Liquid CPU coolers include various components like radiator, fans, cooling tubes, etc. Working in synchronization, these components circulate cool liquid to the heated component. With the heat transfer process, the temperature is lowered and dissipated through the radiator. Before learning about liquid CPU coolers, we must know a few factors.
Noise level: The liquid CPU coolers consist of a fan that rotates at a very high speed (above 1500 RPMs). As a result, the fan and radiator setup creates operational noise. This noise gets louder when the CPU and cooling system load increases. The coolers are designed to run silently to prevent the noise from disrupting silence. The noise levels are kept under the 30 dB limit considering the humans’ hearing ability. Material: The material of a liquid CPU cooler plays an important role in the heat transfer process. With the help of the thermal conductivity of the material, heat is quickly transferred to the cooling liquid. It is important to choose the right material as it comes in direct contact with the heat. Good conductors of heat, like aluminum, copper, etc, are popularly used in liquid CPU coolers. Compatible sockets: To connect the CPU cooler with the CPU, the compatibility of the sockets is checked. Every motherboard has a different type of CPU socket and hence a different mourning space. The cooler must be compatible with that socket to ensure proper base plate installation. The Intel CPUs popularly use LGA sockets, while AMD CPUs use both PGA and LGA sockets.
Understanding these factors makes it easy to narrow down the best liquid CPU cooler. Due to the availability of CPU coolers in every price range, it is natural to get confused between multiple options. This article has a compiled list of the best liquid CPU coolers under 100$. It also offers a “Buying Guide” to understand the importance of a few governing factors related to CPU coolers.
Best Budget Liquid CPU Coolers Under $100 Table
Best Budget Liquid CPU Coolers Under $100 Reviews
1. Cooler Master Liquid CPU Cooler
Our very first product on the list comes from CoolerMaster, a synonymous name in the PC accessories market. It offers a range of customizable and high-quality products for PC enthusiasts. The CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L CPU Liquid Cooler offers efficient cooling. It features a dual chamber pump that continuously flows cool liquid in the cooler block. The heated liquid is passed to the radiator with the help of pipes made from EPDM material. The 240 mm radiator offers a larger surface area for the heat transfer process. It features a pair of 120 mm fans that circulates air over the radiator at a speed of 1800 RPM. It is compatible with various CPU sockets, including the latest Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM4. It also offers a mourning extension to fit older coolers with new sockets. The cooling fans and the pump silently run at a noise level of 15 dB without disturbing the user. With a wattage rating of 260 Watts, it easily runs on a 12V DC power supply. Additional RGB lights are included to add a futuristic look to the cooler. Best Features:
Features cooling pipe made up of EPDM material Includes a dual chamber pump, a 240 mm radiator, and a pair of 120 mm cooling fans Operational noise level of 15 dB The maximum rotational speed of 1800 RPM Rated wattage of 260 Watts with 12V DC input Compatible Intel sockets: LGA1700*/1200/1151/1150/1155/1156/1366/2066/2011-v3/2011 Compatible AMD sockets: AM4/AM3 plus/AM3/AM2 plus/AM2/FM2 plus/FM2/FM1
Pros:
The 3rd generation dual-chamber pump offers efficient circulation of cooling liquid It is one of the most silent liquid coolers The built-in RGB light allows a wide range of customizations
Cons:
It is priced higher than other options on the list
2. ARCTIC Liquid CPU Cooler
ARCTIC is a leading manufacturer of coolers and other components for PCs. It has a wide range of thermal pastes, thermal pads, and coolers, made for every PC component like CPU, CPU, etc. The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 Liquid CPU Cooler is the most silent unit on the list. With a noise output level of only 8.4 dB (0.3 sones), you won’t notice whether it is running. It features a cool plate that absorbs the heat from the CPU. The heated liquid is passed to the radiator via EPDM cooling pipes to reject heat. The pair of radiator fans and an additional fan near the pump allows efficient circulation of air, thereby reducing the temperature by 15 degrees Celsius. The cooler is compatible with the Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets to allow better mounting. With the help of the 4-pin connectors, the cooler is connected to a 12V power supply. Since the fans are PWM-cable units, control over speed is possible. As a result, the fans run at a speed range of 200 to 1800 RPM. Best Features:
Features a pump, aluminum radiator, and a copper cold plate Operational noise level of 8.4 dB (0.3 sones) The adjustable rotational speed of 200 to 1800 RPM Comes with a 40 mm VRM fan for the pump and dual radiator fans Supports 12V DC power supply via a 4-pin power connector Compatible Intel sockets: LGA 1700/1200/115X/2011-3/2066 Compatible AMD sockets: AM5 and AM4
Pros:
It reduces over 15 degrees celsius temperature from the CPU This unit shows over 80% less power consumption, compared to the other coolers Due to the perfect sealing of cooling liquid, it doesn’t leak through the pipes
Cons:
It does not come with RGB lights
3. Deep Cool Liquid CPU Cooler
DeepCool is one of the leading manufacturers of thermal solutions for modern PCs. It provides a range of high-performance components which assist in efficiently cooling PC hardware. The DeepCool CASTLE 240EX ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler is tuned for high performance. This unit features a pump that efficiently circulates water at a speed of 2550 RPM at a 17.8 dB noise level. The high-density aluminum radiator is paired with the copper cold plate with the help of 380 mm long pipes. Working with the pair of 120 mm fans, the cooler shows 280 Watt TDP (thermal design power). At higher loads, the fans run at a maximum speed of 2550 RPM with a minimal operational noise of 30 dB. Air is circulated at 69.34 CFM over the radiator to transfer heat effectively. The user won’t have to worry about mounting the cooler as it supports the Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets. It also has ARGB lights with customizable color features. A 4-pin power connector supplies 5V power to this cooler. Best Features:
Features aluminum radiator with high-density fins and a copper cold plate A pump with a maximum speed of 2550 RPM and 17.8 dB noise output 380 mm long liquid-carrying pipes A pair of 120 mm fans running at 2550 RPM speed and 30 dB operational noise Overall TDP capacity of 280 Watt Runs on 5V power, supplied via a 4-pin power connector A maximum airflow rate of 69.34 CFM Compatible Intel socket: LGA 1700, 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 2066, 2011-v3, and 2011 Compatible AMD socket: AM5, AM4, sTRX4, and sTR4 Features ARGB lights with customizable colors
Pros:
It has one of the most silent pumps on the list The cooling tubes do not leak liquid or heat into the surrounding It offers efficient cooling of the CPU
Cons:
The mounting extensions need a very careful installation to avoid offsetting of CPU plate and cooling plate
4. MSI Liquid CPU Cooler
MSI is known for its range of products developed for modern users. With the help of innovations, it has developed high-quality products, from laptops to desktops. The MSI MAG Coreliquid P240 Liquid CPU Cooler is also tuned for delivering high performance. It features a 240 mm radiator made up of aluminum with a split flow design. An integrated pump circulates the cooling liquid between the cold plate and the radiator via 400 mm cooling tubes. These tubes are triple-layered to prevent leakage of the cooling water. To circulate fresh air over the radiator, a pair of 120 mm PWM fans are fitted in the cooler. Even after running at a maximum speed of 2500 RPM, both fans produce only 18 dB of noise. With a wattage rating of 260 Watts, this cooler runs on a 12V power supply via a 4-pin connector. It is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets like the Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5. Best Features:
Features 240 mm aluminum radiator with a split flow design An integrated pump to circulate cooling liquid Triple-layered cooling tubes 400 mm in length A rated wattage of 260 Watts Supports connection with the 4-pin power connector to run on a 12V power supply An operational noise level of 18 dB A pair of 120 mm PWM fans with a maximum speed of 2500 RPM Compatible AMD sockets: AM5, AM4, FM2+, FM2, FM1, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, and AM2 Compatible Intel sockets: LGA 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156,,1200, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, and 2066
Pros:
It has a three-phase motor which dampens the noise of the pump while running The design of this cooler looks more futuristic compared to other options It comes with various mounting extensions that match various CPU sockets
Cons:
It does not come with built-in RGB lights
5. ID-COOLING Liquid CPU Cooler
ID-Cooling, as the name suggests, specializes in the development and manufacturing of cooling solutions. With the help of strict quality control, it develops reliable and affordable products. As a result, its products have become popular for a decade. The ID-Cooling AURAFLOW X 240 CPU Water Cooler is a budget-oriented unit. This cooler features a 240 mm radiator which offers enough surface area for heat rejection. The pair of 120 mm PWM fans circulate air over the radiator at the rate of 74.5 CFM. Running at a maximum speed of 1700 RPM, these fans create operational noise between 18 dB to 35.2 dB. The cooler is connected to a 12V power supply via a 4-pin power connector. Both the fans and the pump have RGB lights fitted to give the cooler a modern look. Mounting of the cooler is easy due to its compatibility with various CPU sockets, including the new generation Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5. Best Features:
Features a 240 mm radiator A pair of 120mm PWM fans with a maximum speed of 1700 RPM The maximum airflow rate of 74.5 CFM Operational noise level between 18 dB to 35.2 dB A 12 V power supply via a 4-pin power connector Compatible Intel socket: LGA 1700/2066/2011/1151/1150/1155/1156/1200 Compatible AMD socket: AM5 and AM4 Built-in RGB lights for fan and pump
Pros:
The RGB light offers a wide range of customization It can be easily installed with any CPU socket It is the most affordable option on the list
Cons:
The operational noise becomes louder under heavy-loading conditions
6. EVGA Liquid CPU Cooler
With the help of its partnership with Nvidia, EVGA has researched modern PC hardware. It has thereby developed a range of cooling solutions that match the performance of the new generation CPUs, GPUs, etc. The EVGA CLC 120mm is reliable. It has a copper base plate that absorbs heat from the CPU. The base plate heats the cooling liquid and circulates it to the radiator with the help of cooling tubes. The 120 mm radiator offers enough surface area to remove heat from the hot liquid efficiently. With a wattage rating of 50 Watts, this cooler can run on a 12V power supply via a single cable. To create air circulation over the radiator, a 120 mm fan is used. It creates an airflow of 58.87 CFM to allow maximum heat rejection from the radiator. Even at higher loads, the fan creates an operational noise of 20 dB, keeping the surroundings silent. It is compatible with a wide range of Intel sockets and supports the upgradable mounting extension. Best Features:
It features a 120 mm radiator, cooling pipes, and a copper base plate A 120 mm cooling fan The maximum airflow rate of 58.87 CFM An operational noise level of 20 dB Support input power supply of 12 V Compatible with a wide range of Intel sockets
Pros:
It has a compact design and a cleaner wiring system It supports customization or replacement of the fan with another unit It comes with a 5-year warranty
Cons:
It is not compatible with a wide range of AMD CPU sockets
7. Thermaltake Liquid CPU Cooler
Thermaltake develops and manufactures various computer hardware components. It offers a variety of cooling solutions for any type of PC setup. Its high-quality products assure the user of long-term durability. The Thermaltake TH120 ARGB Sync Snow CPU Liquid Cooler is a compact unit. It features a copper base plate that absorbs the CPU heat due to better thermal conductivity. With the help of cooling tubes, the heated liquid is transferred to a 120 mm radiator. To initiate heat transfer, a 120 mm fan circulates fresh air over the radiator surface at 2500 RPM. As a result, air flows at a rate of 59.28 CFM and allows heat dissipation. The fan produces a minimal noise level of 28.2 dB even at high loads. The cooler is supplied with 5V power with a 3-pin power connector. It has ARGB lights with 7 light modes and 8 preset colors. These lights sync with any type of motherboard RGB software for wider customization. It is compatible with various CPU sockets, including the Intel 1700 and AMD AM5. Best Features:
Features a copper base plate, cooling tubes, and a 120 mm radiator A 120 mm cooling fan with a maximum speed of 2500 RPM A maximum airflow rate of 59.28 CFM The operational noise level of 28.2 dB Built-in ARGB light with support for RGB software Runs at 5V power supplied via a 3-pin power connector Compatible with Intel sockets: LGA 1700,1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, and 1156 Compatible with AMD sockets: AM5, AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2, and FM1
Pros:
It has a compact design, making it suitable for limited-space applications The ARGB lights offer a wide range of customization It is one of the affordable options on the list
Cons:
It does not offer control over the speed of the pump
Buying Guide For The Best Budget Liquid CPU Coolers Under $100
By using a good cooling system, the performance of a CPU can be further enhanced. Liquid coolers have proved to be more efficient than the other coolers. The availability of these coolers under 100$ has further made them desirable for the CPUs. Now that we have gone through a detailed list of such liquid CPU coolers, we must learn about a few governing factors. This buying guide will explain to you the importance of these factors, to ease your selection process.
1. Noise Level
The liquid CPU coolers consist of components like fans and pumps which run at higher speeds. The pump motor runs faster to circulate the liquid coolant in the pipes. The fan setup adjusts to the load on the CPU cooler and thereby runs at higher RPMs. As a result, these coolers produce a certain level of noise. To those users who love a silent setup, this noise might interrupt their experience. The liquid coolers are designed to keep the operational noise under the 30-35 dB limit. Hence, even at higher loads, the cooler will produce negligible noise. The cooling process also remains unaffected by the noise level control.
2. Material
Material selection is an important factor for any type of cooler. The baseplate of a liquid cooler is placed directly over the CPU plate. Even with a negligible gap between these two surfaces, heat transfer takes place easily. The material properties affect this heat transfer process. Thermal conductivity allows the transfer of heat from the heated CPU to the cooler baseplate. It is usually made up of copper or aluminum material, due to its desirable characteristics. Copper is used for its efficiency and easy-to-shape property. The radiator is made up of Aluminum due to better thermal conductivity, strength, and lightweight. Cooling pipes are usually made of rubber or plastic material to prevent heat or cooling liquid leakage.
3. Compatible Sockets
It is important to check the cooler’s compatibility with the CPU socket and motherboard. A CPU socket is responsible for the connection between the cooler baseplate and the CPU retaining plate. Every socket has a different type of mounting brackets and holes. A slight mismatch between the mounting of the cooler and the socket will lead to uneven placement of the cooler baseplate. Intel sockets like the LGA 1700 or 1300 are used for Intel motherboards. AMD motherboards use their AM3 or AM4 sockets. Some brands also offer extension brackets that make the cooler compatible with wider socket sizes.
4. Power Connector Type And Voltage
A power connector is used to connect the CPU cooler to the motherboards or PSUs. The motherboard or PSUs supply stable power to the cooler. Every type of connector offers different features like a different number of pins, a dedicated connection to control the fan, etc. The liquid coolers previously used the Molex connectors before getting replaced with SATA connectors. These connectors have a 4-pin construction and mainly operate on a 12V DC supply. The user must check the motherboard for additional headers for the cooling fan. Else they can opt for a direct connection with PSU.
5. RPM
The rotational speed of a cooling fan is measured in rotations per minute. This speed is important to understand the cooling performance of a liquid cooler. It controls the flow of cooling air over the heated surface of the radiator. When the CPU runs at lower loads, less heat is generated. Hence the fan also runs at a lower RPM. The fan increases its rotational speed when the CPU runs at higher loads. More air is forced on the heated radiator surface to decrease heat transfer time. This helps in lowering the overall temperature and prevents thermal-throttling of the CPU. generally, the fan rotates at 1200 to 1500 RPM. The fan of a few liquid CPU coolers can also rotate at speeds above 2000 RPM.
6. Warranty
Warranty is an important factor to protect liquid CPU coolers against damage. Any brand offers a warranty on certain types of damages with free repairs. Being an electrical unit, the liquid cooler is subjected to various factors which might damage it. The warranty also gives the user the confidence to buy products from the manufacturer. With the help of extended warranty programs, the warranty period can be further extended. It is advised to check all the terms and conditions of the warranty before buying the cooler.
Conclusion
For efficient cooling, the Deep Cool Liquid CPU Cooler is an ideal option. It has a water pump and a pair of cooling fans, both operating at 2550 RPM. As a result, good circulation of cooling liquid happens along with maximized airflow over the radiator. With a capacity of 280 Watt TDP, this unit can handle extreme temperatures of CPU. The cooler is also easy to install, as it supports both Intel LGA and AMD AM sockets. A 4-pin connector connects the cooler with a 5V power supply. With ARGB lights, this cooler looks more futuristic. To handle heavy performance with optimum silence, the ARCTIC Liquid CPU Cooler is the right choice. It operates at a noise output level of merely 8.4 dB (0.3 sones), making it almost inaudible. It transfers heat from the CPU with the help of a cool plate, cooling tubes, and a radiator setup. The pair of radiator fans and an additional fan near the pump circulate fresh air for heat dissipation. This cooler effectively reduces over 15 degree Celsius temperature. It is compatible with both Intel LGA and AMD AM sockets of all generations, allowing easy mounting. It is connected to a 12V supply through a 4-pin connector. For a limited budget, the ID-COOLING Liquid CPU Cooler offers good performance. It features a 240 mm radiator that provides ample surface area for effective heat dissipation. The pair of 120 mm fans circulate air over the radiator at a rate of 74.5 CFM to reduce the cooling time. This cooler is powered by a 12V supply via a 4-pin power connector. Both the fans and the pump feature RGB lights, giving the cooler an aesthetic upgrade. The mounting of the cooler is easy due to its compatibility with various CPU sockets like Intel LGA and AMD AM series. The cooler offers all these features at a cheaper price tag.
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