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Constant whirring sound from the CPU cooler can distract users from their work/play, so PC enthusiasts and gamers want a quiet cooler on their system.
If you don’t like the buzzing sounds of a CPU cooler and are looking for a quiet cooler, I’ve got your back.
In this article, you will find the 7 best silent coolers to ensure a near-silent PC experience while ensuring the CPU gets proper cooling.
So, let’s get started!
Top 7 Best Silent CPU Coolers Overview
| Award | Model | Noise Level |
|---|---|---|
| Editor’s Choice | Noctua NH-U12A | 22.6 dB |
| Runner-Up | Noctua NH-D15 | 19.2 dB |
| Best Overall | Noctua NH-P1 | 12.1 dB |
| Most Stylish | CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L | 15 dB |
| Best Bang for Buck | Noctua NH-L9x65 | 23.6 dB |
| Best Tower Cooler | be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 | 24.3 dB |
| Most Affordable | Arctic Freezer 34 eSports DUO | 25 dB |
Though most CPU coolers don’t produce much noise, sometimes, a little noise from the cooler can distract you, resulting in less productivity and headache. So, choosing a quiet CPU cooler is essential if you want a silent PC.
To assist in choosing the most silent cooler for your CPU, we (our special hardware engineering team and I) have gone through extensive research and testing that ended up with the best performance-centric quietest CPU cooler list based on some crucial factors such as performance, noise levels, price, and compatibility.
Additionally, these shortlisted best coolers can run silently in every situation without sacrificing overall performance.
Here are the most silent CPU coolers:
1. Editor’s Choice: Noctua NH-U12A
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 158x125x112 mm | TDP: 169 W | Weight: 1220 g | Noise Level: 22.6 dB | Material: Copper and Aluminum | Fan compatibility: 120x120x25 | Socket compatibility: Intel LGA1700 (included since Q4 2021, older coolers require NM-i17xx-MP78), LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA2066, LGA2011 & AMD AM4, AM5
- »Built with high-quality materials.
- »Produce very low noise.
- »Instant cooling.
- »Easy installation.
- »Not suitable for a themed build PC because of its brown and beige color scheme.
Why We Picked It
Noctua products are well known for their impeccable quality and outstanding longevity. The NH-U12A offers a low noise level (22.6 dB) and excellent thermal performance.
While choosing the most silent CPU cooler for our office PC, we wanted a premium cooler with unmatchable features and greater performance, and finally, we got the NH-U12A on our hands.
We were astonished after seeing its superior design quality and cooling performance. It can handle extreme workloads and still efficiently distribute all the heat without affecting CPU performance.
The NH-U12 series has around 600 awards and recommendations from tech geeks and professionals worldwide. We chose the NH-U12A model for our CPU because of its high compatibility, unique design, low noise level, and fast cooling technology.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a cooler without any RAM, case, or PCIe compatibility issues, you should go for the NH-U12A model without a second thought.
What We Liked Most
To be frank, none of us dislike Noctua’s brown and beige color scheme. We were influenced by the beautiful color scheme and its premium build quality. Additionally, the NF-A12x25 120mm Noctua fan is one of the best fans in the market.
The optimized seven heatpipe layouts can effortlessly handle the heat produced by overclocking or other heavy workloads. Furthermore, the NT-H1 thermal compound makes the cooler more reliable.
What We Didn’t Like
Well, this is very personal. I don’t like the color scheme (brown and beige) and its premium price range.
Verdict
During the testing on our Ryzen CPU, the noise level of the NT-H1 model was less than 25 dB, which is surprisingly good. You must choose the NT-H1 CPU cooler to distribute the CPU heat efficiently without sacrificing overall performance.
2. Runner-Up: Noctua NH-D15
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 160x150x135 mm | TDP: 183 W | Weight: 1320 g | Noise level: 19.2 dB | Material: Copper and Aluminum | Fan compatibility: 140x150x25 mm | Socket compatibility: Intel LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA2066, LGA2011-0, LGA2011-3 (Square ILM) & AMD AM4, AM5
- »Runs very quietly.
- »Best cooling performance.
- »Enough RAM clearance.
- »Easy mounting.
- »Relatively expensive.
Why We Picked It
We realized the Noctua NH-D15 is a very impressive air cooler during the unboxing. It has superior build quality compared to similar products.
It only produces 19.2 dB of sound during the operations, which is surprisingly low and below the human hearing level.
The six heatpipe dual tower design allows it to distribute the heat more efficiently. In single fan mode, it offers high RAM compatibility. Furthermore, the SecuFirm2™ mounting system ensures a hassle-free installation.
Noctua NH-D15 is the upgraded version of its previous award-winning NH-D14 model. NH-D15 has advanced features like an expanded layout and dual NF-A15 fans, making it suitable for PC enthusiasts.
After observing all the features and low noise level, we couldn’t resist adding this cooler to our PC, and it surprised us with its top-notch performance and low noise level.
Who It’s For
This unique and powerful cooler is suitable for most CPUs, in case your main intention is purely air cooling. If you want a cooler that can run silently and still performs excellently, you can pick the Noctua NH-D15 without hesitation.
What We Liked Most
Among different exclusive features, we were surprised by its black finish, industry-standard performance, shallow noise level, and high RAM compatibility.
What We Didn’t Like
This powerful unit has no downside that influences us to keep it aside. However, the price is slightly higher than other low-level coolers.
Verdict
With the 19.2 dB noise level, the NH-D15 model has been awarded as the runner-up. If you are ready to pay a few extra bucks for a powerful, still less noisy CPU cooler, the NH-D15 model is the best option for your new build.
3. Best Overall: Noctua NH-P1
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 158 x 154 x 152 mm | TDP: 95 W | Weight: 1180 g | Noise level: 12.1 dB | Material: Copper and Aluminum | Fan compatibility: 120x120x25 | Socket compatibility: LGA2066, LGA2011-0 & LGA2011-3, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150 & AMD AM2, AM2+, AM3, AM3+, FM1, FM2, FM2+, AM4
- »Fanless cooling for high-end CPUs.
- »Designed for passive cooling.
- »100% fault-proof/ fail-proof.
- »No noise, less dust.
- »NT-H2 next-gen thermal compound.
- »Requires serious planning and expertise to install.
Why We Picked It
While creating the list of the most silent CPU coolers, we were surprised after seeing the noise level of the Noctua NH-P1. It can run without producing any hearable sound, which is extraordinary.
The unique fanless design CPU cooler is the reason behind such noise-free operations. The NH-P1 has no moving part inside, meaning there is no chance of failure. Because of the fanless design, it also attracts less dust and debris.
This cooler’s asymmetric design assures its compatibility with most RAM modules and has no clearance issues.
Compared to all other coolers on the list, it has a different work procedure and technology, which makes it more desirable, and we didn’t hesitate to keep it at the top of our silent CPU coolers.
Who It’s For
If your requirement is a cooler that doesn’t produce any noise, attracts less dust, and has less chance of failure, just go for the Noctua NH-P1.
What We Liked Most
After installing the cooler in our office tasting PC, we noticed no noise. It was astonishing how easily it could handle most of the workloads without an overheating issue.
Moreover, its dual-tower and eye-catching design inspires us. And the support of an extra 120 mm fan makes it more demanding.
What We Didn’t Like
Though the Noctua NH-P1 cooler can provide extreme performance as a passive CPU cooler, for overclocking or high CPU loads, it isn’t the perfect one to go for.
Verdict
The fanless design of the Noctua NH-P1 only produces the utmost 12.1 dB sound, which is incredibly low, even below human hearing level, making it the best available cooler in the market. And the failure-proof design makes it desirable to silent PC builders.
4. Most Stylish: CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 157 x 119.6 x 272 mm | TDP: 200 W | Weight: 1180 g | Pump Noise Level: 15 dB | Material: Aluminum | RGB: Yes | Fan compatibility: 120x120x25 mm | Socket compatibility: LGA2066, LGA2011-v3, LGA2011, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1366, AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, FM1
- »Satisfactory performance and instant cooling.
- »Standard square frame fans.
- »Easy installation with new mounting brackets and screws.
- »RGB lighting with controls.
- »Need an extra 4-pin Molex connector for the RGB controller.
Why We Picked It
Liquid coolers are replacing traditional water coolers because of the sleek and visual presence that only comes with a liquid cooling unit. Also, there is quite a difference in performance between the liquid cooler compared to air cooler.
Along with its unique visual appearance, it can efficiently handle overheats caused by overclocking or huge workloads. Moreover, the cooler has LED RGB 4-pin fans and a pump display that allows integration with capable motherboards.
Besides, it allows users to manually control the RGB and display patterns using a Molex (4-pin ATA) powered control module.
Compared to the ML120L model, it has more capabilities in controlling higher heat produced by the CPU in various workloads (multitasking, rendering, gaming, etc.).
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a CPU cooler for your gaming build or want to add some extraordinary RGB lighting effects to enhance the overall looks of your computer, just pick the CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L.
What We Liked Most
Undoubtedly, the ML240L has the best appearance and attractive RGB lighting, making it worthwhile to build a gaming rig. We were delighted after noticing its performance and instant cooling techniques. Besides, it was surprising how silent the cooler can run, even at maximum RPM.
What We Didn’t Like
If your motherboard is incompatible with this cooler, you need an extra 4-pin Molex connector to control its beautiful lighting.
Verdict
It is the only cooler on the list that uses the liquid cooler technology and can still run without creating any audible noise. With extraordinary cooling abilities and RGB lights, it is one of the best coolers that can run without making noise.
See the CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L →
5. Best Bang for Buck: Noctua NH-L9x65
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 65x95x95 mm | TDP: 67 W | Weight: 413 g | Noise Level: 23.6 dB | Material: Copper and Aluminum | Fan compatibility: 92x92x14, 92x92x25 | Socket compatibility: Intel LGA1700 (included since Q4 2021, older coolers require NM-i17xx-MP83), LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA2066, LGA2011-0, LGA2011-3 (Square ILM) & AMD AM4, AM5 (included since 2019, older coolers require NM-AM4)
- »Premium build quality and unique design.
- »Easy installation.
- »Great clearance for memory and graphics cards on ITX platforms.
- »Silent performance.
- »Not suitable for high TDP processors.
Why We Picked It
It’s getting tiresome to say every time Noctua is excellent. In reality, Noctua had no bad coolers from the start to the end. The NH-L9x65 model is just another successor with no faults and can provide satisfying performance.
With a 64 mm tall heatsink and a compact footprint of only 95x95mm, it can cool down several intensive Intel sockets and all AMD processors & APUs.
Along with all the features and heavy cooling power, it still produces less noise compared to other coolers in the range.
We keep the NH-L9x65 cooler on our list because of its compact size, high-end cooling technology, reasonable price, and ability to silent performance.
Who It’s For
This cooler mainly focuses on the low-end CPUs markets and can efficiently handle most of the workloads. The smaller size is suitable and compatible with most PC builds. The NH-L9x65 is the best option if you are looking for a small and powerful cooler at an affordable price.
What We Liked Most
The NH-L9x65 model is definitely compact. Still, it includes a wide array of components to connect it with most Intel and AMD CPU sockets.
Though it is a low-profile cooler, it manages to handle most of the heat from heavy workloads. Its RAM & expansion-slot clearance, heavy metal build quality, and easy-to-install feature amused us.
What We Didn’t Like
If you have a high TDP processor, you should avoid this cooler because you may face some issues during heat management. Besides, while at maximum fan speed, you may hear some noise.
Verdict
If you are looking for a compact cooler that is small, well-performing, and silent at a reasonable price, the best choice is the Noctua NH-L9x65.
6. Best Tower Cooler: be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 146x136x163 mm | TDP: 250 W | Noise Level: 24.3 dB | Heatpipe number: 7 | Material: Copper and Aluminum | Fan compatibility: 135x135x22, 120x120x25 | Socket compatibility: 1700 / 1200 / 2066 / 1150 / 1151 / 1155 / 2011(-3) Square ILM, AM5 / AM4
- »Excellent build quality and design.
- »Great cooling ability.
- »Silent operation at full speed.
- »Amazing stealth look.
- »No Threadripper support.
Why We Picked It
be quiet! is a well-known CPU cooler manufacturer focused on quality and accuracy. The Dark Rock Pro 4 from be quiet! is a powerful CPU cooler that can provide ultra performance, like AIO 240 mm liquid coolers.
Its powerful cooling technology can reliably cool down the most demanding and overclocked builds. It has seven high-performance copper heat pipes that assist in distributing the heat faster and more efficiently.
The most impressive fact we found about the Dark Rock Pro 4 is its ability to run at full speed while producing only 24.3 dB of noise.
When we tested the cooler on our CPU, the cooler efficiently handled any workloads and intense gaming without making a hearable noise.
Who It’s For
If you are a person who is looking for aesthetics and high performance simultaneously, we suggest you pick the Dark Rock Pro 4 cooler to cool down your CPU.
What We Liked Most
We have found numerous features and specs that inspire us to try out this unique CPU cooler. It can run almost inaudible operations with the help of 2 Silent Wings PWM fans. Its performance-to-noise ratio is also surprising.
Its advanced core design, heat conductance, optimized airflow, and wave-contoured cooling fins with small dots on their surfaces can cool down any CPU in no time.
The double tower layout and two aluminum heat sinks allow it to perform almost 140 mm coolers. Moreover, the completely black design of the cooler and mounting kit perfectly blend with any system.
What We Didn’t Like
Unfortunately, this great cooler is incompatible with the AMD Threadripper series and is a little heavier than other successors.
Verdict
When we tested the Dark Rock Pro 4 cooler on our Intel gaming build, we were surprised by its top-notch cooling performance and eye-catching black design. Besides, we noticed no hearable sound even during the heavy workloads.
See the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 →
7. Most Affordable: Arctic Freezer 34 eSports DUO
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 103x124x157 mm | TDP: 210 W | Noise Level: 25 dB | Weight: 764 g | Material: Aluminum | Socket compatibility: Intel Socket: 2066, 2011(-3), 1155, 1151, 1150, 1200, 1700, AMD Socket: AM5, AM4
- »Future-proof compatibility.
- »Excellent price-performance ratio.
- »Improved heat dissipation.
- »High performance for high-end CPU.
- »Lack of RGB lighting effects.
Why We Picked It
There are numerous reasons for choosing this excellent CPU cooler. But the powerful, pressure-optimized BioniX P-fans and its updated, thermal-coated heatsink amused us more than anything else.
It has improved heat dissipation because of the 54 cooling fins, which help the cooler to distribute the heat evenly.
Its two BioniX P-fans can transport more cool air into the heatsink and dissipate heat faster from the CPU. Even after all these great features, the Arctic Freezer 34 eSports DUO is very much affordable.
Who It’s For
This extraordinary CPU cooler is ideal for people who want an excellent cooler for High-end CPUs at a very reasonable price without sacrificing the cooling performance.
What We Liked Most
During the test, we found the Arctic Freezer 34 eSports DUO cooler was very reliable. Its heat pipes don’t cover the entire heat spreader; instead, it just covers the processor DIE, which is efficient in cooling more rapidly.
The industry standard MX-4 thermal compound covers the CPU, ensuring the best cooling results. Most importantly, the installation process is straightforward, and the holding technology is fail-proof, providing less chance of overheating.
With great RAM clearance, various socket compatibility, less noise, and a very reasonable price, it is one of the best coolers for your high-end CPUs.
What We Didn’t Like
This is not a perfect choice for gaming PCs because it has no RGB that most gamers want for their gaming rigs. Another downside of this great cooler is it only supports a few CPU sockets.
Verdict
This tower CPU cooler with BioniX P-Series fans can efficiently handle most extreme workloads without difficulty. We have seen no thermal throttling during the test, even at high turbo clock speeds and overclocking.
See the Arctic Freezer 34 eSports DUO →
How We Chose the Quietest Cooler
While choosing the quietest cooler for CPUs, we’ve considered several factors to find the most silent cooler. Determining the quietest cooler was arduous. However, we’ve created a list of the seven best coolers that produce very low noise even in heavy workloads and gaming.
Our main goal was to find coolers with no hearable noise during the heavy processing. We’ve also considered other aspects, such as price, compatibility, and cooling performance.
Here are the factors we’ve considered while choosing the quietest cooler:
Noise Levels: The noise level of the CPU cooler is the primary component we’ve focused on during the entire test period. The list is created in chronological order of noise level to help choose the quietest cooler for your CPU.
Socket Compatibility: Compatibility is another fact that we’ve focused on choosing the CPU cooler for a silent operation. We’ve added the coolers that are compatible with most CPU sockets.
Price: Coolers are available at different price levels. So we’ve kept coolers of varying price points to ensure you get the perfect cooler for your CPU without wasting your money.
Cooling Performance: A good CPU cooler can efficiently handle all heat produced by the CPU in every situation. We’ve added the best-performing coolers that make comparatively less noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best budget silent cooler?
The Arctic Freezer 34 eSports DUO is the best budget silent cooler that produces only 25 dB of sound, even during high workloads. Most importantly, it has a very affordable price.
Is an AIO quieter than an air cooler?
Usually, an All-in-One (AIO) cooler is quieter than a regular air cooler. However, this can vary because of specifically designed fans for the air coolers.
What is the quietest liquid cooler?
CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L is the quietest liquid CPU cooler on the planet. It operates only at 15 dB, and you won’t even hear any noise while sitting next to the PC.
