Alder Lake is shaping to be Intel’s most significant release. Not only do all three 12th-generation CPUs outperform expectations, but they also serve as precursors to technologies such as DDR5 and PCIe 5.0. As a result, purchasing one may need to purchase a new motherboard, and your current cooler may not be able to handle the heat. We have already provided recommendations for suitable motherboards. Now it’s time to highlight the best LGA 1700 CPU coolers that complement these motherboards.
5+ Best LGA 1700 CPU Coolers You Can Use
You will know most of our options if you have already purchased an aftermarket cooling solution. At the time of writing, models have yet to be built to precisely addressing Alder Lake chips. The good news is that if you pair any of our options with a suitable CPU, they will all perform well. Manufacturers currently need to include LGA 1700 mounting kits with new stock. In this regard, each overview includes a brief section on where to purchase the required mounting hardware. Please review our diverse recommendations, and keep your gaming prowess from throttling or overheating.
1. Corsair iCUE H115i Elite Capellix
Corsair is a firm whose AIOs mix great performance with entertaining creativity. The most recent H-series models have proprietary LEDs and offer more customization options than ever. Well, the H115i can either cool an overclocked i9 12900K or be whisper-quiet when the CPU is not under stress due to performance tuning. In contrast to Asetek-based AIOs, the H115i features a CoolIT CPU block with square sides. In addition, the conventional plastic top is replaced with a black glass panel bearing a transparent Corsair logo. The result is already eye-catching, but you can make it much more so by swapping to an accessory cap that further opens the top. Also, the copper contact plate on the bottom has a machined appearance and comes with a large amount of thermal compound already applied.
The radiator performs its job, which is to house two ML140 fans. Thus, there is nothing more to say about it. These propellers rotate significantly faster than the Kraken’s, but they may be shut off when low temperatures. In contrast, when the fans are pushed to their limits, they can move air with impunity at static pressures surpassing 3 mm H2O. The H115i’s distinctive illumination helps to justify its above-average pricing. Corsair initially designed the Capellix LEDs for their outstanding RAM kits but immediately saw its potential for AIO applications. The lights take far less space than conventional ones and consume less power. Thus, Corsair placed 33 of them within the CPU block and eight more on each fan.
The H115i uses Commander Core to reduce cable clutter. This hub supplies the fans and their LEDs with power. It requires just one USB connection to the motherboard and can support up to four additional fans of the same type. Connecting them all lets you synchronize and modify the case’s illumination. Those who enjoy tinkering will find iCUE to be a lighting-customizing paradise. It may set unique colors for each fan LED and the 21 zones on the pump head. There are dozens of effects to pick from, and you can also design your own. If not for its sheer power and iCUE’s cooling profiles, there would be more than these to place the H155i among the best LGA 1700 CPU coolers. The Extreme setting on the AIO causes temperatures to plunge, but at the expense of a great deal of noise. In contrast, the Quiet setting retains excellent cooling results while minimizing noise. Finally, most people will choose Balance since it finds a satisfactory balance between the two.
2. NZXT Kraken Z63
AIOs are simple components; thus, something unique must be implemented for one to stand out. NZXT went above and above with the Z63, a 280mm AIO whose pump head has an intricate LCD screen. This is sufficient to pass off the cooler as a novelty. However, the Z63 is on our list of the best LGA 1700 CPU coolers due to its outstanding performance. NZXT also produces coolers with less bling that are just as effective, so if you’re on a budget, check those out. NZXT has built a support page for acquiring an LGA 1700 adaptor. Check it to claim yours.
Kraken AIOs ending in two will not detect a significant difference. We’d go so far as to label the assembly uninspiring before the screen has even been activated. Observant individuals will notice that the pump head has been enlarged to accommodate the 2.36-inch screen on its top. Aside from that, it is the same cylindrical Asetek type with swivel fittings and two ports for power and USB cables set at a 90-degree angle to reduce cable clutter. The radiator and fans perform all of the work. Well, the former is thicker than usual at 30mm and has merely an embossed NZXT logo. It is a 280mm device with two 140mm Aer-P fans. Despite its modest rotation, each emits 98 cubic feet per minute of air. They are more than a match for the thicker radiator and any case with fans that do not offer optimal airflow and adequate static pressure.
While effective in dissipating CPU heat, the Z63 is all about customization and aesthetics. Well, the screen has a resolution of 320 x 320 but is still tiny enough for photos, GIFs, and real-time data to be visible. The GIF option is our favorite since it allows you to animate the cooler in any way you see fit. Even if it is a compilation of your preferred Minecraft blocks. The Kraken Z63 has an additional trump card: NZXT CAM. Also, the companion software is designed to be a refined system monitoring tool that can be used even without the cooler. Installing the Kraken unlocks more fascinating options, such as pump adjustments and the ability to alter what is displayed on the screen. Information nerds and overclockers enjoy the real-time setting that lets temperatures and workloads. In addition, you may set the screen to alter its color dependent on the results.
3. Noctua NH-D15
In a profession where a year feels like a decade, products with a shelf life of eight years or longer are nearly unheard of. Since its introduction, the famous NH-D15 has been the pinnacle of CPU air cooling. You may no longer be able to cool the generation’s flagship with this cooler, but it should be more than adequate for a 12700K system. Noctua is just a handful of manufacturers whose LGA 1700 conversion kit is available on Amazon. There are no annoying forms to fill out, and Prime members may have the necessary component immediately.
Anyone who has constructed a PC in the previous ten years would instantly know a Noctua CPU cooler, whether they had one. The mix of beige and medium brown on Noctua fans makes a lasting impact, whether you like it. The size is another factor since the NH-D15 is huge, even if you pick only to use one of its two fans. A large portion of the size is due to the intricate heatsink. It consists of two sets of 45 fins, the bottom seven shorter to make memory sticks easier to access. There is a little depression in the center and a set of tooth-like marks on the sides. These enhance turbulence and increase the efficiency of the fans.
The bottom of the cooler is nickel-plated and comprises a thick base plate with six copper heat pipes. The pipes are separated and arc outward from the plate. Noctua’s engineering prowess and attention to detail are demonstrated by the fact that the pipes are soldered to each fin. The fans are superior to those found on the NH-D14. Their designation is NF-A15, indicating the 150mm diameter increase. This size increase permits slower operation. Indeed, the fans’ RPM range of 300 to 1,500 is among the lowest on the list. Each includes an RPM limiter that reduces the RPM to 1,200 while simultaneously reducing noise. Unimpeded, each fan can move 82 cubic feet of air per minute.
The NH-D15 is among the easiest LGA 1700 CPU coolers to install, despite its size. The new backplate and mounting hardware do not affect the installation procedure, which can be completed in minutes if you’ve already set up CPU coolers. Consider that the huge footprint may not be compatible with tall RAM or compact motherboards. Check that everything will fit ahead to save unnecessary stress.
4. Arctic Liquid Freezer II 280
Arctic’s AIOs are so impressive that we could nearly list the best LGA 1700 CPU coolers using only Liquid Freezer models. The assortment ranges from 120mm starts to 420mm behemoths. However, we’re focused on the 280mm model since it delivers the best value for money and can tame any Alder Lake chip. It’s not the most stylish AIO on the market, but nothing comes close in terms of performance for the money.
The Liquid Freezer II is remarkably unconventional. Well, it makes sense when you consider that Arctic did not want to be constrained by patent restrictions and created the AIO independently. Also, the pump head is its most notable and distinctive feature. It is elongated, low-slung, and occupies more space than usual. This results from a 40mm fan with variable RPM that blows air across the VRM assembly. Most Z690 motherboards include efficient VRMs, but with the 12900K, you’ll value every degree of temperature reduction.
In contrast to the majority of firms, Arctic gives additional radiator consideration. What is the radiator’s secret? Added density. The average thickness of radiators is 27 millimeters, but this one is 11 millimeters thicker. Therefore, you must support that your case can accommodate its odd proportions. However, the additional surface area is useful since it pulls heat away from the CPU more quickly. Even though they rotate more slowly and have a lower CFM than the fans on our top two choices, a pair of P14 fans manage air expulsion well.
If you are hesitant about installing an AIO, you will value the Liquid Freezer II even more. The fans are already mounted on the radiator, so if you’re OK with the push setup, you need to secure the pump head. The tubing’s thick sleeves provide sufficient space for routing the PWM cables of the fans. These are combined in the pump head, so you only need to use one of the PWM headers on your motherboard. Arctic’s AIO cooler is far less expensive than the best Z690 coolers we’ve reviewed thus far. Much of this involves reducing it to its fundamental bones without compromising effectiveness. Research indicates that it is consistently quieter and cooler than most options, independent of cost.
5. Be quiet! Dark Rock 4
Buying into the Alder Lake environment is expensive, even when constructing a rig around the 12600K. Fortunately, you can efficiently control the processor’s thermals using an inexpensive air cooler like the Dark Rock 4. This model prioritizes silence, but that does not imply performance is missing. Add a discreet design and simple installation, and you will have a well-rounded cooling solution. Be silent! Set a page devoted to your LGA 1700 needs. Even though it was introduced some years ago, the Dark Rock 4 wonderfully complements the look of the Z690. The heatsink, fan blades, and heat pipes are all black and designed to seem as stealthy as the cooler is quiet. If you’re meticulous, you’ll need to handle the heatsink carefully, as the thin powdered paint coating is susceptible to peeling.
Regarding the heatsink, it is one of the most intricate models available. Since the Silent Wings 3 fans are designed to minimize noise rather than maximize performance, this must be the case. The whole front edge of the heatsink has a sawtooth design that stirs up the air as it approaches. The rear consists of alternating “terraces” that contribute to increased turbulence. Finally, the fins are perforated with dozens of microscopic holes to optimize airflow and increase surface area. The heat pipes and base plate are still undergoing design revisions. Six pairs of blacked heat pipes emerge from the base at varying angles. This guarantees they are only close to the convergence point and have adequate space for heat dissipation elsewhere. The base plate is somewhat convex to improve CPU adhesion. The paste is not pre-applied; you must use the provided syringe to apply it to the CPU.
The involvement of specialized fans is essential to the Dark Rock 4 experience. They have customized Pure Wings 3 units with a 135mm diameter. In contrast to other models, the fins are ribbed to increase air disturbance during rotation. Each fan has an average CFM of 59; however, even when fully operational, they scarcely make a sound. So what is the effect on performance? The Dark Rock 4’s cooling performance is adequate to earn it a spot on the best LGA 1700 CPU coolers list. Taking thermal breathing room into account, though, 12600K is approximately the most it can handle. In contrast, this is the quietest cooler we’ve discussed by far. Several rivals equal their noise output at idle; however, once the fan speed exceeds 50 percent, there is no competition.
6. EK 240mm AIO D-RGB
Only some of the best LGA 1700 CPU coolers need to be large and imposing, especially if you’re not after the hottest chips of the generation. The 240mm AIO D-RGB from EK is a mid-sized product with RGB lights, great cable management, and uncomplicated cooling. If you can find one at MSRP and dislike the 240mm versions of our other recommendations, this is the AIO to get. EK is another producer unhappy with Asetek’s exclusivity on pump design. Although not as eccentric as the Liquid Freezer’s, the pump has a distinct cube-like form with a white cover. It has several LEDs whose diffuse illumination produces a pleasing appearance. The copper plate is rounded and polished to a close mirror-like sheen. The device may be installed in 90-degree increments, which is useful if there is insufficient clearance for RAM or VRM heatsinks.
The radiator is noteworthy since it has a sealed top and is less dense than usual. Its fin density is 17 as opposed to the 20-21 expected from 240mm AIOs. The fact that fans with lesser CFM may evacuate air without difficulty despite high resistance is only sometimes negative. This is the case with the 120mm Vardar S fans included with the AIO. Thin and transparent to allow RGB illumination to pass through. As a result, their CFM is 66, but no air is lost at the edges. Setting up the D-RGB should take little time or provide any unanticipated difficulties. The tube is flexible and long enough to reach the ceiling of a case without difficulty. There are sufficient splitters in the box to minimize the cable tangle to single PWM and ARGB connections, so there is no need to worry about excessive wire clutter.
RGB is implemented properly; however, EK does not offer a program that would allow you to modify it. Thankfully, motherboard software such as Aura Sync or RGB Fusion identifies and integrates it into your entire lighting system. Good news, particularly if the other RGB fans in your case are from a different brand. The AIO is a solid competitor for the best LGA 1700 240mm cooler in terms of performance. At 100 percent RPM, it approaches 50 decibels, which is significantly louder than comfortable. However, this is an uncommon event. The fans make less noise and properly maintain temperature checks at lower temperatures.
Conclusion: LGA 1700 CPU Coolers
This is the list of the best LGA 1700 CPU coolers you can use in 2022. Also, if you know of LGA 1700 CPU coolers, please let us know. And have an excellent day.
