Products at a Glance
How we picked the best CPU Cooler for Intel i9 14900K and 14900KS
Our process for selecting the best CPU cooler for the Core i9 14900K and KS is both careful and comprehensive. Ultimately, we’ve drawn on our very own review of the i9 14900K, the capabilities of the faster 14900KS, as well as weighing in on other publicly available benchmarks, to ensure we have a clear understanding of how different coolers perform alongside this processor. Additionally, given that the architecture of these 14th Gen chips isn’t too dissimilar to their 13th Gen predecessors, we can also draw on the best CPU cooler for i9-13900K for extra insight.
While choosing our top picks for the best cooler for an i9 14900K or KS, we focused on a few key aspects and their ability to get the most out of Intel’s high-end CPU. In particular, budget, cooling capability – especially when tapping into the i9-14900K’s 6GHz overclocking potential (6.2GHz for the KS), noise levels, and build quality all played a part. To a lesser extent, desirable but non-essential features, such as RGB lighting were taken into account.
As usual, we aim to sniff out the very best products suitable for a range of budgets and requirements, sorting through both good and bad to find coolers that won’t leave you with an annoying case of buyer’s regret. While the ultimate decision is always yours, we intend to offer a range of options that make a strong starting point for your own research – be that to cool a more productivity-focused system, or one of the best CPUs for gaming.
Product review: Intel i9 14900K Review
Product Reviews
- Magnetic daisy-chain fan design
- Exceptional cooling performance
- ARGB lighting for anyone who wants extra flair
- Expensive compared to other options in this list
- Requires careful handling
Diving into the technical realm, the ASUS ROG Ryujin III 360 is not just another liquid cooler. It boasts a vibrant 3.5” LCD Display that not only adds to its aesthetics but is functional for real-time monitoring. The embedded fan adopts a new ring-shaped frame design, complemented by advanced airflow channels. As for the fans, ASUS hasn’t held back, incorporating the premium ROG ARGB magnetic daisy-chainable fans armed with Gen 2 LEDs.
For the avid gamer or the professional in need of a solid AIO cooler system, this product is an enticing proposition. The liquid cooling it offers provides an exceptional cooling solution, often surpassing what you’d get with traditional air coolers. In essence, this is an investment in top-tier cooling performance and aesthetics.
The stunning ARGB lighting customization paired with the full-color LCD ensures that while your PC remains cool, it also looks cool. Those fans? They’re not just for show. The magnetic daisy-chain design is a nod to practicality, simplifying installation and minimizing cable mess. Without a doubt, this cooler is worth pairing up with the best motherboard for the i9-14900K to create the ultimate trio.
- Stellar cooling performance
- Gorgeous RGB implementation
- Commands a higher price tag
- Noise levels are slightly above average
- May be overkill for moderate users
The EK Nucleus AiO CR360 Lux D-RGB steps into the scene as a top-tier 360mm AiO Liquid Cooler, tailored for enthusiasts. With dimensions that read 400 × 27 × 124 mm, it’s built to impress, not just in size but in functionality.
Housing 3x 120mm 4-pin PWM fans that can reach a whopping speed of 2300 RPM, ensures optimal thermal performance during heavy workloads. Designed to support a wide array of sockets, including the latest Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5, its versatility is evident. And for those who appreciate aesthetics, its RGB implementation is nothing short of captivating.
This cooling unit is particularly recommended for those who push their Core i9-14900K or KS CPU to the limit. The EK Nucleus CR360 Lux D-RGB isn’t just about the numbers; it encapsulates what EK stands for – impeccable build quality, attention to detail, and top-notch performance. The use of premium materials coupled with unparalleled craftsmanship makes this cooler a standout.
- Exceptional air cooling capabilities
- Streamlined and minimalistic design
- Lacks RGB flair if that's important
Introducing the DeepCool Assassin IV: a Dual Tower Air Cooler that’s redefining the standards of air cooling solutions. Sporting dimensions of 144 × 147 × 164 mm, this behemoth has been meticulously designed to pack a punch.
Equipped with a 140mm 4-pin PWM fan as well as a 120mm 4-pin PWM companion, it manages to maintain a maximum fan speed of 1700 RPM. With its efficient design, noise levels remain at a respectable 29.3 dBA. To cater to a broad spectrum of users, it provides socket support for both the latest Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5, among others.
Despite the rising popularity of liquid coolers, the DeepCool Assassin IV firmly establishes the merits of sticking with air cooling, especially for the Core i9-14900K. Its sheer thermal prowess allows it to rival, and often surpass, some of the leading liquid coolers out there. Sporting a heat dissipation capacity of 240 watts, it’s not just about maintaining optimal temperatures but also offering the flexibility for enthusiasts to dabble in light overclocking sessions.
- Excellent liquid coooling option
- Stunning Capellix RGB lighting
- Seamless integration with Corsair iCUE software
- Premium price tag
- Might be overkill for non-gaming tasks
- Requires ample space for installation
Dive into the world of premium cooling with the Corsair iCUE H115i Elite Capellix Liquid CPU Cooler. This cooler stands out as a top-tier contender in the realm of liquid coolers designed for gaming enthusiasts. At its heart lies a sophisticated liquid cooling mechanism, seamlessly integrated to ensure your Intel Core i9-14900K remains cool even during the most demanding gaming marathons.
The Corsair iCUE H115i is not just about keeping temperatures low; it’s about doing it in style. The Capellix LEDs embedded in the cooler offer a dazzling light show that can elevate the aesthetics of any gaming rig.
Syncing the cooler with the Corsair iCUE software unleashes an array of customizable RGB lighting effects that can match your mood or game theme. And, while its primary strength lies in gaming performance, this cooler also delivers commendable results for day-to-day tasks and productivity applications.
Features and Considerations
When it comes to finding the perfect cooler for the Intel Core i9 14900K or KS, there are a myriad of features to consider. It’s not just about raw cooling performance that can keep up with the processor’s high TDP; factors like noise levels, installation ease, and aesthetic appeal also play pivotal roles. A CPU cooler might be a technical component, but for many, it’s also an integral part of their PC’s visual design.
Furthermore, compatibility is of paramount importance. It’s essential to ensure that the cooler fits comfortably within your case without obstructing RAM or other essential components. After all, a cooler that’s too bulky might impede airflow or even prevent the case from closing properly. You’ll need to consider where the radiator will sit, whether on top on the side, or on the bottom and how this will impact intake and outtake airflow.
With an air cooler, you’ll need to take a close look at the specs, such as the amount of heat pipes to see if it’s got enough under the hood to handle what the high-end 14th gen chip can do. That’s because there’s a total of eight p-cores and 16 e-cores with 24 threads on the Raptor Lake architecture, which is about as high-end as 1700 can go. These are third-generation performance cores and efficiency cores, and while well optimized, will still run toasty.
Is air cooling enough for 14900K?
While we would generally recommend investing in an AIO water cooler instead, air cooling can be a valid and cost effective option for those after a cheaper way to keep their chip chilled. The one we’ve included in our roundup has enough grunt to work well, but you won’t be able to overclock or push your games as hard.
Will a 240mm AIO cool a 14900K?
Yes, a 240mm radiator and pump combo should be enough to adequately cool an i9 14900K. We would recommend going for a 360mm if you have a large enough PC case for overclocking overhead but you shouldn’t experience any issues with a slightly smaller radiator mounted.
Our Verdict
When it comes to selecting the best CPU cooler for the Intel Core i9-14900K and KS, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. A lot depends on individual preferences, budget constraints, and specific use cases. However, one thing is certain: investing in a top-tier cooling solution is essential to unlock the full potential of this powerhouse processor. That’s why our editor’s choice pick has to go to the ASUS ROG Ryujin III 360.
The choices presented in this article range from cutting-edge liquid coolers to powerful air coolers, each with its own unique benefits. Regardless of whether you prioritize aesthetics, acoustics, or raw cooling power, there’s an option tailored for you. But always remember, while choosing a cooler, consider the long-term impact it will have on your system’s performance and durability.