ZisaLog: Beginner’s Guide to Building a Custom PC 
When building a custom PC, one of the most important factors is cooling the CPU.
There are two main types of CPU coolers: air coolers and liquid coolers. Air CPU coolers are popular among many users because they offer high cost performance and are easy to handle.
However, when choosing an air CPU cooler, it is necessary to consider several points such as cooling performance, compatibility with the CPU socket, and size.
This article explains the features and how to choose an air CPU cooler for beginners.
- Air CPU coolers offer excellent cost performance and easy installation, making them beginner-friendly.
- There are two types: the high-performance “side-flow type” and the space-saving “top-flow type“.
- Large side-flow models can support high-end CPUs.
- For long periods of heavy load or overclocking, liquid CPU coolers are also an option.
- When choosing a CPU cooler, always check TDP, socket type, and PC case size.
Select PC parts and online stores to instantly generate an estimate, check compatibility, and calculate power requirements. You can save up to five different builds, making it easy to try out multiple configurations.
≫ Tool：PC Parts Estimation & Compatibility Check Tool
Table of Contents
About Air CPU Coolers
This section explains the features of air CPU coolers, how they differ from liquid coolers, and which CPUs they are suitable for.
What is an Air CPU Cooler?
Side-flow Type
Top-flow Type
An air CPU cooler is a cooling device that uses a heatsink and fan to dissipate the heat generated by the CPU into the air, lowering its temperature.
There are two types of air CPU coolers: side-flow type and top-flow type.
The side-flow type has a vertically oriented heatsink and directs airflow from the front to the back of the case.
Some models are large, and the fans are also big, which means they offer high cooling performance and are quiet.
They can handle the heat output of mid-range and high-end CPUs, but tall CPU coolers may not fit in small PC cases, so caution is needed.
The top-flow type blows air from top to bottom, cooling not only the CPU but also the surrounding power circuits.
Many top-flow coolers are low in height, making them suitable for small PC cases. However, since the fans are smaller, the fan speed increases under heavy load, which tends to make them noisier.
Both types have their pros and cons, so choose one that matches your parts configuration (mainly CPU performance and PC case size).
Basic Structure and Cooling Mechanism of Air CPU Coolers
Air CPU coolers mainly consist of the following parts:
- Heatsink (Radiator Plate)
A set of many thin fins made of aluminum or copper, increasing the surface area to efficiently dissipate heat into the air. - Heat Pipes
Copper tubes containing coolant, which efficiently transfer heat from the CPU to the entire heatsink. The coolant repeatedly evaporates and condenses, moving heat more efficiently than simple metal conduction. - Base Plate
The part that directly contacts the CPU. Often made of copper for better thermal conductivity, it efficiently absorbs heat from the CPU surface via thermal grease (CPU grease). - Cooling Fan
A fan that blows air onto the heatsink to dissipate heat into the air.
The cooling process works as follows:
- Heat Absorption from CPU
When the CPU operates, it generates heat, which is transferred to the base plate. - Heat Conduction and Transfer
Heat moves from the base plate to the heat pipes, where the coolant evaporates and efficiently transfers heat. - Heat Dissipation
Heat from the heat pipes spreads to the heatsink fins. The large surface area allows more heat to be released into the air. - Cooling by Air
The fan moves air, carrying the heat from the fins out of the case.
Thanks to this structure and mechanism, the CPU temperature is lowered, allowing stable operation.
Ken
Best for Low-End and Mid-Range CPUs
Air CPU coolers are the easiest and most cost-effective cooling method for low-end and mid-range CPUs (About low-end and mid-range CPU classification).
These CPUs do not generate much heat, so an expensive liquid cooler is not necessary—air cooling is sufficient.
Air coolers have a simple structure and are easy to install, making them suitable for custom PC beginners.
They are also affordable, making them especially recommended for those who prioritize cost performance.
Large air CPU coolers are also quiet, so for everyday use or gaming, air cooling is usually enough.
High-End CPUs: Case by Case
For high-end CPUs like Intel Core i, Ultra 7/9, or Ryzen 7/9, based on cooling specs and PC review experience, large air CPU coolers can handle both CPU temperature and noise without issues.
However, if extra cooling is desired for long periods of heavy load, or if you want to reduce fan speed and noise by using two or three fans, a liquid CPU cooler may be better.
For example, in a desktop PC with an Intel Core i7-14700F and RTX 4060 Ti using a large air CPU cooler, running a heavy 3D game like FF15 at maximum settings resulted in about 30% CPU usage and a CPU temperature of around 60°C, showing that cooling was sufficient.
In other words, for 3D games, a large air CPU cooler is enough. Only when doing tasks that use all CPU cores (like programming for data analysis) and push CPU usage to 80–100% should a liquid cooler be considered.
Air cooling is not insufficient, but liquid cooling becomes an option when even more headroom is desired.
Also, liquid coolers are more expensive, and there are compatibility issues with case size and number of fans supported, so these factors must be balanced.
Differences Between Stock and Aftermarket Coolers
AMD Retail Cooler
CPU coolers include stock coolers (retail coolers) that come with the CPU and aftermarket coolers that can be purchased separately.
The main differences are in cooling performance and noise.
Stock coolers are designed for standard use and are fine for everyday tasks like web browsing or office work.
However, for demanding tasks like gaming or video editing, stock coolers may lack cooling power and quietness.
On the other hand, aftermarket coolers are designed for better cooling and noise reduction, and come in various sizes, shapes, and fan counts.
For overclocking, long periods of heavy use, or a quieter environment, aftermarket coolers are more suitable.
Many models also feature LED lighting and stylish designs, making them popular among users who care about appearance.
However, aftermarket coolers are often large, so be careful about case size and memory clearance.
Stock coolers are included with the CPU and have enough cooling performance for that CPU.
But since the heatsink and fan are small, for long periods of heavy load or if quietness is important, aftermarket coolers are better.
Ken
Types of Air CPU Coolers
There are two types of air CPU coolers: side-flow and top-flow.
The table below summarizes their features and differences.
| Side-flow Type | Top-flow Type | |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Features | ・Vertical heatsink ・Cools with overall airflow ・Be careful of memory clearance with large heatsinks | ・Horizontal heatsink ・Easier to cool parts around CPU ・Good for compact PCs |
| Size | ・Mostly large ・Check case compatibility due to height | ・Mainly small to medium ・Low height, space-saving |
| Cooling Performance | ・High cooling performance ・Supports high-end CPUs | ・Lower than side-flow ・For low-power CPUs |
| Quietness | ・Large fans are quiet ・Fan speed can be kept low | ・Small fans tend to be noisy ・Some quiet models exist |
| Price Trend | ・Relatively expensive | ・Relatively affordable |
Side-flow Type
The side-flow type has a vertically oriented heatsink and directs airflow from the front to the back of the case.
The side-flow type places the heatsink vertically and blows air from the side fan to efficiently dissipate heat.
Because it matches the overall airflow in the case, it cools smoothly without disrupting airflow.
Compared to the top-flow type, the heatsink and fan are larger, so cooling performance is higher.
For mid-range and high-end CPUs like Core i5 or Ryzen 5 and above, side-flow types with high cooling performance are often used.
Large fans (120mm, 140mm) can be installed, so even under heavy load, fan speed can be kept low, making them quiet.
Tall CPU coolers may not fit in small PC cases, so check the size carefully.
Top-flow Type
Top-flow CPU coolers have a horizontally mounted fan that blows air from top to bottom to cool the CPU.
Stock CPU coolers included with CPUs are usually top-flow type.
This type blows air from above, so it also cools parts around the motherboard.
It is especially effective for areas that tend to get hot, such as VRMs (voltage regulator modules) and memory slots.
Compared to side-flow types, top-flow coolers are smaller and lower in height, making them suitable for compact cases.
However, because the fan and heatsink are small, maximum cooling performance is somewhat lower.
Fan size is also small (92mm for Intel stock coolers), so under heavy load, fan speed increases and noise often becomes noticeable.
Ken
Also, they are more affected by case airflow, and heat dissipation is somewhat less efficient than side-flow types.
How to Choose an Air CPU Cooler
This section explains the key points to consider when choosing an air CPU cooler.
The main focus is on cooling performance and parts compatibility.
Check Cooling Performance (TDP Support)
To choose the right CPU cooler, first select a cooler with cooling capacity that matches the CPU’s TDP (Thermal Design Power).
TDP indicates the maximum amount of heat the CPU is expected to generate, so choose a cooler with at least this much cooling capacity.
Also consider the size and airflow of your PC case, your budget, and noise level.
If you are unsure where to find TDP, let’s check together.
First, look for TDP in the CPU’s product specifications.
CPU: Intel Core i5 14400F Example
In the specs, refer to the maximum turbo power (the highest wattage). For Intel Core i5 14400F, it is 148W.
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 7600 Example
In the specs, refer to the default TDP value. For AMD Ryzen 5 7600, it is 65W.
CPUs have a turbo mode, which temporarily increases clock speed above the base value for higher performance.
For Intel, this is called Turbo Boost Technology; for AMD, it’s Precision Boost. These features can push the CPU above the listed TDP.
Overclocking can also cause TDP to be exceeded.
Therefore, use the CPU’s TDP as a reference and choose a CPU cooler with some extra capacity.
The TDP supported by a CPU cooler is often listed on the product’s official page or the Japanese distributor’s page.
Check the TDP of both the CPU and the CPU cooler, and choose a cooler with some extra headroom.
However, not all CPU coolers list TDP, and turbo mode or overclocking can push the CPU above its rated TDP, making it hard to judge.
Ken
In such cases, just remember these two points:
- For mid-range CPUs, use a “medium or large air CPU cooler”
- For high-end CPUs, use a “large air CPU cooler” or a “liquid CPU cooler with two or more fans”
Cooling performance varies by product, but this is a good general guideline.
Check CPU Cooler Socket Compatibility with Motherboard
When choosing a CPU cooler, make sure it matches the motherboard’s socket type.
The socket is the connector on the motherboard for installing the CPU. The CPU and motherboard must match, and the CPU cooler must also be compatible.
CPUs and motherboards usually support only one socket type, but many CPU coolers support multiple socket types.
For example, a motherboard may support only LGA1700, but a CPU cooler may support Intel LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA1155, LGA1156, and AMD AM5, AM4, etc.
Therefore, as long as the CPU cooler supports the motherboard’s socket, it is compatible.
Supporting multiple sockets means you have a wide range of choices for performance and design.
When assembling, use the included mounting hardware for the socket type and attach the CPU cooler to the motherboard.
≫ Related Article: About CPU Cooler Socket Types [Custom PC]
Check CPU Cooler Height and PC Case Compatibility
When choosing a CPU cooler, make sure its height fits in the PC case.
This is especially important for large top-flow CPU coolers. If it doesn’t fit, you’ll have to buy another one.
Check the CPU cooler’s height in the product specs. Then, check the PC case specs for “supported CPU cooler height” or “CPU cooler clearance” and compare.
For example, if the case says “Max height 180mm,” any CPU cooler up to 180mm will fit. Choose a cooler shorter than this.
If you choose a cooler that’s too close to the limit, it may touch the case and cause noise or damage. Leave at least 1–2cm of clearance.
Design and LED Lighting
The design and LED lighting of a CPU cooler greatly affect the look and feel of your PC.
Recently, more models feature colorful LED or RGB lighting to make the inside of the case look attractive.
If your case has a transparent side panel, choosing a cooler with LED lighting can dramatically change the PC’s appearance.
On the other hand, simple designs without lighting are also popular, especially for those who prefer a calm look or prioritize quietness.
Choose the design and LED features that suit your taste, PC use, and environment.
Ken
Differences Between Air and Liquid CPU Coolers
There are air and liquid CPU coolers. This section explains their differences, advantages, and disadvantages.
Note: This article assumes all-in-one (AIO) liquid coolers.
Comparison of Air and Liquid CPU Coolers
Air CPU Cooler
Liquid CPU Cooler
Air coolers use a heatsink and fan to directly dissipate heat from the CPU into the air in a simple structure.
Liquid coolers transfer heat from the CPU to a cooling liquid via a water block (pump), then move the liquid through tubes to a radiator, where fans release the heat into the air.
In short, air coolers use metal and air directly, while liquid coolers use a liquid to transfer heat.
The table below summarizes the differences by category.
| Item | Air CPU Cooler | Liquid CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Heatsink and fan directly release heat into air | Water block, pump, coolant, radiator, and fan transfer heat via liquid |
| Cooling Performance | Low for small coolers, high for large coolers | Higher maximum cooling, more headroom |
| Quietness | Low for small coolers, high for large coolers | High with two or three fans, as load is distributed |
| Ease of Installation | Simple structure, easy to install | More parts, installation and routing require care |
| Price Range | Relatively affordable and easy to buy | More expensive, aimed at high-end users |
These are general trends by cooling method; actual performance varies by product. Basically, liquid CPU coolers have higher cooling performance than air coolers.
Based on cooling specs and PC review experience, large air CPU coolers are fine for high-end CPUs in terms of temperature and noise.
However, for overclocking or long periods of heavy use, liquid CPU coolers with more headroom are better.
Large air CPU coolers are generally quiet. For even more quietness, liquid CPU coolers with two or three fans (lower fan speed per fan) are recommended.
Advantages of Air CPU Coolers
Here are the advantages of air CPU coolers compared to liquid coolers.
- Lower Price
Air CPU coolers are simpler and cheaper to manufacture than liquid coolers, so they are more affordable. Some models can even handle high-end CPUs, making them great for those who value cost performance. - Easy to Install
Air CPU coolers can be easily installed using the included brackets and screws. There is no need to handle pumps or tubes, so even beginners can install them quickly. - Lower Risk of Failure
Air CPU coolers have a simple structure with no pumps or coolant, so they are less likely to fail and can work reliably for a long time.
While liquid coolers have become more reliable in recent years, and leaks or evaporation are rare, the more complex structure (with a pump) means air coolers are still less likely to fail.
If a leak does occur, it can damage other PC parts, so the potential damage is greater than with air coolers.
Ken
For maintenance, AIO liquid coolers do not require coolant refills—just clean the fans. This is the same for air coolers, so maintenance is similar.
Disadvantages of Air CPU Coolers
Here are the disadvantages of air CPU coolers compared to liquid coolers.
- May Not Provide Enough Cooling for High-Performance CPUs
Air CPU coolers may not be able to dissipate enough heat for high-end CPUs or during overclocking. In such cases, standard air coolers may not keep up, and CPU temperatures can get high during long periods of heavy use. - Large Models May Not Fit in Some PC Cases
Large air CPU coolers may not fit in some PC cases, so always check the cooler height and case compatibility. - Large Heatsinks May Interfere with Memory
Coolers with large heatsinks may interfere with memory modules (especially those with tall heatsinks), making installation impossible in some cases.
Liquid coolers use coolant to efficiently transfer heat, making it easier to keep temperatures low.
Air coolers rely only on the heatsink and fan, so their cooling capacity is limited, and CPU temperatures tend to be higher.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air CPU Coolers
This section answers common questions about choosing and using air CPU coolers.
How Often Should CPU Coolers Be Cleaned?
Dust easily accumulates on the fan, so clean it about once every six months to a year.
For cleaning methods, see the separate article below.
≫ Related Article: How to Clean a Custom PC and Required Tools [With Photos]
How Should Thermal Grease Be Applied and Which Type Should Be Used?
Thermal grease should be applied as evenly and thinly as possible between the CPU and cooler. However, most CPU coolers come with a pre-applied amount, so you can install it as is.
If you make a mistake during installation and have to remove the cooler, or if you need to reapply grease after a few years, you will need to choose and apply grease yourself.
If you want to use a different type of grease or a different application method, see the article below for details.
≫ Related Article: Role, Types, Application, and Lifespan of CPU Grease [Custom PC]
Can the CPU Cooler Fan Be Replaced?
It is possible to replace just the fan on a CPU cooler.
Most air CPU coolers have fans attached with clips, so as long as the replacement fan is the same size, it can usually be swapped.
However, check the mounting shape, fan thickness, and connector type (3-pin/4-pin) in advance.
≫ Related Article: How to Choose a PC Case Fan for Custom PCs [Performance / Features / Compatibility]
Where to Check Fan Speed, Airflow, and Noise Level?
To check fan speed, airflow, and noise level, look at the product specs for “RPM” (revolutions per minute), “CFM” (cubic feet per minute, airflow), and “dBA” (noise level).
RPM shows how many times the fan spins per minute. Higher RPM usually means better cooling, but also more noise.
Noise level (dBA) shows how loud the fan is when running. Lower numbers mean quieter operation. Around 30 dBA is considered quiet.
Summary: Air CPU Coolers Are Recommended for Cost and Easy Installation!
This article has explained the features, types, pros and cons, and how to choose an air CPU cooler in detail.
Here are the key points again.
- Air CPU coolers offer excellent cost performance and easy installation, making them beginner-friendly.
- There are two types: the high-performance “side-flow type” and the space-saving “top-flow type“.
- Large side-flow models can support high-end CPUs.
- For long periods of heavy load or overclocking, liquid CPU coolers are also an option.
- When choosing a CPU cooler, always check TDP, socket type, and PC case size.
Air CPU coolers are highly cost-effective and easy to install, making them ideal for custom PC beginners.
For low-end and mid-range CPUs, cooling performance is sufficient for everyday use and light gaming.
Large air CPU coolers can also handle high-end CPUs, but for long periods of heavy use or overclocking, consider a liquid CPU cooler with higher cooling performance.
For custom PC beginners or those who prioritize cost, air CPU coolers are a highly recommended choice.
Select PC parts and online stores to instantly generate an estimate, check compatibility, and calculate power requirements. You can save up to five different builds, making it easy to try out multiple configurations.
≫ Tool：PC Parts Estimation & Compatibility Check Tool
