So, you have acquired a powerful Intel Core i5 9600K CPU and want to pair it with a heat sink that can cool it. If you are looking to buy the best CPU Cooler for i5 9600k, you’ve come to the place where you will get the information of your choice. What I am going to do in this article is take you on a journey through a selection of coolers that I have tested and see which one stands out.
The Intel i5 9600K is the latest generation of the Intel Coffee Lake line of CPUs and is one of the most powerful consumer-level CPUs available. This latest processor of Intel can be overclocked to attain higher performance. However, it runs a little hot even at stock clocks. Therefore, it is important to have an efficient i5 9600k cooler to prevent overheating and maintain high clock speeds.
Here you can save money by picking the right Cooler. That’s why I have created a guide that will explain the different types of CPU fans for 9600k and showcase some of the best cooling systems that will help you optimize your device. So, stay connected with me throughout this detailed review of the best CPU coolers for i5 9600k and get the required information.
There are thousands of CPU coolers in the market that you can buy for your computer, and most of them work just fine. For this reason, it is important to be well informed when looking for a compatible CPU cooler for i5 9600k processors. Here are some important things that need strong consideration while making a purchase decision for a CPU cooler.
Top Products:
Good CPU Cooler for i5 9600k
ID-COOLING ZOOMFLOW 240X
- RGB enabled
- Optimum performance
- Low voltage consumption
- Powerful fans
- Great warranty
Best RGB Cooler for i5 9600k
ID-COOLING AURAFLOW RGB CPU Cooler
- Best RGB lighting effects
- Good airflow
- Compact design with good performance
- Highly compatible with modern sockets
Best Budget CPU Cooler for i5 9600k
Cooler Master Budget CPU Cooler For i5 9600k
- Economical product
- Efficient performance
- Super compatible with modern CPUs
- Low noise level
Shopping Tips For Buying The Best i5 9600k CPU Fan:
Usage purpose:
Obviously, you want to have a cooler to keep your CPU under control. However, it is also important to be quite certain about the usage purpose of your processor. In short, you will have to determine the specific tasks you will accomplish by using your CPU. It will help you pick the Intel Core i5 9600k cooler.
Let me explain a little more. For example, if you want your processor to have optimized performance for high-end software and programs, your choice should be a liquid cooler. A CPU cooler with high-quality overclocking potential will help you overclock the CPU to enjoy its full potential performance. For day-to-day tasks, an air cooler will be enough for you. So, make a list of your tasks and purchase a cooler accordingly.
Compatibility:
Socket compatibility is very important to consider while purchasing a CPU cooler. Every CPU comes with a different type of socket. Intel i5 9600k comes with LGA1151 type of sockets so, you should choose the cooler which has compatibility with this type of socket.
Thermal capacity:
Thermal capacity is the measure of the efficiency of a CPU cooler. It shows how efficient a cooler is, during different tasks and at different temperatures. That is why it is important to consider a cooler with good thermal capacity. It will provide security for your system by effectively conducting the heat.
Size and weight of cooler:
The size of the cooler is also important because it will determine whether the cooler can fit in the system or not. Another side of the mirror is that size determines the area covered by the cooler. The cooler with large-size fans covers the maximum area and sweeps the heat out of the system. So, make sure that you select a cooler according to your preferred size.
Noise level and RGB lighting:
The noise level is another important factor that needs great attention. The cooler with a quiet CPU fan for intel i5 9600k will be the ideal choice for you. It will provide you with a quiet atmosphere for your work. RGB lighting also attracts users because it produces a soothing environment around you, an engaging factor for your working speed and class. So, consider these things as important factors and choose the cooler according to your own choice and preferences.
At a Glance:
- NZXT Kraken X53 Liquid Cooler
- Cooler Master Budget CPU Cooler For i5 9600k
- ID-COOLING AURAFLOW RGB CPU Cooler
- ARCTIC Freezer Low Profile CPU For i5 9600k
- ID-COOLING ZOOMFLOW 240X
- Be quiet! BK030 Quiet CPU Cooler For i5 9600k
- Cooler Master Hyper 212 Best Air Cooler
Our Recommendations: Best CPU Cooler For i5 9600k
| Award | Design | CPU Coolers | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Liquid Cooler for i5 9600k |  | View on Amazon | |
| Best Budget CPU Cooler for i5 9600k | Budget Pick | View on Amazon | |
| Best RGB Cooler for i5 9600k | Staff Pick | View on Amazon | |
| Best Low-Profile CPU Cooler for i5 9600k |  | View on Amazon | |
| Good CPU Cooler for i5 9600k | Best Pick | View on Amazon | |
| Quiet CPU Cooler for Intel i5 9600k |  | View on Amazon | |
| Best Air Cooler for Overlooking i5 9600k |  | View on Amazon |
NZXT Kraken X53 Liquid Cooler
Best Liquid Cooler for i5 9600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: NZXT | Weight: 3.99 pounds | Voltage: 12V | Wattage: 3.84W | Warranty: 6 years | Dimensions: 12.09 x 8.35 x 5.39 inches | Base height: 55mm | Noise level: 21 dB
Pros
✓Great performance
✓Best liquid cooler
✓RGB lighting enabled
✓Amazing compatibility
Cons
✗Slightly expensive
The Kraken X53 is a premium high-performance all-in-one liquid cooler for the CPU that delivers quiet cooling performance and visual dynamics. It is manufactured according to enthusiasts’ demand with a beautiful, premium design and a 120mm radiator. This customized cooling performance allows the Kraken X53 to offer a warmer operating temperature, lower noise level, and a significantly quieter pump for a quieter system overall.
The Kraken X53 utilizes a 120mm Aer P radiator and two premium 120mm fans. The advanced performance and control options of the Kraken software allow for a wide range of possibilities to tune the cooler’s performance according to the exact specification of your CPU. The Kraken X53 is available in 7 different LED lighting colors that can be customized with the NZXT CAM Software. This will give you the ability to operate the system according to your preferences truly.
The cooler works at 12V and can work with the power of 3.84W. It works on Water-method of cooling, and it has been rated as the best liquid cooler for i5 9600k. The cooler provides optimum performance and keeps the CPU cool without making much noise. It is evident from the noise level of just 21 dB that the system works calmly. Kraken X53 comes with a base height of 55mm and a weight of just under 4 pounds. It has ideal dimensions for most users.
The cooler is compatible with all the latest CPUs, which come with sockets like Intel LGA 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066, and AMD Ryzen Sockets like AM4, and TR4. In this way, it fits well as an i5 9600k cooler. It has an affordable price of under $115 and is backed up by the manufacturer with a warranty of 6 years. This shows that NZXT has come to live long in the CPU cooling field.
Cooler Master Budget CPU Cooler For i5 9600k
Best Budget CPU Cooler for i5 9600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: Cooler Master | Weight: 2.95 pounds | Voltage: 12V | Wattage: 2.36W | Warranty: 2 years | Dimensions: 10.9×4.7×1.1 inches | Base height: 47.1mm | Noise level: 15 dB
Pros
✓Economical product
✓Efficient performance
✓Super compatible with modern CPUs
✓Low noise level
Cons
✗Sometimes slows down during multi-intensive tasks
Cooler Master’s MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 is a 240mm radiator-based CPU Liquid Cooler in a dual-fan configuration. It is designed to fit in cases with 240mm radiator mounts. This closed-loop all-in-one liquid cooler is best for high-performance CPUs with a TDP of 140W and above. It is optimized for the 7th and 6th generation Intel Core and the latest AMD processors. The Master Liqui RGB V2 makes use of a dual-chamber pump for a more efficient and quieter operation.
The pump is coupled with a water block featuring a patented self-cleaning design to prevent any performance degradation over time. The Master Fan delivers airflow and static pressure optimized for air-cooling heat sinks, radiators, and case ventilation. It features a standard rifle bearing for smooth operation, has a maximum RPM of 2400, and utilizes a nine-blade fan design for excellent airflow and static pressure. It also features a German-made micro-gear motor and an anti-vibration rubber mounting system for smooth and quiet operations.
When it comes to voltage consumption, the cooler is also up to the mark with 12V. It works with a power of 2.36W and keeps the temperature of the CPU under control. This cooler is available in the market at the price of under $80, making it the best budget CPU cooler for i5 9600k. It is economical and good at performance and delivers amazing performance, and keeps the processor’s temperature in check.
The cooler is just 47.1mm in height and can support the sockets like LGA2066, LGA2011-v3, LGA2011, LGA1200, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA1156, LGA1155, AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, and FM1 which shows that the cooler is highly versatile in its compatibility with the latest processors. It is not only compatible but also quiet in performance with just a 15 dB noise level.
Therefore, it provides disturbance-free performance for modern CPUs. The product comes with dimensions of 10.9×4.7×1.1 inches and weighs 2.95 pounds. It shows that it is quite slim and lightweight. Cooler Master also provides a warranty of 2 years on this cooling system. So, go and avail of this economical offer to take the performance of your CPU to high levels.
ID-COOLING AURAFLOW RGB CPU Cooler
Best RGB Cooler for i5 9600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ID-COOLING | Weight: 4.29 pounds | Voltage: 12V | Wattage: 2.4W | Warranty: 6 years | Dimensions: 16.4 x 8.7 x 5.3 inches | Base height: 47.3mm | Noise level: 35.2 dB
Pros
✓Best RGB lighting effects
✓Good airflow
✓Compact design with good performance
✓Highly compatible with modern sockets
Cons
✗Slightly heavy
Let’s meet an amazing cooling system for modern CPUs from ID-COOLING. ID-Cooling has been a trusted brand for cooling and has released the AURAFLOW X 240 Water Cooler. The X 240 cooler offers a fully-customizable dual-fan RGB lighting scheme integrated right into the radiator. With an RGB power supply, you can connect the cooler to your motherboard’s RGB header and synchronize the lighting effects with your other RGB components.
The dual-fan RGB lighting scheme, which also includes a two-color adjustment switch for light brightness and color, adds a stylish look to the PC. The CPU Cooler works with the RGB Fan Controller and RGB Lighting Software. All these RGB features make this device the best RGB cooler for i5 9600k. When it comes to performance, the AURAFLOW X 240 cooler has a 240mm radiator and a copper-based water block to dissipate heat from the CPU.
It doesn’t matter whether you have an AMD- or Intel-based PC. With a simple mounting system, AURAFLOW X 240 is easy to install, even for beginners. No tools are required for installation, and you can begin using the cooler right away. X 240 also offers a convenient loop-filling port to support high-density installations. This CPU Cooler works with Intel LGA2066, 2011, 1366, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, and 1200 sockets, and AMD AM4 type sockets. With a 12V power supply and 2x120mm RGB fans, this CPU Cooler features a 240mm radiator and a high-capacity pump.
The cooler uses 2.4W power and throws an efficient airflow of 74.5 cubic feet per minute. Besides that, the cooler also has a very quiet performance with minimum disturbance and a noise level of just 35.2 dB. This proves that it is an all-rounder product. The cooler comes with dimensions of 16.4 x 8.7 x 5.3 inches and a weight of 4.29 pounds. With its 47.3mm base height, it fits easily in modern systems. For more attraction of customers, ID-COOLING has given an incentive of 6 years warranty on this device. Avail of the offer and enjoy working at high levels.
ARCTIC Freezer Low Profile CPU For i5 9600k
Best Low-Profile CPU Cooler for i5 9600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ARCTIC | Weight: 1.33 pounds | Voltage: 12V | Wattage: 2.7W | Warranty: 5 years | Dimensions: 3.39 x 4.88 x 6.18 inches | Base height: 54mm | Noise level: 22.5 dB
Pros
✓Solid and lightweight cooler
✓Good airflow
✓Low noise level of 22.5 dB
✓Good compatibility
Cons
✗No RGB lights
The ARCTIC Freezer 34 CO is the air-cooling solution to complete your gaming rig. The Freezer 34 CO is a CPU cooler for i5 9600K with black finishing and a glossy surface, giving it an elegant look while providing exceptional performance. It uses direct touch technology to manage the heat better, not to mention it has an optimized pressure to enable the best cooling performance.
This tower-style cooler can handle the most demanding gaming PC setups. With this cooler, you can rest assured that your processor will always run at its optimum performance. This cooling unit is compatible with Intel Socket 2066, 2011(-3), 1155, 1151, 1150, 1200, and AMD Socket AM4. This shows the wide range of support of this cooler for modern processors. With 3.39 x 4.88 x 6.18 inches dimensions and 54mm base height, this cooler has no restrictions for any space.
It can fit in small spaces of the systems and is rated as the best low-profile CPU cooler for i5 9600k. The compact design and exceptional features of the cooler allow it to satisfy the customer by coming up to the expectations of the customers. In this way, it makes the CPU run at full potential performance.
This aluminum builds cooler works on air-method of a cooler with a 120mm fan. It operates at 12V and consumes 2.7W power to offer an efficient airflow of 68.8 cubic feet per minute. This speedy fan of the cooler controls the temperature of the CPU without creating any kind of disturbance. The noise level of 22.5 dB is clear evidence of the smooth and quiet performance of the cooler.
Freezer 34 CO is a very lightweight cooler with a weight of only 1.33 pounds. It means that it will not make your device heavy if you will install it on your device. ARCTIC provides a warranty of 5 years on this device which shows that the manufacturer is serious about making the image in the minds of customers with the great services that it provides in the form of its products. You will also enjoy this cooler if you consider it for your intel i5 9600k.
ID-COOLING ZOOMFLOW 240X
Good CPU Cooler for i5 9600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: ID-COOLING | Weight: 4.25 pounds | Voltage: 5V | Wattage: 3W | Warranty: 6 years | Dimensions: 12.45 x 8.66 x 5.67 inches | Base height: 58mm | Noise level: 26.4 dB
Pros
✓RGB enabled
✓Optimum performance
✓Low voltage consumption
✓Powerful fans
✓Great warranty
Cons
✗Compatible with a limited type of sockets
The internal temperature of the CPU can raise to a high temperature when running complex programs. It can even cause permanent damage to the CPU. Therefore, a cooler is the solution. ID-COOLING ZOOMFLOW 240X Snow CPU water cooler is here to help you out in this case. ID-COOLING Zoomflow 240X CPU cooler offers high cooling performance with low noise. This high-quality CPU cooler is made of copper and aluminum with high thermal conductivity.
It features PWM technology, and easy installation and the RGB lights are compatible with motherboards with RGB function. These are the best coolers to buy for your new intel i5 9600k processing unit. The 5V addressable RGB lights can be controlled by RGB motherboards, RGB controllers, RGB software, or RGB keyboards. This RGB CPU cooler features heat pipes with 4-layer copper heat sinks. The heat sink fins are designed with special shapes to maximize heat dissipation. It has excellent compatibility with mainstream CPUs.
Intel LGA2066, 2011, 1366, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 1200, and AMD AM4 sockets can be easily supported by this special CPU cooler. This is a good CPU cooler for i5 9600k with exceptional performance and great efficiency. With 3W power and 5V Addressable energy consumption, this CPU Liquid Cooler has 2x120mm RGB fans which perform exceptionally well and throw an efficient airflow of about 62 cubic feet per minute. Although the fans of the cooler rotate at a very high speed, they don’t create any kind of disturbance and work quietly at a noise level of 26.4 dB.
The MX-4 thermal compound of the cooler is much more efficient in terms of heat removal when compared with air coolers. The cooler is designed with copper and aluminum and weighs 4.25 pounds. The cooler comes with dimensions of 12.45 x 8.66 x 5.67 inches and a base height of 58mm. ID-COOLING provides a warranty of 6 years for this cooler. All these specifications and performance parameters put this cooler in that elite class of best intel 9600k CPU coolers. So, stop thinking and avail this wonderful opportunity.
Be quiet! BK030 Quiet CPU Cooler For i5 9600k
Quiet CPU Cooler for Intel i5 9600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: Be quiet! | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Voltage: 12V | Wattage: 130W | Warranty: 5 years | Dimensions: 6.38 x 5 x 6.25 inches | Base height: 155mm | Noise level: 25.4 dB
Pros
✓Quiet performance
✓Slim design with low weight
✓Speedy fan
✓Good compatibility
Cons
✗No RGB
✗Large size
Cooling down your CPU is as important as having a fast CPU. The faster the CPU, the more it will overwork, and the more heat is produced. A temperature that is kept within a safe margin will ensure the CPU’s life and the long life of the PC as a whole. The Pure Rock Slim 2 CPU Cooler is a sleek and stylish CPU Cooler that is bound to keep your CPU at optimum temperature. Purchasing this CPU Cooler is surely a decision you will not regret.
The Pure Rock Slim from Be quiet! is a multi-purpose, high-performance CPU cooler featuring a slim design that works with various sockets. A sturdy base with a multi-heat pipe design provides effective cooling for an extensive range of processor types. The Pure Rock Slim CPU Cooler is designed to be used on all current Intel and AMD processors, so you can rest assured that your investment is safe.
The Pure Rock Slim is a great choice for users who want to upgrade their thermal solution with style. The optimized 120-mm PWM fan provides powerful airflow while running quietly at a 25.4dB noise level which makes it a quiet CPU cooler for the Intel i5 9600k. With a fan speed of up to 1800 RPM, this CPU cooler has a cooling capacity of up to 130W, and it keeps your system cool while being at high levels of performance.
This wonderful quiet CPU with advanced features works at 12V to generate 130W power for effective dissipation of heat. Although the cooler has a height of 155mm, it fits easily in the standard systems. It comes with dimensions of 6.38 x 5 x 6.25 inches which shows that the cooler has a slim body. 1.3 pounds weight is also great evidence of the standard body design of the cooler. 5 years warranty is the incentive given by the manufacturer to its loyal customers as a reward for trust in the product of the company.
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Best Air Cooler
Best Air Cooler for Overlooking i5 9600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: Cooler Master | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Voltage: 12V | Wattage: 2.64W | Warranty: 2 years | Dimensions: 3.1 x 6.3 x 4.7 inches | Base height: 155mm | Noise level: 36 dB
Pros
✓Best air cooler
✓Cooler for the type of sockets and CPUs
✓Low weight
✓Efficient liquid cooler
Cons
✗No RGB lighting
The Hyper 212 Evo from Cooler Master provides efficient cooling performance in a compact, easy-to-install package. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo is a high-performance CPU cooler that supports the latest Intel and AMD multi-core processors. It comes with four Direct Contact heat pipes that can dissipate heat efficiently. This allows heat to be released to the aluminum fins, where it can be easily exhausted out of the chassis.
Besides, the copper heat pipes and aluminum fins provide enhanced heat dissipation for faster and more efficient cooling. It also features a double-tower structure and a 120mm PWM fan with wide-ranging RPM control. It features 4 Direct Contact heat pipes with aluminum fins to maximize heat conductance from the CPU to the cooling fin array.
It’s 120mm fan operates between 800 to 3,600 RPM, so you can adjust the fan speed according to your needs for optimal cooling performance. The Hyper 212 EVO also comes equipped with a PWM connector, so you can easily change the fan speed to a temperature-optimized setting in the BIOS. It has a 4th gen performance frame with fin-shaped cutouts that allow the heat sink to fit in smaller spaces. In this way, it has proven to be the best Air cooler for overclocking i5 9600k.
The cooler is just like a well-in desert, and it can fit in every processor when it comes to compatibility. It is compatible with LGA2066, LGA2011-v3, LGA2011, LGA1366, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, FM1 sockets. It supports Intel Core i7, i5, i3, Pentium, Celeron, Haswell 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th Gen, AMD Series 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th Gen, and Athlon 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Gen processors. In this way, it is a complete package for all types of sockets and processors.
It operates at 12V and generates a power of 2.64W. It generally works at a low noise level of 36dB and has a base height of 155mm. The cooler is very light in weight at just 1.3 pounds weight. This cooler from the cooler master has 3.1 x 6.3 x 4.7 inches dimensions and 2 years warranty. Overall, it is a perfect device for controlling the temperatures of new and modern processors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a cooler for i5 9600k?
If you are overclocking the CPU, then you do need a good cooler for the i5 9600k. The standard Intel cooler for i5 9600k is not sufficient, you will burn the CPU if you overclock it without a good cooler. Most i5 9600k owners have an open-loop water cooling system. If you plan on overclocking the CPU, then you should buy a good closed-loop water-cooled system.
Can we use an Intel stock cooler on a 9600k?
Yes, you can. However, there is a slight chance of voiding the warranty. Also, the Intel stock cooler would require a backplate, and a backplate would block a few of the motherboard holes. The stock cooler for an i5 9600k processor is a much more efficient cooler and provides better cooling than most aftermarket coolers. The clip for the backplate blocks one of the DIMM slots, so it is best to get a Z390 motherboard if you want to use the stock cooler. However, if you aim to overclock your processor, then it is advisable to consider any other cooler. For this purpose, some of the best Intel 9600k CPU coolers are discussed in the article. You can take help from there.
Does i5 9600k need liquid cooling?
Sure, it has been proven that liquid cooling is very good for processors. You can check out a benchmark that shows a 9600k with a liquid cooler is much faster than its air-cooled counterpart. There are a limited number of processor coolers in the market, so you can go for Cooler Master Liquid L240 which is considered the best CPU cooler for intel core i5 9600k. It will be best for your system and will protect your system from overheating even during intensive tasks.
What is the best CPU cooler for i5 9600k?
As far as stock coolers are concerned, they are not that great. So, if you plan on overclocking, you will want something more efficient than the stock cooler. Cheap air coolers may be adequate for overclocking, but if you plan on pushing the limits, you will want something better. The NZXT Kraken X53 is probably one of the best air coolers out there. It is not cheap, but it will keep your CPU cool even when overclocked. It is slightly larger than the stock coolers, but not by much.
Another good option is the Cooler Master ML 240. It is cheaper than the X53, but it is still more than adequate for overclocking. Remember that fans generate noise, so you will want to make sure that you have enough space for the fan. Some other options are also available for you in the article. You can also consider any of them, and I can assure you that you will not be disappointed.
Does i5 9600k come with a cooler?
Yes, the i5 9600k does come with a cooler, but it is an Intel stock cooler, also called a boxed cooler. It is not very good for overclocking purposes. That’s why if you are planning on overclocking your CPU, it is recommended to upgrade your cooler with any aftermarket cooler. For your help, some of the best aftermarket coolers are discussed in the article. Take a look at them and choose one according to your preferences and budget. However, if you are planning on overclocking only a little bit, the stock cooler might be sufficient.
Summary:
CPU coolers are integral elements for any new and advanced processing unit. Intel Core i5 9600k is also an advanced CPU that can perform at high levels even in intensive tasks. The only problem that can hinder its performance is the heat that is caused by these intensive tasks. For this purpose, we discussed some of the best Cooler for i5 9600k in this article. All these Coolers were listed based on thorough research and years of experience.
We hope that this guide has helped you find the best CPU cooler for i5 9600k processor. We brought some best coolers for high performance and cooling capabilities on a variety of processors for you. We would like to thank you for reading our blog, and we hope that you find the best CPU cooler for your computer system as well if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us anytime.
