Low Profile CPU Cooler for 2023 | Top Picks for Small Form Factor Builds
It is essential to choose an appropriate CPU cooler when building a small form factor (SFF) PC. A low-profile CPU cooler is the perfect solution, providing efficient cooling while saving space. A wide range of options are available on the market, but we’ve rounded up the best products for 2023 and provided a comprehensive guide below.
Low Profile CPU Coolers: Everything You Need to Know
Before we dive into the top picks for small form factor builds, let’s first understand what low-profile CPU coolers are and why they are essential. Unlike traditional CPU coolers, low-profile coolers are designed to save space and fit inside more minor cases. They are ideal for SFF builds that require efficient cooling in tight spaces.
Types of Low-Profile CPU Coolers
There are several types of low-profile CPU coolers available on the market. The most common types are air, liquid, and hybrid coolers.
Air coolers are the most affordable and popular option. They use a heatsink and fan to cool the CPU.
Liquid coolers use a pump and radiator to cool the CPU. They are more expensive than air coolers but offer better cooling performance.
Hybrid coolers combine air and liquid cooling, using a radiator and fan to cool liquid as it circulates.
Top Picks for Small Form Factor Builds
Now that you know the different types of low-profile CPU coolers, let’s look at the top picks for small form factor builds.
1. Noctua NH-L9i Chromax
The Noctua NH-L9i Chromax is a low-profile CPU cooler well-suited for small form factor builds. It has a height of only 37mm and comes with a 92mm fan. The NH-L9i Chromax is known for its excellent cooling performance and quiet operation.
| Characteristic Noctua NH-L9i Chromax | Specification Noctua NH-L9i Chromax |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 37 x 95 x 95 mm |
| Weight | 480 g |
| Fan | NF-A9x14 HS-PWM chromax.black |
| Fan speed | 300 – 2500 RPM |
| Noise level | 14.8 – 23.6 dB(A) |
| Airflow | 60.0 – 57.5 m³/h |
| TDP | 65 W |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, LGA1200-F, LGA1700-F, LGA1151-v2, LGA1200-v2, LGA1700-v2, LGA1700-K, LGA1200-K, LGA1151-v2-K, LGA1200-v2-K, LGA1700-v2-K, AMD AM4 |
2. Cooler Master MasterAir G100M
The Cooler Master MasterAir G100M is another low-profile CPU cooler well-suited for small form factor builds. It has a height of only 49mm and comes with a 92mm fan. The MasterAir G100M is known for its excellent cooling performance and quiet operation.
| Characteristic Cooler Master MasterAir G100M | Specification Cooler Master MasterAir G100M |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 49 x 70 x 70 mm |
| Weight | 645 g |
| Fan | 92mm fan @ 2,500 RPM |
| Noise level | 15-30 dBA |
| Airflow | 62 CFM |
| TDP | 95 W |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, LGA1200-F, LGA1700-F, LGA1151-v2, LGA1200-v2, LGA1700-v2, LGA1700-K, LGA1200-K, LGA1151-v2-K, LGA1200-v2-K, LGA1700-v2-K, AMD AM4 |
3. SilverStone AR11
SilverStone AR11 is a low-profile CPU cooler that is designed for overclockers. It has a height of only 50mm, and it comes with a 120mm fan. The AR11 is known for its excellent cooling performance but can be noisy under load.
| Characteristic SilverStone AR11 | Specification SilverStone AR11 |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 50 x 97 x 94 mm |
| Weight | 290 g |
| Fan | 92mm PWM fan @ 1200-3000 RPM |
| Noise level | 19.3-44.5 dBA |
| Airflow | 21.75-55.76 CFM |
| TDP | 95 W |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700 |
4. Cryorig C7 Cu
The Cryorig C7 Cu is a low-profile CPU cooler well-suited for budget-minded consumers. It has a height of only 47mm and comes with a 92mm fan. The C7 Cu is known for its good cooling performance and affordable price.
| Characteristic Cryorig C7 Cu | Specification Cryorig C7 Cu |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 47 x 97 x 94 mm |
| Weight | 435 g |
| Fan | 92mm PWM fan @ 600-2100 RPM |
| Noise level | 13.7-31.3 dBA |
| Airflow | 23-55 CFM |
| TDP | 100 W |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, AMD AM4 |
5. be quiet! Shadow Rock LP
Be quiet! Shadow Rock LP is a low-profile CPU cooler designed for silent operation. It has a height of only 49mm and comes with a 92mm fan. The Shadow Rock LP is known for its excellent cooling performance and quiet operation.
| Characteristic be quiet! Shadow Rock LP | Specification be quiet! Shadow Rock LP |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 49 x 90 x 92 mm |
| Weight | 460 g |
| Fan | Pure Wings 2 PWM 92mm fan @ 800-1500 RPM |
| Noise level | 15.5-25.5 dBA |
| Airflow | 37.7-57.2 CFM |
| TDP | 130 W |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, LGA1200-F, LGA1700-F, LGA1151-v2, LGA1200-v2, LGA1700-v2, LGA1700-K, LGA1200-K, LGA1151-v2-K, LGA1200-v2-K, LGA1700-v2-K, AMD AM4 |
These coolers offer efficient cooling and low noise levels, making them ideal for SFF builds.
How to Pick the Perfect Low-Profile CPU Cooler
When choosing a low-profile CPU cooler, there are several factors to consider. Let’s take a look at some features to consider when making your decision.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Low-Profile CPU Cooler
- Compatibility with your CPU socket: The first and most important feature to consider is compatibility with your CPU socket. Not all coolers are compatible with all sockets, so check the manufacturer’s specifications before purchasing.
- Number of heat pipes: The more heat pipes a cooler has, the more efficiently it can dissipate heat. Heat pipes are responsible for conducting heat away from the CPU, so having more can improve cooling performance.
- Size of the heatsink: The size of the heatsink is also essential as it affects the cooling performance. A more oversized heatsink has more surface area for dissipating heat, but it may not fit your case if you have limited space. Be sure to measure your case before purchasing a cooler.
- Fan size and speed: It is crucial to consider the fan’s size and speed when making a decision. A more significant fan can move more air and cool the CPU more effectively, but it may also produce more noise. Be sure to check the fan’s noise level before purchasing.
- Noise levels: Noise is essential, especially if building a home theater PC or a quiet work environment. Look for a cooler with a low noise rating (measured in decibels or dB) while still providing efficient cooling.
- Price: Finally, price is a consideration for many people. Depending on the features and brand, a low-profile CPU cooler can range from around $20 to over $100. Determine your budget and search for a cooler that fits your needs and price range.
Before purchasing, consider these features to ensure that your chosen low-profile CPU cooler fits your needs and provides optimal cooling performance for your SFF build.
Buyer’s Guide to Low Profile CPU Coolers
Now that you know the best low-profile CPU coolers, look for installation tips.
Installation Tips for CPU Coolers
1. Always read the instruction manual before installation
2. Clean the CPU and heatsink surface before applying thermal paste
3. Make sure all components are properly seated and tightened
4. Use caution when handling fragile parts, such as heat pipes
Installing your low-profile CPU cooler can be accessible by following these helpful tips.
Benefits of Low Profile CPU Coolers
Aside from saving space and allowing for better airflow, there are several other benefits to using a low-profile CPU cooler. For example, they can be quieter and more efficient than traditional coolers. They also make it easier to transport your SFF PC without worrying about damage to the cooler.
Common Issues with Low-Profile CPU Coolers
While low-profile CPU coolers are great for SFF builds, there are some common issues that you should be aware of. For example, some coolers may need more cooling power for high-performance CPUs. Others may need help to install due to their small size.
Maintenance and Cleaning of Low Profile CPU Coolers
Low-profile CPU coolers, like any other computer component, require maintenance and cleaning to ensure proper functionality. Be sure to clean the heatsink and fan blades regularly to remove dust and dirt buildup. You should also replace the thermal paste every few years to ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a low-profile CPU cooler is essential for a slight form factor PC build. Several low-profile coolers are available, each with advantages and disadvantages. When choosing a low-profile CPU cooler, consider compatibility with your CPU socket, number of heat pipes, heatsink size, fan size and speed, noise levels, and price. Always follow the installation tips and perform regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
