Best CPU coolers for AMD Ryzen 7 5800X in 2023
Keep Ryzen temperatures under control with the best cooler.
Pairing the best CPU cooler for an AMD Ryzen 7 5800X makes it a worthy choice from a previous generation and a necessary pickup since there's no cooler included in the box. I've already found the best matches for this powerful processor to match various PC case sizes and variants of cooling methods, targeting a range of budgets. Check the clearance inside your desktop before picking up one of the chunkier air-cooled options, and make sure you have enough space for a specific radiator if you go with an all-in-one liquid solution.
Either way, you'll be on your way to building a capable gaming machine that can push for higher clock speeds without raising the temperatures to anything close to dangerous levels. It's a confusing component to pick when you're a newcomer, but rest assured that each of my picks is compatible with the 5800X CPU using the appropriate AM4 brackets.
Best air cooler
Noctua is known for quiet, stable fans for a reason. The Noctua NH-U12A is not only silent but also efficient at keeping everything cool. It measures 158mm tall, so ensure your case has enough clearance for this chunky air cooler.
Affordable AIO
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 280 is perfect for saving space inside your case versus some of the larger air coolers. It's an affordable solution that may not look fancy but will keep your CPU quietly running under comfortable temperatures.
Premium liquid cooling
The Kraken X73 360mm proved in our review to be a powerful liquid-cooling system with gorgeous RGB lighting. It's more expensive but capable of keeping your CPU temperatures under control and looking pretty with the NZXT CAM software handling lighting.
Super quiet
The Dark Rock Pro 4 TR4 is an extremely quiet air cooler. For the benefits of silent running, you have to consider its lofty 163mm height within your case. If you're looking for ultra-quiet fans and have the space, the Dark Rock Pro 4 is the winner.
Flashy RGB
For RGB, the iCUE H150i Capellix is the ultimate choice to pair with the Ryzen 7 5800X. It features customizable lighting on the 360mm fan radiator and liquid pump while providing high-performance cooling for controlled temperatures.
Budget cooling
The Scythe Fuma 2 is a competent air cooler for a low price. It's the solution if you're looking to save some money but don't want to jeopardize your CPU. It's a quiet runner measuring just under 155mm in height, so check your clearance over other components.
Choosing the best cooler for a Ryzen 7 5800X CPU
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The best CPU cooler for the Ryzen 5800X depends on your needs and case size. AMD doesn't include a stock cooler with its CPU, so you might want to look at something simple like the Scythe Fuma 2 air cooler or the Arctic Liquid Freezer II AIO to keep the costs down. Our top pick, the Noctua NH-U12A, is a super-quiet air cooler that gives an incredible performance necessary for this Ryzen CPU, which works harder than its 5600X counterpart.
For absolute silence, you need the phenomenal be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 for quiet and peaceful gaming. On the other end of the spectrum is the NZXT Kraken X73 360mm pumping out ice-cold temperatures with its liquid-cooling system, as long as you have space for its triple-fan radiator. Clearance is important for any of these models, especially the air coolers, so double-check your available space for clearance over other components like RAM and GPU.
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Ben is the channel editor for all things tech-related at Windows Central. That includes PCs, the components inside, and any accessory you can connect to a Windows desktop or Xbox console. Not restricted to one platform, he also has a keen interest in Valve's Steam Deck handheld and the Linux-based operating system inside. Fueling this career with coffee since 2021, you can usually find him behind one screen or another. Find him on Mastodon @trzomb@mastodon.online to ask questions or share opinions.