On one end, buying this CPU is a bit difficult due to stock being limited, and on the other hand, you are going to need a good cooler to make sure that the temperatures stay under control. While we cannot help you source a Ryzen 9 5900X, we can surely help you find the right CPU cooler for your processor, as it is exactly what we are going to do in this round-up. We would highly suggest that you pair your CPU with the best CPU cooler. That is why our focus is going to be strictly on finding the best CPU cooler for Ryzen 9 5900X. After all, we don’t want our readers to end up with something that simply is not good enough.
Best CPU Cooler For AMD Ryzen 9 5900X – Comparison Chart
Best CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 5900X
The good news here is that finding the right CPU cooler is not going to be a difficult part. Quite the opposite. There are some great options that you can look at, and we are going to explore every single one of them, including closed-loop liquid and air coolers.
#1 – Noctua NH-D15
When it comes to air coolers or fan in generals, the one company that has been sitting on the top for the longest time happens to be Noctua, with their excellent performing options that are widely available in the market. The Noctua NH-D15 is just one of them, and it is one of the finest air coolers that you can buy.
6 heat-pipes for ample cooling. Highly optimized fans in push-pull configuration. Comes with NT-H1 thermal paste. Support for both Intel and AMD sockets.
Looks great in the black variant. Top of the line cooling performance. Does not require any software to run. Runs quiet even under full loads. Super easy to install with all the tools provided. A 6-year warranty gives peace of mind.
The size might cause some clearance issues for the RAM or the GPU.
What’s so good about it? That is what we are going to focus on. The cooler is one of the best looking options available in the market, especially the black one. The cooling performance is off the charts with this one, with the cooler beating some of the closed-loop liquid coolers, too. There is not going to be any software required to use the cooler; just install it on the CPU, plug in the fan headers, and you are off to the races. Speaking of fans, I have to appreciate Noctua for including some of the most powerful and quiet fans in the package that remain optimal even in higher loads. You are also getting one of the easiest installation processes and accessories that you will need to successfully mount this cooler, which makes you more than settled here. Last but not the least, the 6-year warranty is great, it should help if you run into any cooler issues. At this point, my only complaint here is the size of the cooler because it can be pretty big for some systems and may cause RAM clearance issues or issues with the GPU clearance depending on how you place it.
#2 – ARCTIC Freezer 34 eSports DUO
The Arctic happens to be another company that has been making a name for themselves in the market of coolers because they have been releasing some really good offerings lately. Everything ranging from the higher-end options to the more affordable ones, the company has you covered. The Noctua NH-D15 is the perfect example of running into something that looks and sounds too good to be true and lives up to the name and expectations. Wherein it delivers excellent performance in all cases and does not stop there. If you are not worried about the large size of the cooler, I cannot recommend a better option; it is not only way more reliable than the competition, but also boasts the performance along with it.
54 cooling fins for efficient heat dissipation. It can cool up to an 18-core CPU. Compatible with both Intel and AMD sockets. Push-Pull airflow for optimal performance.
Great performance through and through. Affordable. Great design. Keeps quiet under load.
Red/black colour scheme (but other variants are available)
The ARCTIC Freezer 34 eSports DUO is just that, an affordable air cooler that manages to pull changes that are way above the pay grade, and for that, I commend this cooler. But is it all show and no performance? That is what we are going to find out. I will not lie. I was a bit skeptical when I saw the price of the cooler or the cooler itself since I was not expecting a good performance. But this cooler defied my expectations by delivering a performance that has to be respectable, to say the least. Not just that, this is one of the best-priced coolers in an extremely saturated market. I also love how the cooler is designed; the design is leaning more on the futuristic side rather than the industrial design language that we see on-air coolers. Last but not the least, the overall noise level on this cooler is also in the respectable range, and that is what I like. My only issue here that I can point out is that the red/black colour scheme might not be for everyone, and people may have to end up changing the fans altogether.
#3 – Be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4
Be quiet! As a company should not need an introduction thanks to how good their coolers are. Not just coolers, the company is also revered when they are making great cases and great power supplies. So, in one way or another, you are pretty covered as far as good products are concerned. If you are searching for something that is not only affordable but also provides you with a decent performance that can get you through most of the tasks with ease, then getting this CPU cooler is a great way to go as it will not be disappointing as far as the performance is concerned. Quite the opposite. You are getting a CPU cooler that delivers great performance across the board and does not let the cost come in the way at all.
Ships with Silent Wing PWM fans. Only 24.3 decibels at maximum fan speed. Seven heat-pipes for optimal performance. Compatible with both Intel and AMD sockets.
The performance is exceptional at all times. The cooler runs quiet even under load. The installation process is a breeze. Great build quality. The all-black looks are amazing.
The cooler is large and can easily hang over the DIMM slots.
The Be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is the cooler that we are looking at today, and while this dark knight might look unassuming, it delivers excellent performance and value for money. Granted, it is one of the more expensive air coolers, almost teaching the price of a good liquid cooler, but it delivers on that front. The great thing about this cooler is that it delivers one of the finest performances I have seen on an air cooler. Not just that, the cooler is almost silent, and you cannot hear anything going on. The installation process is a breeze to walk through, and the company has ensured that the build quality is excellent in all regards. If you are someone who cares about the aesthetics, I know I do. Then this cooler is for you as it is one of the finest looking offerings available in the market with its muted, all-black look. With so much good, the only issues are not related to performance at all. The cooler is large, to say the least, and there are some clearance issues if you are using a taller RAM kit. These are the two issues that may come in the way for some people, but that is about it.
#4 – NZXT Kraken X53 240mm
I think we are all well aware of the fact of how NZXT is not a new player in town when it comes to coolers. The fact that the company has received some amazing cooling products over the years is a testament to their dedication, and we are more than happy to report that they are still keeping their legacy alive. I was honestly surprised after spending time with the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 as it is the cooler that you want to get if you are looking for good performance. It does not disappoint you in any way and delivers a fantastic performance through and through, which is what we love here.
Infinity mirror LED ring for RGB effects. Full NZXT CAM integration. Aer P radiator fans for optimal performance. Supports both AMD and Intel sockets.
The infinity mirror adds a lot of character to the cooler. Great performance is overall with quiet fans. Straightforward installation process.
Fans cannot be controlled by software.
With that said, the cooler in question today is one of the newly released NZXT Kraken X53 240mm; a liquid cooler, as you may have guessed, and for all the right reasons as it does deliver pretty great performance to the point that it does not leave a lot to be desired for. One of the highlights of this cooler is the infinity mirror that is on the water block. Although nothing but a fancy and flashy inclusion, it does look and can be customized, as well. I suppose these features are always looked at in a positive light due to how saturated the market has become. Thankfully, another great thing about this cooler is the performance, which does not disappoint at all, which is what saves this cooler from being just another option available in the market. The overall installation of this cooler is also an easier one, so you are not losing anything here. Sadly, the cooler does not allow you to control the fans through the software, which can be a letdown for a lot of people who want to get in there and customize the fan curves.
#5 – Scythe Ninja 5 Air CPU Cooler
The next cooler had me in a rut because I could not figure out how to approach it. Simply because the cooler is being delivered by a company that I previously did not know much about, but after doing some research, I finally found out that this is worth checking out, and I am glad I did. Simply put, if you want to get your hands on a cooler that not only looks great but also has stellar performance, then going for the NZXT Kraken X53 is an excellent cooler that you should invest in for stellar looks and performance.
Specific cut out for RAM clearance. Compatible with both AMD and Intel processors. 6×6 heat pipes and copper base for great heat dissipation. 2x Kaze Flex 120 PWM fans.
One of the best-designed air coolers. Dual-fan mounting is great for airflow. Top of the line performance, especially for overclocked CPUs. Good price to performance ratio. The installation is super-easy. Easily rivals some AIO coolers in terms of thermal performance.
The size is on the larger side.
I am indeed talking about the Scythe Ninja 5 Air, and while it might look like the name is derived by taking a bunch of cool names and just putting them on the same plate, the cooler is a lot more than its name and delivers fantastic performance through and through. Ninja 5 has one of the best designs that I have seen in an air cooler, a place where you cannot customize a lot as far as the design is concerned. The overall performance is also great thanks to the dual-fan system that helps with great airflow, and if you are planning on overclocking the CPU, this is the way to go. Thankfully, Scythe has not put a premium on this cooler, so you are getting something that is affordable, with a performance that normally exceeds the price. The overall installation process is a lot simpler, and the cooler can easily go head to head with some of the more expensive AIO options available. My only concern here is really the size of the cooler, as it may not sit well with everyone, and therefore, can cause some issues for many people.
#6 – Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L
Over the past couple of years, Cooler Master has given has some of the best coolers that we get to see in the market, which is a great thing. If you are looking to get a good performance out of these coolers and still not spend a lot of money, Cooler Master is the way to go. Overall, I am pleased to say that the Scythe Ninja 5 Air has defied my expectations and ended up being one of the best CPU coolers that I have laid my hands on. Whether you are pairing it with the Ryzen 9 5900X, or any other thermally demanding CPU cooler, this is going to deliver on that front. For anyone who is looking at a cooler that should be able to deliver without costing too much and does not look like it is only here for fun, this cooler is a great option as it manages to deliver on all the fronts and deliver a surprisingly affordable and exceptionally well-balanced package, too. You could easily rack up the price on this cooler, and it would still justify the performance you are getting here.
3rd generation dual-chamber pump. SickleFlow fans for improved performance. RGB lighting. The larger surface area of the fins for better dissipation.
Lower noise levels. Two RGB zones. Comes with an RGB controller. Solid build quality.
Cable management can become messy in some cases.
Not just that, they have some excellent air coolers, and their liquid coolers are also just as good, even with the added premium. The cooler that we are looking at today is the Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L V2, and honestly, I have used the original, so I was expecting a relative performance, but I am surprised by what this cooler is capable of. For starters, the relatively lower noise levels are something that I enjoy with this cooler because I am someone who does not prefer having a workstation that has a lot of noise included for one reason or another, and this is something that gets the job done. On the other hand, you are also getting RGB on the fans and the pump itself, and Cooler Master has done a good job with making this RGB implementation since it is simple and straightforward to the point that you will not have to worry about anything. In addition to that, Cooler Master has ensured that the overall build quality is not something that has taken a hit and has done a great job overall. So, if you are worried that it might not be something that can hold on its own for years to come, then you don’t have to worry as the cooler is delivering good performance. As far as the downsides are concerned, I don’t have any issues with this cooler, except the fact that if you are owning an overclocked processor that is running on the hotter side, this cooler might not be able to deliver the best performance. I am talking about the Thread-ripper style of CPUs, so you do not have to worry about anything else.
#7 – ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280
The last cooler on the list is coming from the Arctic, and I have a history with some of the offerings that they had to give, and I can tell you that they are really good when it comes to how good their products are and the same is the case with the cooler we are looking at today. Honestly, this is one of the coolers that had me surprised, as well. I was not expecting the level of performance that was delivered here, so needless to say, and I am pleased to say that you are getting something good out of this cooler, and there are many reasons to pick this one up.
An auxiliary fan on the water block. Integrated cable management channels. 15-degree lower VRM temperature. Reduced power consumption.
The performance is great. The pump design is unique and contributes to performance. Noise levels are on the lower side. Great price.
No RGB. Can be noisy.
The cooler in question is indeed the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280, and honestly, I am glad to put this cooler on the list because of the performance for several other reasons. If you are truly looking for something that delivers good performance, this is the one that you should be picking up as you will not be disappointed here. The best part about this cooler is that the performance is great; I suppose that is what we have been looking for in most of the coolers is how they perform because if the cooler does not perform on the levels we want the cooler to perform, it is more or less a waste of money, and we would avoid it. The Arctic has some research put into the way they have designed the pump because it comes with an auxiliary fan, and in all honesty, I am surprised to see it here, but the best part is that it works well, and that is what matters here the most. The overall noise levels can be on the higher side of things, too so, if you are looking for the quietest this might not be the one for you. Last but not the least, this is one of the most competitively priced coolers available in the market, so you are at an advantage here in the budget. another concern I have here is that this cooler does not ship with any RGB lighting, which is a pro for a lot of people, but at the same time, might be considered a downside for many people. Therefore, it is important to know.
#8 – Asus ROG RYUO 240 RGB AIO Liquid CPU Cooler
The last cooler on our list is from Asus. I have to be honest here. The first time I saw this cooler, I was a bit surprised. Not because I don’t like Asus, but because I have never seen Asus make a cooler before, and for me, this was the first time I saw them entering into a heavily saturated market. The Liquid Freezer II by Arctic is a cooler done right for a number of reasons. It really cools your CPU to a great extent but also takes care of the VRMs, making it a much easier thing for anyone who is looking to spend some good money on a great cooler.
1.77-inch full-colour OLED panel for stats. Aura Sync addressable RGB lighting. Precise PWM pump. Aluminum pump cover and reinforced tubing.
The best part is that the cooler itself looks fantastic. The fans can push a lot of air with ease. Pre-installed thermal paste works like a charm. The LiveDash OLED can be turned on or customized. The performance is great.
The chrome faceplate is susceptible to scratches. Cable management can be a nuisance. Fans can get louder.
Well, this is where the Asus ROG RYUO 240 RGB AIO Liquid Cooler comes in, and honestly, it is good enough to change my mind. But it is not all rainbows and sunshine as there are some downsides to it, as well. But overall, this is one hell of a cooler. Right out of the box, this is one of the best looking all-in-one coolers I have seen. For anyone who is looking for a cooler that looks excellent, this is it. However, the good news is that looks are not the only thing this cooler is all about. The performance is one of the finest I have seen from a 240mm cooler and makes me realize how good it is. Normally, the pre-installed thermal paste is not as good on most of the coolers, but that is not the case here as it is one of the finest thermal paste applications in this case. The LiveDash OLED screen can be turned off, as well, but it still looks great. What else is there? Well, you are getting something that delivers a great performance overall, and that is what you should be looking to get your hands on. Sadly, the chrome faceplate is made out of plastic, and while that is not a huge issue here, it can get scratches with ease. In addition to that, the overall cable management is not the easiest and can be a pain to deal with. The supplied fans are excellent in every regard but are also on the louder side. If you are okay with these things, then the Asus ROG RYUO 240 RGB AIO Liquid CPU Cooler is the cooler to go for.
How To Pick The Best CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 5900x
Now that we are done looking at all the coolers for your Ryzen 9 5900X, the next step is to start looking at just how you can pick one because that is going to be another important thing. Don’t worry, and it is not a difficult process. In all honesty, I did not expect a lot from this cooler, but in all honesty, this is one of the best coolers that are available in the market if you are looking at a water-cooled cooler. So, you do not have to worry about anything that might go wrong. Just be sure that your case has enough space, and you would be all sorted, too. More CPU Coolers For You! Best CPU Coolers For Intel Core i7-7700K – (Compatible Air & Liquid Coolers)Best Low Profile CPU Coolers 2023 – [Quick Buyer Guide)
CPU Socket & Form Factor
Honestly, when you are buying a new cooler, you will have to be certain of the fact that you are looking at the correct CPU and form factor because, let’s be honest, you will run into a lot of the options that may not be supportive of the form factor. As far as the CPU socket is concerned, most modern coolers support every major socket, so there is nothing much to worry about.
What Type Of Cooler Do You Need? Air Or Water?
Another deciding factor that you have to understand and keep in mind when you are getting your hands on a good CPU cooler is whether you want to go water cooling or you want to invest in air cooling. Water coolers are normally more expensive but not as durable as air coolers but do provide great performance. On the other hand, the air coolers have been catching up lately, as well. So, you do have a good list of options to choose from. Just make sure that you choose carefully.
More Fans Can Provide Better Cooling = More Noise
Having a good number of fans in your casing is always a good idea, especially when you are opting towards building a positive air pressure inside your case. However, having more fans also means that you are going to face more noise than you would normally. The one way that you can tackle this is to buy fans that are on the quieter side. Or, if you want something for your cooler, you can replace the stock fans on the cooler as well and get something that runs quieter, so you do not have to worry about noise levels being too high. Rest assured, things are just going to be fine.
Heat Pipes & Heat Sink Design
Moving on, whenever you are looking at a good cooler, you have to look at the heat pipes and heat sink design, as well. Now the reason why this is important is that you will need to have a good cooler that has good heat pipes or more heat pipes in general. The good news is that this is only limited to air coolers, and most modern coolers are going to ship with at least 6 to 8 heat pipes, so you are all good to go.
Fan And Radiator Size
If you are looking to get your hands on a liquid cooler, you will have to keep the fan and radiator size in mind. Simply put, it is important not something that you can miss out on. The common radiator sizes in AIO liquid coolers range from 120mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm. As far as the fan sizes are concerned, a 120mm radiator takes a 120mm fan. A 240mm radiator takes two 120mm fans, a 280mm radiator takes two 140mm fans, and a 360mm radiator takes three 120mm fans. So, must keep these in your mind whenever you are choosing a cooler, and be sure that it corresponds with the available space in your case.
TDP Explained
Last but not the least, you have to start looking at the TDP, or Thermal Design Power is the term that companies use to refer in a broad sense the rate at which a CPU cooler has to dissipate heat from the chip so the cooler or the chip can perform as it has been advertised. So, for instance, if a cooler is advertised as 120w TDP. It should be more than enough for a CPU that has the same level of TDP or below that. In this case, the heat will be efficiently dissipated. Therefore, whenever you are in the market, make sure that you are buying the right cooler that has the right TDP, as well.
#2 – Which is the best CPU cooler for Ryzen 9 5900x?
All the coolers that we have tested in this list have proven to be tried and tested for the Ryzen 9 5900X in terms of performance and shouldn’t create a problem.
#3 – Is it worth buying a CPU cooler for Ryzen 9 5900x?
Of course. Ryzen 9 5900X is a powerful CPU that requires a good CPU cooler to keep it cool.
#4 – How good is the AMD stock cooler?
The AMD stock cooler is good. However, it is important to know that the Ryzen 9 5900X does not ship with a cooler, so you are likely to buy a separate cooler with good TDP.
#5 – Does Ryzen 9 5900x come with thermal paste?
Considering how there is no cooler present in the box, the Ryzen 9 5900X also does not ship with any thermal paste. You are just getting the chip, along with a case badge.
Final Verdict:
Finding the right CPU cooler should not be a difficult process for anyone. You can easily do that, to be honest. However, CPUs have become a lot more demanding over the past couple of years in terms of thermal design power, and you need to be certain that you are buying a good cooler, or else you will be left with no proper choice. Thankfully, all the good coolers that we have listed in this article are going to deliver great performance overall to the point that you will not have to worry about getting something that is not good enough. Just be sure that the cooler fits in your case without any issues; you would be good to go.
