If you are a tech enthusiast or a PC gamer looking to build or upgrade your computer, finding the perfect CPU cooler is crucial for keeping your processor cool and maximizing its performance. In this article, we will explore the 10 best CPU coolers released in 2011 that are still highly recommended for the year 2023. These coolers have stood the test of time and are known for their exceptional cooling capabilities, efficient heat dissipation, and compatibility with a wide range of processors. Whether you are an overclocking enthusiast or simply want to ensure your CPU runs at optimal temperatures, this list will help you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect CPU cooler for your needs.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Thermalright AK90 CPU Air Cooler is a high-performance and quiet cooler that provides efficient cooling for your CPU. With its 5 heatpipes and S-FDB bearing, this cooler ensures optimal heat dissipation and a long service life. The PWM fan delivers powerful cooling with minimal noise, creating a tranquil environment. The AGHP technology and UL-Class A safety insulation guarantee the utmost quality and durability. It comes with mounting parts for different CPU socket platforms, making it highly compatible. Overall, the Thermalright AK90 CPU Air Cooler offers outstanding cooling performance and reliability for both AMD and Intel processors.
Key Features
- Brand Overview of Thermalright
- CPU cooler dimensions: 94 (L) x 52 (B) x 125 (H) mm
- PWM fan with efficient cooling and low noise
- AGHP technology for maximum heat dissipation
- Suitable for Intel and AMD platforms
Specifications
- Dimension: 3.70Lx3.03Wx4.92H
Pros
- High-performance cooling for AMD and Intel processors
- Quiet operation with S-FDB bearing and low noise fan
- Durable build quality with UL-Class A safety insulation
- Wide compatibility with different CPU socket platforms
Cons
The Thermalright AK90 CPU Air Cooler is a reliable and efficient cooling solution for both AMD and Intel processors. It offers excellent cooling performance and operates quietly, thanks to its S-FDB bearing and low noise fan. The AGHP technology ensures optimal heat dissipation, while the UL-Class A safety insulation guarantees durability. With its wide compatibility and high build quality, the AK90 is a recommended choice for users looking to enhance their CPU cooling. Overall, it provides a great balance between performance, noise level, and longevity.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Thermalright AK90 CPU Air Cooler is a high-performance cooling solution ideal for small-sized/medium-sized computer cases. Featuring AGHP technique and S-FDB bearings, this cooler ensures efficient cooling with low noise levels. With a height of 125mm, it is compact and compatible with Intel and AMD platforms. The included TL-C9B PWM fan offers a standard size of 92x92x25mm and operates quietly at a maximum speed of 1550rpm. The AK90 CPU cooler is made with high-quality materials and provides up to 20000 hours of service life. Whether you are an avid gamer or a PC enthusiast, this air cooler is designed to deliver excellent thermal performance and enhance the overall stability of your system.
Key Features
- [Brand Overview] Thermalright is a Taiwan brand with more than 20 years of development.
- 【AGHP technique】6x6mm heat pipes apply AGHP technique.
- Up to 20000 hours of industrial service life, S-FSB bearings ensure long service life of air-cooler radiators.
- UL class a safety insulation low-grade, industrial strength PBT+PC material.
- Height is 125mm, Suitable for small-sized/medium-sized computer case.
- PWM Fans: Standard size PWM fan:92x92x25mm.
- Fan speed (RPM): 1550rpm±10%; power port: 4pin; Voltage:12V; Air flow:66.17CFM(MAX); Noise Level≤25.6d B(A)
- Compatibility: The CPU cooler Socket supports Intel:1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/17XX/2066/2011 AMD:AM4/AM5
- Thermalright AK90 CPU cooler; CPU Cooler dimensions: 94(L)x52(W)x125(H)mm (3.7x2x4.9 inch); Product weight:0.425kg(0.94lb); heat sink material: aluminum
- For different CPU socket platforms, corresponding mounting plate or fastener parts are provided
Specifications
- Dimension: 3.03Lx4.92Wx3.70H
Pros
- High-performance cooling solution with low noise levels.
- Long service life with up to 20000 hours.
- Compatible with various Intel and AMD platforms.
- Compact design suitable for small-sized/medium-sized computer cases.
- Efficient cooling with AGHP technique and S-FDB bearings.
Cons
The Thermalright AK90 CPU Air Cooler is a reliable and efficient cooling solution for your computer. With its compact size, it can easily fit into small-sized and medium-sized cases without compromising performance. The AGHP technique and S-FDB bearings ensure optimal cooling with low noise levels for a comfortable computing experience. The long service life of up to 20000 hours guarantees durability and reliability. The compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD platforms makes it a versatile option for different systems. If you’re looking for a high-performance air cooler that delivers efficient cooling and quiet operation, the Thermalright AK90 is a great choice.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
The upHere P5K CPU Air Cooler is a high-performance cooling solution for Intel and AMD processors. With 5 copper heat pipes and a 120mm fan, it offers efficient cooling up to 230W TDP. The wide speed range of 600-1800 RPM allows for customizable performance, while the anti-oxidation coating ensures durability. The cooler is compatible with various Intel and AMD sockets and features 100% RAM compatibility for easy installation. Users have praised its unique design and accessories, although some find it too tall for certain cases. Overall, the upHere P5K CPU Air Cooler provides good cooling performance and a unique look at an affordable price.
Key Features
- Intel LGA and AMD socket compatibility
- 5 copper heat pipes for efficient cooling
- Wide speed range and high airflow
- Anti-oxidation coating for durability
- 100% RAM compatibility for easy installation
Specifications
- Color: Black p5k
- Size: 5 Heat pipes p5
Pros
- Unique design
- Efficient cooling performance
- Quiet operation
- Comes with accessories
Cons
- Tall size may not fit all cases
- Installation instructions could be clearer
The upHere P5K CPU Air Cooler offers a good balance of performance, affordability, and aesthetics. With its unique design, efficient cooling, and quiet operation, it is a great option for both Intel and AMD processors. The included accessories and easy installation make it a convenient choice for users. However, its tall size may not be suitable for all cases, and the installation instructions could be improved. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable CPU cooler with a unique look, the upHere P5K is worth considering.
Overall Score: 9/10
The 240 ARGB CPU Water Cooler is a high-performance liquid cooling system designed to keep your CPU cool while providing stunning RGB lighting. It features addressable RGB lighting on both the fans and pump, allowing for synchronized illumination with compatible motherboards. The cooler offers better cooling performance with its efficient cold plate, copper bottom, proprietary pump, and optimized fans. It supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, making it compatible with most CPUs. The cooler also supports PWM for automatic fan speed adjustment, saving energy and reducing noise. Overall, it is a great cooling solution for those looking for both performance and aesthetics.
Key Features
- Addressable RGB Sync
- Better Cooling Performance
- Wide Compatibility
- PWM Support
Specifications
Pros
- Syncs with motherboard RGB software
- Efficient heat transfer
- Wide compatibility with Intel and AMD sockets
- Automatically adjusts fan speed
Cons
- Poor instructions
- No AMD backplate included
The 240 ARGB CPU Water Cooler is an excellent choice for users in need of a high-performance liquid cooling solution with vibrant RGB lighting. While the instructions may be lacking, it offers great cooling performance and a wide range of compatibility with popular motherboard RGB software. The PWM support allows for automatic fan speed adjustment, ensuring efficient cooling while minimizing noise. However, it’s important to note that the package does not include an AMD backplate. Overall, this cooler provides value for money and is an ideal choice for both performance enthusiasts and those who appreciate aesthetically pleasing PC setups.
Overall Score: 3/10
Get ready for extreme CPU cooling performance with the 360 ARGB CPU Water Cooler. This all-in-one cooler is designed to keep your CPU running smoothly and efficiently. With its CPU temperature display function, you can easily monitor the internal operating temperature of your CPU in real time. Equipped with two 120mm fans, this cooler ensures improved airflow for better cooling. The dynamic multi-zone RGB pump head adds a stunning visual element to your system with its 16 individually addressable RGB LEDs. Compatible with a wide range of cooling socket types, including Intel 115X/1200/1700/1366/2011/2066 and AMD AM5/AM4/AM3+/AM3/AM2+/AM2/FM2+/FM2, this cooler is perfect for any setup.
Key Features
- CPU temperature display function
- Designed for extreme CPU cooling performance
- Two 120mm fans for improved airflow
- Dynamic multi-zone RGB pump head with 16 individually addressable RGB LEDs
- Wide range of cooling socket type compatibility
Specifications
Pros
- Real-time CPU temperature monitoring
- Improved airflow for better cooling
- Stunning visual element with RGB pump head
- Wide compatibility with various cooling socket types
Cons
- Software issues causing shutdown problems
- Lack of radiator fan speed control
- Stiff hoses that are difficult to flex
- Hoses not long enough for top side mounting in some cases
The 360 ARGB CPU Water Cooler offers impressive CPU cooling performance with its temperature display function and improved airflow. The dynamic RGB pump head adds a touch of style to your system. However, some users may face software issues and find the hoses stiff and short for certain setups. Overall, it is a decent option for those seeking efficient cooling and aesthetic appeal.
Overall Score: 8.3/10
The ALSEYE M120D Plus CPU Air Cooler is a high-performance cooling solution for your computer. It features a temperature display that allows you to monitor your CPU's temperature in real-time. The cooler comes with dual ARGB and PWM 120mm fans that provide efficient heat dissipation. Its installation is simple and quick, with only two screws required to secure it onto your motherboard. The cooler is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD platforms. With its sleek black design and customizable LED lights, the ALSEYE M120D Plus CPU Air Cooler offers both style and performance for your computer.
Key Features
- Temperature display for real-time CPU temperature monitoring
- Dual ARGB and PWM 120mm fans for efficient heat dissipation
- Simple and quick installation with only two screws
- Compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD platforms
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 5.71Lx0.00Wx6.30H
Pros
- Sleek design and customizable LED lights
- Excellent cooling performance
- Simple and quick installation process
Cons
- Temperature display can be inaccurate
- Fans may be unbalanced and prone to wear out
- Software needs to be restarted for accurate temperature readings
The ALSEYE M120D Plus CPU Air Cooler is a great cooling solution for your computer. It offers excellent cooling performance, a sleek design with customizable LED lights, and a simple installation process. However, some users have reported issues with the temperature display accuracy and fan balance. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable CPU cooler that combines style and performance, the ALSEYE M120D Plus is a solid choice.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler is a high-performance, budget-friendly cooling solution for CPUs. With its full copper mirror plane base, black aluminum fin cold plate, and high polymer woven protective water pipe, it offers low resistance, high cooling, and long-lasting performance. The ARGB fan and water-cooling head provide synchronized lighting effects, and the high-quality copper bottom with 0.1mm spacing ensures excellent cooling. The CPU cooler comes with three PWM fans that can automatically adjust the speed based on CPU temperature. It is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD platforms and is easy to install with the dual platform full Metal black buckle. Overall, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler is a great value for its price, providing efficient cooling and impressive lighting effects.
Key Features
- Better cooling with full copper mirror plane base
- ARGB God Light Synchronization for rich lighting effects
- High-performance cold head with high-quality copper bottom
- 3 PWM fans with adjustable speed and ARGB lighting
- Wide compatibility with Intel and AMD platforms
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.72Lx1.06Wx15.63H
Pros
- Efficient cooling performance
- Synchronized ARGB lighting effects
- Long-lasting pump head
- Adjustable fan speed and lighting
- Easy installation
Cons
- Fans can get loud at full speed
- No extra fan screws included
- Flipping fans and RGB setup can be a bit challenging
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler is an excellent budget-friendly choice for users seeking efficient cooling and eye-catching lighting effects. It delivers great performance with its full copper base, high-quality materials, and adjustable PWM fans. The synchronized ARGB lighting adds a touch of style to any PC build. While the fans can get loud at full speed and some additional fan screws would have been appreciated, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the cooler’s performance and value for money. Overall, the Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB CPU Cooler from Thermalright is a top contender for cooling your CPU without breaking the bank.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Stay cool with the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 WHITE ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler. This high-performance water cooler features a full copper mirror plane base, 240 specification white aluminum fin cold plate, and a high-strength acrylic top cover. With its efficient cooling and long lifespan, it keeps your CPU running smoothly. The included ARGB fan provides both effective cooling and dazzling lighting effects, synchronized with your motherboard. The Thermalright Frozen Notte also boasts compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD platforms. Easy to install and packed with features, this CPU cooler is a great choice for computer enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Better cooling with low resistance and high cooling capabilities
- ARGB lighting synchronization for rich lighting effects
- High-performance copper bottom cold head with long lifespan
- Dual PWM fans with strong airflow and low noise
- Extensive compatibility with Intel and AMD platforms
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.72Lx1.06Wx10.91H
Pros
- Efficient cooling and low evaporation
- Dazzling ARGB lighting effects
- Long lifespan and high-performance cold head
- Strong airflow and low noise
- Easy installation and extensive compatibility
Cons
- Mounting bracket design can be improved
- Tight fit in some small form factor cases
The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 WHITE ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler offers excellent cooling performance, stunning lighting effects, and easy installation. Its high-quality copper bottom cold head ensures long-term durability and efficient cooling. The dual PWM fans provide strong airflow while maintaining low noise levels. The ARGB lighting synchronization adds a touch of style to your build. However, the design of the mounting bracket could be improved for easier installation, especially in tighter cases. Overall, this CPU cooler is a great choice for computer enthusiasts who want efficient and stylish cooling for their systems.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The DeepCool AK500 ZERO DARK CPU Air Cooler is a powerful and efficient cooler designed to keep your CPU cool even under heavy loads. With its all-black design and giant 90mm thick heatsink, it provides powerful heat dissipation. The copper bottom and five nickel plated heat pipes ensure maximum thermal conductivity. The AK500 utilizes Balanced Bidirectional Heat Pipe Technology (BBHT) to optimize heat dissipation and reduce negative effects caused by gravity. It is compatible with AMD AM5/AM4 and Intel LGA 2066/2011-v3/2011/1700/1200/1151/1150/1155. The 120mm PWM fan offers efficient cooling with minimal noise. It stands 158mm tall and fits ATX/M-ATX cases. The AK500 is a reliable and effective CPU air cooler for any PC building style.
Key Features
- ALL-BLACK mighty CPU air cooler giant heatsink 90mm thickness
- Pure copper bottom with five 6mm nickel plated heat pipes
- AK500 Efficient 240w TDP CPU air cooler with unique “chessboard” fins design
- Balanced Bidirectional Heat Pipe Technology(BBHT) for optimal heat dissipation
- Standing 158mm tall suits ATX/M-ATX case and 117mm width
- 120mm PWM fan 1850RPM offers 68.99 CFM air flow
- Noise damping pads in fan corners keep noise level under 31.5 d B(A)
- Decorative board on fins top provides unique appearance
- No RGB nor ARGB lighting to match specific PC building style
- Adapting AMD AM5/AM4 Intel LGA 2066/2011-v3/2011/1700/1200/1151/1150/1155
Specifications
- Dimension: 5.00Lx4.61Wx6.22H
Pros
- Powerful heat dissipation
- Optimized thermal conductivity
- Unique design and appearance
- Quiet operation
- Easy installation
Cons
- No support for third fan
- Coil whine issue at certain fan speeds
- Requires ample space in the PC case
The DeepCool AK500 ZERO DARK CPU Air Cooler is a solid choice for those looking for a powerful and reliable cooler for their computer. With its efficient heat dissipation and optimized thermal conductivity, it keeps the CPU cool even under heavy workloads. The unique design and appearance add a touch of style to any PC build. While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as the lack of support for a third fan and the coil whine issue at certain fan speeds, overall, it offers excellent performance. With easy installation and quiet operation, the AK500 is a great investment for computer enthusiasts and gamers.
Overall Score: 8/10
The DeepCool AS500 Plus CPU Air Cooler is designed for powerful heat dissipation to keep your CPU cool. With its pure copper bottom and five 6mm nickel-plated heat pipes, it maximizes thermal conductivity. It has a powerful 220W TDP cooling capacity, making it suitable for even overclocked CPUs in compact PCs. The dual-fan 140mm PWM 1200RPM provides excellent air cooling, while keeping noise levels low. The CPU air cooler also features 5V-3Pin ARGB motherboard sync for customizable lighting effects. It comes with a controller for easy lighting adjustment. Please check your PC case's CPU cooler height limit before purchasing. It is compatible with Intel LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1155 and AMD AM5/AM4 sockets.
Key Features
- Single tower CPU cooler for maximum heat dissipation
- Pure copper bottom with five 6mm nickel-plated heat pipes
- Powerful 220W TDP cooling capacity
- Dual-fan 140mm PWM 1200RPM for excellent air cooling
- Noise level under 29.2d B(A) for quiet operation
- 5V-3Pin ARGB motherboard sync for customizable lighting
- Controller included for easy lighting adjustment
- Compatible with Intel LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1155 and AMD AM5/AM4
Specifications
- Dimension: 5.59Lx4.02Wx6.46H
Pros
- Powerful cooling capacity
- Low noise levels
- Customizable lighting effects
- Easy installation
- Compatible with various CPU sockets
Cons
- Tall height, may not fit all PC cases
- LGA1700 bracket not included
- Limited availability of ARGB splitter
The DeepCool AS500 Plus CPU Air Cooler is a high-performance cooler that effectively keeps your CPU cool. Its powerful cooling capacity, low noise levels, and customizable lighting effects make it a great choice for users who value both performance and aesthetics. However, its tall height may limit its compatibility with certain PC cases. Additionally, the LGA1700 bracket is not included in the package, requiring an extra step to obtain it. Overall, this cooler offers excellent cooling performance and stylish design for those looking to upgrade their CPU air cooling system.
CPU Cooler 2011 Buyer's Guide
Choosing the Perfect CPU Cooler
When it comes to keeping your CPU cool, not all coolers are created equal. The right CPU cooler can make a world of difference in maintaining optimum performance and preventing overheating. To help you make an informed decision, here is a comprehensive buyer's guide for CPU coolers in 2011.
Types of CPU Coolers
There are various types of CPU coolers available in the market. It's essential to understand the differences between them to choose the one that suits your needs best:
- Air Coolers
- Affordable and widely available
- Excellent cooling performance for most setups
- Suitable for moderate overclocking
- Requires sufficient space inside the computer case for installation
- Liquid Coolers
- Ideal for high-performance systems and extreme overclocking
- Efficient cooling with lower noise levels
- Requires a considerable budget and maintenance
- Proper installation and setup are crucial to avoid leaks
- Low-Profile Coolers
- Compact design for small form-factor builds
- Limited cooling potential, best for non-overclocked systems
- Suitable for HTPCs and compact cases with height restrictions
- Passive Coolers
- Completely silent operation as they lack fans
- Limited cooling performance, suitable for non-demanding tasks
- Requires proper ventilation in the case for efficient heat dissipation
Considerations for CPU Cooler Selection
When choosing a CPU cooler, several factors should influence your decision. Keep the following considerations in mind:
- Compatibility: Ensure the cooler is compatible with your CPU socket. 2011 was a popular socket in 2011, but make sure to verify compatibility.
- Cooling Performance: Consider your CPU's thermal requirements and the level of overclocking you plan to undertake. Choose a cooler that can handle the heat produced efficiently.
- Noise Levels: Cooling performance often comes at the cost of increased noise. Look for coolers with lower noise levels if quiet operation is a priority.
- Space Constraints: Check the dimensions of your computer case and the clearance around the CPU socket. Ensure the cooler fits without obstructing other components.
- Aesthetics: If you care about the overall appearance of your build, look for a cooler with visual appeal. Some coolers offer RGB lighting or customizable aesthetic features.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing a CPU cooler correctly is crucial for optimal performance and avoiding damage. Keep the following steps in mind during the installation process:
- Consult the Manual: Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation guidance specific to your CPU cooler.
- Thermal Paste Application: Apply an appropriate amount of thermal paste between the CPU and cooler's heat sink to ensure effective heat transfer.
- Securing the Cooler: Use the appropriate mounting hardware provided with the cooler to securely fasten it to the CPU socket.
- Cable Management: Neatly route the cooler's power cables to avoid interference with other components or obstructing airflow.
- Maintenance: Regularly clean the cooler's fan blades and heat sink from dust buildup to maintain optimal cooling performance.
Frequently Asked Questions about 10 Best CPU Cooler 2011 For 2023
Not all CPU coolers are compatible with the 2011 socket. Make sure to check the cooler’s specifications or consult the manufacturer to ensure compatibility.
Liquid coolers are generally more efficient at cooling, especially during heavy overclocking. However, high-quality air coolers can still provide sufficient cooling for most setups.
Check the maximum cooler height specified by your case manufacturer. Then, compare it with the cooler’s dimensions listed in the product specifications to ensure a proper fit.
Most CPU coolers require minimal maintenance, such as periodically cleaning the fan and heat sink from dust. However, liquid coolers may require additional maintenance, such as refilling or replacing the coolant.
Yes, thermal paste ensures efficient heat transfer between the CPU and cooler. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application techniques.
