Best budget CPU cooler in 2024 – our top 6 picks
Here's the best budget CPU coolers that the market has to offer
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Today, we’re looking at the best budget CPU cooler in 2024. CPU cooling comes in many forms, there are Air, Liquid, and Full loop considerations. With your budget in mind, mainly, we will be looking at air cooling solutions given their more budget nature. The good news is that some AIO coolers also go for cheap, and we’ll keep this page updated to make sure you get the best selection.
Many PC builders consider the CPU or GPU to be the most important component in the system, and while their inclusion is paramount, you can’t underestimate the importance of an adequate cooling solution. Adequate cooling is still a prospect that can be had on a budget. Two cheap options include the DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX GT BK or ARCTIC Freezer 34 Esports DUO. You could also be in the mood for the best all-in-one CPU cooler (AIO), which can offer superior cooling performance compared to air coolers. However, air coolers are almost always more budget-friendly.
What is the best budget CPU cooler in 2024?
The best budget CPU cooler in 2024 has to hold up against some of the high TDP CPUs that have been released in the last few years, we wouldn’t recommend running a 14900K on any of these CPU coolers, however, these CPU coolers are reserved for the more budget-friendly options of CPU available. The DEEPCOOL Gammaxx GT is a fantastic budget cooler option for 2024. Not only is it inexpensive, but it also offers better performance over the stock coolers you often receive with the more budgeted coolers.
Upgrading from your CPU’s stock cooler luckily doesn’t have to come at a massive expense. There are plenty of options available these days, whether you want a basic air fan or have enough money left over to go for liquid cooling. Let’s talk about our top 6 in more detail.
Best budget CPU cooler – Deepcool Gammaxx GT
Introducing our best budget air CPU cooler of 2024.
DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX GT BK CPU Air Cooler
Socket
Intel: 150W LGA20XX/LGA1366/LGA115X and AMD Socket 140W, AMD: AM4/AM3+/AM3/AM2+/AM2/FM2+/FM2/FM1
Fan compatibility
120 mm
Measurements without mount: (L x w x H)
5.3″X 3.3″X6.14″ (135X84.8X156mm)
Fans
1
- Inexpensive – this is the perfect cooler for those on a tight budget
- Multi-socket compatibility
- Made with durable materials
- Beautiful RGB top cover and fan
- Top-notch heat transfer for high DTP CPUs
- Efficient
- It’s not as powerful as some of our other recommendations
- It may get noisy sometimes
The Deepcool Gammaxx GT is an affordable single-tower RGB air cooler that not only enhances the look of your PC but also ensures efficient cooling. It measures 135 mm x 156 mm x 84.4 mm and comes equipped with a 120 mm PWM fan that has a rotational speed ranging from 500 – 1500 RPM.
The TDP rating for this cooler varies depending on the processor, with 150W for Intel and 140W for AMD. The cooler is designed with 4 copper heat pipes and a copper-plated heatsink that provides excellent heat and electrical conductivity. Copper has the added advantage of uniform heat distribution, quick heat transfer, high melting point, and corrosion resistance.
Moreover, the noise output rating of this cooler is impressive, rated at 17.8 – 29.5 dBa. The Deepcool Gammaxx GT is priced at an MSRP of $44.99 but can be found now for under $30, and can be controlled via RGB headers on the motherboard. You can also find it at even lower prices due to market competition.
Best budget CPU cooler under $50 – ARCTIC Freezer 34 Esports DUO
ARCTIC Freezer 34 Esports DUO
Socket
Intel – 2066, 2011-3, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156 and AMD: AM4
Fan compatibility
120 mm x 2
Measurements without mount (L x w x H)
4.84 x 4.06 x 5.91 inches
Fans
2
- High-performing cooler
- Reasonable price
- Two Bionix fans that work in a push-pull mode
- Remarkably quiet, both according to our testing and user reviews
- Even spread of heat pipes
- Minimalistic design
- Limited compatibility – compared to other models on our list, the ARCTIC will fit a limited number of sockets
- Difficult to install
The ARCTIC Freezer 34 esports DUO is a mid-range cooler that can be used with multiple sockets. After conducting extensive testing, we have concluded that this particular model provides excellent value for its price. Despite being relatively inexpensive, the ARCTIC cooler is effective at cooling even high-end CPUs during stress tests. Although the temperature may not drop as low as some of the more expensive options, you won’t experience any bottlenecks.
Instead of covering the entire heat spreader, the heat pipes are placed right where the processor is located. This design is efficient enough to cool even the largest CPUs available in the market. Additionally, the ARCTIC cooler is equipped with two powerful fans that help to balance the temperatures within your desktop. The ARCTIC cooler operates quietly enough to allow you to play games without a headset and still hear every sound effect. The only drawback with this cooler is its compatibility with various sockets, so it’s important to check the full list of compatible sockets before purchasing.
Overall, if you’re looking for a cooler that performs better than expected for its price range, the ARCTIC Freezer 34 esports DUO is an excellent choice.
Best budget AIO CPU cooler – Corsair Hydro Series H100i RGB Elite
Corsair iCUE H100i RGB Elite
Air or Liquid?
Liquid
Max RPM
2400
Max Noise
31.5 dB
Dimensions
10.91″ (L) x 1.06″ (W) x 4.72″ (H)
- Performs really well for its price
- Great UI control and customization
- Very durable
- Fully customizable RGB and fan speeds
- Can attach up to 4 fans in total
- Supports PWM
- Can be really loud when set to max
- Installing onto the CPU can be tricky
The Corsair Hydro Series H100i RGB Elite is an affordable liquid cooler that professionals highly recommend. Like the Cooler Master Master Liquid ML360R, it features RGB lighting that can be easily customized through the iCUE software. The cooler also comes with a preset configuration setting that allows you to control the fan speeds at 100%, 50%, or even 0% (Zero RPM fan mode). If the temperature is low enough, the pumps can do all the work while the fans are turned off.
The pump comes pre-applied with thermal paste, but you can opt to use an aftermarket paste if you have one. The thermals that come with it are good enough, however. Installing the pump onto the motherboard can be a bit tricky since the default bracket is only compatible with Intel processors. There is an included bracket for AMD processors, but you have to replace it manually. You may need someone to hold the pump as you screw them in place to keep it from slipping.
It’s important to note that the fans do not come with RGB lights, but you can install two more fans with RGB lights on the other side of the radiator for a total of four fans. Some consumers would replace the included fans with two Magnetic Levitation 120mm RGB fans on top of another two fans on the opposite side of the radiator for a full RGB lighting setup. This provides more customization options and maximizes the cooling potential of the cooler.
Best quiet budget CPU cooler – be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4
be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4
Socket
Multi-socket Intel: LGA 1150 / 1151 / 1155 / 1156 / 1366 / 2011(-3) square ILM / 2066. AMD: AM2(+) / AM3(+) / AM4 / FM1 / FM2(+)
Fan compatibility
120 mm
Measurements without mount (L x w x H)
5.7 x 5.35 x 6.40 inch
Fans
2
- Extremely silent – a maximum of 24.3Db(a)
- It can be mounted from above
- Seven heat pipes, two fans
- Easy to install
- Suitable for both high-end and medium builds
- Size – this is a large cooler and will not fit compact cases
- Installation – due to the size the installation requires a bit of patience
It’s appropriate that our top choice for a quiet CPU fan is a cooler from the renowned manufacturer, be quiet! We assure you that we did not manipulate the results; the benchmarks and our personal experience with the brand speak for themselves. This is an excellent option for those seeking a nearly silent yet powerful fan. This is quiet! cooler boasts a minimalist design and lacks the flashy colors of modern fans. Nonetheless, it outperforms liquid coolers in terms of both power and noise reduction, a significant triumph in our opinion.
Even when supporting an overclocked high-end CPU, this cooler operates at a noise level of just 24.3 decibels. You can immerse yourself in intense gameplay without any distracting noise. While we appreciate this model’s dependable performance, it’s the quietness that truly impresses us. However, be warned that the cooling capabilities come at the cost of a somewhat complex installation process. We recommend this cooler for larger towers.
If you’re in search of a powerful fan that can support your high-end gaming PC without producing any noise, this model is perfect for you. Although installing it correctly may be frustrating at times, you’ll be satisfied with the results in the end.
Another cheap CPU cooler – Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition
Type
Air
Max RPM
2,000 RPM
Max Noise
26 dBa
Dimensions
(H)120 x (W)77 x (D)158.5 mm
- Cooling performance is outstanding
- Relatively quiet
- Great value
- Limited for higher TDP CPU overclocking
If you’re in search of an affordable option to cool your CPU, the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition is among the top-budget PCU coolers available in the market. This model is an upgrade to the highly popular EVO and delivers remarkable performance for its price.
This simple cooler operates with four heat pipes and aluminum fins, which work efficiently while only producing a maximum fan noise level of 26 dBa. The actual noise level mostly relies on the RPM you set. Additionally, it features an accurate airflow rate of 42 CFM, a smart fan sensor that prevents cable tangling, and supports a wide range of CPU sockets.
Although its performance may not match that of the top coolers in the market, it’s still an excellent performer for the price. Not everyone needs a huge heatsink or liquid cooling, and this reliable option can be an ideal fit for many users.
Best budget 120mm AIO CPU Cooler – NZXT Kraken 120
NZXT Kraken 120 – RL-KR120-B1
Air or liquid?
Liquid
Max RPM
1800
Max Noise
33 dB
Dimensions
10.51″ (L) x 5.39″ (W) x 8.46″ (H)
- Small form factor
- Powerful cooling
- Intuitive RGB controller
- Fans do get louder than expected
As an alternative to the loud and flamboyant H100i Pro RGB, we have the Kraken 120, which is the smallest cooling solution on the list and perfect for building a compact system that cannot accommodate an air cooler. The most striking feature of this simple AIO cooling solution is its impressively designed CPU block with a holographic style that is one of the best on the market. However, this cooler falls short in terms of performance.
Although its thermal performance is not too shabby, it can generate more noise than expected if running at maximum speeds. Despite being a little loud, it cools exceptionally well, and the 240mm, 280mm, and 360mm versions are also exceptional. For those who desire something beyond just RGB lighting, the Kraken 120 offers serious style points while ensuring efficient cooling with the Aer P 120mm fan.
Things to consider when selecting the best budget CPU cooler
There are a few things you have to consider when picking up the best budget CPU cooler in 2024.
Cooling performance
The primary function of a CPU cooler is to dissipate heat from your processor and keep it running at optimal temperatures. When choosing a cooler, it’s important to consider its cooling performance and how it will perform under various conditions, such as heavy workloads or overclocking.
Noise level
Depending on the type of cooler you choose, it may generate varying levels of noise. If you’re building a quiet PC or simply want to minimize noise levels, look for a cooler with a low noise rating.
Size and compatibility
CPU coolers come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and it’s important to choose one that fits your case and is compatible with your processor socket. Make sure to check the specifications of both your CPU and case before purchasing a cooler.
Build quality
A high-quality CPU cooler can last for years and provide consistent cooling performance, while a cheaper, lower-quality option may fail or perform poorly over time. Look for coolers with quality materials and construction. You don’t necessarily have to sacrifice build quality when on a budget, try to get your CPU cooler from a reputable brand.
Cost
CPU coolers can range from budget-friendly options to high-end, premium models. Consider your budget and your specific cooling needs when selecting a cooler, and try to find a balance between price and performance that meets your requirements.
Budget CPU coolers vs AMD stock coolers
The Wraith Spire CPU cooler is AMD’s version of the “stock cooler” for the mid-range CPUs up to the 3rd gen. The wraith spire is pretty efficient and cools relatively well, but it is almost always bested by literally any cheap cooler you can buy from Amazon. AMD’s Wraith Spire was not designed to sustain the CPU long-term, just keep it running whilst you do traditional office tasks. The Wraith Prism is much more suited to gaming.
Most budget coolers are better than stock coolers. As these coolers aren’t designed to keep your CPU cool under heavy loads, they just allow them to “operate”.
Budget CPU coolers vs Intel stock coolers
The Intel Stock coolers are notoriously bad at keeping high-load CPUs cool. The Wraith Stealth coolers from AMD are even considered better by a mile and they’re the worst that AMD has to offer. The Intel Stock Coolers are barebones and designed only to stop the CPU from blowing its lid when asked to open the web browser. If you have one, forget about it, it’s recommended you grab anything else to do the job.
Most budget CPU coolers are magnitudes better than the standard Intel Stock Cooler.
Are budget CPU coolers worth it?
It depends on your specific needs and preferences. Budget CPU coolers can be a good choice if you have a tight budget or if you’re not planning to overclock your CPU. They can still provide sufficient cooling to keep your CPU within safe operating temperatures and prevent thermal throttling.
However, if you plan to overclock your CPU or if you live in a hot climate, a higher-end CPU cooler may be worth the investment. These coolers are typically larger and more efficient, allowing for better heat dissipation and lower temperatures.
FAQs
Should I get a cheap air cooler or cheap AIO cooler?
This comes down to what you’ll be cooling. Air fans are geared towards more budget builds and will be cheaper than AIO liquid cooling. However, you can pick up an AIO cooler for pretty cheap these days and enjoy lower temperatures.
If you’ve got a high-end CPU like a Ryzen 9 or Intel Core i9 processor, then we’d definitely suggest an AIO cooler.
What is the best brand for budget CPU coolers?
There are plenty of brands manufacturing CPU coolers, many of which may be recognizable to you. DeepCool and ARCTIC are two brands we feature for cheap coolers, but we also recommend the likes of Corsair, NZXT, Cooler Master, and be quiet!
Final word
Finding the best budget CPU cooler can be a challenge, but with careful research and consideration of your specific needs, it’s possible to find a quality option that fits your budget. Factors to consider include cooling performance, noise level, size and compatibility, build quality, and cost.
By balancing these factors and choosing a well-reviewed and reliable option, you can keep your processor running cool and efficiently without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a casual user or a serious gamer, a well-built cheap CPU cooler can help you get the most out of your system without sacrificing performance or reliability.