cpu-coolers

Best CPU Coolers For i7 8700k (Air & Liquid) in 2023

by Perfect Tech Reviewer

Intel Core i7 8700 k is one of the leading among available processors and is almost ideal for current requirements. However, you want something for your gaming processor or a unit capable of managing productivity chores such as rendering and editing. The CPU offers incredible performance in every aspect. In this guide, we will have a detailed review of the best CPU cooler for i7 8700k.

At A Glance:

Staff Pick

Best Liquid CPU Cooler For i7 8700k

Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT

Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT

Well-price for premium performance

Desktop UI customization and control

High-class performance 240 mm AIO cooling

Best pick

Best Air CPU Cooler For i7 8700k

Noctua NH-D15

Noctua NH-D15

6-years warranty limit

Automatic speed and Ultra-quiet operation

Dual fan mode for improved heat distribution

Budget Pick

Best Budget CPU Cooler For i7 8700k

DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh

DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh

Looks fancy

Better cooling

Average thickness for extra memory

As we know, the i7 8700k consume more heat as compared to older intel processors. So, if you plan to run it at stock or to overclock it, you will have to take help from a great cooler to keep the system cool and works efficiently. If your processor heats up, it will not deliver the performance you want, but you don’t need to worry if you have an excellent cooler. Your cooler will manage all the problems and let you outperform all your skills in a comfortable atmosphere.

However, as the processors become more vigorous, there is a greater demand for high-quality cooling. It is too foremost when we talk about Intel’s i7 series of processors. Intel’s i7 7700k and Intel’s i7 8700k both offer enormous opportunities to satisfy you for what you want. But if you will overclock, you will need a liquid or air cooler to run your system smoothly.

If you have visited the market, you must be confused about which cooler would be best suitable. There are a lot of brands serving the consumer market. All products have different qualities and features according to the buyer’s needs. We will assist you in the selection of CPU water, air, or liquid cooler. Here in this article is the honest analysis and comparison of multiple CPU coolers, their pros and cons, and the best time to buy a CPU cooler.

Our Recommendations For Liquid AIO

Award Modal Design Retailer
Best Premium CPU Cooler For i7 8700k NZXT RL-KRX Kraken Liquid NZXT RL-KRX Kraken Liquid
Best Liquid CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT
Best AIO CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB

Our Recommendations For Best CPU Cooler For i7 8700k

Award Modal Design Retailer
Best Air CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Noctua NH-D15 Noctua NH-D15
Best Silent CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Noctua NH-U12S Noctua NH-U12S
Best Heat-Conductor CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO
Best Budget CPU Cooler For i7 8700k DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh
Best Black CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition

NZXT RL-KRX Kraken Liquid

NZXT RL-KRX Kraken Liquid View on amazon

Brand: NZXT | Power Connector Type: 4pin | Cooling Type: Liquid cooler | Dimensions: 18.66 x 7.17 x 5.75 inches | Socket: AM4 | Fan Size: 120mm | Speed: 500 to 2000 rpm

What recent buyers report?

Recent buyers are happy and satisfied with this product. They report that the product works outstanding and yet expensive at the same time. Some people had a complaint about the cam software while some are happy with its performance. Its installation procedure is effortless, and it takes no time to get into running. Users complain that the product should have RGB fans at this highly high price.

Why it stands out to us?

NZXT RL-KRX Kraken Liquid stands out because it delivers better cooling performance, built-in installation, and adorable visual effects. You can also adjust fine-tune settings with cam software’s help that ensures remarkable performance in the most vigorous gaming battlefields. It also offers customized lighting effects and improved performance from the previous models. Moreover, it adds two fan connectors for extra RGB options.

Who will use it most?

This product is reliable and has a long-lasting performance. It has a re-created cap enormous infinity mirror ring LED. Moreover, its cam fine-tune settings deliver high-performance results in too intense gaming sessions. It is best suitable for gamers who usually play massive games and are very concerned about their gaming scores. It delivers an outstanding experience in RGB liquid cooling.

Bottom line

Overall, the product is out-class and works amazingly in a very systematic way. It provides extra benefits to its customers and delivers what they offer. The cam software is stunning and had no comparison with other devices. The price is a little bit expensive and is not affordable for some of us. But, its quality is worth it. It is straightforward to install and a user-friendly cooler.

The Pros

Easy to install

Full cam integration

10% bigger infinity mirror cap

The Cons

Cam software is not reliable

View on Amazon

Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT

Staff Pick Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT View on amazon

Brand: Corsair | Power Connector Type: 4pin | Cooling Type: Liquid cooler | Dimensions: 11.02 x 4.72 x 1.18 inches | Socket: AM4 | Fan Size: 120mm | Speed: 400 to 2400 rpm

What recent buyers report?

The recent buyers are delighted and pleased with their purchase. They stated that the unit works amazingly and super smooth. The radiator and ML fans have very high quality, and the fans push a lot of air so that the system remains cool and helps deliver outstanding performance. Some buyers have some issues with the eight screws that attach the fans to the radiator. Overall, the performance is fantastic.

Why it stands out to us?

Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT stands out because it offers better airflow for outstanding CPU cooling performance. It also has 16 individually addressable RGB LEDs glow up the unit to deliver mesmerizing, customizable lighting effects to go with the flow. Moreover, the stunning fan gets slow and stop entirely at lower temperatures, and remove the fan noise.

Who will use it most?

This product has the best results and delivers high-end cooling performance. It is best suitable for those who play games for long runs and also for heavy workloads. It keeps the system cool and let you outperform your skills in gaming for an extended period. Its impressive ICUE hardware gives you the authority to synchronize and handle your cooler’s RGB lighting with monitor CPU, ICUE compatible devices, adjust the fan, pump speed, and coolant temperatures.

Bottom line

Overall, this unit is top-class, and you shall never regret it after buying it. It is the product of a well-known brand with a famous reputation in the world’s class listings. Corsair never compromises on the quality of features and specs and always delivers what it offers. The installation procedure is effortless and straightforward to understand.

The Pros

Well-price for premium performance

Desktop UI customization and control

High-class performance 240 mm AIO cooling

The Cons

A little bit noisy at full speed

View on Amazon

Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB

Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB View on amazon

Brand: Cooler Master | Power Connector Type: 4pin | Cooling Type: Liquid cooler | Dimensions: 12.87 x 11.02 x 12.8 inches | Socket: AM4 | Fan Size: 120mm | Speed: 650 to 2000 rpm

What recent buyers report?

Recent buyers stated that the product is right and works well. Its build quality is outstanding and is reasonable for many people. The RGB is fascinating enough to make you feel that you have spent your money in the right place. The RGB arrives in many color choices. Some buyers complain that the RGB controller can be challenging to handle for beginners. Few customers stated that the product is satisfactory, and the plastic bracket is too short and tight.

Why it stands out to us?

Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB stands out because of its low noise feature and incredible performance. It is effortless to install, and the 240mm radiator makes this the exceptional full package liquid cooling for beginners to experienced ones. Additionally, it is also enhanced with mesmerizing RGB lighting effects for all those who want some refreshing results in their system. This product now introduces the syncing procedure smoother than ever before.

Who will use it most?

This product is best suitable for the first-time-users and the beginners also. It has a ton of features that are based on quality and performance. Its dual-chamber pump detaches the heated coolant pump for the better cooling performance of the PC. The customized, low resistance radiator helps heat exchange, a higher flow rate, and offers unbeaten cooling performance. Besides this, after having a constant balance between air pressure and airflow, the dual RGB fans take the help of silent driver IC that makes the fan operation more smooth to prevent fan vibrations and noise.

Bottom line

Overall, the product is right and works well if we consider its price. It is reasonable, so most people can easily afford it. It covers both the beginners and experienced people. The product does not compromise on performance and maintains its quality and reputation. The installation is supportive of both the AMD and Intel platforms. Moreover, after installation, it does not need maintenance for unmatchable silence performance.

The Pros

Easy to install

Keeps system cool

Impressive with RGB lighting

The Cons

Sounds loud at high speeds

View on Amazon

Noctua NH-D15

Best pick Noctua NH-D15 View on amazon

Brand: Noctua | Power Connector Type: 4pin | Cooling Type: Air cooler | Dimensions: 5.91 x 6.34 x 6.5 inches | Socket: AM4 | Fan Size: 140mm | Speed: 300 to 1500 rpm

What recent buyers report?

Everyone who bought Noctua NH-D15 was blown out by the quality of its performance and declare that they would shop for this product again. The built quality has no comparison, and the installation procedure is straightforward. Some buyers also stated that the fan does not have a whisper of sound. Some buyers reported that they received used and defective products, weak fan clips, and the cooling fans to be broad than the heatsink.

Why it stands out to us?

It delivers the same fantastic performance as compared to some liquid coolers at the snatch of the price. This dual-tower power unit can reach the highest requirements of overclocking. It consists of 2 NF-A15 140mm fans and PWM support, enabling automatic speed control, which delivers better efficiency. Besides this, it is delivering remarkable and outstanding cooling performance; it’s amazingly silent, as well.

Who will use it most?

If you search for an efficient, reliable, and quiet cooling device, this product is suitable for you. It is durable and has top-notch performance. It has compatibility with almost all the high-end RAM available in the market. Moreover, it is the most demanding unit among silent enthusiasts, overclockers, and those who want a complete quality solution.

Bottom line

The company compares the water cooler’s temperature measurements at a fraction of the price. This product surely deserves the top seat on our list. It is thoroughly designed with 2 NF-A15 140mm fans and six heat pipes. It guarantees an ultra-quiet operation and maintains a fantastic cooling performance. But, it’s too large and might not adjust in all CPU builds. Its color is brown, which is also not the favorite one for many people.

The Pros

6-years warranty limit

Automatic speed and Ultra-quiet operation

Dual fan mode for improved heat distribution

The Cons

Colour may not please everyone

View on Amazon

Noctua NH-U12S

Noctua NH-U12S View on amazon

Brand: Noctua | Power Connector Type: 4pin | Cooling Type: Fan | Dimensions: 6.22 x 1.77 x 4.92 inches | Socket: AM4 | Fan Size: 120mm | Speed: 300 to 1500 rpm

What recent buyers report?

This product is truly a gem, and almost every buyer is impressed with its performance invested in this unit. Users appreciated its quality construction and easy installation. One buyer reviewed that their system can maintain 50 degrees Centigrade, even when it reaches 100% CPU load. While some customers were disappointed with the colors offered and some were impressed with its Whisper-quiet operation.

Why it stands out to us?

Noctua NH-U12S stands out from its contenders because of its unmatchable performance and noise levels. The product is incredibly impossible to hear over other elements at lower fan speeds. Moreover, it also gets amazingly silent in the default single-fan system. Besides this, the noise levels maintain shallow sound, even with the entry of a second fan. This product received more than 400 awards and recommendations from different websites and magazines.

Who will use it most?

Its slim tower design and 45 mm fin depth are its most notable features, which allow users to complete access and reach to memory modules over all the advanced CPU sockets. It has 100% compatibility with tall and giant heat spreaders and optional memory fans. It is best suitable for severe gamers. Moreover, it has the ability of whether you go for stock clocks or you want to overclock.

Bottom line

Noctua is a well-known brand and has an award-winning reputation in its circle. The company does not compromise on the quality and performance of the product. It is a tremendously quiet cooler that delivers outstanding performance and also perfect in size. If you want a cooler that performs exceptionally while being silent, then this is the only choice. Its specs and top of the line quality make it a superb purchase.

The Pros

6-year warranty life

Well-built with quality material

Innovation design provides outstanding cooling

The Cons

Doesn’t provide a second fan

View on Amazon

Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO

Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO View on amazon

Brand: Cooler Master | Power Connector Type: 4pin | Cooling Type: Air cooler | Dimensions: 3.1 x 6.3 x 4.7 inches | Socket: AM4 | Fan Size: 120mm | Speed: 600 to 2000 rpm

What recent buyers report?

The majority of the users were satisfied and pleased with the unit’s performance and suggested it to other people. The buyers stated that the fan is incredibly silent and doesn’t make irritatable noise even under heavy tasks. One customer reported that their CPU temp fell by an average of 20 degrees, and their setup maintains cooling because of the better airflow. However, some users were disappointed with the preset thermal paste’s absence, while some found the installation procedure bit complicated.

Why it stands out to us?

Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO stands out to us because of its ultimate CDC technology. It is manufactured with heat pipes that are combined without any distance and gaps. The Continuous Direct Contact system makes a smooth and comfortable surface for quick and faster heat transfer. Moreover, this unit increases 6% more contact surface for better cooling, which provides 5% improved cooling.

Who will use it most?

This unit is specifically designed and optimized for the most pleasing user experience. This unit is the perfect choice for cooling the most adequate latest generation of massive and advanced processors. It is a comparatively low price and is ideal for beginners or experienced builders. Moreover, it’s low cost is the most beautiful part for most of the customers. The product is fantastic and performs impressive all its responsibilities in a very systematic way.

Bottom line

If you have a low-budget and you want a high-class CPU with heatsink having an affordable price and superb performance, then this product is undoubtedly the one for you. However, it is designed and created with slightly cheaper and suitable material. It provides top-class performance when it comes to cooling and refreshing a system. Overall, the unit is right, and its build quality has no match.

The Pros

Easily removable fan

Compatible with all sockets of Intel from 775 to 1366

A smooth and sleek surface is suitable for heat conduction

The Cons

Don’t have a lighting feature

View on Amazon

DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh

Budget Pick DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh View on amazon

Brand: DEEP COOL | Power Connector Type: 4pin | Cooling Type: Air cooler | Dimensions: 7.00 x 6.70 x 5.10 inches | Socket: AM4 | Fan Size: 120mm | Speed: 900 to 1500 rpm

What recent buyers report?

Buyers were happy and satisfied with their purchase, as this is one of the best coolers recommended. The fan is quiet and works well at this price. Some buyers complain about the product’s colossal size and overheating problem. At the same time, some had issues with the heatsink installation. Overall, the unit is good and very easy to install.

Why it stands out to us?

DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh stands out to us because of its excellent performance in all respects, and that is why it is in the listing of the best CPU cooler for i7 8700k. It is one of the most recommended products because of its heat dissipation, At the same time, and stunning blue LED lighting effects. It can also be mounted with a second fan and have the thermal solution option for better gaming conditions. Its four metal heat pipes directly contact the CPU surface to prevent heat and avoid overheating chances.

Who will use it most?

Due to its increased cooling performance, it is best usable for gamers and those who perform heavy workloads in their offices and online home tasks. This unit has the best cooling performance, which is beneficial for overclocking. It maintains the system cooling and provides beautiful blue LED lights that create a fascinating effect. Moreover, it can be easily installed without moving the motherboard and other parts of the system.

Bottom line

Overall, the product has a high-end performance and arrives with multiple clips to support Intel and AMD sockets. Due to its universal socket compatibility feature, it has a superior position. Its vast range PWM feature offers you absolute control between the high performance and lower noise. Gamers who are used to play games for a long time are the best product for them.

The Pros

Looks fancy

Better cooling

Average thickness for extra memory

The Cons

Bit noisy

View on Amazon

Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition

Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition View on amazon

Brand: Cooler Master | Power Connector Type: 4pin | Cooling Type: Air cooler | Dimensions: 4.7 x 3.1 x 6.3 inches | Socket: AM4 | Fan Size: 120mm | Speed: 650 to 2000 rpm

What recent buyers report?

Recent buyers are satisfied with the product and appreciate that the fan works silently on even heavy workloads. Some buyers complain that the fan mounting system is not sound as compared to the older models. While some users also have gripes about the installation procedure being fussy and complicated. The best part about the fan is it extremely quiet working and its beautiful appearance.

Why it stands out to us?

Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition stands out to us because of its better and improved performance than before. It offers simple installation and quality performance and is known to be one of the admiring air cooling solutions. Its sleek and slim jet black design delivers better cooling results. The nickel plate fins and aluminum cover gives a more superior outer look. Its powerful fins offer low airflow resistance that permits cooler air to go into the heatsink.

Who will use it most?

The product is suitable for gamers as it has terrific cooling results. This unit is affordable for everyone and delivers an enormous range of features with its customers’ absolute functions. All these features are simple to understand, and installation is another best part that makes this CPU cooler the best option for everyone.

Bottom line

This CPU cooler has a list of quality features and ultimate functionality that don’t cause customer complaints. People who purchase this product are delighted and pleased with its result. It does belong to a famous brand that has a well-known reputation in its circle. It is specially designed to provide a comfortable zone for its customers. If that is what you demand in your setup, this cooler is the best one.

The Pros

Easy installation

Comes with smart fan sensor

An improvement over the previous model

The Cons

Lack of the second fan

View on Amazon

Summary For Liquid AIO

Award Modal Design Retailer
Best Premium CPU Cooler For i7 8700k NZXT RL-KRX Kraken Liquid NZXT RL-KRX Kraken Liquid
Best Liquid CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT
Best AIO CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB

Summary For Best CPU Cooler For i7 8700k

Award Modal Design Retailer
Best Air CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Noctua NH-D15 Noctua NH-D15
Best Silent CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Noctua NH-U12S Noctua NH-U12S
Best Heat-Conductor CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO
Best Budget CPU Cooler For i7 8700k DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh
Best Black CPU Cooler For i7 8700k Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition

Conclusion

Summing it up, we have a thorough discussion of the best CPU cooler for i7 8700k. Different people have multiple needs and requirements, and they rate the product according to their needs and will. It is challenging to choose the best unit when we go into the market. Our article will help you a little to decide which one CPU cooler best suits you. You don’t need to worry about your processor heating up when you need to work for a long time. With the help of CPU coolers, overclocking is not a problem for you. If you don’t have a budget problem, you should choose between Noctua NH-D15 and NZXT RL-KRX Kraken Liquid. And if you can not afford an expensive one but want all quality features, you should select between Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO and Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best CPU cooler for i7 8700k?

All these coolers that are present in this article are the best CPU coolers. Now you can choose the one that is best suitable for you. It depends on your needs and priorities. But if we have the option to recommend, then Corsair iCUE H100i RGB PRO XT is the one you should choose. It is the best CPU cooler that covers all the features and delivers high-performance levels.

Is stock cooler enough for i7 8700k?

The answer is NO. The cooler is not included in 8700k. And this is one of the massive processors that need efficient cooling. If you are not going to do overclocking, then there is no significant difference between the 8700k and the non-K; it only comes about 100MHz. I will recommend you to go for non-K and a well-performing air cooler like the Noctua NH-U12S.

Is Intel Core i7 8700k good for gaming?

The Intel Core i7 8700K is perfectly eligible for gaming along with a Turbo frequency of 4.7GHz, and it got good cores to handle even the most CPU-rigorous titles. It has just been replaced by an even larger, faster, and smoother processor in Intel’s listings. And however, it is not often recommendable in 2021. The NZXT RL-KRX Kraken Liquid is the best liquid cooler that helps outperform your skills in the most intense gaming sessions.

Does Intel i7 come with cooler?

All Intel Core CPUs came up with the stock cooler except the K or X series processor. The i7 9700 came up with a cooler, but the i7 9700k didn’t. The Intel processors that are unlocked come without a cooler, and the 8-core CPUs need 40$ worth of after-sale cooler to be overclocked correctly. Our DEEPCOOL GAMMAXX 400Wh is the best cooler that fully supports your system and provides impressive cooling.

Perfect Tech Reviewer

I write about PC gaming hardware and tech gadgets for gamers and professionals. My mission is to help you build individualized and unique high-performance PCs for your special needs and budget.

| Editor's recommended

| Related posts

| Latest Posts