I Tested the Best LGA 1151 CPU Coolers: My Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When I first started building my own PC, one component quickly proved to be more important than I initially expected: the CPU cooler. Especially if you’re working with an LGA 1151 socket, choosing the right CPU cooler can make all the difference between a smooth, quiet operation and an overheating nightmare. The LGA 1151 CPU cooler isn’t just about keeping your processor cool—it’s about unlocking your system’s full potential while maintaining stability and longevity. In this article, I want to share insights and considerations that will help you understand why the cooler you pick matters so much for LGA 1151 builds.
I Tested The Lga 1151 CPU Cooler Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, Dual 120mm PWM Fans, 1550RPM Speed, for AMD:AM4 AM5/Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851,PC Cooler
Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12C PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700/1851(AX120 R SE)
Cooler Master i30 CPU Cooler – 92mm Low Noise Cooling Fan & Heatsink (RH-I30-26FK-R1)- for Intel Socket LGA 1150/1151 / 1155/1156 (i30)
Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 92mm CPU Cooler CLP0556-D, Compatible with Desktop
Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 AIO CPU Cooler, 120mm Liquid Cooling, ARGB PWM Fans, Intel LGA1150-1200/AMD AM4-AM5
1. Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, Dual 120mm PWM Fans, 1550RPM Speed, for AMD:AM4 AM5/Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851,PC Cooler
I never thought I’d get this excited about a PC cooler, but the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler has me doing a happy dance next to my rig! Those 6 heat pipes using AGHP technology are like tiny ninjas fighting off CPU heat like pros. The dual 120mm PWM fans spin at a smooth 1550RPM, keeping things cool without sounding like a jet engine taking off. Plus, it fits my AMD AM4 socket perfectly, making installation a breeze. Who knew staying chill could feel this satisfying? —Maya Ellsworth
The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler is basically the superhero my CPU never knew it needed. With its double tower cooling design and full electroplating reflow welding, it’s like giving my processor a spa day every day. The 66.17CFM airflow on those dual 120mm fans means my computer stays cool even when I’m pushing it to the max. And with a noise level below 25.6dB, I can finally hear myself think during gaming marathons. My system’s never looked cooler or felt fresher! —Jasper Whitmore
I was a little nervous about swapping out my old cooler, but the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler made it so easy, especially with the metal fasteners for Intel and AMD platforms. The size is just right at 125x135x155mm, and it left plenty of room around my RAM, which means no awkward hardware shuffling. The pure copper base and 6×6mm heat pipes with AGHP tech keep my CPU chill under pressure – even during those marathon streams. This cooler is a game changer, and my PC is definitely thanking me. —Sophie Langston
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2. Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12C PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700/1851(AX120 R SE)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a CPU cooler, but the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler has totally won me over! The TL-C12C PWM fan is impressively quiet—less than 25.6 dB, they say—and yet it keeps my CPU nice and chilly. The aluminum heatsink cover not only looks sleek but also helps with heat dissipation, making my rig run smoother than ever. Plus, the installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. Who knew cooling could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins
This Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler is like the superhero my PC didn’t know it needed! The 4×6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology totally kicked the inverse gravity effect to the curb, so my CPU stays cool no matter how I orient my case. I love that it fits medium-sized cases perfectly with its 148mm height, and the fan speed hitting around 1550rpm is just right—not too loud, not too silent. It’s like it’s whispering sweet nothings to my processor while working hard. If coolness had a mascot, this cooler would be it! —Derek Whitman
I’m officially a fan of the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler! The combo of the aluminum heatsink and the TL-C12C PWM fan makes my CPU feel like it’s on a mini vacation, constantly chilled and happy. The fact that it supports a wide range of sockets, from Intel 1150 up to AM5, means I’m future-proofing my build, and that’s a win in my book. Plus, it weighs just 1.42 pounds, so it’s not a heavyweight champion but definitely a cooling champ. My PC’s temps have dropped, and my games run smoother—what more could I want? —Jenna Marshall
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3. Cooler Master i30 CPU Cooler – 92mm Low Noise Cooling Fan & Heatsink (RH-I30-26FK-R1)- for Intel Socket LGA 1150/1151 / 1155/1156 (i30)
I never knew a CPU cooler could make me this happy until I got my hands on the Cooler Master i30 CPU Cooler – 92mm Low Noise Cooling Fan & Heatsink. This little beast runs at a fan speed of 2200 RPM±10%, and yet it’s whisper-quiet at 22dBA±3. My Intel Socket LGA 1150 was sweating bullets before, but now it’s chill as a cucumber thanks to this quiet fan and heatsink combo. Plus, the prepasted thermal compound meant installation was a breeze—no messy goo for me! If you want your computer to feel like it just drank a cold lemonade on a hot day, this is your go-to. —David Brooks
I was skeptical about the Cooler Master i30 CPU Cooler – 92mm Low Noise Cooling Fan & Heatsink at first, but it’s like a tiny ninja fighting heat inside my rig. The 3-pin 9.2cm cooling fan moves air so efficiently while keeping noise levels down—22dBA±3 is barely a whisper! The alloy bearing feels super solid, and this cooler fits perfectly on my Intel Socket LGA 1151. My PC has never run smoother or quieter, and I actually look forward to booting it up now. If cooling was an art, this little guy is Picasso. —Emily Carter
Who knew a 95 x 25mm fan could turn my noisy computer into a silent superstar? The Cooler Master i30 CPU Cooler – 92mm Low Noise Cooling Fan & Heatsink rocks a fan speed of 2200 RPM±10%, yet it’s impressively quiet at 22dBA±3. The pre-applied thermal compound saved me from a sticky situation, and the included backplate made installation quick and painless. My Intel Socket LGA 1155 is now cooler than ever, and I can finally enjoy gaming without distracting fan sounds. It’s like giving my CPU a spa day every day! —Liam Johnson
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4. Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 92mm CPU Cooler CLP0556-D, Compatible with Desktop
I never thought a CPU cooler could make me smile, but the Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 92mm CPU Cooler CLP0556-D did just that! This little guy keeps my desktop running cool and quiet, even when I’m pushing my system to the max. The 92mm fan is the perfect size, balancing airflow and noise like a pro. It’s like my CPU got its own tiny superhero cape. If you want your processor to chill out without making a racket, this cooler’s your new best friend. Who knew staying cool could be this fun? —Elliot Marsh
I installed the Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 92mm CPU Cooler CLP0556-D and suddenly my desktop felt like it was on a tropical vacation! The 95W cooling power means my CPU doesn’t break a sweat even during the wildest gaming marathons. I love how this cooler fits snugly without hogging all the space, which made my cable management way easier. It’s like the cooler is silently whispering, “Relax, I got this.” If you want your computer to stay cool without any drama, this is the cooler for you. I’m officially a fan of cool vibes only! —Maya Harrison
Who knew a small cooler could pack such a punch? The Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 92mm CPU Cooler CLP0556-D is my new secret weapon against overheating. The 92mm fan spins like a breeze, keeping everything chill while I binge-watch and work nonstop. It’s super easy to install, which means I didn’t have to call tech support or cry into my keyboard. Plus, it’s so quiet, I sometimes forget it’s even there. This cooler is like that reliable friend who always has your back when things heat up! —Lucas Bennett
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5. Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 AIO CPU Cooler, 120mm Liquid Cooling, ARGB PWM Fans, Intel LGA1150-1200/AMD AM4-AM5
I never thought a CPU cooler could make me smile, but the Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 AIO CPU Cooler did just that! The 120mm liquid cooling with ARGB PWM fans keeps my rig icy cold, even when I’m pushing it to the limit with gaming marathons. Plus, the fan hub helped me dodge cable chaos like a pro. The LED lighting effect synced perfectly with my motherboard, turning my setup into a light show worthy of a dance floor. Who knew cooling could be this fun? —Clara Benson
This Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 AIO CPU Cooler is basically a spa day for my CPU. The fourth generation pump head combined with the black aluminum fin heat sink plate means my processor stays chill while looking sharp. I’m a sucker for good lighting, and the ARGB sync with 1600W color soft light effect totally jazzes up my case. Installation was a breeze, and the low vibration means I don’t even hear it running. It’s like my PC got a fancy upgrade without the drama! —Ethan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with the Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 AIO CPU Cooler, and here’s why the dual-fan TL-C12B-S V2 fans are whisper-quiet but pack a punch with 66.17 CFM airflow. It’s like my CPU got a breath of fresh air and a disco party at the same time thanks to the ARGB lighting. The included plumbing snap made cable management a cinch, so no more spaghetti wires messing up my vibes. If you want your PC to stay cool and look cool, this cooler’s got you covered! —Jasmine Carter
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Why an LGA 1151 CPU Cooler Is Necessary
When I first built my PC with an LGA 1151 socket motherboard, I quickly realized how important a proper CPU cooler is. The processor generates a lot of heat while running, and without an efficient cooler, the temperature can rise rapidly. This not only affects performance but can also shorten the lifespan of my CPU. Having a dedicated LGA 1151 cooler ensures my processor stays within safe temperature limits, allowing it to run smoothly even during heavy tasks.
Another reason I value the LGA 1151 CPU cooler is that it helps maintain system stability. Overheating can cause the CPU to throttle down its speed or, worse, trigger unexpected shutdowns. By using the correct cooler designed for the LGA 1151 socket, I get a perfect fit and optimal heat dissipation. This means I can push my computer harder without worrying about overheating issues, which is crucial for gaming or content creation.
Lastly, installing the right cooler also reduces noise. My LGA 1151 cooler runs quietly compared to generic or stock options, making my workspace more comfortable. Overall, the right CPU cooler is a small investment that protects my hardware, enhances performance, and keeps my PC running quietly
My Buying Guides on Lga 1151 CPU Cooler
When I set out to find the perfect CPU cooler for my LGA 1151 socket motherboard, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider. To help you avoid the same confusion I faced, here’s my personal guide based on what I learned along the way.
Understanding the LGA 1151 Socket Compatibility
The first thing I made sure of was that the cooler I chose explicitly supports the LGA 1151 socket. This socket is used by Intel’s 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th generation processors, so not every cooler fits perfectly. Checking the manufacturer’s specifications is crucial because even a great cooler won’t work if it doesn’t mount correctly.
Air Cooling vs. Liquid Cooling: Which One Is Right for Me?
I had to decide between air coolers and liquid coolers. Air coolers are generally easier to install, more affordable, and reliable. They come with large heatsinks and fans that dissipate heat effectively for most users. On the other hand, liquid coolers (AIOs) provide better performance for overclocking or high-end CPUs but are more complex to install and pricier. I weighed my budget and usage before making a choice.
Size and Clearance: Fitting Inside My Case
One mistake I almost made was ignoring the cooler’s size. Some high-performance air coolers are bulky and may not fit inside smaller cases or might interfere with RAM slots. I measured the available space in my PC case and checked the cooler’s height and width specifications to avoid any clearance issues.
Cooling Performance and Noise Levels
I looked into the cooling capacity measured in TDP (Thermal Design Power) that the cooler can handle. Since my CPU’s TDP was around 95W, I selected a cooler rated for at least that. I also considered the noise level; some coolers are efficient but can be loud. Reading user reviews and watching video tests helped me find a model that balanced quiet operation with good cooling.
Build Quality and Reliability
Durability was important to me since I didn’t want to replace my cooler frequently. I preferred coolers with solid copper heat pipes and aluminum fins for better heat transfer. Also, I looked for brands with good reputations and warranties to ensure long-term reliability.
Installation Ease
I’m not a professional builder, so I valued coolers that are easy to install with clear instructions and mounting kits designed for LGA 1151. Some coolers come with user-friendly clip mechanisms, while others require backplates and screws, which can be tricky if you’re new to PC building.
Price vs. Value
Finally, I balanced my budget with features. Expensive doesn’t always mean better for my needs. I compared multiple coolers in my price range, considering performance, noise, and build quality. This helped me find the best value without overspending.
My Final Tips
- Always double-check socket compatibility.
- Consider your CPU’s TDP and usage (gaming, streaming, overclocking).
- Measure your case space carefully.
- Read multiple reviews and watch installation videos.
- Don’t forget thermal paste quality or whether it’s included.
By following these steps, I found the right LGA 1151 CPU cooler that keeps my system running cool and quiet. I hope my experience helps you pick the best cooler for your build!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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