Every CPU generates excessive heat during operation, and here we have the performance beast, the i9 9900K, which produces a severe amount of heat that would be enough to cook an egg. And if that heat isn’t controlled or cooled down, it can negatively impact performance and even damage the CPU. Unexpected shutdowns, instability and crashes can occur.
A quality CPU cooler plays an essential role in balancing heat, performance, ensuring system stability and allowing more room for overclocking. Furthermore, a CPU cooler helps extend the lifespan of your hardware by cooling it down and reducing the risk of premature failure.
Well, coolers have different categories and types, such as AIO and air coolers. AIO coolers are very often a priority by enthusiasts as they have better and more efficient cooling performance.
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Noctua NH-D15
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NZXT Kraken X73
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be quiet! The Dark Pro 4:
It’s an investment that truly pays off, especially if you are going to squeeze the power of your CPU and use it for demanding tasks such as high-end gaming. It would be a foolish idea to build a system without a reliable CPU cooler; a cooler ensures heat dissipation and contributes to the stability and overall smoothness of the system.
Top 8 Best CPU Cooler For i9 9900K
For your i9 9900K to stay cool and work at its full potential, we have listed below some best CPU coolers for the i9 9900K:
Best Pick
Noctua NH-D15
Features:
| Brand | Noctua |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Cooling Method | Fan |
The Noctua NH-D15 is a well-known air cooler for its outstanding, remarkable cooling performance and quiet operation. When it comes to cooling the i9-9900K, the NH-D15 is more than sufficient. It uses a dual-tower design with two large heatsinks and 6 heat pipes for efficient heat transfer from the CPU and is equipped with two high-quality NF-A15 fans to ensure excellent airflow while keeping a low profile.
Noctua NH-D15, with its cooling robust cooling capabilities, handles the i9-9900K’s high heat output even during intensive tasks like gaming, content creation, and overclocking. It keeps your CPU within a safe operating temperature, prevents performance throttling, and maintains optimal performance.
A notable advantage of the Noctua NH-D15 is its quiet operation. Noctua is known for its attention to detail and focus on noise reduction. The included NF-A15 fan is designed for efficient cooling with minimal noise. This means you can enjoy a cool, powerful system without the hassle of excessive fan noise. Moreover, NH-D15 offers excellent compatibility and easy installation. It supports various CPU sockets, including the LGA1151 socket used in the i9-9900K. Noctua comes with clear instructions and mounting hardware, which makes the installation process simple and hassle-free.
Furthermore, it is characterized by excellent build quality and durability. Noctua doesn’t compromise on the quality of material and standards to ensure the longevity of its coolers. The NH-D15 is built to last, providing years of reliable cooling performance. Last but not least, make sure your PC case has enough space because the NH-D15 is a large air cooler; it’s recommended to check your case’s specs and dimensions beforehand to ensure it’s a good fit.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Corsair Hydro Series H150i PRO
Features:
| Brand | Corsair |
| Noise Level | 25 dB |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Cooling Method | Water |
Meet the game-changer for your i9-9900K, the Corsair Hydro Series H150i PRO, a liquid CPU cooler that takes your system to a whole new level of cooling. With its unbeaten performance and sleek design, this powerful cooler keeps the i9 9900K cool during intense gaming sessions and resource-intensive tasks. Enjoy uninterrupted high-performance computing without worrying about overheating, and unleash the true potential of your CPU.
The H150i PRO features a sturdy 360mm radiator with a large surface area for optimal heat dissipation. This is great because the cooler can efficiently cool the CPU, even during intensive tasks. The cooler works with a high-performance pump to ensure smooth operation. As for compatibility, you’re lucky! The H150i PRO supports various CPU sockets, including the LGA1151 socket of the i9 9900K. So, you can easily pair this cooler with the i9 9900K without worrying about compatibility issues.
If you talk about its fans, it is equipped with three 120mm ML series maglev fans. These fans provide excellent airflow to cool the radiator while minimizing noise levels efficiently; that means you get the benefits of superior cooling without an annoying whistling sound.
One of the H150i PRO’s standout features is its integration with Corsair’s iCUE software. This software gives you complete control over your cooler, which allows you to adjust fan and pump speeds, adjust RGB lighting effects, and monitor temperatures. The easy-to-use interface allows you to customize your cooling settings to your choice.
To sum it up, the Corsair Hydro Series H150i PRO is an impressive CPU cooler, so it can be the best CPU cooler for the i9 9900K, having strong performance and compatibility with the i9 9900K. Designed to efficiently cool the processor even during demanding tasks such as gaming. You can also control various cooler aspects with the benefit of iCUE software integration. So, rest assured that the i9 9900K is well-maintained, and the H150i PRO will keep it cool.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Staff Pick
NZXT Kraken X73
Features:
| Brand | NZXT |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Cooling Method | Water |
Introducing the extraordinary NZXT Kraken X73, the epitome of perfect liquid cooling. Be dazzled by breathtaking performance and captivating beauty that will take your PC to the next level. Let’s take a look at the Kraken X73’s compelling features and how it pairs fantastically with the powerful i9 9900K.
First and foremost, the Kraken X73 features a 360mm radiator that is genuinely phenomenal regarding heat dissipation. It’s like having a cooling powerhouse next to you that can handle even the most demanding tasks with ease. Say goodbye to overheating worries and get efficient, smooth performance.
But it’s not only the performance; the Kraken X73 is absolutely a visual marvel. Having a sleek design accentuated by a customizable RGB lighting ring on the pump head will blow your mind. Imagine a rig with an alluring glow. It can be perfectly synced with other NZXT components or customized with your own build style intuitive NZXT CAM software.
Now let’s discuss the remarkable compatibility of the Kraken X73 with the i9 9900K. Fully equipped to handle the raw power of your i9 9900K, this excellent liquid cooling will ensure you stay cool during the most intense gaming sessions. Feel the confidence in your veins as you push the i9 9900K to its limits with the NZXT Kraken X73’s excelling cooling performance;
Furthermore, installing the Kraken X73 is easy, thanks to the easy-to-use mounting system and detailed instructions. The process is easy and stress-free, even if you’re new to building. Overall, the NZXT Kraken X73 is a one-of-a-kind liquid CPU cooler that combines stunning beauty with impressive performance. With its huge radiator, remarkable design and seamless compatibility with the i9 9900K, it’s a heavenly combination.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Budget Pick
be quiet! The Dark Pro 4:
Features:
| Brand | Be quiet! |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Cooling Method | Fan |
Take your Core i9 9900K to new heights with the Dark Pro 4 from be quiet!. A marvel of technology, carefully crafted to ensure compatibility and reliability with the processors like the Core i9 9900K. The streamlined design allows for easy installation and secure assembly, guaranteeing seamless integration that provides stability. You can rest easy knowing that a high-performance processor is in a cooler that can handle its demanding needs.
The Dark Pro 4 is equipped with a dual-tower heatsink and various standout features that maximizes the surface area for efficient heat dissipation, delivering a remarkable thermal performance that keeps the performance beast operating at optimal temps even during intense tasks such as gaming sessions. Also, it has seven high-performing heat pipes and two silent wings fans, including 120mm and 135mm fans providing outstanding airflow while operating at a low profile, ensuring efficient and quiet cooling.
Furthermore, the Dark Pro 4’s cooling fins are in a wave-contoured design to reduce air turbulence and enhance cooling efficiency; moreover, it stands for outstanding build quality, detail-oriented attention to detail, and feature premium construction that exceeds all expectations. Therefore, this cooler sets the benchmark for superior CPU cooling.
Moreover, the Dark Rock Pro 4 supports various CPU sockets, including the LGA 1151 socket used by the i9 9900K processor. Therefore, there’s no need to worry about compatibility with this cooler.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Corsair iCUE H150i RGB Elite
Features:
| Brand | Corsair |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Voltage | 28 |
| Cooling Method | Water |
The Corsair iCUE H150i RGB Elite ranks among high-end and best-performing CPU coolers. Its price reflects the leading features and performance. Combining new technology, quality components, and customizable RGB lighting, this cooler is designed for superior and best-in-class cooling performance.
With a large 360mm radiator, the H150i RGB Elite provides ample cooling surface for efficient heat dissipation and lower CPU temps, further enhanced by three 120mm PWM fans, providing strong airflow while keeping a low profile.
What takes the H150i RGB Elite to another level is its stunning RGB lighting. The pump head has customizable RGB lighting zones to create lighting effects that match your build. Furthermore, installation is more straightforward with its user-friendly design. A modular mounting system and pre-applied thermal paste simplify the mounting process making it easy to assemble even for new builders.
If you pair it with your i9 9900K, this great cooler will deliver outstanding cooling performance, keeping your CPU running at the optimum temperature. Whether you’re squeezing it into intensive gaming sessions, content creation, or performing critical tasks, it will prevent thermal throttling and will provide the cooling performance you need to maintain stable performance.
However, the H150i Elite can be considered expensive compared to cheaper options. However, its benefits, exceptional cooling performance, customizable RGB lighting, low noise, and excellent build quality are worth considering, making it the best AIO cooler for the i9 9900K.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix
Features:
| Brand | Corsair |
| Power Connector Type | 3-Pin |
| Voltage | 220 Volts |
| Cooling Method | Water |
The Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix is an incredible powerhouse for your CPU cooling needs. This cooler features captivating Capellix RGB lighting and elevates your system’s aesthetics to the next level while maintaining peak performance. Experience the brilliance of Capellix RGB LEDs illuminating buildings with vibrant colours and dynamic lighting effects. Express your style, set the mood, and create an extraordinary visual spectacle that boosts your gaming session or work accomplishment.
The H150i Elite Capellix is not only a feast for the eyes, but it also offers excellent cooling performance. Designed to take control of even the most powerful processors like i9 9900K, it controls temperatures and maximizes your CPU’s potential. Say goodbye to overheating worries and enjoy uninterrupted performance.
With an intelligently controlled cooling system, it ensures optimal airflow, low-noise operation, and the right balance between performance and quietness. Zero RPM mode keeps a low profile during low-demand moments so you can focus on the task at hand without distractions. Thanks to quality construction and durable components, the H150i Elite Capellix is built to last. It doesn’t only provide excellent cooling for your CPU but also ensures longer-term reliability and performance.
Also, with easy installation, all in all, the Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix is a feature-rich AIO CPU cooler for the i9 9900K that combines stunning Capellix RGB lighting, outstanding cooling features, and convenient software controls—an ideal choice for enthusiasts and gamers looking for both style and performance in a PC cooling solution.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition
Features:
| Brand | ‎Cooler Master |
| Weight | ‎1.78 pounds |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Color | ‎Hyper 212 BE |
It is a trendy CPU cooler with a beautiful design. The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition provides decent cooling performance and performs quiet operations at low loads. It has been constructed to dissipate heat from the processor efficiently.
This cooler features a single-tower design with a black aluminium fin assembly for excellent heat dissipation. The four 6mm diameter heat pipes help to transfer heat from the CPU to the aluminium fins. It features a direct contact copper heat pipe with the CPU surface to maximize thermal conductivity.
The Hyper 212 Black Edition features a 120mm PWM fan that balances airflow and static pressure. Thanks to its rifle-bearing technology, the fan runs quietly, resulting in less noise and longer service life.
The cooler’s dimensions are approximately 120 mm x 79.6 mm x 158.8 mm (L x W x H). It’s essential to ensure your case has enough area for the cooler’s height. Also, confirm that other components, such as RAM modules, are unaffected.
The i9-9900K is known for its high-power consumption and heat production. Consider a more powerful cooler if you want to overclock or push it to the limit. In this regard, Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition can properly cool i9-9900K at standard speed or light overclock. It can handle processor heat and keep temperatures within acceptable limits for regular use.
However, the Hyper 212 Black Edition is a reliable and affordable CPU air cooler that efficiently cools your processor. This is appropriate for casual users and gaming enthusiasts who want to keep their CPU cool even under harsh conditions.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Scythe Fuma 2 Rev.B CPU Air Cooler
Features:
| Brand | SCYTHE |
| Noise Level | 28.6 dB |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Cooling Method | Air |
This is a unique-shaped CPU cooler. The Scythe Fuma 2 Rev.B is generally known for its versatile compatibility, efficient cooling performance, low noise level, and good heat dissipation. It is an award-winning twin-tower cooler. It features an asymmetrical design that enhances compatibility with standard and compact PC cases. This ensures efficient airflow throughout the system without the cooler interfering with other components, such as PCIe slots.
Its dual-tower design increases the heat dissipation surface area for more effective cooling. This tower features aluminium fins and 6 copper heat pipes directly connecting with the CPU surface for better heat transfer.
The cooler comes with two Kaze Flex 120mm PWM fans. These fans use sealed precision fluid dynamic bearings that reduce noise and extend life. It operates at a low noise level and provides good airflow and static pressure for adequate cooling performance.
The Scythe Fuma 2 Rev.B features a user-friendly mounting system that simplifies installation. It includes a mounting kit with various brackets and a user-friendly design for easy installation without the need for special tools. It supports multiple CPU sockets, including LGA 775, 115x, 1366, and AMD. Its compatibility also matches with the Intel i9 9900k CPU socket LGA 1151.
It’s important to note that the i9-9900K is a power-hungry processor and can generate much heat, especially when overclocked. Therefore, the Scythe Fuma 2 Rev.B CPU air cooler is a good match for the Intel Core i9-9900K. It offers efficient cooling, compatibility and quiet operation, making it a reliable option for maintaining optimal temperatures and system stability.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Buying Guide:
Purchasing the Best budget CPU cooler for i9 9900K gaming becomes essential, especially when you are a gaming enthusiast or a multitasker. This guide will let you pick up by considering their performance instead of choosing the ineffective cooler.
There are various factors to consider before preferring the exclusive CPU cooler:
Noise-Level: You should select the cooler which has the least decibel of sound. Some CPU coolers, especially those with powerful fans, can be noisy. If you value a quiet computing environment, choose a low-noise cooler. Coolers with more giant fans or noise reduction features can help minimize noise while providing adequate cooling.
Air Cooling & Liquid Cooling: Air cooling is the most popular and traditional way to cool CPUs. The heatsink and fan dissipate the CPU-generated heat. A heatsink is typically made of metal, such as aluminium or copper, with a large surface area and heat pipes that help dissipate heat from the CPU. A fan blows air over the heatsink to help dissipate heat. The airflow generated by the fan helps cool the heatsink and, thus, the CPU.
Liquid or water cooling is an alternative to using liquids as the heat transfer medium. Since liquid’s thermal conductivity is higher than air, liquid cooling systems often provide more efficient cooling than air cooling. Liquid cooling improves overclocking speed, and liquid cooling systems are typically quieter than air cooling because the fans in liquid cooling systems can operate at lower rates. Nonetheless, liquid cooling systems are more complex to install, require more maintenance, and are commonly more expensive than air cooling.
Socket Type: If the socket type differs from your bringing CPU cooler, you may face an issue. Different CPUs require different mounting mechanisms. So, check your cooler’s specs to ensure it’s compatible with your motherboard.
Dimension: Most of the time, the computer has different spaces for devices. Consider the size and dimensions of your CPU cooler, mainly if you have limited space inside your computer case. Some coolers are too large to fit comfortably or interfere with other components, such as RAM modules.
Aesthetics: If you care for looks, then, in this case, you should consider the design and aesthetics of the CPU cooler. Some coolers come with RGB lights and a sleek design that can boost the overall look of your build.
Budget: Before purchasing, you should set your CPU cooler budget and choose the best value for money. Consider cooling efficiency, what it features, and brand reputation to determine the overall value of the cooler.
However, the “best” CPU cooler depends on your specific needs. Which CPU do you use? Overclocking requirements, noise issues, and available budget.
Conclusion:
Gamers could have different perspectives about CPU coolers, but the i9 9900k is a tremendous CPU among high-end CPUs. Similarly, a gamer or enthusiast wishes that the CPU cooler should also have similar capabilities to powerful CPUs. So that they can’t face any obstacles while running high-end gaming. However, it is a dream for every gamer & multitasker that their CPU runs in a calm environment. But effective cooling is expectable from the best CPU coolers. This article will provide the guidance and information you need to choose the Best CPU Cooler For the i9 9900K.
Does a CPU cooler affect performance?
There’s no doubt at all; a CPU cooler significantly affects the performance of a system. A CPU running at lower temps can deliver maximum performance and longevity. While on the other hand, if your CPU overheats, it can start throttling clock speeds to reduce heat output resulting in lazy and slower performance. A good CPU cooler ensures proper airflow, which enhances performance and maintains stability and coolness during intensive tasks.
Are AIO (All-in-one) coolers better than Air coolers?
In short, yes, an AIO cooler generally provides better cooling performance and is extra efficient than an air cooler in overclocking scenarios. AIO coolers offer compact, sleek, modern designs and aesthetics at higher prices. In contrast, air coolers deliver cost-effectiveness, reliability, and easy maintenance. Ultimately, it depends on your needs, budget, available space, and personal preference.
How often should you clean your CPU cooler?
We recommend cleaning your CPU cooler regularly to remove dust and dirt that build up on the heatsink and fans. However, it depends on factors such as environment and usage. Generally, cleaning every 3-6 months is better, but it can vary.
