Top-Mounted PSU: What CPU Cooler?

Introduction

Welcome to our guide on selecting the perfect CPU cooler for a top-mounted PSU (Power Supply Unit). Many PC builders face the challenge of choosing a CPU cooler that fits seamlessly with their system’s configuration when dealing with a top-mounted PSU. The position of the PSU can sometimes limit available space for a traditional CPU cooler. However, fear not! We’re here to help you find the best cooling solution that not only fits in your case but also ensures optimal performance for your CPU.

When it comes to keeping your CPU cool, you have two primary options: air coolers and liquid coolers. Each type offers unique advantages and considerations, so it’s important to understand the differences between them before making your decision.

Air coolers, as the name suggests, rely on the circulation of air to cool your CPU. They consist of a heatsink with fins and a fan or fans to dissipate heat. Air coolers are generally more affordable and easier to install than liquid coolers. They can provide excellent cooling performance for most CPUs, although they may struggle with extreme overclocking or in cases with limited airflow.

Liquid coolers, on the other hand, use a closed-loop system to transfer heat away from the CPU. They have a radiator, a pump, and tubes filled with coolant. Liquid coolers are known for their superior cooling performance, especially for high-end CPUs and heavy overclocking. However, they can be more expensive, and installation may require more effort and expertise.

When choosing a CPU cooler for a top-mounted PSU, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. One of the main factors is the clearance between the top of your case and the PSU. Ensure that the CPU cooler you select fits within this limited space. Additionally, consider the height of the CPU cooler to ensure it doesn’t interfere with other components, such as RAM modules or graphics cards.

Another crucial consideration is the TDP (Thermal Design Power) of your CPU. This value represents the amount of heat generated by your CPU and is measured in watts. It’s important to choose a CPU cooler that can handle the TDP of your processor to ensure efficient heat dissipation.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into our top picks for both air coolers and liquid coolers that are suitable for systems with a top-mounted PSU. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each option, as well as highlight their key features to help you make an informed decision for your PC cooling needs.

Air Coolers

Air coolers are a popular choice for cooling CPUs in systems with a top-mounted PSU. They offer reliable cooling performance, ease of installation, and often come at a more affordable price point compared to liquid coolers. Here are some top picks for air coolers that are suitable for this configuration:

1. Noctua NH-D15: Renowned for its exceptional cooling capabilities, the NH-D15 is a dual-tower air cooler that can handle even high-end CPUs with ease. Its large heatsink with dual fans provides efficient heat dissipation, and its design ensures compatibility with most motherboards and RAM modules. While it may be bulky, be sure to check the clearance in your case to ensure a proper fit.
2. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition: Known for its excellent value and performance, the Hyper 212 Black Edition is a single-tower air cooler that offers a great balance between cooling efficiency and affordability. With its sleek black design and direct contact heat pipes, it provides effective CPU cooling while remaining budget-friendly.
3. be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4: This dual-tower air cooler combines performance, silence, and aesthetics. Its oversized heatsinks and silent fans ensure effective cooling while maintaining a low noise level. The Dark Rock Pro 4’s black design and brushed aluminum top plate add a touch of elegance to your system, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
4. Cryorig H7: For those on a tighter budget, the Cryorig H7 offers competitive cooling performance at an affordable price. Its compact design and high clearance allow compatibility with various motherboards and RAM configurations. The H7 features a 120mm fan and a heat pipe tower for efficient cooling while remaining relatively quiet.

These air coolers provide reliable and efficient cooling for CPUs in systems with a top-mounted PSU. Depending on your specific needs, budget, and available space, one of these options should be a good fit for your system.

Liquid Coolers

Liquid coolers, also known as all-in-one (AIO) coolers, are a popular choice for overclockers and enthusiasts who want maximum cooling performance for their CPUs. While they tend to be pricier than air coolers, they offer excellent heat dissipation capabilities. Here are some top picks for liquid coolers that are suitable for systems with a top-mounted PSU:

1. Corsair H100i Pro RGB: This 240mm AIO cooler combines powerful cooling performance with vibrant RGB lighting effects. Equipped with two 120mm fans and a low-noise pump, the H100i Pro RGB effectively dissipates heat while keeping noise levels in check. It features a stylish design and comes with Corsair’s intuitive software for easy customization of RGB lighting and fan speed.
2. NZXT Kraken X63: The Kraken X63 is a 280mm AIO cooler that offers excellent cooling performance with its large radiator and two 140mm fans. It features a sleek design and customizable RGB lighting on the pump head. The X63 is known for its quiet operation and includes NZXT’s CAM software for monitoring and controlling the cooler’s performance.
3. Deepcool Castle 360EX: If you’re looking for extreme cooling capabilities, the Castle 360EX is a 360mm AIO cooler that delivers exceptional thermal performance. With its triple 120mm fans and large radiator, it can handle even the most demanding CPUs. The Castle 360EX also features a unique pump design with an infinity mirror LED effect for a visually striking addition to your system.
4. EVGA CLC 280mm: The EVGA CLC 280mm AIO cooler offers a balance of performance and affordability. With its large radiator and two 140mm fans, it provides efficient cooling for high-end CPUs. The CLC 280mm also includes EVGA’s software for fan and RGB control, allowing you to customize the cooling performance and aesthetics to suit your preferences.

These liquid coolers provide excellent cooling performance and are suitable for systems with a top-mounted PSU. Consider factors such as radiator size and fan compatibility when selecting a liquid cooler, ensuring that it fits within your case and offers the desired level of cooling for your CPU.

Considerations for CPU Coolers

When choosing a CPU cooler for a system with a top-mounted PSU, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind to ensure optimal cooling performance and compatibility:

1. Clearance: Measure the distance between the top of your case and the PSU to determine the available clearance for a CPU cooler. Ensure that the cooler you choose fits within this limited space to avoid any conflicts. Additionally, consider the height of the CPU cooler to ensure it doesn’t interfere with other components such as RAM modules or graphics cards.
2. TDP (Thermal Design Power): The TDP of your CPU represents the amount of heat generated by the processor and is measured in watts. It’s crucial to select a CPU cooler that can handle the TDP of your CPU to ensure efficient heat dissipation. Check the specifications of the cooler to ensure compatibility with your CPU’s TDP.
3. Fan Placement and Configuration: Consider the fan placement and configuration options of the CPU cooler. Some coolers allow you to adjust fan positions and orientations, which can help optimize airflow for better cooling performance. Ensure that the cooler’s fan placement aligns with the available space and airflow patterns in your case.
4. Noise Levels: Consider the noise levels of the CPU cooler, especially if you prefer a quieter system. Air coolers generally tend to be quieter compared to liquid coolers, but it’s always advisable to check the manufacturer’s specifications or user reviews for noise-related information.
5. Budget: Determine your budget for a CPU cooler and choose one that fits within your desired price range. Air coolers are generally more affordable compared to liquid coolers, but keep in mind that more expensive options often offer better cooling performance and additional features.

By taking these considerations into account, you can select a CPU cooler that not only fits within your system’s configuration but also meets your cooling requirements and budget constraints.

Top Picks for Air Coolers

When it comes to air coolers for systems with a top-mounted PSU, several options stand out in terms of performance, compatibility, and value. Here are some top picks:

1. Noctua NH-D15: The Noctua NH-D15 is widely regarded as one of the best air coolers on the market. With its dual-tower design, six heat pipes, and two premium 140mm fans, it offers exceptional cooling performance. The NH-D15’s high-quality construction and impressive compatibility make it an excellent choice for both gaming and professional applications.
2. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition: The Cooler Master Hyper 212 series has long been a popular choice among PC builders. The Hyper 212 Black Edition continues this legacy, providing excellent cooling performance at an affordable price. Its direct contact heat pipes, aluminum fins, and a single 120mm fan make it a reliable choice for budget-conscious users who still seek solid performance and reliability.
3. be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4: For those who prioritize silence without compromising on cooling performance, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is a top pick. This dual-tower air cooler boasts a virtually silent operation, thanks to its specially designed cooling fins, Silent Wings fans, and six copper heat pipes. The Dark Rock Pro 4’s sleek design and premium build quality make it an excellent choice for both high-end gaming setups and professional workstations.
4. Cryorig H7: The Cryorig H7 is an affordable air cooler that delivers excellent cooling performance in a compact form factor. With its high clearance design, it offers compatibility with various RAM modules and motherboards. Equipped with a 120mm fan and three heat pipes, the H7 efficiently dissipates heat while operating quietly, making it a great option for mid-range systems.

These air coolers offer a range of options for different budgets and performance needs. Depending on your specific requirements and preferences, one of these top picks is sure to provide the cooling power and compatibility you need for your system.

Top Picks for Liquid Coolers

When it comes to liquid coolers for systems with a top-mounted PSU, there are some standout options known for their cooling performance, reliability, and features. Here are our top picks for liquid coolers:

1. Corsair H100i Pro RGB: The Corsair H100i Pro RGB is a popular choice among PC enthusiasts. With its 240mm radiator and two 120mm fans, it offers excellent cooling capabilities for high-end CPUs. The H100i Pro RGB also features customizable RGB lighting and comes with Corsair’s user-friendly software for precise control over fan speeds and lighting effects.
2. NZXT Kraken X63: The NZXT Kraken X63 is a 280mm liquid cooler that stands out for its exceptional cooling performance and sleek design. With its large radiator and dual 140mm fans, it keeps temperatures low even during intensive tasks or overclocking. The X63 also offers customizable RGB lighting on the pump head and includes NZXT’s CAM software for easy monitoring and control.
3. Deepcool Castle 360EX: If you’re after extreme cooling power, the Deepcool Castle 360EX is a top pick. With its 360mm radiator and three 120mm fans, it delivers impressive thermal performance. The Castle 360EX also features customizable RGB lighting and an eye-catching pump design with an infinity mirror LED effect, adding a touch of aesthetics to your build.
4. EVGA CLC 280mm: The EVGA CLC 280mm is a reliable liquid cooler that combines performance and affordability. Equipped with a 280mm radiator and two 140mm fans, it efficiently dissipates heat and enables cooler CPU temperatures. The CLC 280mm also comes with EVGA’s software, allowing you to personalize fan speeds and customize the RGB lighting.

These liquid coolers offer a range of options suitable for different budgets and system requirements. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or a professional looking to maximize cooling performance, one of these top picks is sure to meet your needs and help you maintain optimum CPU temperatures.

Conclusion

Choosing the right CPU cooler for a system with a top-mounted PSU is crucial for maintaining optimal CPU temperatures and system performance. Whether you opt for an air cooler or a liquid cooler, there are excellent options available to suit your needs.

If you prefer the simplicity and affordability of air coolers, top picks such as the Noctua NH-D15, Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition, be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4, and Cryorig H7 offer reliable cooling performance at various price points. These air coolers excel in heat dissipation and compatibility, ensuring efficient cooling for your CPU.

On the other hand, if you crave ultimate thermal performance and are willing to invest more, liquid coolers like the Corsair H100i Pro RGB, NZXT Kraken X63, Deepcool Castle 360EX, and EVGA CLC 280mm offer exceptional cooling capabilities. These liquid coolers utilize larger radiators and powerful fans to dissipate heat effectively, especially during overclocking or high-demand tasks.

When choosing a CPU cooler, it’s essential to consider factors like clearance, TDP compatibility, fan placement, noise levels, and budget. Take the time to assess your PC’s configuration and cooling requirements, and weigh the pros and cons of each cooler type before making your decision.

By selecting the right CPU cooler for your system with a top-mounted PSU, you can ensure that your CPU remains cool even during intense usage, prolonging its lifespan and maintaining stable performance. Whether you prioritize cooling performance, ease of installation, or aesthetics, there’s a CPU cooler out there that perfectly fits your needs.

We hope that this guide has provided valuable insights and recommendations to help you make an informed decision when selecting the ideal CPU cooler for your system. With the right cooling solution in place, you can unleash your CPU’s full potential and enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable computing experience.