Introduction of the best coolers for Intel i7-11700k
The Intel i7-11700k is a powerful processor that requires an efficient cooling solution to operate optimally. Investing in the right cooler not only helps extend the chip’s longevity but it also contributes to its overall stability. Learn all about the importance of CPU cooling and discover the best coolers for Intel i7-11700k processor.
The importance of CPU cooling cannot be understated. Overheating can lead to throttling, which in turn leads to a decrease in performance. More importantly, overheating components put the entire system at risk of irreparable damage. It’s crucial for gamers, content creators, and power users alike to prioritize CPU cooling and perform their due diligence when choosing a cooling solution.
With that said, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the top 5 coolers that are compatible with the i7-11700k. So if you’re in the market for a cooler, you can refer to our list and make an informed decision to choose the best cooler that suits your requirements and budget.
Importance of CPU Cooling
Effective cooling is imperative for high-performance CPUs such as the i7-11700k. A competent cooler prevents overheating and keeps the system stable with lower noise levels, thus allowing the CPU to perform at optimum levels. This makes it ideal for demanding tasks such as gaming, rendering, and multitasking, where heavy usage put strain on the processor. Overall, investing in good cooling for a high-performance CPU can lead to better performance, longer lifespan, and a smoother, more enjoyable user experience.
The i7-11700k: A Brief Overview
The Intel Core i7-11700k processor is an impressive feat of engineering. With 8 cores and 16 threads, its base clock speed of 3.6 GHz, and a turbo boost of up to 5.0 GHz, it’s the powerhouse that every gamer and professional needs. Built on Intel’s 14nm process and part of their latest 11th generation of processors, codenamed Rocket Lake, this CPU offers unparalleled computing power.
To ensure the processor reaches its full potential, an efficient cooling solution is highly recommended. The processor’s high clock speeds and intense workload generate a lot of heat, which can lead to thermal throttling and reduced performance if not properly managed. Therefore, it’s crucial to pair this processor with a robust and effective cooling solution.
Here are Our Top Picks: The Best Choices You Can Find
Top 5 Coolers for i7-11700k
#1 Noctua NH-D15
Features
If you’re looking for a high-performance air cooler to keep your CPU temperatures in check, the Noctua NH-D15 is a top choice. This cooler is widely appreciated for its exceptional cooling capabilities, low noise levels, and superb build quality. It features a unique dual-tower design, six heat pipes, and two high-performance 140mm NF-A15 PWM fans. Apart from delivering excellent cooling, this cooler installs easily and securely thanks to the SecuFirm2 mounting system. With the Noctua NH-D15, you can keep your system cool and running smoothly for hours on end.
Specification
| Feature | Value |
| Dimensions | 125 x 140 x 165 mm |
| Weight | 1320 g |
| Fan compatibility | 2x 140mm fans (included) |
| Noise level | 19.2 – 24.6 dB |
| Heatsink material | Aluminium |
| Fan material | Plastic |
| Fan speed | 300 – 1500 RPM |
| Fan airflow | 140,2 m³/h |
| Fan static pressure | 2.5 mmH₂O |
| TDP | 150 W |
| Socket compatibility | Intel LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, LGA2011, LGA2011-3, LGA2066 |
| AMD AM2, AM2+, AM3, AM3+, AM4, FM1, FM2, FM2+ | |
| Warranty | 6 years |
Performance
When it comes to high-performance computing with the i7-11700k processor, nothing beats the Noctua NH-D15 for achieving optimal temperatures and minimal system noise. It’s impressive cooling performance and low noise operation make it a top choice for users who value stability in intense workloads. With the NH-D15, you can rest assured that your PC will remain cool and quiet even as you push it to the limit with demanding workloads or resource-intensive games.
Pros and Cons
Price
The price of the CPU cooler varies depending on the type and model, but generally ranges from $30 – $50. It is a fairly affordable option for those looking to upgrade their system without spending too much money.
Overall, the Noctua NH-D15 cooler is great value for money, offering superior performance at a reasonable price. It is compatible with multiple processor sockets and has good fan design and anti-vibration features. However, it may not be the best choice for small form factor cases due to its larger size and weight. Additionally, there are some concerns installation due to the extra long screws required. All in all, this is a great cooler that provides good value for money and performance for those looking to upgrade their system without breaking the bank.
#2 be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4
Features
The be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is an exceptional choice for an air cooler due to its efficient and noise-reducing design. With a dual-tower heatsink and seven heat pipes, this cooler ensures that your system is running at optimal temperature levels. Adding to its efficiency, the Dark Rock Pro 4 is equipped with two Silent Wings PWM fans -120mm and 135mm- which keep noise levels at a minimum. But the benefits of this cooler don’t stop there. Its brushed aluminum top cover adds a touch of elegance and style to your build, making it the perfect choice for anyone who takes pride in their computer’s appearance.
Specification
| Feature | Value |
| TDP | 250W |
| Noise level | 24.3dB(A) |
| Number of fans | 2 |
| Fan speed | 1200-1700 RPM |
| Fan size | 135mm and 120mm |
| Heat pipes | 7 |
| Material | Copper and aluminum |
| Dimensions | 146mm x 136mm x 163mm |
| Weight | 1.13kg |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Performance
The Dark Rock Pro 4 is the perfect CPU cooler for those who value quiet PCs. It offers excellent cooling performance, which ensures stable functioning even during the most demanding tasks. Its large heatsink, seven heat pipes, and advanced fan technology make it one of the most efficient air coolers on the market. This German engineered cooler provides an excellent balance between noise and cooling performance, ensuring high performance without disturbing the silent working environment.
Pros and Cons
Price
The be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is priced at around $90, which is relatively expensive compared to other CPU coolers on the market. However, it offers excellent cooling performance and a 6-year limited warranty for added peace of mind.
Overall, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is an impressive CPU cooler that delivers reliable and efficient cooling performance. It is easy to install, although it can be tricky due to its large size and complex mounting system. The price tag is quite high compared to other CPU coolers, but overall it offers great value for money when considering the included 6-year limited warranty. Despite having a relatively small heatsink design with limited airflow, the Dark Rock Pro 4 still manages to keep the CPU temperatures within acceptable levels. It is an ideal choice for users looking for a reliable cooling solution with long-term durability. Highly Recommended!
#3 Cooler Master MasterAir MA620M
Features
The Cooler Master MasterAir MA620M is a top-of-the-line air cooler with a sleek, dual-tower design that stands apart from the competition. Its six heat pipes and 120mm SF120R RGB fan offer exceptional cooling capabilities, while the easy-to-install mounting system ensures a hassle-free installation process.
Specification
| Feature | Specification |
| Dimensions | 135 x 125 x 165 mm |
| Weight | 1.1 kg |
| Fan | 120 mm x 120 mm x 25 mm |
| Noise level | 8-30 dBA |
| Airflow | 57,3 CFM |
| Static pressure | 2.00 mmH2O |
| Compatibility | Intel LGA 1155x, 1200,LGA1156, 2011, 2066; AMD AM2, AM2+, AM3, AM3+, AM4, FM1, FM2, FM2+ |
| Warranty | 5 years |
But what really sets the MA620M apart is its addressable RGB lighting. With customizable colors and effects, you can add a personalized touch to your PC build that will really make it stand out. The MA620M is the perfect choice for any discerning PC builder who wants power, style, and customization.
Performance
With its durable build quality and sleek design, the MasterAir MA620M proves to be a top-performing cooler, offering efficient heat dissipation for i7-11700k processors even during heavy workloads. This cooler is an ideal solution for those seeking to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Its dual fans with addressable RGB and thermal detection sensor provide a visually appealing and functional addition to any performance-driven desktop build.
Pros and Cons
Price
The MasterAir MA620M is reasonably priced, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. The cooler can be found online for around $70 USD. Given its performance and features, this price makes the cooler a great value for i7-11700k users.
Overall, the MasterAir MA620M is an excellent CPU cooler for Intel i7-11700k users. It provides excellent cooling performance, thanks to its six heat pipes, and the addressable RGB lighting adds a stylish touch. The easy to install mounting system makes setup straightforward, even for beginners. The only downside is that the larger size of this cooler may limit installation options in smaller cases. The combination of great performance, attractive lighting, and a reasonable price make this cooler one of the best options in its class. Highly recommended!
#4 Corsair H115i RGB Platinum
Features
The Corsair H115i RGB Platinum is a premium all-in-one liquid cooler that boasts top-of-the-line features for maximum performance. With a massive 280mm radiator, two 140mm ML PRO Series RGB PWM fans, and vibrant RGB lighting, this cooler not only keeps your processor cool but also adds a stylish touch to your build.
Specification
| Feature | Specification |
| Radiator Size | 280mm |
| Fan Speed | 400-2000 RPM |
| Noise Level | 10-36 dBA |
| Color | Black / Silver |
| CPU Socket | AM2, AM2+, AM3, AM3+, AM4, FM1, FM2, FM2+, LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, LGA2011, LGA2011-3, LGA2066 |
| Water Cooled | Yes – 280 mm |
| Fanless | No |
| Lighting Type | RGB |
| Airflow Volume | 97 cubic feet per minute |
One of the standout features of the H115i Platinum is its Zero RPM mode, which allows for silent operation at low temperatures. This mode switches off the fans completely when the temperature falls below a certain threshold, making the cooler virtually silent.
But that’s not all – with the iCUE software, you can fully customize the lighting and fan speeds to your liking. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a demanding content creator, the Corsair H115i RGB Platinum is the perfect addition to your build for superior cooling performance and aesthetic appeal.
Performance
The Corsair H115i RGB Platinum, an efficient liquid cooling solution, offers top-tier cooling performance and customizable aesthetics. It is a popular choice among i7-11700k users who seek optimal CPU temperature control and reliable performance during resource-intensive tasks. Its advanced technology ensures that your CPU stays cool without any hiccups, making it an investment that will pay off in the long run. Plus, the RGB lighting adds an aesthetic touch to your system setup for additional flair.
Pros and Cons
Price
The Corsair H115i RGB Platinum currently retails at an MSRP of $139.99, making it one of the more expensive coolers on the market. While this price may be off-putting for some, its performance and features make it worth the investment for most users.
Overall, the Corsair H115i RGB Platinum is an excellent cooler for both performance and aesthetics. It boasts powerful cooling capabilities as well as customizable lighting options, making it a great choice for gamers or enthusiasts looking for a high-end cooling solution. However, due to its size and cost, it may not be the best choice for budget or novice users. With careful installation and some noise tolerance, though, this cooler can be a great addition to any system.
#5 NZXT Kraken X63
Features
The NZXT Kraken X63 is an excellent choice for those who want to take their PC cooling system to the next level. It’s a premium all-in-one liquid cooler, boasting a large 280mm radiator that’s optimized for maximum cooling efficiency. The cooler is equipped with two powerful 140mm Aer P fans, which work together to provide exceptional cooling performance that your PC needs for top-notch gaming experiences.
Specification
| Feature | Specification |
| Dimensions | 13.8 x 8.3 x 6.3 inches |
| Weight | 73.76 ounces |
| Cooling Method | Water |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Voltage | 5 Volts |
| Wattage | 3.8 watts |
| Fan Speed | 500-1800 RPM |
| Noise Level | 21-38 dBA |
| Radiator Size | 280mm |
| Pump Speed | 2800 RPM |
| LED Lighting | Yes |
| Warranty | 6 years |
What sets the NZXT Kraken X63 apart from other coolers on the market is its striking infinity mirror design with customizable RGB lighting. This design is not only visually stunning but also customizable, allowing you to tweak the lighting to your personal preference, offering an entirely new level of customization for your PC. Additionally, the cooler supports the CAM software, making monitoring and controlling your cooler’s performance quick and straightforward. Overall, the NZXT Kraken X63 sets the standard for liquid-cooling performance and customization.
Performance
The Kraken X63 is more than just a standard CPU cooler – it’s a premium liquid cooling system that delivers exceptional cooling performance! Its state-of-the-art design is perfectly suited for i7-11700k users who prefer liquid cooling solutions. Efficiently managing the processor’s heat output, this cooler ensures optimal temperatures for consistent performance even during the most intensive tasks. With its advanced features, the Kraken X63 provides an unparalleled level of cooling, allowing for longer and more reliable usage.
Pros and Cons
Price:
While the NZXT X63 comes with an expensive $219.99 USD price tag, it justifies the cost with exceptional performance and an unparalleled user experience. Compared to other AIOs on the market, it’s tough to beat in terms of raw quality.
Overall, the NZXT X63 is a great option for those looking for a high-performance liquid cooling solution that won’t break the bank. Despite its price tag, it offers excellent cooling performance and a hassle-free installation process. Although it may require more clearance in the CPU socket area than other AIOs due to its large size, the extra effort is worth it for those who need maximum cooling power from their system. Additionally, the customizable RGB lighting options offer an aesthetically pleasing way to finish off a build. All in all, the NZXT X63 is a great AIO cooler that should meet the needs of even the most demanding gamers and PC enthusiasts.
Our Recommendations For The Best Coolers for Intel i7-11700k
Conclusion
Selecting the right cooler is a crucial factor in optimizing the performance and longevity of your i7-11700k. If you want your PC to run smooth while maintaining cooler temps, you have to choose the type of cooler that will work perfectly with this processor.
The Noctua NH-D15 is a preferred option as it provides high-end cooling with low noise levels, along with its moderate price tag. The be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 comes with two high-quality fans that deliver impressive cooling performance while maintaining quiet operation. The Cooler Master MasterAir MA620M is a competent rival to the others with RGB lighting and a sleek design.
If you’re looking for customizable lighting effects with premium cooling performance, then the Corsair H115i RGB Platinum will make a good choice. Lastly, the NZXT Kraken X63 is designed with an AIO water cooling system, which offers maximum efficiency in handling CPU temps.
In a nutshell, each of these coolers offers unique qualities tailored to your specific preferences. The good news is that regardless of which one you choose, you can be confident that your i7-11700k will stay chilled and serve you well.
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