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CPU coolers are an essential component of a computer system, and they require special attention. Although they do not provide any direct advantage to the computer like other components, a computer cannot work efficiently and properly without a good cooling solution.
The fastest mainstream processor belonging to the seventh generation, Intel Core i7 7700k, is an unlocked processor. This means users can make changes to the multiplier of the processor to achieve much better processing speeds. However, this can heat up the computer much more compared to the stock configuration.
Here, we will not only talk about the importance and benefits of CPU coolers, but we will also tell you about our top picks so you can choose a product that is just right for you.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for CPU Cooler For I7 7700k
- OUR TOP PICK: Noctua NH-U14S
- RUNNER-UP: Noctua NH-D9L
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400
Comparison of the Best CPU Coolers For i7 7700k
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When Would a CPU Cooler Come in Handy?
Whenever you are building a PC, it is vital to ensure that a proper cooling system is installed because of the following reasons:
Keeps the Temperature of the CPU Down
Overclocking a CPU can generate a lot of heat which, if not treated properly, could affect the efficiency of your computer. A good, quality CPU cooler helps to draw the heat away from the CPU and other components, which, in turn, improves the stability and efficiency of the system.
Protects the CPU From Damage
A CPU cooler works to keep the accumulated heat energy inside the computer away from the vital working parts. This protects the hardware from damage and keeps it working optimally.
Ensures a Longer Life of Your Computer
If the CPU of a computer gets too hot, it will lock the computer and will require a reboot. If there is no appropriate check on the heat produced by the computer, it could also fry the components. By keeping the temperature of your CPU down, you can also ensure its long life.
How to Choose a CPU Cooler For i7 7700k
When choosing a CPU cooler for i7 7700k, it is vital to keep the following considerations in mind:
Frequency of Usage
Choosing the right cooler also depends on your particular requirement. If you are a moderate PC user, then your stock CPU cooler will work just fine. However, if you have a high-powered CPU that will be worked hard with online streaming, content creation, or gaming, then you will need to invest in a liquid cooler.
Design
There are two common designs of CPU coolers – downdraft style and tower style. Downdraft-style CPU coolers push air down onto the sink. It is mounted horizontally, which makes it easier to install. The tower-style CPU cooler, on the other hand, is a more versatile option and can help your CPU to work more efficiently.
Socket Type and Layout of Your Motherboard
Make sure you know the socket type of your motherboard in order to choose a cooler that is compatible with your computer. You should also be aware of the layout of your motherboard, as it helps to determine which cooler will fit your system.
Review of the Best CPU Coolers For i7 7700k
There are various cooling solutions available in the market, but choosing the wrong cooler may throttle an overclocked i7 770k processor. For a processor of this magnitude, you need a high-end cooler that will not only prevent thermal throttling but will also help increase the life span of the processor by keeping the temperatures down. Therefore, before pushing your 7700k to its limits, take a look at the following top CPU coolers to ensure a longer life and excellent performance of your CPU:
Best Overall:
Noctua NH-U14S
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are simply blown away by the performance of this product. From finishing to packaging to installation, this is an extremely reliable product, and recent buyers highly recommend it to anyone who does not want liquid cooling. It is built like a tank, and in addition, the mounting hardware is also excellent, as it helps create reliable and strong pieces for use in a heavy-duty product.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The NH-U14s has been lauded for its automatic speed and quiet operation. It has won more than 400 awards and is recommended by many leading hardware magazines and websites. This CPU cooler is a standard choice for a premium quality product. Moreover, it is very easy on the pocket and does not overhang the RAM slots in tall modules, which is why we find this product quite impressive.
Who Will Use This Most
The slim design of the NH-U14S is fully compatible with tall memory modules while being short enough to fit most high-end cases available today easily. It comes with easy-to-follow instructions, which make it easier for everyone to install it in their CPU. Moreover, this product comes with a six-year warranty, which generates confidence in people’s mind about its durability and high performance.
Bottom Line
This Noctua cooler is a perfect solution for CPU cooling, as it combines quiet operation, excellent performance, and high compatibility. It is a well-made product by a company that has an impeccable reputation for producing extremely reliable and excellent products. Its ease of use and silent operation make it highly popular among users.
Runner-up:
Noctua NH-D9L
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have found this product to be one of the best coolers they have installed in their CPU, as it effectively keeps the temperature down. They not only find the performance highly satisfactory but are also impressed with the excellent packaging. There is enough cardboard and padding in the box to protect the cooler during shipping. All the parts are included, and the simple directions make installation incredibly easy.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Low-profile coolers usually drive air from the fan toward the motherboard. The D9L, on the other hand, is a unique tower-style cooler that drives air parallel to the motherboard, thus allowing for exceptional airflow efficiency. We find this cooler to be an ideal accessory for noise-sensitive 3U applications in fields like video or audio processing due to its height of 110mm, which enables it to fit 3U chassis.
Who Will Use This Most
This premium-grade, dual tower CPU cooler is perfect for people who want a small cooler that delivers exceptionally quiet cooling performance. Its comparably low profile not only guarantees full 3U compliance but also makes it perfect for small form factor and compact HTPC cases. Moreover, its 95 x 95 mm footprint allows this device to clear the PCI-e slots and the RAM on all ITX and Intel-based mainboards.
Bottom Line
Noctua NH-D9L is a perfect device for cooling small towers where it is difficult to fit larger coolers. It is compatible with multiple motherboard platforms, including 3U and ITX, without causing any interference with the surroundings. It is a compact cooler that can dissipate up to 140 watts within a small space, with the option to expand cooling by using two fans.
Best for the Money:
DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers were highly satisfied with this product as it provided great value and excellent performance. It helps keep the temperature of their PC very low, between 27C and 29C at idle. They also find its white color very beautiful as it brings out the color in their PC. Moreover, the bottom contact point has no rough spots, which buyers find very convenient.
Why it Stands Out to Us
GAMMAXX is one of the best CPU coolers due to its exceptional heat dissipation performance and amazing blue LED lighting effects. It can be mounted with a second fan and is an ideal thermal solution in a gaming environment. It is designed with four sintered metal powder heat pipes that help control the temperature of the CPU.
Who Will Use This Most
Long hours of work and intense gaming sessions can put quite a bit of stress on the CPU. The heat produced, if not let out, could melt the transistors. The GAMMOX 400 from Deepcool can help keep your computer safe. It’s extremely quiet, looks great, and is perfect for people who play computer games for hours.
Bottom Line
Deepcool has been providing cooling solutions and fulfilling thermal needs to increase the life of personal laptops and computers for many years, and the GAMMOX 400 is no exception. It provides amazing performance at an unbelievable price. With this cooler, you can use your CPU for hours without worrying about it heating up.
Best Liquid CPU Cooler for i7 7700k:
Corsair Hydro Series H100i PRO
PROS
CONS
What Recent Byers Report
Buyers who have installed the H100i Pro in their CPUs have found this cooler to work admirably. It helps to keep the temperature inside the case low while delivering silent performance even when the fans are working at max. Buyers find it hard not to be impressed with this cooler, as it takes real good care of their computers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This cooler from Corsair provides impressive cooling performance without creating a burden on your pocket. It is able to fit most modern AMD and Intel processors, thus keeping the CPU core temperatures low. This cooler is designed with a 240mm radiator that provides ample cooling surface area. It has subtle RGB lighting with control, is easy on the eyes, and comes with a relatively simple tool-free installation.
Who Will Use This Most
This all-in-one, RGB liquid CPU cooler, offers low-noise cooling performance and eye-catching styling with an LED pump head. It is designed with the unique zero-RPM mode, which powers the fan down when active cooling is not needed. Its painless and quick installation on most CPU sockets makes it a convenient product for all computer users.
Bottom Line
Optimize the performance of your CPU with Corsair iCUE software and monitor temperatures, customize lighting, and adjust fan speeds according to your requirement. Compatible with various CPU sockets and easy to install, this product is just what you need to cool your system in style and silence.
Best CPU Air Cooler for i7 7700k:
Scythe Mugen 5 Rev.B 120mm
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers were very impressed with this product’s cooling performance to noise ratio. The sound of the fan was completely inaudible, particularly when they were listening to their computer audio. They also find its ease of installation and excellent build quality quite refreshing. Moreover, this cooler comes with a magnetic-tipped screwdriver, which buyers find to be a nice touch.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The infinite flexibility and nearly no installation issues make the Mugen 5 a cooler that delivers good value for money. In addition to its excellent performance, the Flex PWM fan is very quiet, particularly if it is inside a closed case. Moreover, its easy installation means you do not need to remove any hardware.
Who Will Use This Most
Mugen 5 from Scythe offers infinite CPU socket compatibility, thus making it an ideal product for all computer users, particularly computer gamers. The instructions provided with the Mugen 5 make installation very simple. Moreover, installation does not require the removal of any hardware, which makes the process completely hassle-free.
Bottom Line
Scythe has been a producer of quality coolers for many years, and the Mugen 5 is no exception. If you have a HEDT processor or want to run a 24/7 overclock, this cooler is definitely the right choice. With this cooler, you also have the option to add a second fan for more efficient performance.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Before buying a CPU cooler, the following things should be kept in mind:
Budget
CPU coolers are available in a variety of sizes and types. How much you are willing to spend on a CPU cooler will also dictate your choice. Open-loop coolers are an expensive option; however, they offer stunning looks and unparalleled cooling results.
Quality
It is important for the efficient working of your CPU that you invest in a good quality cooler. Make sure you choose a well-reputed company that has various models so you can choose a cooler according to your computer’s specifications.
Size
As we have mentioned before, CPU coolers come in a variety of sizes. Make sure you know the specifications and measurements of your CPU so you can find a product that is compatible with your system.
Noise
It is important to choose a cooler that ensures silent operation. If you have your PC in an enclosed office or in the living room of your home, you will have to make sure you choose a product that does not make much noise.
Conclusion
Whether you want to prevent your PC from throttling at stock speeds or are aiming for overclocking your computer to its highest potential, you should research carefully before choosing a CPU cooler. In order to save you time, we have reviewed some of the best options here. Make sure you compare the specifications of the various products mentioned here to find the right solution for your system.
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