, ease of installation, and long-term reliability. The following criteria were prioritized to ensure only the most effective coolers were selected:
Cooling Performance
The Ryzen 9 9900X, despite its improved efficiency compared to earlier models, still requires robust cooling capabilities due to its high-performance nature. Coolers were selected based on their ability to:
- Effectively handle the CPU’s peak Thermal Design Power (TDP) of approximately 170 watts, with headroom to comfortably accommodate overclocking scenarios.
- Maintain CPU temperatures well below thermal throttling limits, even during intensive tasks like gaming, video rendering, and prolonged multitasking.
Noise Levels
Nobody wants their powerful build marred by loud, distracting fan noise. Quiet operation was essential, so coolers meeting the following noise criteria were given preference:
- Noise output below 45 decibels at maximum RPM, ensuring minimal disturbance during heavy usage.
- Coolers utilizing fans optimized for airflow and acoustic efficiency to maintain a quiet computing environment during gaming sessions or productivity tasks.
Compatibility and Installation
Compatibility issues can quickly derail an otherwise great build. Thus, chosen coolers needed to satisfy:
- Support for AM5 sockets, ensuring direct compatibility with Ryzen 9 9900X.
- Manageable dimensions that fit comfortably within standard mid-tower or larger ATX cases, avoiding interference with RAM modules or GPU installations.
- User-friendly installation with straightforward mounting solutions, minimizing installation time and complexity.
Build Quality and Durability
Given the premium nature of the Ryzen 9 9900X, it makes sense to pair it with coolers constructed to last. Durability was assessed through:
- High-quality materials such as copper heat pipes, robust aluminum fins, and reinforced tubing for AIO coolers.
- Reliability backed by extensive user feedback and manufacturer warranty periods.
Value for Money
While premium options offer fantastic cooling performance, balancing performance against price is essential for many users. Therefore, coolers were evaluated based on:
- Performance per dollar, ensuring users receive maximum value without compromising on cooling capabilities.
- Inclusion of additional features like advanced RGB lighting, intuitive cable management systems, and fan speed controls without significant price hikes.
Aesthetics and Additional Features
Finally, since modern PC builds often prioritize visual appeal, coolers offering aesthetically pleasing designs and useful features were highlighted:
- Clean and professional designs with subtle or customizable RGB elements to match various build themes.
- Features like LCD displays, cable management innovations, or wireless connectivity to enhance user experience and system aesthetics.
In summary, each recommended cooler for the Ryzen 9 9900X was selected by carefully weighing these critical aspects:
- Cooling Capacity: Minimum of 200 watts thermal dissipation.
- Noise Level: Under 45 decibels at maximum fan speeds.
- Physical Size: Compatible with common mid-tower cases.
- Installation Ease: Straightforward setup with minimal cable clutter.
- Overall Value: Strong performance-to-price ratio.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Added features enhancing visual appeal.
By meticulously assessing these factors, the final recommendations ensure Ryzen 9 9900X users enjoy peak performance, reliable cooling, and an exceptional user experience regardless of their budget or aesthetic preferences.
Best CPU Coolers For Ryzen 9 9900X Reviews
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE – Best Budget CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 9900X
The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is an affordable air cooler that packs a lot of cooling prowess. For me, it has become the spiritual successor to the ever-popular CoolerMaster Hyper 212 as the new king of budget air coolers.
It has plenty of cooling room thanks to 6 copper heat pipes and 2 120 mm fans. At stock settings, it can dissipate 120 Watts of heat which means that a CPU like the Ryzen 9 9900x will never overheat during gaming and other workloads. At its peak, it can dissipate 250 Watts of heat, which is significantly more than the 9900x all-core maximum load. It stays silent even at max load because the fans only spin at 1500 RPM which results in about 25 decibels.
The direct competition to the Peerless Assassin is the “be quiet! Pure Rock 2” which is overall a much better air cooler in terms of aesthetics. It is slightly narrower in size as well which gives it the advantage of fitting better with other cases. However, the Pure Rock 2 is rated at only 150 Watts of heat, unlike the 250 Watts of the Peerless Assassin which is also cheaper and this adds to its value even more.
The only other cooler I would consider is the CoolerMaster Hyper 212. However, this is designed to sustain a maximum heat output of 125 Watts which is half of what the Peerless Assassin can do. The Peerless Assassin is also compatible with many more CPU sockets.
The downside of the Peerless Assassin is its large size which is a blessing in terms of cooling performance and quietness but makes it hard to fit in smaller PC cases. So you should ensure that whatever case you choose has at least 155 mm height clearance.
Overall, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is one of the most affordable air coolers that offer a lot of cooling performance for an incredibly low price. It is hard to overlook it as an option even when looking for a low-cost cooler for far more power-hungry CPUs. All this make it an incredable budget option to pair with the Ryzen 9 9900x
Next we have my pick for the best premium cooler for the 9900x, the Lian Li Hydroshift 360TL AIO
Lian Li Hydroshift 360TL AIO – Best Premium CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 9900x
Lian Li is a dominant manufacturer when it comes to PC components that blend innovation with aesthetics. This usually makes their products a bit pricier, but that won’t matter to enthusiasts who care about the best possible performance along with an interesting design.
Their AIO line embodies this statement fully, and the Hydroshift 360TL sits at the top of this lineup. Combining cutting-edge performance with unmatched visual flair, this cooler is an excellent choice for high-end builds.
The Hydroshift LCD 360TL builds upon the foundation laid by its siblings, the 360S and 360R. Both coolers are cheaper variants of the 360TL, and they share some similarities. This includes the gorgeous IPS display, spectacular performance, and a clever cable management technique. However, the 360TL features refined aesthetics and enhanced cooling, thanks to Lian Li’s signature UNI TL Fans.
In terms of design, the 360TL is a stunning piece of kit. The LCP pump cover is the centerpiece, and the 2.88-inch IPS display has plenty of brightness and vibrant colors. In my eyes, it’s one of the better-looking LCD pumps out there. Compared to the 360S, the cheapest out of the Hydroshift lineup, the 360TL has a thicker 31mm radiator, improving cooling capacity.
Another interesting feature here is the attached bar that hides the tubes connecting to the radiator behind the back of the AIO. This means that the tubes don’t hang over your RAM sticks, ensuring full compatibility.
Finally, the main attraction here is the Lian Li UNI fans. These TL variants of the already impressive UNI fans feature “infinity mirror” RGB lighting, meaning the LED zones are hidden behind mirrored layers. This creates a clean, polished appearance even when the fans are off. It makes the fans look like floating rings of light rather than typical case fans, and the result is something you have to see to appreciate.
These fans can spin up to 2500RPM, and have a wireless control functionality. This refers to their magnetic interlocking system that lets you daisy-chain fans without extra cables.
All these design innovations are impressive, but the Hydroshift 360TL isn’t just about looks. For high-end CPUs like a Ryzen 9 9900X, the performance is nothing to scoff at. Under heavy workloads, the temperature never exceeds 70 degrees Celsius. That result is while pushing all cores to 100% usage at the maximum clock speeds. This will rarely happen during gaming, so expect even lower temperatures.
While the 360S and 360R versions are a bit noisier, this isn’t an issue with the 360TL. When the fans are running at 100% speed, the noise levels are at around 45 decibels. This is on par with various other 360mm AIOs, so the result is quite respectable. Again, expect lower noise levels while gaming.
In terms of competition, the closest competitor is the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB. The thermal performance and noise levels of both AIOs are similar, so it comes down to features. Considering the 360TL has better-looking fans, improved cable management, and a brighter display, it’s ultimately the winner. It has more features for the same price, which is why I prefer it for high-end builds.
While it has a high price tag, it has the performance and feature set to show for it. The design is spectacular, the fans look and perform well and the adjustable AIO tubing is just the cherry on top. Spending this much on an AIO certainly isn’t for everyone, but if you’ve got the budget for it, it’s probably the best option out there.
To sum up, what I like is…
Impressive thermal performance
Low noise levels
Bright LCD pump cover
Spectacular fans
On the downside
Very expensive for most builds
Corsair Nautilus 240 RS – Our Top Pick
While Corsair has been making excellent AIOs for a decade now, not everyone is a fan of their proprietary iCue software. This is mainly because the iCue app used for controlling RGB can be buggy, unintuitive, and RAM-hungry. The Corsair Nautilus 240RS addresses all these issues, as you can use this AIO without ever having to deal with the iCue app. Pair that with excellent performance, low noise levels, and a cheap price and you have one of the most impressive AIOs you can buy right now.
The Nautilus line is completely separate from Corsair’s software-centric AIOs such as the iCue Elite Capellix or iCue Link coolers. While those coolers feature extensive software integration for RGB customization, pump fan tuning, and LCD screen controls, the Nautilus line strips away all software dependency. Instead, it features simple ARGB fans, hardware level control, and a performance-driven design.
Speaking of which, it’s hard to tell by looking at this AIO that it’s intended to be a cheaper offering from Corsair. It features an RGB pump cover with the Corsair logo, high-quality braided tubing, and high airflow fans. This AIO features a 27mm thick radiator that can accommodate two 120mm fans. Speaking of which, the RS120 fans do a great job of moving a lot of air without too much noise and they can spin up to 2100 RPM
Best of all this cooler is easier to install than Corsair’s own iCue line. You just need two cables that plug into the motherboard or the RGB fan controller that comes with your case. This is thanks to the fact you can daisy-chain the fan cables into just one simple cable. Other than that, it features wide compatibility with Intel LGA 1700, LGA1851, and AMD AM5 AM4 sockets. Unfortunately, there’s no support for older LGA1200 or LGA115x sockets.
As for cooling performance, the Nautilus 240 RS is rated to cool up to 253W, meaning it can easily handle CPUs like the Intel Core Ultra 7 275KF and the Ryzen 9 9900X. If your CPU is rated to have a TDP of 120W, the Nautilus 240RS will perform admirably. When tested with the likes of the 9900X, this cooler keeps the CPU temperature at around 65 to 75 degrees when pushing all the cores to their boost limits.
It achieves this level of performance while also being relatively quiet. The maximum noise levels are measured at around 45 decibels, which is in line with the other 240mm AIOs. While gaming, you won’t be utilizing all your cores, so expect fans to run slower and have less noise as a result. Even during productive sessions with intensive workloads, the noise of the fans won’t be a problem.
The Arctic Liquid Freezer III is the closest competitor to the Nautilus 240 RS. While the Liquid Freezer III performs ever so slightly better, the ARGB version of Arctic’s cooler is pricier. Additionally, Corsair wins in terms of noise levels, ease of installation, and cleaner looks. The Nautilus delivers respectable performance at a cheaper price for recent Intel Arrow Lake and AMD Zen 5 CPUs, so it’s the better choice for a cpu like the Ryzen 9 9900x.
The only real downside with this cooler is that it doesn’t support older sockets like LGA1200. This means if you have a 10th or 11th-generation Intel CPU, this cooler is out of the question. For the rest of you who are on AM4, AM5 or Intel LGA1700 and LGA1851 sockets, the Natilus is an excellent choice. It’s got the looks, the performance, and low noise levels all at a decent price.
To sum up, what I like is…
No need for Corsair iCue software
Great performance at a cheap price
Clean and sleek design
Low noise levels
On the downside
Incompatibility with 10th and 11th gen Intel chips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About CPU Coolers for Ryzen 9 9900X
1. What type of CPU cooler is best for the Ryzen 9 9900X?
The best type of CPU cooler for the Ryzen 9 9900X is a high-performance AIO (All-in-One) liquid cooler or a powerful air cooler. These coolers effectively manage the heat generated by the 9900X, keeping temperatures low even under heavy gaming or intensive workloads.
2. How much cooling power does the Ryzen 9 9900X require?
The Ryzen 9 9900X typically requires a CPU cooler capable of dissipating at least 200 watts of heat. Coolers rated at 250 watts or above are ideal, ensuring stable performance and preventing overheating during demanding tasks.
3. Is an air cooler enough for the Ryzen 9 9900X?
An air cooler can effectively cool the Ryzen 9 9900X, but it must be a powerful model with multiple heat pipes and large, quiet fans. Budget air coolers rated at around 250 watts or higher are sufficient for regular usage, including gaming.
4. Do CPU coolers affect gaming performance on the Ryzen 9 9900X?
CPU coolers can indirectly impact gaming performance on the Ryzen 9 9900X by preventing thermal throttling. A high-quality cooler keeps temperatures low, enabling the CPU to run at peak speeds consistently, thus maximizing gaming performance.
5. How loud are typical CPU coolers for Ryzen 9 9900X?
Typical CPU coolers suitable for the Ryzen 9 9900X operate between 25 to 45 decibels under full load. High-quality coolers often run quieter, ensuring minimal distraction during gaming sessions or productivity tasks.
6. Does the Ryzen 9 9900X include a stock cooler?
The Ryzen 9 9900X does not include a stock cooler. Users must purchase a separate cooler suitable for its thermal demands, choosing either a powerful air cooler or an AIO liquid cooler for optimal performance.
7. Can I overclock my Ryzen 9 9900X with an air cooler?
You can overclock the Ryzen 9 9900X using a high-end air cooler capable of managing high heat output. However, for extensive or heavy overclocking, a premium AIO liquid cooler is recommended for better thermal control.
8. What radiator size is recommended for AIO coolers on the Ryzen 9 9900X?
A 240mm or larger radiator is recommended for AIO liquid coolers used with the Ryzen 9 9900X. Larger 360mm radiators provide even better cooling performance, especially useful for intensive workloads and gaming.
9. Are expensive CPU coolers worth it for the Ryzen 9 9900X?
Expensive CPU coolers can be worth the cost for the Ryzen 9 9900X if you prioritize exceptional cooling performance, quiet operation, and aesthetic features such as RGB lighting or LCD pump covers. However, good budget options also exist offering strong value and performance.
10. Do all CPU coolers fit any PC case?
Not all CPU coolers fit every PC case. Coolers vary significantly in size, especially high-performance air coolers and large AIO radiators. Always check the cooler’s height and radiator compatibility specifications against your PC case clearance before purchase.
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