Best CPU Cooler For i7 8700k

Aaron CareyLast Updated: July 19, 2020

There are many things to consider when you look for a cooler for your system so it doesn’t heat up and crash in the middle of your game. The best CPU cooler for i7 8700k, although not that hard to find, is extremely important in order to ensure everything keeps running smoothly.

If you are thinking of building your own gaming PC, or need a CPU cooler compatible with i7 8700k, you should definitely give this review a look. 

I have searched far and wide for the best coolers out there for i7 8700k. When you’re building your own machine, it becomes quite a monumental task to actually choose a part out of the plethora of options available. I have narrowed your choice down to 6 top coolers, though, so there’s less digging for you to do.

Related: Best CPU Cooler for i9 9900k

Best CPU Cooler For i7 8700k

1.CORSAIR HYDRO Series H100i PRO

Corsair Hydro Series H100i PRO RGB AIO Liquid...

• Dynamic Multicolor RGB Lighting: Vibrant...
• Powered by Magnetic Levitation: Two low...
• Powerful Software: CORSAIR iCue software...
• Zero RPM Mode: Zero RPM cooling profiles...
• Compatible Sockets: Intel LGA 1150,...

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Construction: Corsair Hydro Series H100iPro is the best aio cpu cooler for i7 8700k because it is quite efficient in dissipating the heat from the system. Plus, it is constructed in such a way that it has a cold plate made of copper and an aluminum radiator. The cold plate is thermally optimized for enhanced efficiency. The two fans of this liquid cpu cooler have an RGB LED pump head for generating light effects to match your gaming setup.  

Function: Magnetic levitation is used for running this best liquid cooler for i7. Plus, it has 2 PWM fans of 120mm ML series that produce static pressure but at an extremely low noise performance. Besides this, the airflow is quite remarkable at 75 CFM. Moreover, the speed of the fans ranges between 400 RPM and 2,400 RPM. At its maximum speed, the noise levels reach 37.0 decibels. 

CORSAIR iCue software in this best aio cpu cooler for i7 8700k enables you to customize certain settings like RGB lighting, fan, and pump speed. Besides making these adjustments, you can also monitor the CPU and cooling temperatures.

Cooling efficiency: You can also have specific fan and pump control as well. If the fans are not needed, there is a zero RPM mode with which you can adjust the speed of the fans or either make them completely stop functioning thereby minimizing the noise level. 

Moreover, there are advanced pump speed controls that increase the performance and reduce the noise levels. Besides, this best aio cpu cooler for i7 8700k works wonders when it comes to cooling and if you are an overclocker then this fan is the one for you. Besides, if your PC heats up pretty quickly this fan reduces those heat levels within a few minutes.

Dimensions and compatibility: The radiator measures 276mm x 120mm x 27mm while the fan size is 120mm x 25mm. The fans are compatible with the following standard sockets: Intel LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011 3, 2066, and AMD AM2, AM3, AM4, FM1, FM2.

Bottom line: These AIO liquid fans are the best liquid coolers for i7 that are easy to install and are compatible with most of the CPU sockets. Corsair H100i makes the cooling of the CPU extremely easy with very low noise levels. Moreover, these fans are equipped with RGB lighting that lights up the CPU providing an exciting look to your gaming setup. Plus the liquid cooling is way better than the rest of the cooling system (i.e air).

2.NZXT Kraken M22

NZXT Kraken M22 120mm - RL-KRM22-01 - AIO RGB...

• Advanced Lighting Modes: With an...
• Engineered For Performance: Engineered...
• Master Your Control: Using CAM, manage...
• All-New Radiator Fans: The Aer P...

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Construction: Kraken M22 is the best cpu water cooler for i7 8700k that has a CPU plate pre-applied with thermal paste for better performance. It has an aluminum Aer P radiator fan for an exceptional cooling experience as it dissipates the maximum amount of heat from the system. 

There is also an infinity mirror design that makes it reflect the light and makes it magical. Also, you can have a variety of colors and lighting combinations for your CPU cooler to get an exuberant display of lighting.

Function: The operation of the fan is based on fluid dynamics so there is a low noise level while it operates and it lasts longer as well. The noise levels are between 21 to 38 decibels. 

This is the best cpu water cooler for i7 8700k because the fan of this cpu cooler operates with CAM software that needs Microsoft Windows 10 operating system. Besides, you can connect them to any Android and iOS device using a mobile app to monitor the performance and see the real-time data. You can also keep an eye on the temperatures during hard-core gaming sessions. 

There are different LED lighting modes that you can choose from including fixed, breathing, fading, pulse, spectrum wave, marquee, covering marquee, alternating, loading, and heat exchange reactive modes.

Cooling efficiency: The fan of this liquid cpu cooler performs quite well as it rotates pretty fast in order to displace maximum amounts of liquid in very little time for providing you with enhanced performance with complete reliability. The pump is securely attached with safe and isolated cables. Besides, the pump head looks amazing with the customized LED lightings. 

Dimensions and compatibility: The dimensions of the radiator are 152 x 120 x 32mm while the CPU Water Block measures 65 x 65 x 48mm. The cables are durable and have an added protection due to the reinforcement of nylon sleeves & added rubber layering. The sockets it is compatible with are Intel Socket 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 2011, 2011-3, 2066 Core i5 / Core i3 / Pentium / Celeron.

Bottom line: The fan of this best cpu water cooler for i7 8700k is durable and long-lasting with an exuberant LED lighting display. It has an edge over others due to the infinity mirror design and dynamic lighting control. The radiators work flawlessly, the cable reinforcement protects from external damages and there are reduced noise levels even when the fans are running at full speed.

3.Noctua NH-U14S, Premium

Noctua NH-U14S, Premium CPU Cooler with...

• Award-winning, slim 140mm single-tower...
• Does not overhang the RAM slots on...
• Highly optimised NF-A15 140mm fan with...
• Includes high-end NT-H1 thermal paste...
• Renowned Noctua quality backed up by...

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Construction: This the best Noctua cpu cooler for i7 8700k because it is a classic Noctua U-series single tower CPU cooler that consists of Noctua Metal Case-Badge, aluminum cooling fins, base & heat pipes made of copper with soldered joints and nickel plating. 

Function: The Noctua has exceptional RAM compatibility. The slim design of just 52mm makes it fully compatible with tall memory modules and it will not overhang the RAM slots on LGA2066 and LGA2011 motherboards. However, there is a risk of the front fan overhanging the RAM in the first slot in some of the  LGA115x and AMD motherboards so a standard height of 32mm RAM should be selected while using the first slot. 

The fan of this best Noctua cpu cooler for i7 8700k run on SSO2 bearing, the second generation of SSO bearing, that has been optimized by the placement of the rear magnet closer to the axis. This provides more stability, precision, and durability to the fins of the fan. That is the reason the fan delivers an exceptional performance with an extremely low noise level.

Cooling efficiency: The cooler is designed such that it has 6 large heat pipes and an NF-A15 140mm fan that is supported by PWM plus a low noise adaptor to provide speed control that is entirely automatic and ensures ultimate cooling with ultra silence. The fan has an aerodynamic design with a round frame and flow acceleration channels to deliver an enhanced and quiet cooling performance.

There is an optional NFA-15 fan available for the users who are aiming for an even better performance. Anti-vibration pads and fan clips are available for you to establish a dual-fan mode by off-setting the rear fan by 5mm.

Dimensions and compatibility: This best Noctua cpu cooler for i7 8700k fan has dimensions of 6.5 x 2 x 5.9 inches. Plus, the SecuFirm2 Mounting Kit enables it to support Intel LGA115x (LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156), LGA2011, LGA2066 and AMD (AM4, AM3+, AM2+, FM1, FM2, FM2+). Hence, it provides perfect contact pressure and ease of compatibility with all current sockets. This model of NH-U14S is compatible with all the Intel Core i.e. i9, i7, i5, i3, and AMD Ryzen series.

Bottom line: The Noctua stands out in terms of its award-winning, slim single-tower design, extremely quiet performance along with efficient RAM compatibility. It is designed to provide exceptional cooling with automatic speed control.

4.EVGA CLC All-In-One

Sale

EVGA CLC 240mm, All-In-1 RGB LED CPU Liquid...

• Compatible with Intel LGA2066 2011...
• 240mm Dual Fan radiator
• RGB LED's, can be synced to other EVGA...
• Unique EVGA fan design for reducing...
• Includes the software suite for...

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Construction: EVGA CLC Cooler is a closed-loop cooler that is the best budget cpu cooler for overclocking. It is constructed with a full copper water block that transfers heat efficiently from the CPU to the 240mm aluminum dual-fan radiator. From there, the fans along with the Teflon nano-bearings dispense the heat quite conveniently. 

The fans have Nano-Teflon bearings which ensure a long lifespan. The Teflon coatings have great electrical properties as they are heat, cold, and chemical resistant. 

Function: This best budget cpu cooler for overclocking has software named EVGA Robust that provides you with the full control of your EVGA CLC Liquid Cooler. With this software, you can control fan speed/ curve, adjust the RGB lighting, control the speed of the pump, change the color profiles, and much more. Besides, you can save the settings done to the fan speed and lighting in the firmware so that they remain intact without needing to be changed again and again. 

For transferring the heat from the CPU block to the radiator, fully-sleeved tubing is used. Besides, it has a built-in RGB LED to give it a sleek look and it also provides you with the control of the lighting. Hence, you can change the color cycling or choose your favorite color in addition to saving the color profiles in the firmware. 

Plus, the LEDs can be synced to other EVGA components as well. You can also monitor & manage EVGA AIOs and EVGA flow control with the maximum airflow being 74.82 CFM. 

Cooling efficiency: With its Robust software you can quickly run it to reduce the heat levels of your PC. Plus, it is so efficient that once you run the software within a matter of a few minutes it reduces heat and keeps the PC cool especially if you are an overclocker.

Dimensions and compatibility: The dimensions of this best budget cpu cooler for overclocking i.e EVGA liquid cpu cooler are 7 x 7.7 x 14 inches. Plus, EVGA is compatible with Intel LGA2066/2011/2011-v3/1150/1151/1155/1156/1366 and AMD AM2/AM3/AM4/FM1/FM2/TR4 and other related upcoming models.

Bottom line: EVGA CLC cooler, compatible with Intel and AMD, exhibits great efficiency and long-lasting performance due to its dual radiator fans, compact pump & nylon plaited cables. With a brilliant design and quality of fans in addition to even airflow distribution system, it elevates your gaming system by ensuring it remains cool even during heavy use.

5.DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400

DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX400 CPU Air Cooler with 4...

• Supports Intel Socket 130W...
• 120x120x25mm PWM fan with blue LED
• 4 sintered powder heatpipes directly...
• Extra fan clips provided allow adding a...
• Can be easily installed without moving...

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Construction: DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400 is the best air cpu cooler for i7 8700k. Its construction is based on ultimate high capacity 4 copper heat pipes that are directly in contact with the CPU. Moreover, the fins are made of aluminum and it consists of solid copper heat pipes.

It is equipped with a beautiful blue LED light. Plus, for further convenience, there are fan clips that help in assembling and disassembling the fan easily. It enables the fan and the heat sink to integrate completely. 

Function: This is the best cpu air cooler for i7 8700k has a PWM-controlled fan that combines high static pressure and large airflow of as much as 74.34 CFM to deliver an ultra-quiet performance with stunning blue LED lighting. Pulse width modulation along with automatic speed variation is used for controlling the cooling fans. Plus, there is a Zero-RPM function that would allow you to stop the fans, provided the temperature range is normal. 

The cooler runs on a hydrodynamic bearing. Therefore, it is very quiet as it uses pressurized liquid or gas for operation. However, it generally has to run at high RPM’s to maintain pressure.

Cooling efficiency: Due to the 4 copper heat pipes that are directly in contact with the CPU, it has an enhanced efficiency as it removes the thermal resistance and maintains uninterrupted contact between CPU & cooler. Therefore, the heat dissipation in this best cpu air cooler for i7 8700k is quite fast and the cooling performance increases due to the design of high-density aluminum fins and solid copper heat pipes. 

Dimensions and compatibility: The dimensions of the fan are 7 x 6.7 x 5.1 inches that makes it to be easily installed without moving the motherboard with its Universal socket compatibility. It supports up to 130W Intel CPUs (LGA20XX/ LGA1366/ LGA115X/ LGA775) and up to 125W AMD CPUs (AM4/ AM3+/ AM3/AM2+/ AM2/FM2+/FM2/ FM1). 

Bottom line: DeepCool Gammaxx 400 is therefore the best cpu air cooler for i7 8700k with a remarkably stylish, efficient, and ergonomic heat sink system. It has high-quality aluminum fins, copper heat pipes tightly fastened with fan clips for maximum airflow & heat dissipation, and mesmerizing blue LED lighting.

6.Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240R

Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240R ARGB...

• 240 millimeter Radiator low: profile...
• Addressable RGB fans and pump: Color...
• Removable pump cap: never worry about...
• Includes: Wired addressable RGB...
• Sleeved FEP Tubing's: sleek black outer...

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Construction: The Cooler Master MasterLiquid is the best cpu cooler for i7 8700k as it has a 240mm aluminum radiator and a dual-chamber pump. It is constructed of PPS (Polyphenylene sulfide) and glass fiber so it is resistant to a wide range of chemicals and also does not let any moisture or water cause damage to it. Hence, oxidation and corrosion do not take place in the pump. 

Moreover, there is double tubing that makes it more durable. The FEP tubing provides flexibility while the sleeved tubing gives it a premium quality appearance. There are also 1 to 3 addressable RGB splitter cables included for the various ARGB fans.

Function: The pump and the fans of this best cpu cooler for i7 8700k have addressable RGB LED lighting with push & pull airflow. The airflow of 66.7CFM occurs at a low noise level of 30 decibels. The IC driver is used for operating the fans which minimizes the turbulence or vibrations. The air dissipates through the fins and out of the case efficiently with a perfect balance of air pressure and airflow. 

The software used for Cooler Master is Centimeter Plus for controlling the addressable RGB lighting of the pump and fans. The customization of colors takes place in a non-RGB motherboard with a wired addressable RGB controller. 

Cooling efficiency: The type of bearings used in a fan affects the performance and noise of the fan. The fans in Cooler Master use fan rifle bearings that are similar to sleeve bearings but are much quieter than them and they have a lifespan longer than the ball bearings. 

Dimensions and compatibility: The fan’s dimension is 10.9 x 4.7 x 1.1 inches. Plus, the installation may take some time. However, there is a pump cap available that you can remove and place the pump inside. The CPU socket support for Intel includes LGA2066, LGA2011 v3, LGA2011, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1366, and for AMD it is AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, FM1.

Bottom line: Cooler Master MasterLiquid is the best cpu cooler for i7 8700k with a low profile dual chamber pump that transfers heat far better than the single chamber pumps. Plus, the air balance fans exhibit premium quality as they work at a very low noise level. There is also full-color customization due to the RGB LEDs that have been installed on the pump and the fans.

What to look for while buying the best CPU cooler

Processors are known to emit great heat when they are overlocked so what to check to see which cooler is compatible; either liquid or air? But somewhere where the numbers are concerned whether it’s the airflow, speed or noise level many people seem to be unaware of the fact that how much of an importance they are when it comes to the performance. 

So, while coming up with various options for you to cut that heat and keep the system free of heat you need to focus on some of the following features which will help you in making a good choice to having a powerful yet amazing system by your side which not only be worth your penny but will provide you with the great performance which is the dream of every single gamer.

Let’s take a look at those features before making a buy that lasts a long time:

• What type of cooler is it?
• At what speed does it run?
• Is it noisy?
• How efficient is it?
• Is it compatible with your PC?

Now go ahead and choose whichever you like the best!

Related: CPU Coolers

Conclusion

Conclusively, the best fan that I came across, the Corsair Hydro Series H100iPro, is an all in one liquid cooler that is made with durable material. It has the ability to cool down the system with enhanced efficiency. Plus, the fan has an RGB LED pump head that generates light effects. 

The 2 PWM fans run at a high speed producing low noise that only reaches 37.0 decibels. The CORSAIR iCue software enables you to customize certain settings like RGB lighting, fan speed, and pump speed. 

Now if you are a serious and determined gamer you might want to consider the options to keep your CPU cool. Are you an overclocker? Then you should consider going for liquid air coolers. If your gaming sessions aren’t that demanding, you can do just as well with fan coolers. Which cooling system do you prefer: liquid or air?

Aaron Carey

Aaron is an avid gamer, and likes to try out all the new tech he can get his hands on. When he isn’t enjoying his gaming sessions in his small house in New York, he is bound to be out trekking or something similar with his buddies.

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