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The Ryzen 9 3900x is an excellent choice for gamers, capable of flawlessly running any game you throw at it. It has a base clock of 3.9GHz and can boost up to an astounding 4.6GHz. While the CPU comes with a stock cooler, getting an aftermarket cooler will always help improve the overall performance. This is why we thoroughly reviewed different coolers to help you pick the Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 3900x.
Here is a table to sum up our selections:
Also check:
5 Best CPU Coolers For Ryzen 9 3900x
Following are our top picks:
- Best Air Cooler for Ryzen 9 3900X: Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black
- Best Budget Cooler for Ryzen 9 3900X: DeepCool AK620 CPU Air Cooler
- Best AIO Cooler for Ryzen 9 3900X: ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240
- Best Low-Profile Cooler for Ryzen 9 3900X: NH-L9a-AM4 chromax.black
- Best CPU for Overclocking Ryzen 9 3900X: EK-AIO 360 D-RGB
Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black
Best Air Cooler for Ryzen 9 3900x
Specification: Fans: 2x NF-A12x25 PWM 120 mm | Fans Speed: 2000 RPM | TDP: 150 W | Height: 158 mm | Width: 125 mm | Length: 112 mm | Weight: 1220 g | Socket Compatibility: Intel Socket 1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA2011, LGA2066, AM4, AM3(+), AM2(+), FM1, FM2(+) | RGB Fans: No | Noise Level: 22.6 dBA
Pros
- Almost inaudible
- Incredible cooling performance
- Smart fans that increase fan lifespan
- Push-Pull Configuration
- Huge RAM clearance
Cons
- Expensive
- No RGB
Cooling Performance: The NH-U12A Chromax.Black showed fantastic performance in our benchmarks, thanks to its well-designed structure and powerful fans. It kept the 3900x’s temperatures in check, even when dealing with heavy workloads and overclocking. So, we found it a dependable choice for demanding tasks.
Build Quality: The NH-U12A Chromax.Black is made to endure, and displays careful attention to detail in every aspect. Its nickel-plated base and black-painted heat pipes highlight the attention to quality. We found the construction quite solid, and believe it ensures durability and consistent performance, making it a wise investment for those in need of reliable cooling solutions.
Aesthetics: Adding to Noctua’s Chromax.Black lineup, the NH-U12A Chromax.Black impresses with its sleek all-black design, which we really appreciate. Its minimalist look gives it an elegant appeal, while the absence of flashy RGB lighting allows it to fit seamlessly into any build style.
Our hardware reviewer Hayyan Serwer was thoroughly impressed by the cooler:
“The Noctua NH-U12A chromax.black stands out as a top-tier air cooler offering impressive cooling efficiency, an elegant all-black design, and compatibility with larger components.”
Buy It If:
Here are some more images of the cooler for your eye pleasure:
✅ You prioritize performance and quiet operation over RGB lighting: The NH-U12A Chromax.Black showed great cooling performance in our tests while keeping things quiet, making it ideal for users who want a powerful and silent cooler without RGB.
Don’t Buy It If:
❌ You Want RGB Lighting: The NH-U12A Chromax.Black lacks RGB, which might disappoint users who prefer customizable lighting options to match their PC aesthetics.
What Makes It The Air Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3900x:
The NH-U12A Chromax.Black stands out due to its exceptional performance in a compact design, surpassing even some larger liquid cooling solutions in our benchmarks. It also sports specially designed 120mm fans that outperform certain 140mm ones, thanks to which it showed impressive cooling power in our testing. Additionally, its significant RAM clearance and minimalistic design make it the best air cooler choice from us.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 9/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 8/10 |
DeepCool AK620
Best Budget Cooler For Ryzen 9 3900x
Specifications : Type: Twin-Tower Air Cooler | TDP: 260W | Heat Pipes: 6x 6mm | RGB: None | Dimensions: 129 mm × 138 mm × 160 mm | Fan: 2 x 120mm DeepCool FDB PWM Fans | Fan Speed: 500-1850 RPM | Socket Support: LGA 2066, LGA 2011-v3, LGA 2011, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1151, LGA 1150, LGA 1155 and AM4
Pros
- Compact size
- Easy Installation
- Powerful cooling performance
- Great value
Cons
- No RGB
Cooling Performance: The DeepCool AK620 stands out for its excellent cooling performance. It is capable of handling a TDP of around 260W effortlessly, and so its no surprise how it kept temperatures optimal during every test we threw at it; very impressive for its price.
Build Quality: The DeepCool AK620 boasts top-notch build quality. It features six nickel-plated heat pipes that are seamlessly soldered to the base plate, ensuring excellent heat dissipation. We found its construction quote strong and it guarantees long-term reliability, making it a smart investment for any PC enthusiast.
Aesthetics: While some may prefer flashy RGB lighting, the DeepCool AK620 goes for a more minimalist yet classy design. It sports a sleek square pattern on both sides that enhances airflow. We find its look very understated, and it’s sure to add a touch of sophistication to any build, making it an attractive choice for those who appreciate clean and refined aesthetics.
Buy It If:
Attached below are a few more pictures of the cooler, taken from our review:
✅ You Need A Solid Mid-Range Cooler: The DeepCool AK620 offers impressive thermal performance, quiet operation, and decent RAM clearance, making it a great choice mid-range choice.
Don’t Buy It If:
❌ You Seek RGB In Your Cooler: Just like the NH-U12A, the AK620’s lack of RGB may not suit everyone.
What Makes It The Best Budget Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3900x:
The DeepCool AK620 appealed to us as the best budget cooler for the Ryzen 9 3900x due to its impressive performance at a competitive price point. Despite its affordability, it offers efficient cooling with its twin-tower design and six nickel-plated heat pipes, effectively managing the heat generated by the Ryzen 9 3900x in our benchmarks. Moreover, its quiet operation, decent RAM clearance, and simple, elegant design further contributed to its appeal, making it our top budget choice.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 9/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 9/10 |
NH-L9a AM4 chromax.black
Best Low Profile Cooler for Ryzen 9 3900x
Specifications: Type: Single-fan Low Profile Air Cooler | Fan: 1x NF-A9x14 chromax.black HS-PWM Fan | Fan Speed: 600-2500 RPM | TDP: 95W | RGB: No | Dimensions: 114mm x 92mm x 37mm | Socket Support: AMD AM4
Pros
- Economical
- 100% RAM Clearance
- Less Noise
Cons
- Not suitable for overclocking
- No RGB
Cooling Performance: The NH-L9a-AM4 chromax.black impressively maintains temperatures under heavy loads, even with its small size. During intensive tests on the Ryzen 9 3900X, it managed to keep temperatures well in check in our tests, with only a slight increase over extended periods of usage, thanks to its impressive low-profile design.
Build Quality: The NH-L9a-AM4 chromax.black is just another cooler showcasing Noctua’s dedication to making top-notch coolers. Its copper base plate, coated in nickel, not only helps move heat efficiently but also stays looking smooth even after lots of CPU use. Plus, it’s built strong, so it lasts a long time.
Aesthetics: The NH-L9a-AM4 comes in a cool all-black design that really boosts the look of any system you put it in. Noctua made a smart move by offering this black version for folks who want a more low-key style without sacrificing how well it works. The fan’s black color and simple design match the cooler’s overall sleek look perfectly. And hey, did I mention we’re big fans of it?
The Noctua NH-L9a-AM4 is as good as it gets when it comes to low-profile coolers. It can cool powerful beasts like the Ryzen 9 3900X (provided you don’t overclock), and is a great addition to any build with its sleek all-black design.
– Hayyan Serwer
Buy It If
Here are a few images of the Noctua NH-L9a from our review:
✅ You’re Prioritizing Compactness: If you’re looking for a compact, low-profile cooler that still offers excellent performance and silent operation, the NH-L9a-AM4 chromax.black comes recommended by us.
Don’t Buy It If
❌ You’re Planning to Overclock: If you prioritize extensive overclocking capabilities for your Ryzen 9 3900x, the NH-L9a-AM4 chromax.black’s relatively low 95W TDP support might limit your options and performance potential.
What Makes It The Best Low-Profile Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3900x:
The NH-L9a-AM4 chromax.black was chosen as our top low-profile cooler for the Ryzen 9 3900x due to its compact size, which ensures 100% RAM clearance, exceptional airflow facilitated by Noctua’s premium fans, and a sturdy copper base that prevents marking upon CPU contact. These features, combined with its affordable price point, make it a standout choice for users seeking both performance and value in a low-profile cooler.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 9.5/10 |
Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240mm
Best AIO CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 3900x
Specifications : Type: 240mm AIO Liquid Cooler | TDP: 250W | RGB: RGB backlighting | Dimensions: 277 mm x 120 mm x 38 mm | Fan: 2x Arctic P12 PWM RGB 120mm | Fan Speed: 200–1800 RPM | Socket Support: LGA-1200, LGA-115X, LGA 2011-v3, R4 LGA-2066, and AM4
Pros
- Best Price
- Performance comparable to 360mm AiOs
- New Pump Design With VRM Fan
- A-RGB
- Less Noise
- Six years warranty
Cons
- No user manual included
- Plasticky average finish
Cooling Performance: We’ve been impressed by the Arctic Liquid Freezer II’s exceptional cooling, since it gave a tough time to even some 360mm AIO solutions in our testing, maintaining efficiency even at moderate fan speeds. The cooler’s maximum airflow of 48.8 CFM and static pressure of 1.85mmH20 ensure effective heat dissipation, keeping temperatures in check during intense usage.
Build Quality: The Arctic Liquid Freezer II is well-made, with a sturdy radiator and a unique water block design. We didn’t particularly like the non-adjustable pump tubes and plastic covers on both ends, but it’s still a strong CPU cooler.
Aesthetics: Arctic goes for a clean and simple look with the Liquid Freezer II, featuring a matte black finish and subtle branding. The RGB lighting, while only on the translucent fans, adds some style without being too flashy. We loved the innovative design on the charcoal gray pump unit that fits well with the overall look, and certainly believe it would be a nice addition to any setup.
Buy It If:
Check out some more pictures captured during our review:
✅ You’re Seeking Affordable AIO Cooling: If you’re in the market for an affordable liquid AIO cooler offering excellent cooling performance and quiet operation, the Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240mm is a solid choice.
Don’t Buy It If:
❌ The Quality Is A Concern: We think that the non-adjustable pump tubes and plastic covers on the radiator and pump unit may not meet the standards of users seeking more customization or higher-quality build materials.
What Makes It The Best AIO Cooler For The Ryzen 9 3900x:
The Arctic Liquid Freezer II 240mm has a unique pump unit design, incorporating a small VRM fan that offers both extra cooling and a distinctive visual element. Despite its affordability, it competes favorably with larger AIO coolers in terms of performance, making it our undeniable choice as the Best AIO cooler for the Ryzen 9 3900x.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 9/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 8/10 |
EK-AIO 360 D-RGB
Best CPU Cooler For Overclocking Ryzen 9 3900x
Specifications : Type: 360 mm AIO Liquid Cooler |TDP: 250W |RGB: D-RGB backlighting | Radiator Dimensions: 395 x 120 x 27 mm | Fan: 3x EK-Vardar S 120ER D-RGB| Fan Speed: 550 – 2200 | Motor Speed: 850 – 2600 RPM Socket Support: LGA: 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, 2011-3, 2066 and AM4
Pros
- Better looking RGB
- Perfect for overclocking
- 5 years warranty (previously 2 years)
Cons
- Slightly noisy
Cooling Performance: The EK-AIO 360 D-RGB impressed us with its cooling ability. It owes this to the trio of high-speed EK-Vardar S 120ER D-RGB fans which have a wide RPM range and can generate a notable static pressure of 2.89 mm H20. This meant the cooler efficiently dispersed heat in our testing, keeping temperatures optimal even as we pushed the clock speeds of the 3900x.
Build Quality: Talking about its construction, we really liked how sturdy the EK-AIO 360 D-RGB feels. It’s got a tough aluminum radiator and a pump unit that seems built to last. The use of quality materials, like the copper CPU base and nylon-braided tubes, shows that EK cares about making a durable and reliable product, which is appreciated by us.
Aesthetics: In terms of looks, the EK-AIO 360 D-RGB is easily one of our favorites. Its design is sleek, and the RGB lighting adds a nice touch. The pump unit, with its translucent design and illuminated EK logo, gives off a modern vibe. Plus, the nylon-braided tubes with metallic covers add a bit of elegance to the overall aesthetic, making it look stunning in our test build.
Buy It If:
Take a look at some more images of the cooler, taken straight from our review:
✅ You Value Performance and Quality: The EK-AIO 360 D-RGB showed top-notch cooling performance in our tests with its powerful and adjustable fans, backed by a 5-year warranty, ensuring durability and reliability.
Don’t Buy It If:
❌ You Seek Aesthetics Over Functionality: While the cooler excels in performance, the translucent pump unit with RGB backlight might not appeal to those looking for a more premium aesthetic.
What Makes It The Cooler For Overclocking The Ryzen 9 3900x:
We chose the EK-AIO 360 D-RGB as the best cooler for overclocking the Ryzen 9 3900x due to its impressive performance, attention to customer needs with longer tube pipes, and competitive pricing compared to similar AIO coolers on the market. Its ability to efficiently cool the Ryzen 9 3900x while maintaining relatively low noise levels makes it an ideal choice for overclocking enthusiasts.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 8/10 |
Our Tested Thermal Benchmarks
To make sure our selected products are truly the best, we individually tested all of them to bring you a thorough review. Here are our benchmarks:
How We Picked The Best CPU Coolers For Ryzen 9 3900x
While the ultimate choice is yours, here are a few things you must know before buying the Best Cooler For Ryzen 9 3900x.
- Type: CPU coolers come in various sizes and designs, including air and liquid options. Top air coolers offer AIO-level performance at a budget-friendly price, while AIO coolers deliver exceptional performance at a higher cost, ideal for future-proofing and overclocking potential.
- Size: When buying CPU coolers, it is best to keep the size of the cooler in mind. The cooler should offer optimal RAM and PCIe clearance since high-end RAMs tend to get warmer when not given enough space. It is better to stick to a cooler that maintains a favorable airflow, allowing the RAMs to remain at an optimal temperature as well.
- Budget: Affordability is a key consideration, with air coolers generally more budget-friendly than AIO liquid coolers. Investing a bit more in a quality cooler can offer better long-term efficiency compared to cheaper alternatives that may require replacement sooner.
- Performance: While buying a CPU cooler, the cooler must keep the CPU temperatures at optimal temperatures even under heavy load. The average temperature at an idle state should be around 30° to 40°. Whereas, while you’re gaming, it shouldn’t exceed 80°.
- Noise: Despite the great performance, a cooler should be fairly inaudible for the most part since as the cooling performance increases, so do the noise levels. If you’re easily bothered by the loud noise, it is best to stick with a low-profile cooler.
- Compatibility: Ensure the CPU cooler is compatible with the Ryzen 9 3900X’s AM4 socket. Additional mounting brackets may be necessary for some coolers. It’s essential to organize sockets properly to avoid performance issues and select a cooler with a higher TDP than the Ryzen 9 3900X’s 105W to adequately dissipate heat, making an AIO cooler a recommended choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the Ryzen 9 3900x comes with the wraith prism stock cooler. If you are not looking to spend a lot on a cooler, then the stock cooler should get the job done.
The wraith prism stock cooler manages to provide decent cooling performance for the 3900x for day-to-day tasks; however, it holds back the Ryzen 9 3900x in most CPU intensive scenarios.
The wraith prism cooler is good enough for the Ryzen 9 3900x for most cases.
A bigger cooler does not necessarily mean it will be better; however, more cooling performance with a more efficient cooler can prove useful in some cases.
In the end, it all boils down to your preference and budget. If one of the CPU Coolers mentioned here meets your requirements, you should go for it.
Recent Updates
- February 23, 2024: Added thermal benchmarks from our in-house tested individual cooler reviews.
- February 11, 2024: Few text and grammar changes to improve readability. Image galleries added. No products were changed/removed.
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[CPU Coolers & RAM Expert]
Hayyan Serwer is a tech enthusiast, with a love for PC building and article writing. Hayyan specializes in writing about CPU coolers and RAM kits. Hayyan has been familiar with the tech industry for over half a decade now, and has now stepped into providing quality reviews for the latest and greatest tech.
Get In Touch: hayyan@old.tech4gamers.com
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