Latest Best CPU Cooler for i7-12700K | Suggested by Experts

The i7 12700K is a fantastic option for those looking for an economical gaming computer with a powerful processor. It comes with 4 cores along with 8 threads that provide smooth gaming, even with multiple programs running simultaneously. But, it can run very hot in these scenarios since intense games require plenty of energy.

In order to assist the CPU in the dispersal of heat, you will have a high-quality cooler, either air or liquid. The Intel i7-12700K processor is an extremely efficient processor which runs with 5.00 GHz and comes with a TDP that is 95 W. However, it’s not a regular processor – it requires an exceptional cooler to stop the processor from overheating. This could result in the system going down or even worse.

The Intel I7-12700K is a powerful CPU that is capable of running any of the toughest games on PC. If you’re looking at how to help keep your processor cool during heavy use, this article will guide you to the best CPU cooler to fit your high-performance system.

We’ve reviewed a few of the top options currently available and have listed them below to ensure you don’t spend time looking through hundreds of different products to figure out what’s best for your requirements.

Best CPU Cooler for i7-12700K: Top 7 in the Market

Ranking	Best CPU Coolers for i7-12700K	Reviews
1.	Noctua NH-U12S Redux	5 out of 5
2.	ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280	5 out of 5
3.	Noctua NH-D15	4 out of 5
4.	Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML280	4 out of 5
5.	Thermaltake Floe RC360	4 out of 5
6.	Corsair H100i RGB	4 out of 5
7.	Be quiet! Pure Loop 280	4 out of 5

Best CPU Coolers for i7-12700K | Detailed Review

1. Noctua NH-U12S Redux

The Noctua redux cooling system is the ideal solution for small tower cases that reduces interference with RAM and PCI problems. The compact size of the fan allows it to be compatible with higher-end heatsinks. Each of the Noctua coolers is made to be quiet even if they are pushed to the limit when you are doing stress testing or extreme overclocking.

If the NF-P12-1700120 millimeter fan’s speed fluctuates because of load fluctuations, the noise level is usually at its lowest level. It means that your computer will be quiet and silent when you are working if you are using demanding programs like the 3D renderer, compression with 7 zippers or browsing the web throughout the day.

The NH-U12S Cooler for i7-12700K is the result of the long-standing commitment to providing silent cooling solutions. This model has utilized its many attributes and put them in an easier-to-use package.

Anyone who needs excellent connectivity with memory module expansion RAM cards, such as the video editor (PCIe) slots while keeping the system’s noise levels to a minimum. This is a great choice. Its thin and slim profile allows it to be used in many situations where clearance issues could be a problem.

2. ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 is one of the most sophisticated products made by the company. The best CPU cooler for i7-12700k is able to beat its competition by delivering excellent airflow and consequently cooling the system. It’s a remarkable product that is worth a moment to think about.

It’s not as fast as others due to the fact that the fans have to be running at maximum speed in order to cool quickly, but other products can be run at a lower RPM. Additionally, the process of installing it isn’t easy enough to tire users, particularly novices.

But it is true that a PWM controller has complete control over the speed of the fan which is what solves the problem mentioned earlier. In terms of installation, you don’t have to be concerned about it for a long time after you have tried it the first time.

Selecting this as the top cooler to overclock the i7-12700K was no problem. Gamers are known to increase their overclocks in order to make the most of their machines, but this method is not good for the components since they produce a lot of heat. This best CPU cooler is able to take on the burden and does its job. Although it doesn’t have its RGB function, it is a beauty with its attractive design and functioning.

3. Noctua NH-D15

The famous Noctua NH-D15 is one of the best CPU coolers for i7-12700k that come equipped with LGA 1700 brackets in the box. It is a great option for those who want the cooler they purchased to work with their brand-new processor as soon as possible. The other reason you should consider buying this cooler is that, well, it’s the most efficient and the best air cooler that you can buy.

It’s extremely effective in chilling any computer (you could even use it to cool the massive 12900K) and is extremely silent even at maximum RPM. The downsides are the height of 165mm and the most important thing is an enormous width that could create clearance issues for the larger memory sticks.

Therefore, you must ensure that you have the space to fit it into your memory or buy a memory kit with a low profile. In the end, it’s the most efficient air-cooling option to pair alongside the 12700K. Don’t forget that Noctua provides the NH-D15 in the price range of a little more expensive but much more attractive cromax Black version.

If you’re a top performer and continue to smother your processor with a lot of heat, then you’ll need an equally powerful and the best CPU cooler and to that end, do not look elsewhere for the top-of-the-line CPU cooler for the i7 12700K. The latest technologies that the makers have built on to make this cooler are ideal for high pressure and moveable air.

4. Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML280

This MasterLiquid Cooler provides the best option for high-performance cooling. The 3-Generation Dual Chamber Pump provides the production capacity. It has dual SickleFlow All-Black 140mm fans to maximize the airflow, dust reduction, and noise level and it comes with an RGB illumination system that provides amazing and adjustable lighting.

With their Vibrant Infinite Mirror, you can receive coolant on demand regardless of the color of your motherboard or case. Their bigger Surface Area radiator is equipped with more fins, which allow for greater heat dissipation and surpasses the previous models.

Industrial Grade Seals mean that this cooler is built to endure any challenge and keep your CPU’s temperature low and constant. Cooler Master isn’t the best in the race to cool CPUs, but they will not be outclassed by their style and performance.

We Belive you are a Gaming Enthusiast, You Might like Best CPU Coolers for i7 10700k

5.  Thermaltake Floe RC360

Within a closed-loop, it is possible to use the Thermaltake Floe RC360 to let cold airflow directly to memory modules, without interference with other components that might hinder the flow of air. The high-end aluminum base plate was specially designed for TOUGHRAM memory modules.

Each of these functions is controlled by the adaptable TT RGB Plus Software that gives users an unbeatable level of individualization. The Thermaltake Floe is the only sealed loop system for liquid cooling specifically designed to chill your processor and RAM.

The copper base plate is designed to be compatible with TOUGH RAM Memory Modules and their operating range that spans up to 500 and 1500 RPM, and nine hubs that are mounted equipped with controllable RGB LEDs. The ARGB controller allows you to take control of the colors and effect that is applied to the pump, fan and cover the memory and the radiator’s fins.

The Thermaltake Floe has six Heatpipe coolers with an innovative flow layout that allows cool air to be drawn out from the rear of the case and is channeled through both PCIe slots. The model can be used with AMD AM4 and Intel LGA 1151 sockets. This makes it ideal for processors with higher performance.

6. Corsair H100i RGB

Certain users go all-out when it comes time to build the perfect PC. They want their PCs to be as modern as they can, no matter how much effort, time, and money it takes to get such a thing. It can be annoying when you have an amount of money for the product and are willing to put everything into deciding but are unable to locate the right one. In such a situation, the Corsair H100i  is your only option.

We recommend the most efficient and the best CPU cooler for i7-12700K and this is due to a myriad of legitimate reasons. First, the top performance is paramount obviously. Then comes the glamorous and stylish appearance. Corsair is one of the coolest manufacturing companies in the marketplace.

The company has been providing customers with high-quality hardware for a long period. The Corsair cooler comes with top-quality fans, powerful blades, and beautiful designs. The RGB lighting options give the feeling of superiority and enhance the overall design more sophisticated than other coolers could ever achieve.

This is a sloppy product and we’d like to get better specifications, however, it comes with many accessories and instructions to help users install it with no problem. Furthermore, this top-of-the-line and the best air CPU cooler for i7 12700K comes with pre-applied thermal paste, which eliminates the trouble of selecting the right product.

7. be quiet! BW007 Pure Loop 280

If a dedicated PC user is working, it is to give the highest quality of service possible. In order to do that, he continues looking for the most vibrant and enthusiastic components to his computer. When it comes to PC gaming, the system can get overworked because it is overheated. In this situation, it is advisable to use a device that is silent! Pure Loop 280 can serve as a rescuer.

In the present, air cooling may not be enough for gamers. It’s effective, however, it is not suitable for people working on a tense and demanding schedule. This is why we have the solution: liquid cooling. This is a fantastic liquid cooler that chills your system.

This is the reason it’s the most efficient and best CPU cooler for i7-12700k CPU. There’s no RGB feature, however, it is still attractive thanks to the gorgeous color scheme that the manufacturer has provided it with. The white LEDs are a good way to compensate for the absence of RGB, and they look good as well. For people who don’t like flashy gadgets, this is an excellent choice.

There is no need for large cases or clearance issues because this isn’t a heavy product and it provides enough space for your GPU. We are proud to call this the most efficient 280mm best AIO cooler that fits the Intel i7 12700K. For a powerful processor such as Intel’s i7-12700K, liquid cooling is the most effective and ideal choice.

Factors to Keep in Mind Before Buying the Best CPU Cooler for i7-12700k 

Fan Size

The fan’s size is the main factor that rotates and occupies space within the CPU. The majority of 120mm and 140mm fan sizes are used for cooling purposes, which is why cooling is required. For instance games and editing consume more energy than heating the system up. In this scenario, it is recommended to have cooling fans that control the temperature of your system and are able to stop it from heating up and slowing down too.

Usage 

The kind of cooler for your CPU that would work best for you is dependent only on the requirements of your computer. A user with minimal requirements or who only uses their computer every now and then is not going to require a powerful and robust CPU cooler since it will increase the cost. However, anyone who spends an average of eight hours per day on screen requires a mid-range CPU cooler in order to keep the temperature at a reasonable level. For instance, gamers or multitasking geeks need a premium cooler to cope with the way they load their system.

Speed of the Fan

Another element that can influence the performance of cooling in the mainframe cooler is the speed of the fan. Because of an increased speed of spinning, which means an increased flow of air and consequently, more cooling. 2500-rpm fans are typically more than a 1500 rate fan.

Socket 

CPUs are able to support various sockets. There are not all CPU coolers that can support all CPUs, and the reason for this is that they are not compatible with sockets. While you are on the path of PC development, when you pick the right CPU/Mobo combination for your gaming system, make sure you opt for the cooler that is compatible with the same socket as your CPU. It is important to concentrate on this aspect otherwise your components will not join, and your efforts would be wasted.

Cooler Height

If you’re looking to purchase an inexpensive cooler, you’d like it to show at least a few times. This is why it’s important to examine the cooler’s peak rating and ensure that it would fit inside your miniature ITX case. There are a variety of common places where the cooler peak choices available can vary from 30 millimeters to 60 millimeters, or something similar.

Noise 

The majority of PC users across the globe have fans that make noise. The rumbling sound fans emit when they are running extremely fast is not pleasant in any way. Some people don’t mind the rumbling noises when the cooler cools properly but noise levels other than moderate ones can be unpleasant for the majority of people. When you are choosing the cooler, don’t ignore the levels of noise mentioned in the specification of the item.

Thermal Design Power 

TDP is among the most important things you should know prior to selecting a CPU cooling system. TDP, or thermal design capacity, which is what they refer to as indicates the highest temperature that the system produces when it is subject to the greatest pressure it can withstand. It is recommended to choose a cooler that has a nearly equal or greater TDP value than that of the CPU. This way, the CPU and cooler combination will produce more than satisfactory results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Does the i7 12700K need a CPU cooler?

Yes. The i7 12700K is one of the most powerful, is susceptible to overheating. If you opt for an excellent CPU cooler that can reduce the temperature, there’s no reason to be concerned about it. The Noctua NH D15 is the one which you can be confident in because the company is known for its quality products across every aspect and domain. With this type of device, you don’t have to think about thermal problems anymore.

When it comes to raw performance and heat management, the Intel i7 12700K is one of the best processors available today. However, Intel’s i9 9900k is a flagship processor, which has significant advantages in multi-core processing and over cloaking, but falls short when it comes to heat management due to its high number of cores. It is for this reason that you should explore Best CPU Cooler For i9 9900K.

Q2. What is the recommended Size for a Cooler?

Before you do that, study the specifications thoroughly to figure out which size of the sink or radiator size is most suitable. Manufacturers usually indicate the size of their coolers or the size of their radiator. It is also important to be sure that the cooling system you choose to purchase will have enough room over the motherboard so that you can access the memory and enough clearance underneath the heat spreader for your RAM. 

While liquid cooling is a possibility, one of the main factors in determining the appropriateness of the cooling system is the number of radiators and the size of the radiators. It’s not an issue since manufacturers will specify where to place these radiators and their dimensions. Some radiators are placed on top of the motherboard, which could be problematic as it can affect the motherboard.

Q3. Is air cooling sufficient for the i7 12700K?

Most of the time air cooling is the best option for PC owners. Even with a processor of the highest quality such as the i7 12700K, air cooling can be effective. However, if you’re putting pressure on your system with more than the air cooler can cope with, it’s worth using liquid coolers. If you don’t wish to spend the effort of trying different AIOs before finding the right one, pick the most suitable one in the first place.

Q4. Which Cooler Type Is the Best For i7-12700K?

The i7 12700K is one the Intel’s processors of the 12th generation that are the newest on the market but are receiving a lot of attention. The latest entries in the technology market are top performers. The ones we’ve mentioned above are tough beasts that can take gaming to a whole new level and consequently, they can withstand a significant increase in temperatures.