After testing and reviewing all the best CPU coolers on the market, we have come up with the best one. Our picks depend on your budget and on your needs, so we have included a wide range of coolers for all budgets and needs. Air coolers are good for budget users and liquid coolers are best for those who want to overclock their CPUs. All in all, there are five excellent CPU coolers for our i5-11600K.
The i5 11600K is a 6-core, 12-thread mainstream CPU that is an alternative to the i7-8700K. When overclocked the i5-11600K reaches 5GHz, it features 6 cores and 12 threads and a base clock of 3.6GHz and boost clock of 4.3GHz. The i5-11600K has a TDP of 95W, it is recommended for overclockers and enthusiasts.
If you’re looking to get a cooler and can’t find one in your budget, or you are using an older i5 and only want to get the best cooler available, this is a guide that should help you out. The aim of this article is to review the best CPU coolers to choose from as of early 2018, and explain why I have chosen the one that I have.
When I say, “I believe you’ll agree with me,” I mean “I think you’ll agree with me.”
CPU coolers have a significant effect on gaming performance.
Not only that, but if your cooler isn’t up to par, your other expensive gaming accessories will suffer as a result. As a result, it’s even Stevens.
If you’re in a rush, check out my top-rated cooler. Alternatively, you may read my in-depth evaluation.
For a processor like the i5-11600K, you’ll need a serious CPU cooling. It’s an Intel 11th Generation CPU, and the heat it generates may be dangerous on rare instances.
Don’t be concerned. I’ve got you covered. As in this post, I’ll go through several cooling options for reducing system heat.
Check out the best CPU Coolers for the i7-11700k as well.
Review of the Best CPU Cooler for the i5-11600K
Right now, the 11th Gen Rocket Lake series is the hottest thing on the market. Their core i5-11600K has a turbo clock of 4.9 GHz, which produces a lot of heat.
The procedure of purchasing this processor is very straightforward. Make sure you obtain the right cooling system for your project. Unless things go horribly wrong, which you clearly don’t want to happen.
I’m not going to waste any more time, so let’s get things clear.
The following are the top seven CPU coolers for the i5-11600K:
1. NZXT Kraken X63 (NZXT Kraken X63)
Let’s start with a model from NZXT’s Kraken line. NZXT is a well-known name in the PC hardware market, particularly for its CPU coolers. Their Kraken X63 is one of the top-of-the-line versions that can significantly reduce CPU temperatures. The following are the specifications for this model:
- Fan speed ranges from 500 to 1800 RPM.
- Noise levels range from 21 to 38 decibels (dBA).
- Bearings with a fluid dynamic motion
Check out the current price of the NZXT Kraken X63.
To enjoy a pleasant gaming experience, make sure your system’s health isn’t deteriorating. And here is where the NZXT model comes in handy.
It has the ability to provide world-class performance while being ultra-smooth.
This liquid cooling solution will provide you with many reasons to enjoy it. It has that wow factor when it comes to aesthetics as a model. The infinity mirror on the top of the water block, in particular, is absolutely stunning. The LEDs placed underneath perform an excellent job. As a consequence, the glow of lights within the RGB PC case gives off an otherworldly vibe.
The most exciting aspect is:
Due to its 360° nature, this water block is very flexible. You may easily rotate it and put it anywhere you like. Aside from that, the aluminum radiator looks great, and the tubing is of excellent quality. Take a look at the top CPU coolers for the i9-11900k.
The CAM software from NZXT is in charge of controlling the LEDs in the water block. You’ll be able to control each of the LEDs individually. I had a wonderful experience with this program since there was no latency. I believe you would feel the same way.
When it comes to performance, the boost clock of 4.9 GHz keeps temperatures consistent. When overclocked, it exceeds 5.0 GHz, generating a significant quantity of heat. However, when I was testing, this Kraken X63 performed an excellent job of lowering the temperature.
In general, I believe this model is an excellent choice for high-end projects. It has the potential to be a powerful alternative for the 11th Gen i5-11600K.
2. Aorus RGB by Gigabyte
Gigabyte motherboards have always been my favorites. For this specific component, they are the market leaders. They aren’t just about boards, however. Their Aorus CPU coolers have been making the rounds in the industry.
However, this model from them has some amazing specifications:
- 2300 RPM maximum fan speed
- 22.3–44.5 dBA noise level
- 2x PWM 140 mm fans
Check out the current Gigabyte Aorus price.
Gigabyte lives up to its brand value with this model. It has excellent quality as well as excellent functioning.
The Customizable LCD on the pump block is the most appealing feature of this liquid cooler. You can see the fan speeds, CPU temperatures, and other information on this LCD. You may even use animated GIFs if you like.
Double ball bearings are used in the twin 140 mm fans. It is for this reason why there was little noise throughout my testing. Furthermore, the blades of the fans provide an edge that aids in the optimization of airflow. Check out our most recent article on the best CPU Coolers for the i5-10600k.
The illumination that is emitted from the middle of these fans is something I found very interesting. The RGB LEDs are strategically positioned to provide a rich visual experience.
My setup with the 11th Gen i5 CPU now exceeds the boost frequency of 4.9 GHz when overclocking. I clocked 5.3 GHz on my gaming setup, at a temperature of 95°C. However, due to this Gigabyte model, it was quickly reduced. So, my overall impression of the performance is that it is passable.
However, there are problems with the Aorus software, which may be difficult to work with at times. Nonetheless, the cooling solution’s performance is excellent. Although it comes at a hefty cost, this cooling solution is never overvalued.
3. EK D-RGB AIO
EKWB is a well-known brand that most gamers choose these days. Their range of game components earned them a solid reputation.
That being said, this model from them has all of the characteristics you’d look for in a CPU cooler. Among the most noteworthy are:
- RPM of the fan: 500-2200
- Pump speed ranges from 450 to 2000 RPM.
- Maximum noise level: 36.4 dBA
Check out the current price of EK AIO.
This model is just as excellent as its bigger brother when it comes to AIO liquid cooling.
Like the 360 mm variant, it comes with a one-of-a-kind bespoke in-house pump design. It also compares well to any high-end option in terms of capability and performance.
The output’s noise-optimized performance is what I loved most about it. The fans may seem loud at maximum RPM, but they do not become that loud, which is intolerable. Check out the best CPU Coolers for the i9-10900k as well.
Overall, the construction quality is outstanding, with great fit and finish. You’ll be able to easily install it in your rig as well. The good news is that even if you spin the pump, your GPU will have plenty of room.
Personally, I thought the RGB lighting was enough. But that’s just my preference. The lighting design is very harsh in general, which may not be to everyone’s taste.
Despite this, I believe this cooler can add great value to any good gaming system thanks to its 5-year guarantee and outstanding cooling capabilities.
4. Galahad 360 Black Lian Li
Lian Li has never had a problem with quality. They’ve been making some of the finest PC peripherals with excellent aesthetics for a long time. It’s the same with this model from them. The following are some of its noteworthy specifications:
- 3 fans, each with a diameter of 120 mm
- RPM of the fan: 800-1900
- 32 dBA noise level
Check out the current Lian Li Galahad 360 Black price.
This model promises to provide a high-quality performance, much as the stunning looks. It’s a great liquid cooler with a lot of personality.
It comes with an aluminum radiator that is both stylish and long-lasting. Its water block seems to be highly polished.
It comes with three 120-millimeter fans, one of which is RGB-enabled. When they turn on, the lighting within the setup seems to be realistic. It has a unique radiance.
This cooler is very simple to put together. It will just take a few minutes. Here’s a rundown of the top CPU Coolers for the i7-10700k.
In terms of performance, I discovered that even while overclocking, the temperatures can be brought down quickly utilizing this model in my setup. Overheating was almost non-existent.
Overall, I think it’s a fantastic liquid cooling system that exemplifies performance and looks.
NZXT Kraken Z53 (No. 5)
I can’t get enough of NZXT, since this is the second Kraken Series cooler to make it into my list.
The following are the specifications for this model:
- Asetek’s 7th Generation Pump
- 36-inch LCD Display
- 36 dBA (decibels per acoustic meter)
Check out the current price of the NZXT Kraken Z53.
This model is one of the most popular in the Kraken Z lineup. It’s one of the best liquid cooling systems on the market, with gamers praising its performance.
It has the most opulent LCD on the street. You’ll be able to quickly see the CPU and GPU temperatures using this method. You’ll also be able to include an animated picture or GIFs if desired.
This cooler is very impressive in terms of aesthetics, however the fans are not RGB. Even after straining the CPU, I was able to reach excellent temperatures in my setup in terms of performance. Eventually, this feature makes it a great overclocking choice. Also, see the best motherboard for an i5-10600k processor.
This model’s pricing, however, is on the upper end. But if you don’t have any financial restrictions, this isn’t a problem. Overall, being a liquid cooler, it guarantees excellent performance even if your setup is tweaked.
Corsair Hydro Series H60 (No. 6)
Corsair is a company that provides some excellent products. This type is one of those complete coolers that can adequately satisfy gaming requirements.
The following features are included in this model:
- 120-millimeter fan
- 28.2 dBA noise level
- 1700 RPM maximum fan speed
Check the current price of the Corsair Hydro Series H60.
This is the option you should use if you have a little gaming setup. It may be a little pricey as a cooler when compared to other options. But, in my view, it is well worth the effort.
The design may be uninspiring, but the build quality is exceptional. It stands for durability, therefore you’ll receive a 5-year guarantee from the manufacturer.
In terms of performance, my 11th Gen build’s temperatures were fine. The low noise level was also noticeable.
Overall, it’s the finest low-profile small construction you can buy. Also, see the best RAM for an Intel Core i5-10600k processor.
TH120 ARGB (Thermaltake)
This is the last CPU cooler I have for you. Thermaltake is a well-known name in the gaming world as a brand. This model from them may be just what you’re searching for in your next project. It has the following characteristics:
- Design of an LED waterblock
- Compatibility with all types of outlets
- 120 mm fan
Check the current price of the Thermaltake TH120.
If you have a Mini-ITX setup, it’s a great choice for a liquid cooler. In fact, I believe it is superior than many bigger AIOs. It can tame any 11th Gen Processor, especially with the cooling potential this model has.
The acoustics are at a decent level in terms of performance. During my testing, I noticed no noise. Additionally, when the fan is present, RGB implementation is included, and to be honest, it looks DAMN good while the rig is operating. Also, see the best RAM for an Intel Core i9-10900k processor.
The greatest thing is that it comes at a reasonable price, making it an excellent addition to your gaming setup.
Last Thoughts
So there you have it: the best seven CPU coolers for your new 11th Gen i5-11600K setup. Regardless of your budget, you will discover every kind of construction on this list.
The NZXT Kraken X63 is my personal favorite. The others are also excellent.
Still, if you have any questions, please let me know in the comments section.
As always, the biggest decision when you’re building a new computer is deciding on a CPU. But, as the performance-per-dollar battle heats up, there’s also plenty of other considerations that you might not have considered. To help out, we’ve rounded up our best picks for new CPU coolers, and those who want to upgrade their existing setups.. Read more about best cpu cooler for intel core i5-11600k and let us know what you think.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whats the best AIO CPU cooler?
The best AIO CPU cooler is the Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO.
What is the most reliable AIO cooler?
The most reliable AIO cooler is the Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO.
What is the best CPU cooler for i5 8600k?
The best CPU cooler for the i5 8600k is the Noctua NH-D15.
May not look like but definitely a big tech addict. Tech blogger since graduating in her home town in Esbjerg. Loves long bike rides across the country.