i9-13900K Cooler Review: 5 Best Options Tested

Have you ever wondered what makes a super-fast computer run so smoothly, even when it’s doing a lot of work? It’s like a superhero needing to stay cool under pressure! The Intel Core i9-13900K is one of the most powerful computer brains out there. It’s a beast for gaming, creating videos, or running many programs at once. But with all that power comes a lot of heat.

That’s where a good CPU cooler comes in. Choosing the right one for your i9-13900K can feel like a puzzle. There are air coolers and liquid coolers, and each has its own good and not-so-good points. You want a cooler that keeps your processor from getting too hot, which can make it slow down or even stop working right. But you also don’t want a cooler that’s too loud or costs too much. It’s a tricky balance!

In this post, we’ll break down what makes a CPU cooler great for the i9-13900K. We’ll look at the important things to consider, like how well they cool, how much noise they make, and how easy they are to install. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for so you can pick the perfect cooler to keep your powerful processor happy and running at its best.

Our Top 5 Cpu Cooler For I9-13900K Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Cpu Cooler For I9-13900K Detailed Reviews

1. ASUS ROG RYUJIN III 360 ARGB EXTREME White Edition all-in-one AIO CPU liquid cooler

ASUS ROG RYUJIN III 360 ARGB EXTREME White Edition all-in-one AIO CPU liquid cooler, AMD Ryzen 9000 & Intel® Core™ Ultra Ready, Asetek Gen8 V2 pump;high airflow static pressure magnetic fans; 3.5" LCD

Rating: 9.2/10

The ASUS ROG RYUJIN III 360 ARGB EXTREME White Edition is a top-tier liquid cooler designed for serious PC builders. It’s built to handle the heat from powerful processors like the AMD Ryzen 9000 and Intel® Core™ Ultra. This cooler boasts a powerful Asetek Gen8 V2 pump and special magnetic fans that make installation a breeze. Plus, a cool 3.5-inch LCD screen lets you display custom animations or keep an eye on your system’s performance.

What We Like:

  • The Asetek Gen8 V2 pump offers excellent cooling performance.
  • Fans attach easily with magnets for simpler setup.
  • The large 3.5″ LCD screen is great for showing off custom GIFs or live system stats.
  • An extra fan in the pump housing helps cool your motherboard’s power parts.
  • New software lets you easily control fan and pump speeds, and offers cool ROG themes for the LCD.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This is a premium cooler, so it comes with a higher price tag.
  • The size of the unit might be a challenge in smaller PC cases.

Overall, the ASUS ROG RYUJIN III 360 ARGB EXTREME White Edition is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting top-notch cooling and a stylish look for their PC. It delivers powerful performance and user-friendly features.

2. MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 White – AIO ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler – Rotating Cap Design – 360mm Radiator – Triple 120mm ARGB PWM Fans – LGA 1700/1851 / AM5/AM4 Compatible

MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 White - AIO ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler - Rotating Cap Design - 360mm Radiator - Triple 120mm ARGB PWM Fans - LGA 1700/1851 / AM5/AM4 Compatible

Rating: 9.0/10

Keep your computer running cool with the MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360 White AIO CPU Liquid Cooler. This cooler is designed to handle even the hottest CPUs. Its sleek white finish and cool ARGB lighting will also make your PC look great.

What We Like:

  • It lasts a long time. The motor in the pump can work for up to 100,000 hours.
  • You can control the RGB lights on the fans. You can also change how fast the fans spin using special software.
  • The pump is built into the radiator. This helps make it quieter and reduces noise.
  • It works with many different computer parts. It fits most Intel and AMD processors.
  • The rotating cap lets you position the MSI logo however you like.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The software for controlling the lights could be a little easier to use for beginners.
  • While it’s quiet, some very sensitive users might still hear a faint pump noise at idle.

This cooler is a solid choice for anyone wanting better cooling and a stylish look. It offers reliable performance and good customization options.

3. Cooler Master 360 Core II AIO CPU Liquid Cooler

Cooler Master 360 Core II AIO CPU Liquid Cooler,R9|U9|i9, Dual Chamber G9R Pump,Infinity Mirror aRGB,400mm Tubing, 360mm Radiator,120mm PWM Fan,AMD Ryzen AM5|4, Intel LGA 1851|1700 Platform(Pack of 1)

Rating: 8.7/10

Keep your powerful computer cool with the Cooler Master 360 Core II AIO CPU Liquid Cooler. This cooler is built to handle high-performance processors like AMD Ryzen R9 and Intel Core i9. It uses a special G9R pump that makes water flow better and cools the hottest spots on your CPU. Plus, it looks super cool with its Infinity Mirror design and colorful RGB lights.

What We Like:

  • Keeps high-end CPUs like R9 and i9 very cool.
  • The Infinity Mirror design makes your PC look amazing with bright, customizable lights.
  • MF120 Lite fans move a lot of air and connect easily, making setup simple.
  • You can adjust the fan speed to find the perfect balance between cooling and quietness.
  • Installation is made easy with new brackets for common CPU types like AM5 and LGA 1700.
  • The long 400mm tubes give you plenty of freedom to fit it into different computer cases.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The fan speed range is good, but some users might want even more control.
  • While the RGB is bright, users looking for extremely complex lighting effects might want more options.

This Cooler Master AIO is a fantastic option for anyone wanting top-notch cooling and a stylish look for their gaming rig.

4. NZXT Kraken 240 – RL-KN-240-B1 – 240mm AIO CPU Liquid Cooler – Customizable 1.54″ Square LCD Display for Images

NZXT Kraken 240 - RL-KN-240-B1 - 240mm AIO CPU Liquid Cooler - Customizable 1.54" Square LCD Display for Images, Performance Metrics and More - High-Performance Pump - 2 x F120P Fans - Black

Rating: 8.5/10

Looking to give your PC a serious upgrade in both cooling and style? The NZXT Kraken 240 is a 240mm All-In-One (AIO) liquid CPU cooler that brings a whole new level of personalization to your build. It features a cool 1.54-inch square LCD screen right on the pump. You can show off your favorite animated GIFs, check your computer’s performance in real-time, or even see what music is playing. This cooler uses a strong pump to keep your CPU cool and quiet, along with two special fans designed for great airflow and quiet operation. Plus, setting it up is super easy with just one cable to your motherboard.

What We Like:

  • The 1.54-inch LCD screen lets you display custom images, GIFs, or useful performance data.
  • NZXT CAM software makes customizing the display simple and fun.
  • The high-performance pump quietly circulates coolant for excellent cooling.
  • The F120P fans provide powerful cooling without being too loud.
  • Installation is straightforward with a single cable connection.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The LCD screen, while cool, might not be for everyone if you prefer a more understated look.
  • The software, while powerful, requires a download and setup.

The NZXT Kraken 240 is a fantastic cooler that offers impressive performance and a unique way to personalize your PC. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting to combine effective cooling with eye-catching visual flair.

5. ASUS ROG Strix LC III 360 All-in-one CPU Liquid Cooler with 360° rotatable Water Block

ASUS ROG Strix LC III 360 All-in-one CPU Liquid Cooler with 360° rotatable Water Block, Asetek’s New Gen7 v2 Pump, Premium ROG Fans, and 10+ Custom Aura Lighting Effects

Rating: 9.4/10

The ASUS ROG Strix LC III 360 is a powerful liquid cooler for your computer. It keeps your CPU super cool, even when you’re playing demanding games or working on tough projects. This cooler looks really cool too, with a special ROG logo you can spin around and lots of colorful lights you can change.

What We Like:

  • It keeps your computer’s processor very cool for great performance.
  • The water block spins so you can show off the ROG logo any way you want.
  • It has over 10 different lighting effects to make your computer look awesome.
  • The fans are quiet and move a lot of air to help with cooling.
  • It’s built to last with strong, covered tubes.
  • It matches perfectly with ASUS ROG motherboards for a unified look.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The price might be a bit high for some people.
  • It’s a larger cooler, so make sure your computer case has enough space.

This cooler is a fantastic choice for gamers and PC builders who want top-notch cooling and amazing style. It’s a great way to boost your PC’s performance and make it stand out.

Choosing the Right Cooler for Your Intel i9-13900K

The Intel Core i9-13900K is a powerhouse processor. It’s incredibly fast. But it also gets very hot. You need a good cooler to keep it running smoothly. This guide will help you pick the best CPU cooler for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

When choosing a CPU cooler, several things matter.

  • Cooling Performance: This is the most important feature. A good cooler will keep your CPU temperature low. This prevents performance loss. Look for coolers with high Thermal Design Power (TDP) ratings. The 13900K has a high TDP, so you need a cooler that can handle it.
  • Fan Size and Speed: Bigger fans often move more air. They can also spin slower, which means less noise. Look for coolers with large fans, like 120mm or 140mm.
  • Radiator Size (for Liquid Coolers): If you choose a liquid cooler, the radiator size is key. Larger radiators have more surface area. This helps dissipate heat better. Common sizes are 240mm, 280mm, and 360mm.
  • Noise Level: Nobody likes a loud computer. Check the noise level (measured in decibels, dB). Lower dB ratings mean a quieter cooler.
  • Mounting System: Ensure the cooler fits your motherboard. Most coolers come with mounting hardware for different CPU sockets, including the LGA 1700 socket for the 13900K.
  • Aesthetics: Some coolers look better than others. Many have RGB lighting. This can add style to your PC build.

Important Materials

The materials used in a CPU cooler affect its performance and durability.

  • Copper: Copper is an excellent heat conductor. Many CPU coolers use a copper base plate. This part directly touches the CPU. It quickly absorbs heat.
  • Aluminum: Aluminum is lighter than copper. It’s also a good conductor. Aluminum fins on the heatsink help dissipate heat into the air.
  • Thermal Paste: This paste fills tiny gaps between the CPU and the cooler. It helps transfer heat. Good thermal paste is essential for efficient cooling. Most coolers include a small amount.
  • Plastic: This is used for fan blades and the cooler’s housing. High-quality plastic is more durable.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Several things make a cooler better or worse.

  • Heat Pipes: These are copper tubes inside the heatsink. They move heat from the base to the fins. More heat pipes, or thicker ones, generally mean better cooling.
  • Fin Density: The fins on the heatsink are where heat is released. Densely packed fins can improve cooling. However, they can also restrict airflow if the fans aren’t strong enough.
  • Fan Quality: High-quality fans are quieter and last longer. They also move more air.
  • Build Quality: A well-built cooler feels sturdy. It won’t flex or break easily. Poorly made coolers might have uneven surfaces or weak mounting points.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use your PC matters.

  • Gaming: Gamers push their CPUs hard. A powerful cooler is vital to prevent stuttering. You’ll want a cooler that can handle the heat from intense gaming sessions.
  • Content Creation: Video editing and 3D rendering also stress the CPU. A robust cooler ensures your workstation stays cool and responsive.
  • Everyday Use: For web browsing and office tasks, the 13900K doesn’t get as hot. A mid-range cooler might be sufficient. However, having extra cooling headroom is always good.
  • Overclocking: If you plan to overclock your 13900K, you absolutely need a top-tier cooler. Overclocking increases heat output significantly.

Choosing the right cooler is an investment in your PC’s performance and longevity. Take your time, compare options, and you’ll find a cooler that keeps your i9-13900K running at its best.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the stock cooler good enough for the i9-13900K?

A: No, the i9-13900K does not come with a stock cooler. You must buy one separately.

Q: What is the best type of cooler for the i9-13900K?

A: For the i9-13900K, a high-end air cooler or a 280mm/360mm AIO liquid cooler is recommended.

Q: How much does a good CPU cooler cost?

A: Good CPU coolers for the i9-13900K typically range from $50 to $150 or more.

Q: Will a 240mm AIO cooler be enough for the i9-13900K?

A: A 240mm AIO can work, but a 280mm or 360mm AIO will offer better cooling performance, especially under heavy load or for overclocking.

Q: What does TDP mean?

A: TDP stands for Thermal Design Power. It’s a measure of the maximum heat a CPU is expected to produce. Higher TDP means more heat.

Q: Do I need to buy thermal paste?

A: Most CPU coolers come with thermal paste already applied or in a small tube. It’s usually good enough, but you can buy aftermarket paste for potentially better results.

Q: Can I use a cooler designed for older Intel CPUs?

A: You need to check if the cooler supports the LGA 1700 socket, which is used by the i9-13900K. Many coolers have updated mounting kits.

Q: How do I install a CPU cooler?

A: Installation varies by cooler, but it generally involves applying thermal paste, mounting the cooler to the motherboard, and connecting the fan to a motherboard header.

Q: Is an air cooler or liquid cooler better for the i9-13900K?

A: Both can be excellent. Liquid coolers often offer higher peak performance and a cleaner look. High-end air coolers are very reliable and can be quieter.

Q: How often should I clean my CPU cooler?

A: You should clean the dust from your CPU cooler’s fans and heatsink every 3-6 months to ensure good airflow and cooling.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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