The octa core i9 9900K might be more than three years old now, but it is still one of the best CPUs on the market for gaming. This processor is powerful enough to compete any top-tier CPU for gaming. We know that aiming for the best CPU cooler for i9 9900k is needed if you don’t want to melt down your processor.
Related: Best CPU Cooler for i7 9700K
Packed with 5 GHz of overclock rate, i9 has a lot of power packed inside its processor but this type of power boosting comes at an expense. You need to be careful if you want to overclock at extreme, increase it’s performance and prolong it’s life span.
Ultimate List of the Best CPU Coolers for i9 9900K
Powerful cooling tools ensure that you make the most of your computer and maintain the temperature even during long gaming sessions. When choosing the best CPU cooler for the i9 9900k, you must ensure that your overall build/frame receives the best airflow.
This article is a comprehensive guide to find the best CPU coolers for i9 9900K. Tight on budget? Require AIO, liquid or air CPU cooler? Want colorful RGB’s? Everything is covered, we did our research and experimentations so you don’t need to worry about it. Best CPUs on the basis of performance and budget are also sorted by us. To make your PC smart, you can also pair the low profile graphics card with intel i9 9900K processor.
Best Air Cooler for i9 9900K – Noctua NH-D15
Specs
Intel Compatibility: LGA 1150 / 1151 / 1155 / 1156 / 2011 / 2066 | AMD Compatibility: AM4 / AM3(+) / AM2(+) / FM1 / FM2(+) | Material: Copper, Aluminum, connected Joints & Nickel Plating | Fan Speed: 300 – 1500 RPM | Fan Size: 140 mm x 2 | Bearing Type: SSO2 Bearing | Noise Level: 24.6 dBA | Heat Pipes: 6 Copper Heat pipes | Cooler Height: 165 mm | Cooling Type: Air |
Summary
We found it hard to believe that Noctua NHD15 is the best cooling solution for i9 9900K. This is a general agreement between the internet and the main network of games. High quality 140 mm fans ensures the efficiency and a smooth comfortable working environment without making more noise than 24 dBa.
You have the opportunity to take the i9 9900K to a new level with it’s six award-winning copper heat pipe radiators for maximum heat transfer and heat dissipation. Therefore, it is our recommended best air cooler for i9 9900K.
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Our Verdict
When you are looking for the best i9 9900k air cooler that is quiet and overclocks pleasantly, then, at that point, the Noctua NH-D15 settles on an extraordinary decision for you. Highly Suggested!
Best Budget CPU Cooler for i9 9900K: Dark Rock Pro 4
Specs
Intel Compatibility: 1150 / 1151 / 1155 / 1156 / 1366 / 2011(-3) Square ILM / 2066 | AMD Compatibility: AM2(+) / AM3(+) / AM4 / FM1 / FM2(+) | Material: Aluminum | Noise Level: 24 dBA | Cooler Dimension: 120 x 120 x 25 mm / 135 x 135 x 22 mm | Fan Speed: 1,200-1,500 RPM | Fan Size: 120 mm x 2 |
Summary
If somehow you don’t like the look or feel of Noctua, Dark Rock Pro is your best choice. The noise level is it’s outstanding feature. It works in extremely low noise mode, good for our ears, insignificant difference, which means that its cost is much more reasonable.
The cooler is affordable to purchase. Therefore, it’s worth it if you’re looking for best budget CPU cooler for i9-9900K right now.
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Our Verdict
Amazing! If you are going to purchase a cooler with an affordable price, lesser size and is quiet in terms of loudness then it is the right choice for you and remember to consider it at any rate. You will love it!
Best AIO CPU Cooler for i9 9900K: NZXT Kraken X7
Specs
Intel Compatibility: 1151 / 1150 / 1155 / 1156 / 1366 / 2011 / 2011-3 / 2066 | AMD Compatibility: TR4 / AM4 / FM2+ / FM2 / FM1 / AM3+ / AM3 / AM2+ / AM2 | Material: Aluminum | Cooling Type: Liquid | Fan Speed: 500-2,000 ± 300 RPM | Fan Size: 120 mm x 3 | Cooler Dimension: 121 x 394 x 27 mm | Technology: RGB |
Summary
NZXT Kraken X7 is one of the best liquid cooler for i9 9900K. For upgraded security. there are flexible, nylon-covered cylinders. Fan are autonomously managed. The cooler follows a very precise scheme and design that can handle overclocking. You will also find creative lighting patterns for completely unique lighting.
Therefore, it is the best AIO CPU cooler for i9 9900K recommended for good user experience.
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Our Verdict
Based on our research and experience, we can say that the performance of this cooler is better than any traditional air cooler. Packed with 360 mm AIO, the fan is designed for excellent heat dissipation. It provides a long warranty but you don’t have to avail it.
Best Budget AIO Cooler for i9 9900K: Le Grand Macho RT
Specs
Intel Compatibility: LGA 775 / 1150 / 1151 / 1155 / 1156 / 1366 / 2011 / 2011-3 / 2066 | AMD Compatibility: AM2 / AM2+ / AM3 / AM3+ / FM1 / AM4 | Material: Aluminum | Noise Level: 20 dBA | Cooling Type: Liquid | Fan Speed: 300 – 1300 RPM | Fan Size: 140 mm x 1 | Bearing Type: Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) | Heat Pipes: 7 Copper Pipes | Cooler Height: 159 mm | Technology: RGB |
Summary
Have you though of any cooler to hold the title of the best budget CPU air cooler for i9 9900K, Le Grand Macho RT is still in the game. The air cooler functions quietly and gives improved RAM freedom which makes it our best budget AIO choice. Combined with seven copper heat pipes, it delivers great cooling with an outstanding simple design.
With this being said, it’s no doubt best budget AIO cooler for i9 9900K and you will definitely enjoy it.
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Our Verdict
Seven copper heat pipes, less than 20 decibels of shock absorption and directional wind flow, are a great incentive for money. If you want an effective presentation and limited noise level, this is definitely a better choice and is the best budget liquid cooler for i9 9900K.
Best Gaming CPU Cooler for i9 9900K: Corsair Hydro Series H150i PRO
Specs
Intel Compatibility: 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066 | AMD Compatibility: AM2, AM3, AM4, FM1, and FM2 | Material: Aluminum | Fan Speed: 1600±10% RPM | Cooling Type: Liquid | Cooler Weight: 960 grams | Fan Size: 120 mm x 3 | Bearing Type: Magnetic Bearing | Noise Level: 25 dBA | Technology: RGB |
Summary
There might be a scenario in which air cooler is not suitable for i9 9900K, and AIO liquid cooling is needed. Considering your needs, we recommend the dedicated Corsair H150i Pro. You need a standard cooler to overclock at maximum all the time. This CPU cooler can lower the rising temperatures effectively.
Therefore, it is the best gaming CPU cooler for i9 9900K and is recommended for gaming at extreme.
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Our Verdict
You will see excellent display effects, especially when overclocking. You will also like the perfect and smooth design, especially for colder siphons. The heat dissipation performance of i9 9900K has been well received by many buyers, so this cooler is aimed at overlocking. This should cover all the possibilities you can get from the CPU.
Best RGB Cooler for i9 9900K: NZXT Kraken X62 AIO Liquid Cooler
Specs
Intel Compatibility: Socket 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066 | AMD Compatibility: Socket TR4, AM4, FM2+, FM2, FM1, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2 | Heatsink Material: Copper | Radiator Material: Aluminum | Fan Speed: 500 – 1800 RPM | Cooling Type: Liquid | Fan Size: 140 mm x 2 | Bearing Type: Fluid Dynamic Bearings (FDB) | Noise Level: 41-42 dBA | Heat Pipes: AIO 280 mm | Technology: RGB |
Summary
This all-in-one machine runs Core i9 9900K at standard speed. You might overclock it at 5 GHz on each hub to avoid choking issues. Providing a great look in it’s case, it is packed with decent quality. In terms of aesthetics, it looks extraordinary.
Generally speaking, NZXT Kraken X62 will never embarrass you. Thus, this is the best RGB cooler for i9 9900K having outstanding shape, durability and style.
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Our Verdict
After hours of inspection and testing, we found that X62 has the most amazing siphon and payload, and can install a huge 280 mm radiator. We also see that this model is one of the best AIO CPUs available. We have also covered the best 140 mm case fan to cool down your system.
Conclusion – Which CPU Cooler for i9 9900K is Right for You?
The Intel Core i9 9900K is a more reliable, faster and newer processor, now available. Whether you are a gaming genius or someone who doesn’t buy often, getting the latest processor is definitely your main idea.
This i9 9900K heats up very fast. To solve this problem, you basically need a CPU cooler to keep the temperature within a reasonable range and make the device run at maximum performance. Above we introduced 6 best CPU coolers for i9 9900K.
Choose one of them to get a great job. Whichever you choose, make sure you have a large radiator of approximately 280 mm or go for liquid cooling with lesser radiator size. Exposure to extreme overclocking at all the times can effect the lifespan of the CPU cooler. If you want the performance at extreme, go for the Corsair Hydro Series H150i PRO.
Quick tips to familiarize yourself with the basic angles of selecting best cooler for i9 9900K are mentioned on the top. Be sure to take a peek at it and settle on a smart choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most people ask questions regarding best CPU cooler for i9 9900K which are answered briefly.
Does i9 9900K need fluid cooling?
Intel i9 9900K is definitely a force that cannot be ignored in the processor. Since too much force usually leads to overheating, you need a cooling frame to compensate for the heat. Traditional fans may not function properly, especially in the high-performance range, and this is where the liquid cooling performance comes into play.
What is the normal temperature for i9 9900K?
The average operating temperature for i9 9900k is around 31°C, but when playing heavy games for a long time, it raised to as high as 83°C. With almost comparable performance and cooling conditions, we can estimate that the average case temperature of the Intel Core i9 9900K is 57°C.
Which is the best CPU cooler for i9 9900K?
It totally depends on the personal needs and requirements. Want a new build with Intel i9 9900K processor? Upgrade your computer? The best CPU cooler is a must. Noctua NH-D15, Dark Rock Pro 4 and Corsair Hydro series H150i PRO are the best CPU coolers for i9 9900K.
Helpful Material
If you are looking for the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 2600, Ryzen 5 3600, or Ryzen 7 3700x, then probably you are aiming for the AMD build. Moreover, if you are facing PC problem. We have a list of guides to help you fix your issues with the PC.
M Hamza Malik is a writer, blogger, and engineer who loves to create, write, and share his insights about computers, products, and technology. Hamza has spent the last years reading books, tech, and computers, which brings him to writing, giving his character a spark! Therefore, PCFIED is where he started his journey professionally.