Are you on the hunt for the top 120 mm CPU coolers for 2023? Look no further! In this article, we will explore and recommend the 6 best 120 mm CPU coolers that are sure to enhance your computer's performance and keep it running cool. With advancements in technology and increasing demands for efficient cooling solutions, it's crucial to invest in a reliable and high-performance CPU cooler. Whether you are a gaming enthusiast or a professional content creator, these top-tier coolers will ensure optimal cooling for your processor, allowing you to push the limits of your machine without worrying about overheating. Stay tuned as we delve into the comprehensive reviews of these six outstanding CPU coolers!
Overall Score: 9/10
The Vetroo V5 White CPU Air Cooler is a top-notch and affordable cooling solution for your computer. With its 5 heat pipes and high-density aluminum fins, it offers excellent thermal conductivity and keeps your CPU cool even under heavy loads. The ARGB lighting sync allows you to customize the lights to match your build, and the PWM smart control ensures optimal performance with adjustable speeds. It supports various sockets, making it compatible with both Intel and AMD processors. The cooler operates quietly and efficiently, providing a great airflow for your components. While the installation can be a bit challenging, the Vetroo V5 is definitely worth considering if you're looking for a budget-friendly cooler that delivers excellent cooling performance.
Key Features
- ARGB Lighting Sync
- PWM Smart Control
- Better Thermal Conductivity
- Low Noise Operation
- Support Sockets
Specifications
- Color: White
- Dimension: 5.04Lx2.95Wx5.83H
- Size: V5
Pros
- Affordable price
- Excellent thermal conductivity
- Customizable ARGB lighting
- Low noise operation
Cons
- Challenging installation process
- Quality control issues
Overall, the Vetroo V5 White CPU Air Cooler is a great choice for budget-conscious users seeking efficient cooling for their computers. While installation can be a bit tricky and there have been some quality control issues, the performance and value for money make it a worthwhile investment. With its impressive thermal conductivity and low noise operation, this cooler keeps your CPU cool even under heavy workloads. The customizable ARGB lighting adds a stylish touch to your build. Just be prepared for the installation challenge and potential quality control concerns. If you’re willing to overcome these hurdles, the Vetroo V5 is an excellent option for cooling your CPU.
Overall Score: 9/10
The DeepCool GAMMAXX AG400 CPU Air Cooler is a high-performance cooling solution designed for gamers. It features four 6mm nickel-plated copper heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan that provide efficient heat dissipation with a maximum cooling capacity of 220W TDP. The unique 'Chessboard' heatsink design not only enhances the cooler's heat dissipation performance but also adds a distinctive look. With a height of 150mm, it is compatible with most ATX/M-ATX gaming cases. The cooler offers full RAM clearance and wide compatibility with the latest Intel and AMD sockets. Overall, the DeepCool GAMMAXX AG400 CPU Air Cooler delivers excellent cooling performance, quiet operation, and a stylish design.
Key Features
- Classical edition of Deep Cool GAMMAXX AG400 series CPU air cooler
- Four 6mm nickel-plated copper heat pipes for maximum heat dissipation
- High-speed 120mm PWM fan with 2000RPM and 75.89CFM airflow
- Unique 'Chessboard' heatsink design for optimized heat dissipation
- Compatible with most ATX/M-ATX gaming cases
- Full RAM clearance and wide compatibility with Intel and AMD sockets
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.92Lx3.62Wx5.91H
- Size: Heatpipe: 6mm×4
Pros
- Excellent cooling performance
- Quiet operation
- Stylish design
- Easy installation
- Wide compatibility with Intel and AMD sockets
- Full RAM clearance
Cons
- Color may not match other PC peripherals
- Optimistic TDP ratings
- Lack of clear instructions for socket compatibility
- RGB compatibility may require additional converter
The DeepCool GAMMAXX AG400 CPU Air Cooler is a top-notch cooling solution for gamers and PC enthusiasts. With its impressive cooling performance, quiet operation, and stylish design, it offers excellent value for its price. The cooler’s heat dissipation capacity, thanks to its four nickel-plated copper heat pipes and unique heatsink design, ensures stable and low temperatures even during intensive tasks. The easy installation process and wide compatibility with Intel and AMD sockets add to its appeal. However, users should be mindful of potential color mismatch and the need for an RGB converter for certain motherboard setups. Despite these minor drawbacks, the DeepCool GAMMAXX AG400 CPU Air Cooler is a reliable and effective choice to keep your CPU cool and optimized.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Noctua NH-U12S chromax.Black is a top-tier 120mm single-tower CPU cooler that not only excels in cooling performance but also adds a touch of elegance to any desktop setup. This cooler has far surpassed my expectations, providing outstanding cooling capabilities with a sleek black design that complements my desktop aesthetics.
Key Features
- Proven premium heatsink in all-black design
- Slim 120mm size for excellent compatibility
- Award-winning fan with low noise and PWM
- Includes thermal paste and easy mounting system
- Backed by 6-year manufacturer's warranty
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 6.22Lx2.80Wx4.92H
Pros
- Exceptional cooling performance
- Sleek black design enhances aesthetics
- Compatible with a wide range of motherboards
- Low noise level for a quiet computing experience
- Built with precision and premium materials
Cons
- May not provide sufficient cooling for high-end Intel chips
- Fans can be loud at higher RPMs
- Used product quality may vary
The Noctua NH-U12S chromax.Black is an outstanding CPU cooler that delivers exceptional performance while adding a touch of elegance to any desktop build. Its cooling capabilities, sleek black design, and quiet operation make it the perfect choice for enthusiasts and gamers. While it may not suit high-end Intel chips and used product quality can vary, overall, the NH-U12S chromax.Black offers top-notch cooling performance backed by Noctua’s reputation for quality and reliability. If you’re looking for a high-performance CPU cooler that combines functionality with aesthetics, this cooler is an excellent option.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Cooler is a high-quality cooler designed for efficient cooling with low noise levels. It is equipped with a 120mm white PWM fan and 4×6mm heat pipes that apply AGHP technique to solve the inverse gravity effect. With a height of 148mm, it is suitable for medium-sized computer cases and supports various CPU socket platforms. The CPU cooler dimensions are 125(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm, and it is made of aluminum for optimal heat dissipation. This cooler is compatible with Intel (1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/17XX) and AMD (AM4/AM5) platforms. It has received positive reviews for its cooling performance, value for money, and easy installation.
Key Features
- Brand Overview: Thermalright – A Taiwan brand focused on computer accessories
- Product specification: Dimensions 125x71x148mm, aluminum heat sink
- PWM Fans: 120mm white PWM fan with low noise level
- AGHP technique: 4×6mm heat pipes for efficient cooling
- Compatibility: Supports various Intel and AMD CPU socket platforms
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.92Lx2.80Wx5.83H
Pros
- Efficient cooling with low noise levels
- Easy installation
- Value for money
Cons
- Fan is RGB, not ARGB
- May be slightly difficult to align during installation
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Cooler is a reliable and efficient cooling solution for medium-sized computer cases. It offers excellent cooling performance with low noise levels, making it suitable for both gaming and general use. The easy installation process and value for money further enhance its appeal. The only minor drawbacks are the fan being RGB instead of ARGB and the slight difficulty in alignment during installation. Overall, this CPU cooler is a great choice for users looking to upgrade their cooling system without breaking the bank.
Overall Score: 7/10
The CPU Cooler LGA Liquid Cooling CPU Water Cooler 120mm Aio CPU Air Cooler is designed to provide high-quality liquid cooling for your laptop or desktop CPU. With wide compatibility for both Intel and AMD CPU sockets, this 120mm CPU cooler features a premium 120mm PWM fan and a PPS+40%GF material construction, ensuring exceptional cooling effects and high temperature resistance. The large pure copper base and strong motor allow for efficient heat reduction with a noise level lower than 29.7dB(A). The optimized cold plate and durable pump ensure long-lasting performance. Additionally, the product comes with a lifetime warranty for each customer, offering reliable support for any product-related issues.
Key Features
- Wide Compatibility – Compatible with Intel/LGA 775/115X/1366/2011/2066/1200/1700 and AMD FM1/FM2/AM2/AM2+/AM3/AM3+/AM4 CPU.
- Professional 120mm CPU Cooler – 120mm radiator with 1 premium 120mm PWM fans to achieve exceptional liquid cooling effects for your laptop/desktop CPU. PPS+40%GF material for high temperature resistance will take good care of your CPU.
- Low-noise Water Cooler Fans – With a large pure copper base & strong motor up to 2500RPM, this liquid CPU cooler will be able to keep your CPU cooler by reducing maximum heat, keeping noise level lower than 29.7d B(A).
- Superior Cold Plate & Durable Pump – Optimized cold plate and superior noiseless pump will reduce more heat for your computer CPU. Durable pump will last for years.
- Lifetime Warranty – We stand by 7/24 to solve any of your product-related issues with our best services. Lifetime warranty for each customer.
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Size: 120mm AIO
Pros
- Wide compatibility with various CPU socket types
- Exceptional liquid cooling performance for efficient CPU cooling
- Low-noise operation with a noise level of less than 29.7d B(A)
- Superior cold plate and durable pump for reducing heat
- Lifetime warranty for added peace of mind
Cons
- Reports of leaking issues
- Inadequate liquid cooling performance in some cases
The CPU Cooler LGA Liquid Cooling CPU Water Cooler 120mm Aio CPU Air Cooler is a solid choice for those in need of efficient liquid cooling for their CPU. With wide compatibility, exceptional cooling performance, and a lifetime warranty, it offers great value for the price. However, there have been reports of leaking issues and occasional inadequate cooling performance, so it’s important to consider these factors before making a purchase decision.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a high-performance CPU cooler that offers excellent cooling performance and compatibility. Designed to fit most tower cases, it features a slim 120mm size that doesn't overhang RAM slots or block PCIe slots on most ATX and Micro-ATX motherboards. The included NF-P12 redux-1700 PWM fan provides automatic speed control for optimal cooling performance under load while remaining near silent at idle. With pre-applied high-quality NT-H1 thermal paste and the SecuFirm2 mounting system, installation is easy on both Intel and AMD platforms. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a smart choice for users looking for a reliable and affordable CPU cooler.
Key Features
- Streamlined, more affordable version of the award-winning NH-U12S heatsink
- Slim 120mm size for excellent compatibility with cases, RAM, and PCIe slots
- Quiet NF-P12 redux-1700 120mm fan with PWM for automatic speed control
- Pre-applied high-quality NT-H1 thermal paste & Secu Firm2 mounting system
- Renowned Noctua quality at an attractive price
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 6.22Lx4.92Wx1.77H
Pros
- Excellent cooling performance
- Quiet operation
- Easy installation
- High-quality construction
- Attractive price point
Cons
- Compatibility issue with certain motherboards
- Missing some small features compared to other Noctua products
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a top-notch CPU cooler that delivers exceptional cooling performance without breaking the bank. With its slim profile and excellent compatibility, it fits seamlessly into most tower cases and ensures efficient cooling for your CPU. The included NF-P12 redux-1700 PWM fan operates quietly, providing optimal cooling performance under load while remaining nearly silent at idle. The pre-applied NT-H1 thermal paste and SecuFirm2 mounting system make installation a breeze on both Intel and AMD platforms. While there may be some compatibility issues with certain motherboards, the overall quality and performance of the NH-U12S Redux make it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable CPU cooling solution.
Buyer's Guide: 120 mm CPU Cooler
Looking to keep your CPU running cool and performing at its best? A 120 mm CPU cooler might be just what you need! Designed to effectively dissipate heat from your processor, these coolers come in various shapes and sizes to suit different needs. In this buyer's guide, we'll explore the key factors to consider when purchasing a 120 mm CPU cooler, helping you make an informed decision.Let's dive right into the world of CPU cooling:
Key Considerations
When it comes to choosing a 120 mm CPU cooler, several factors should influence your decision. Keep these considerations in mind:
- Compatibility
- Ensure the cooler is compatible with your CPU socket type (e.g., LGA1151, AM4).
- Check if it fits within your computer case's height and clearance restrictions.
- Cooling Performance
- Look for coolers with high air flow rates (measured in Cubic Feet per Minute) to effectively dissipate heat.
- Consider the cooler's heat dissipation capabilities, usually measured in watts (W).
- Look for additional features like heat pipes and fin design to enhance cooling efficiency.
- Noise Level
- Cooling performance often goes hand in hand with noise levels. Look for coolers with low noise ratings (measured in decibels, dB).
- Consider coolers with built-in fans that promote quiet operation, such as those equipped with specially designed fan blades or rubber dampeners.
- Installation Ease
- Check if the cooler comes with a pre-applied thermal paste or if you need to apply it separately.
- Consider coolers with user-friendly installation systems, such as brackets or mounting mechanisms that simplify the process.
- Build Quality and Durability
- Look for coolers made from quality materials like copper or aluminum for better heat conductivity.
- Consider coolers with a robust construction that ensures longevity and reliability.
- Aesthetics
- Some coolers offer customizable RGB lighting options, allowing you to match your system's aesthetics.
- Consider coolers with sleek designs that fit your personal style.
Frequently Asked Questions about 6 Best 120 mm CPU Cooler For 2023
Absolutely! While larger coolers may provide slightly better performance, a well-designed 120 mm CPU cooler can handle the thermal demands of most high-performance processors with ease.
Liquid cooling solutions can provide superior cooling performance and are often quieter. However, 120 mm CPU coolers are a more budget-friendly option while still offering significant cooling capabilities for most users.
No, most 120 mm CPU coolers come with integrated fans. However, some models allow for fan customization or additional fan installation, which can enhance cooling performance further.
Check the clearance specifications mentioned by the manufacturer for both your CPU cooler and computer case. This information typically includes details about height limits and radiator mounting locations.
It depends. Some 120 mm CPU coolers come with pre-applied thermal paste, while others may require you to apply it separately. Always check the package contents or product description to confirm.
