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The AMD Ryzen 9 3950X, which has 16 cores and 32 threads, arrived on the market to dethrone Intel in the CPU battle. It has a 3.5GHz base clock and a 4.7GHz boost frequency and was launched pricier than most CPUs at the time, but its performance and future-proofing characteristics make the CPU well worth the money. All of it comes at the cost of a 105-watt TDP, for which you’re going to need an adequate cooler. To make things easy for you, we tried and tested a whole bunch of CPU coolers and ended up cherry-picking the 6 Best CPU Coolers for Ryzen 9 3950x.
Here is our article summary:
Best CPU Coolers For Ryzen 9 3950X
Check out our top selections:
- Best Low-Profile CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X: Noctua NH-L9a-AM4
- Best 240mm Liquid Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X Corsair iCUE H100i Elite Capellix XT
- Best 360mm Liquid Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X: ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360 RGB
- Best White CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X: CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 White
- Best Budget CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X: CoolerMaster Hyper 212 Black Edition
- Best High-End CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X: MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360
Noctua NH-L9a-AM4
Best Low-Profile CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X
Specifications: Type: Single-fan Low Profile Air Cooler | Fan: 1x NF-A9x14 PWM Fan | Fan Speed: 600-2500 RPM | TDP: 95W | RGB: No | Dimensions: 114mm x 92mm x 37mm | Socket Support: AMD AM4
Pros
- Best for Budget/Casual Tasks
- Compact Size
- High End Noctua NF-A9x14 PWM Fan
- 100% RAM and PCIe Compatible
Cons
- Not for Overclocking
- No RGB
Cooling Performance: The Noctua NH-L9a-AM4 does a great job at keeping things cool, even when your computer is working hard. We found that it manages to maintain ideal temperatures without any fuss on the Ryzen 9 3900x. So don’t be fooled by its small size, as it’s still really good at getting rid of heat.
Build Quality: Noctua puts a lot of effort into making sure their products are well-made, and we certainly noticed that in the NH-L9a-AM4. It’s built to last, with tough aluminum fins and copper heat pipes that will keep it going for a long time. The copper base plate adds a nice touch, showing that they care about the little details.
Aesthetics: While it might not stand out at first glance, the NH-L9a-AM4 has its own charm with its classic brown and beige colors. It’s not flashy like some other coolers with RGB lights, but it still looked real good on our test bench. Its sleek design fits in nicely with any setup, adding a touch of class without being too over-the-top.
Our Editor-in-Chief Sajjad Hussain is fond of the cooler’s low-profile design and impressive performance:
“the Noctua NH-L9a-AM4 impresses with its tailored design for AM4 sockets, which is perfect for SFF and HTPC builds, along with great performance.”
Check out some more pictures of this elegant cooler from our review:
Compactness is Important: If you prioritize a compact design with full RAM and PCIe compatibility, along with excellent performance and low noise levels, this is a suitable cooler for stock CPU settings.
What Makes It The Best Low-Profile Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3950x:
The Noctua NH-L9a-AM4 shines due to its compact design, ensuring compatibility with Mini-ITX builds while maintaining full RAM and PCIe compatibility. Its efficient cooling performance ensured optimal heat dissipation with minimal noise in our tests, making it our top low-profile cooler choice.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 9.5/10 |
CORSAIR iCUE H100i Elite Capellix XT
Best 240mm Liquid Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X
Specification: Fans: 2x 120 mm | Fans Speed: 2100 RPM ±10% | TDP: – | Dimensions: 277 x 120 x 27 mm | Weight: 2.09 kg | RGB Fans: Yes | Noise Level: 5 – 34.1 dBA
Pros
- Sturdy Build Quality
- A-RGB
- Impressive Cooling
Cons
- May be Noisy
- Expensive
Cooling Performance: The Corsair iCUE H100i Elite Capellix XT impressed us with its excellent cooling ability, thanks to its powerful ML120 fans. It kept things cool during our stress tests, even after we switched to the 3900x’s boost frequency mode.
Build Quality: This cooler is built to last. We saw quality in everything, from the sturdy pump head to the reliable ML120 fans, and applaud Corsair’s dedication to making durable products. You can trust it to keep working smoothly for a long time.
Aesthetics: The Corsair iCUE H100i Elite Capellix XT looks great and has some of the most beautiful RGB lighting we’ve seen, on both the pump head and fans. It adds a stylish touch to any gaming setup or workstation, blending performance with eye-catching design.
Our hardware reviewer Nauman Siddique lauds the cooler:
“CORSAIR iCUE H100i Elite Capellix XT White cooler is another top-performing AIO offer from the manufacturer in the 240mm size category.”
Here are some more images from our review:
You Seek A Combination of Aesthetics and Performance: If you prioritize high-end performance and appreciate lavish RGB control and aesthetics, look no further than the H100i Elite Capellix XT.
What Makes It The Best 240mm Liquid Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3950x:
The Corsair iCUE H100i Elite Capellix XT was our pick due to its combination of high-performance Corsair ML120 fans, efficient cooling capabilities, and its standout feature, the iCUE software, which offers smooth and effective RGB and PWM control. In our opinion, this software is unparalleled among competitors, allowing users to customize settings to fit their specific needs.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 8.5/10 |
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360 A-RGB
Best 360mm Liquid Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X
Specification: Fans: 3x 120 mm | Fans Speed: 3000 RPM | Power: 0.5 W – 2.7 W (Pump + VRM Fan)| Dimensions: 277 x 120 x 27 mm | Weight: 1.73 kg | RGB Fans: Yes | Noise Level: 0.3 Sone
Pros
- Incredible Performance
- Brilliant RGB
- Newer Pump Design
- Cable Management
Cons
- Expensive
Cooling Performance: The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360 A-RGB impresses with its exceptional cooling as we tested on the Ryzen 7 7700X, meaning its certainly enough to handle the 3900x. The trio of 120mm fans ensures efficient heat dissipation, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs.
Build Quality: This cooler is made with top-notch materials like high-quality aluminum and hoses that won’t leak, showing off its premium craftsmanship. Its strong build and clever pump design make it reliable and long-lasting. Everything from the fans already installed to the tidy cable arrangement demonstrates careful attention to detail, which is why it’s one of our top picks.
Aesthetics: The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360 A-RGB not only performs well but also enhances the look of any setup with its RGB-controlled fans. Its smooth finish and lack of glaring RGB spots gave our test system a nice touch. It also easily connects to different RGB control apps, giving users lots of options for customization.
What Makes It The Best 360mm Liquid Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3950X:
The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 360 A-RGB shows exceptional cooling performance, has compatibility with various RGB control applications, and effectively manages temperatures even during overclocking, and so we chose it as the ideal option for enthusiasts seeking top-tier cooling solutions for high-performance CPUs like the Ryzen 9 3950X.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 9/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 10/10 |
CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 White
Best White CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X
Specification: Fans: 2x 120 mm | Fans Speed: 1800 RPM | Power: 12V DC 2.36W Pump | Dimensions: 277 x 119.6 x 27.2 mm | RGB Fans: Yes | Noise Level: 8 – 27 dBA
Pros
- Decent Performance
- Balanced RGB in Fans
- Easier Installation
Cons
- May be Noisy @ Loads
Cooling Performance: The CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 White delivers great cooling, competing well with other 240mm AIO coolers in our benchmarks. Its design is optimized for efficient heat dissipation, and will keep your 3900x’s temperatures in check even during long gaming sessions. It’s a solid choice for users who want effective cooling without spending too much.
Build Quality: We found the CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 White’s build quality excellent. With materials like PPS and glass fiber, the pump head is tough and can handle different conditions well. Improved internal components make it last longer while keeping noise levels down, making it a reliable cooling option for the long term.
Aesthetics: The cooler looks fantastic. Its sleek white design will fit well with any build, as it did in our setup. It will especially enhance the look of white-themed setups, though. The customizable RGB lighting allows users to personalize their lighting effects, adding to the visual appeal and matching their gaming mood.
The ML240L RGB V2 white is a great looking cooler especially for white-themed builds, is adequate for the Ryzen 9 3950X, and is also easy to install. A great package.
– Awais Khan
What Makes It The Best White Liquid Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3950X:
The CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 White stood out due to its affordability, premium build quality, and quieter performance compared to many low-end 240mm AIO coolers. Additionally, its included RGB controller allows it to function independently of RGB-compatible motherboards, making it accessible to a wider range of users.
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 9/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 9/10 |
Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition
Best Budget CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X
Specifications: Type: Single Fan AIO | TDP: ~150W | Radiator Size: 120mm | Lighting: None | Dimensions: 123 mm x 77 mm x 158.8 mm | Fan: 1x Silencio FP120 120 mm fan
Pros
- Better Cooling Performance
- Inexpensive
- Great Clearance
Cons
- No RGB
Cooling Performance: The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition stands out for its great cooling ability. It’s got four heat pipes and good fin density that help it dissipate heat really well. It kept our Ryzen 9 3900x running nice and cool while gaming, and temperatures were also in check during rendering workloads. Take our word for it: this is one of the best air coolers you can buy.
Build Quality: In terms of how it’s built, the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition felt solid and well-made. It’s designed to be sturdy, so it can last a long time. Plus, it’s all black, which gives it a sleek and professional appearance that fits in nicely with any PC setup.
Aesthetics: The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition looks really cool with its black design. It’s perfect for people who like things to look clean and simple. The smooth black finish, along with the Cooler Master logo, adds a bit of style to your setup without breaking the bank.
What Makes It The Best Budget CPU Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3950X:
The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition is a solid option because it has 100% RAM and PCIe slots clearance, which isn’t something you see with a lot of air coolers. Plus, you can set it up with two fans for even better cooling. And the best part? It’s not gonna break the bank. Overall, it’s a solid choice, earning it the title of the Best Budget CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 3950X from us.
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 9/10 |
| Features: 7/10 | Design: 9/10 |
MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360
Best High-end CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X
Specification: Fans: 3x 120 mm | Fans Speed: 2000 RPM | Power: 0.33A 4W Pump | Dimensions: 394 x 120 x 27 mm | RGB Fans: No | Pump Display: IPS 2.4″ | Noise Level: 22.7 dBA
Pros
- Brilliant LCD Display
- Impressive Software
- Top-Notch Cooling Performance
Cons
- No RGB Fans
- Expensive
Cooling Performance: This cooler really nails it when it comes to keeping things cool. It did a great job of controlling temperatures during our testing, even after we pushed the CPU with overclocking. So, you can also count on it to maintain optimal cooling, even when your system is under heavy strain.
Build Quality: The MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 is built to last. We found the design quite durable and well-made, with attention to detail showing in every aspect. From its tough fans with vibration pads to its compatibility with different sockets, this cooler stands out for its solid construction and reliability.
Aesthetics: What’s neat about this cooler is that, even though it’s all about functionality, it still looks sleek. The black finish and minimalist design give it a classy look. It doesn’t have RGB lighting but the 2.4″ IPS display on the pump looked amazing in our review. The display lets you customize visuals and keep an eye on temperatures.
What Makes It The Best High-End CPU Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3950X:
The MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 is our top high-end pick for cooling the Ryzen 9 3950X. Why? well, it works really well and has some great features. It is a 360mm AIO and has special 9-blade MEG Silent Gale P12 fans, which kept things cool and quiet. Plus, there’s a neat 2.4″ IPS display that lets you customize stuff and check temperatures in real-time. And there’s a little fan on the pump that cools other parts like M.2 SSDs and VRMs, so everything stays nice and chill.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 8/10 |
Our Tested Benchmarks
Below you will find our tested benchmarks for the top CPU coolers for Ryzen 9 3950X.
How We Chose The Best CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950X
Users must take into account a variety of factors in order to select the Best CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 3950x, and we did the same:
- Budget: You must first and foremost be aware of how much you can spend on a CPU cooler. Coolers are available in various price ranges, but they provide performance and aesthetics at a sacrifice. You should be aware that you won’t be able to achieve the ideal temperatures or aesthetics using a cheap cooler for your Ryzen 9 3950X. With a cheap cooler, your overclocking potential will likewise be little to nonexistent.
- Performance: Users should be aware that they will need a more than adequate Cooler to keep the CPU temperatures low when selecting a powerful CPU like the Ryzen 9 3950X. Therefore, be careful to conduct your homework and pick a CPU cooler wisely.
- Compatibility: Every cooler has a socket support list that lists the CPU sockets it supports. Make sure the cooler you buy is compatible with the Ryzen 9 3950X socket to avoid having to send it back.
- Size: For their Ryzen 9 3950X, many people wind up buying a highly powerful but huge cooler that they can’t fit in their small cases. Because of this, you need first to determine what kinds and sizes of coolers your case can support. As certain air coolers have a tendency to dangle over the DIMM slots, preventing you from installing your RAM, you should also check for clearance between the cooler’s RAM and PCIe.
- Noise: You might need to get a cooler with extremely low noise levels if you wish to keep your Ryzen 9 3950X cool but also prefer less noise. Noctua coolers are renowned for their exceptionally quiet operation. However, be aware that coolers operate at high RPMs and generate a lot of noise while working under heavy loads.
- Aesthetics: You can always purchase what you want in the end. Coolers come in a variety of styles, from simple aluminum coolers to all-black coolers with displays in the pump header to RGB coolers. Pick a cooler that expresses who you are and keeps you pleased.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must buy an aftermarket cooler because the AMD Ryzen 9 3950X does not come with a factory one.
A good cooler for the Ryzen 9 3950X is one that maintains ideal temperatures even when the processor is under stress. If you can afford it, we advise purchasing the MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360; otherwise, you may choose the budget cooler we suggested above.
Both the Ryzen 9 3950X and 3900X have a maximum temperature rating of 95 degrees Celsius, according to AMD. The cooler surroundings may affect other temperatures.
Other CPU Cooler Guides for Ryzen 3000 Series:
Recent Updates
- February 22, 2024: Added thermal benchmarks from our in-house tested individual cooler reviews.
- February 12, 2024: Few text and grammar changes to improve readability. No products were changed/removed.
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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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