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Intel’s 13th-generation processors are superb, and those who have their eyes on it will probably be looking for a top-rated CPU cooler to get the most out of the CPUs while maintaining low thermals. Therefore, through our dedicated testing, we have compiled the best CPU cooler for the Intel Core i9-13900KF processor.
Here are the general specifications of our top picks for the best CPU coolers for the Intel Core i9-13900KF processor, alongside comparison between them:
Best CPU Coolers For i9-13900KF
Here is a list of the CPU coolers I have chosen for the i9-13900KF processor:
- Best Overall CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF: Be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4
- Best 360mm AIO Cooler For i9-13900KF: ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360-ARGB
- Best 240mm AIO Cooler For i9-13900KF: EK AIO 240 D-RGB AIO Cooler
- Best White CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF: Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix Liquid
- Best Budget CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF: MSI MAG Series CORELIQUID 360R V2
- Best Low Profile CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF: Noctua NH-L9i-17xx Chromax.Black
Be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4
Best Overall CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF
Specifications: Fans: 1x 120mm, 1x 135mm | Fan Speed: 1,500RPM | Noise: 24.3dB(A) | Dimensions: 146 x 136 x 163mm | Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA1700, 1200, 2066, 1150, 1151, 1155, 2011(-3) AMD: AM4, AM5 | RGB Fans: No
Pros
- Great build quality
- Cool aesthetics
- Superior cooling potential
- Low noise levels
Cons
- RAM clearance issues
- Expensive
Cooling Performance: The Be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 comes with 7x 6mm copper heat pipes for maximum heat conductivity, and on top of that, it is optimized for increased airflow through wave-contoured cooling fins and small dots on the surface for better air circulation.
Build Quality: Be quiet! doesn’t comprise a bit of the appearance and build quality of the Dark Rock Pro 4; the base is made out of copper, while the aluminum fins provide durability and strength to the cooler. Furthermore, I noticed it features a dual-tower layout that contains two aluminum heatsinks.
Aesthetics: The cooler keeps a user-friendly and elegant design. Even the mounting kit of this beast is completely covered in black, perfectly matching the aesthetics of the cooler. Additionally, I noticed through my performance testing that the black color provides the best heat conductivity, which results in better overall 13900KF cooling capabilities.
Buy It If
Here are our captured pictures of the Dark Rock Pro 4:
You want exceptional air cooling performance: Water cooling isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, and if you’re in a similar situation, the Be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 air cooler provides the best air cooling performance for the Intel Core i9-13900KF processor.
Don’t Buy It If
You’re using taller RAM kits: If you’re utilizing tall RAM kits, like the V-Color Manta XPRism DDR5, I don’t recommend purchasing the Be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 because of its lesser RAM clearance capacity.
What Makes It The Best Overall CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF?
The Dark Rock Pro 4 is one of the market’s top-performing air coolers. After thoroughly examining its ups and downs, we recommend it as the Best Overall CPU Cooler For Core i9-13900KF. The cooler provides impressive cooling capabilities, along with a decent darker aesthetic and a premium build quality.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 9/10 |
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360-ARGB
Best 360mm AIO Cooler For i9-13900KF
Specifications: Fans: 3x 120mm | Fan Speed: 1,800RPM | Noise: 10.64dB(A) | Dimensions: 398 x 120 x 38mm | Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA1700, 1200, 115X, 2011-3, 2066, AMD: AM4, AM5 | RGB Fans: Yes
Pros
- Innovative pump design
- Top-tier performance
- Relatively silent
- Value for money
- Integrated cable management
- Six year warranty
Cons
- No fan control
Cooling Performance: The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360mm AIO has a high TDP rating of 300W that doesn’t let the i9-13900KF CPU get hot. During our dedicated performance test with the processor, the i9-13900KF CPU barely hit 50°C to 55°C at 1440p resolution in multiple games. This also showcases superb overclocking potential.
Build Quality: The Liquid Freezer II houses a high-quality pump that can reach a mind-blowing top speed of 3,000 RPM. Moreover, it uses 3x ARCTIC’s premium 120mm P12 PWM A-RGB fans. Additionally, the fans are integrated with rubber bumpers to minimize vibrations and thus reduce the overall noise levels.
Aesthetics: The pump boasts a stylish, futuristic-looking design that is as good as it comes. Also, the Liquid Freezer II combines the pump with ARCTIC’s new A-RGB fans, allowing you to match RGB. In our opinion, even without any RGB on the pump, the Liquid Freezer II has astonishing looks.
Buy It If
Here are our captured pictures of the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360mm:
You want ultimate performance with quiet fans: The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360mm AIO provides some of the best cooling performance for the Intel Core i9-13900KF while keeping a fan noise of 10.64dB(A). If that intrigues you, I recommend purchasing the CPU cooler.
Don’t Buy It If
You want to set fan speeds manually: While the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360mm offers lots of customization, you cannot set your fan speeds manually. In other words, there isn’t any manual fan control. If that doesn’t sit right with you, I don’t recommend purchasing the cooler.
What Makes It The Best 360mm AIO Cooler For i9-13900KF?
The Liquid Freezer II is incredibly quiet and offers exceptional performance at a fantastic price. It also features distinctive aesthetics, and after considering everything, we are compelled to name the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360-ARGB the best 360mm AIO cooler for the Intel Core i9-13900KF processor.
| Performance: 10/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 9/10 |
EK AIO 240 D-RGB AIO Cooler
Best 240mm AIO Cooler For i9-13900KF
Specifications: Fans: 2x 120mm | Fan Speed: 2,200RPM | TDP: 220 — 240W | Noise: 36.4dB(A) | Dimensions: 275 x 120 x 27mm | Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, 2011-3, 2066, AMD: AM4, AM5 | RGB Fans: Yes
Pros
- Great aesthetics
- Good cooling power
- Easy installation
- D-RGB lighting
- High-quality radiator
Cons
- Slightly expensive
- Noisy at 100% load
- Lack of software control
Cooling Performance: The EK AIO 240 D-RGB cooler packs a punch in a compact yet extremely powerful package; while it may be overkill for some CPUs, it will be the right match for the i9-13900KF processor. During our dedicated performance testing, the cooler showcased decent overclocking capabilities.
Build Quality: The EK AIO 240 features one of the top-performing pumps on the market made from premium and durable components, from black nickel housing to copper cold plate and steel mounts. While the cooler itself doesn’t provide the LGA1700 socket, you can get the bracket for $0.01, so it shouldn’t be a problem.
Commenting on the cooler’s build quality, our hardware reviewer, Nauman Siddique, who tested the product, said:
“The Radiator feels solid and durable, and the build quality is excellent. Compared to its size and construction quality, the Radiator also seems incredibly light.”
Aesthetics: We found the EK AIO 240 D-RGB to have beautiful aesthetics with its dark design. Additionally, it contains fully programmable D-RGB lighting that allows you to personalize your build to your tastes. In our opinion, the pump steals the show with its square design.
Buy It If
Here are our captured pictures of the EK AIO 240 D-RGB:
You want a smaller AIO with high-end performance: The EK AIO 240 D-RGB provides high-end cooling performance in a smaller design. If you’re looking for 240mm AIOs that can decently cool the i9-13900KF CPU, this one’s for you.
Don’t Buy It If
You want greater software customizations: While the EK AIO 240 D-RGB showcases impressive thermal performance, it lacks software control. If you want to customize the cooler to your needs using the software, I don’t recommend purchasing this one.
What Makes It the Best 240mm AIO Cooler For i9-13900KF?
The EK AIO 240 is a high-end cooler with exceptional cooling performance and stunning looks. The inclusion of two D-RGB fans with exceptional cooling potential forces us to name the EK AIO 240 as the best 240mm AIO cooler for the Intel Core i9-13900KF processor.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 9/10 |
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix Liquid
Best White CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF
Specifications: Fans: 3x 120mm | Fan Speed: 2,400RPM | Noise: 10 — 37dB(A) | Dimensions: 397 x 120 x 27mm | Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2066, AMD: AM5, AM4, sTRX4, sTR4 | RGB Fans: Yes
Pros
- Minimalistic looks
- Superb cooling
- Top-notch build quality
- Five year warranty
- Removable pump cap
- Beautiful aesthetics
Cons
- Expensive
- Noisy fans
- Non-magnetic hub
Cooling Performance: The Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix Liquid offers excellent cooling performance thanks to its pump, which reduces thermal throttling possibilities with the Intel Core i9-13900KF processor. During my performance tests, I saw temperatures stay within 55°C, allowing decent overclocking headroom.
Build Quality: The Corsair iCUE H150i cooler offers fans with premium magnetic levitation-bearing fans. Additionally, because of the aluminum radiator and high-quality copper baseplate, I felt the build quality helps the cooler keep lower thermals.
Aesthetics: The Corsair iCUE H150i’s aesthetics caught my eye immediately with its high-performance RGB pump head that houses 33 bright Cappelix RGB lights. Furthermore, the all-white cooler is perfect for white PC builds, and the removable pump caps add to the overall aesthetic of the cooler.
Buy It If
Here are our captured pictures of the Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix:
You want a decent performing white AIO: The Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix Liquid 360mm AIO provides impressive thermal performance in an all-white aesthetic. If you’re building a white PC around the i9-13900KF CPU, I recommend buying this cooler.
Don’t Buy It If
You dislike noisy fans: While the Corsair iCUE H150i Elite Capellix Liquid has remarkable performance, its fans are quite loud. In my noise tests, the fans went up to 40dB(A), making the sound noticeable. If you want a quiet environment, I don’t recommend you buy this cooler.
What Makes It The Best White CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF?
If you are in the market for a beautiful white AIO cooler with excellent cooling performance and don’t mind a slightly high price, then the iCUE H150i Elite Capellix is worth looking at. Because of its minimalistic white looks and top-of-the-line cooling capability, it deserves to be the best white CPU cooler for the Intel Core i9-13900KF.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 10/10 |
MSI MAG Series CORELIQUID 360R V2
Best Budget CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF
Specifications: Fans: 3x 120mm | Fans Speed: 2,000RPM | Noise: 34.3dB(A) | Dimensions: 394 x 120 x 27mm | Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066 AMD: AM5, AM4, FM2+, FM2, FM1, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, SocketTR4, sTRX4, SP3 | RGB Fans: Yes
Pros
- Excessive cooling performance
- Strong build quality
- Attractive aesthetics
- Very affordable
Cons
- Difficult installation
Cooling Performance: MSI has equipped the MAG CORELIQUID 360R V2 with 3x 120mm ARGB PWM fans. The staggering 2,000 RPM fan speeds greatly enhance the cooling potential of the cooler, and my noise tests maintained low noise levels, which makes it perfect for use with the Intel Core i9-13900KF processor.
Build Quality: MSI integrates the MAG CORELIQUID pump directly into the radiator, which reduces the noise levels and also drastically increases its lifespan by placing it much farther from the heat source. Furthermore, my inspection showed the cooler had a premium build quality, which will last a long time.
Aesthetics: With the MSI MAG CORELIQUID 360R V2, you get amazing integrated RGB lighting, ready to be installed in your gaming rig. Moreover, The trendy MSI logo and RGB lights on the fully rotatable CPU water block of the MAG CORELIQUID 360R V2 give it a striking appearance.
Buy It If
You want to cool the i9-13900KF on a tight budget: The MSI MAG CORELIQUID 360R V2 AIO is for gamers who want to cool the Intel Core i9-13900KF processor while staying under a tight budget. The cooler’s high-performance fans kept the CPU well below the 60°C mark during my performance test.
Don’t Buy It If
You’re new to AIO coolers: While the cooler isn’t expensive, I don’t suggest purchasing it if you’re new to AIO cooler installations. The MSI MAG CORELIQUID 360R V2 has a difficult installation, and unless you have experience in installing AIO coolers, you’ll be stuck trying to install it properly.
What Makes It The Best Budget CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF?
The MSI MAG CORELIQUID 360R V2 cooler has every feature you need, including top-tier performance and exceptional build quality. The clever integration of the radiator and pump sets it apart from its competitors, making the MAG CORELIQUID 360R V2 the best budget CPU Cooler for the Intel Core i9-13900KF.
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 9/10 |
Noctua NH-L9i-17xx Chromax.Black
Best Low-Profile CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF
Specifications: Fans: 1 x 92mm | Fans Speed: 600 — 2500RPM | Noise: 23.6dB(A) | Dimensions: 37 x 95 x 95mm | Socket Compatibility: Intel: LGA1700 | RGB Fans: No
Pros
- Easy to install
- Good RAM & PCIe compatibility
- Quiet fans
- Excellent build quality
- Great size-to-performance ratio
Cons
- Not suitable for overclocked CPUs
Cooling Performance: The Noctua NH-L9i-17xx Chromax.Black comes with a single high-end 92mm NF-A9x14 PWM fan. During our dedicated performance test, the cooler could barely keep the i9-13900KF’s temperatures at bay, showcasing zero overclocking capabilities. In our opinion, if you’re going low-profile, forget overclocking.
Build Quality: The Noctua NH-L9i-17xx is exceptionally well-built; the base and heat pipes are made from copper, and thanks to the cooler’s compact size, the heatsink doesn’t extend over the RAM slots. Furthermore, aluminum cooling fins with a nickel finish and soldered connections improve the cooler’s longevity.
Aesthetics: With the recent color overhaul, the Notcua NH-L9i-17xx Chromax.Black now offers a completely black design with no RGB. While having no RGB can be a bummer for many, we believe it’s perfect for a stealth build, which the cooler is built for.
Buy It If
Here are our captured pictures of the Noctua NH-L9i-17xx:
You’re utilizing an SFF case: If you’re using a Small Form Factor chassis to house the Intel Core i9-13900KF CPU, the Noctua NH-L9i-17xx Chromax.Black is one of the only coolers that can adequately fit and cool the processor.
Don’t Buy It If
You want to overclock the i9-13900KF processor: If you want to overclock the i9-13900KF, the Noctua NH-L9i-17xx Chromax.Black isn’t meant for you. During our performance test, the cooler could barely keep the CPU’s temperatures at bay with zero overclocks.
What Makes It The Best Low Profile CPU Cooler For i9-13900KF?
The Noctua NH-L9i-17xx has an amazing size-to-performance ratio. Due to the low noise levels of the fans, even at maximum RPM, you wouldn’t be alarmed by loud sounds with this compact cooler. Thus, looking at these features and cooling capabilities, it is the best low profile CPU Cooler for the Intel Core i9-13900KF.
| Performance: 7/10 | Value: 9/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 8/10 |
Thermal Benchmarks Of The Best CPU Coolers For i9-13900KF
Over the years, our team has tested hundreds of CPU coolers, and the insights we learned from those hands-on testings enabled us to pick the truly perfect CPU coolers for the i9-13900KF. Here are our benchmarks:
How We Tested & Picked These Coolers
- Budget: The first thing that comes to mind regarding computer hardware is your budget. Most people don’t like to spend a lot on coolers, but it is essential to get a proper cooler for a high-end CPU, as going for an affordable option may cause inefficient cooling, resulting in much lower performance from the processor.
- Performance: A cooler’s performance is the most important aspect to consider. There must be no compromise in the heat dissipation ability of a cooler. Keeping this in mind, we know that a processor’s performance depends directly on a cooler’s performance, and for getting the most out of a processor, a suitable cooler is very important.
- Noise Level: A cooler’s noise is a big concern for most users, especially gamers. Everyone prefers a cooler with lower noise output. We have taken the noise output of coolers under special consideration when looking for the best Intel Core i9-13900KF CPU coolers to ensure lower noise levels.
- TDP Rating: Just as a processor’s TDP is responsible for the amount of heat produced from it, a cooler’s TDP defines the heat it dissipates. Due to this, we recommend a cooler’s TDP be higher than the CPU’s for ideal cooling.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Intel Core i9-13900KF does not come with a stock cooler.
We recommend purchasing an AIO cooler for proper cooling. However, an air cooler like the Be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 can also sustain the CPU.
On paper, yes, you can overclock the upcoming i9-13900KF using an air cooler. But we don’t recommend doing so as the overclocks won’t be stable.
Recent Updates
- February 21, 2024: Added thermal performance benchmarks of the best CPU coolers for i9-13900KF.
- October 17, 2023: Few text and grammar changes to improve readability. Added image galleries. No products were changed.
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[Hardware Reviewer]
Awais Khan is a Tech Geek, conscientious, reliable, and hardworking individual who pays attention to detail with excellent time management skills. Alongside that, he is an expert in PC Hardware; dealing with Benchmarks, Analysis, and testing before sharing information with readers. Whenever free, Awais occasionally shares Gaming Videos on his YouTube Channel.
Get In Touch: awais@tech4gamers.com
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