As useful as the Intel Core i7 8700k processor can be, you’ll have to ensure that the processor remains cool. Excess heat can be dangerous to your processor. The unit does not feature a fan or heat sink, so you’ll have to get a separate processor for your use.
You can find many CPU coolers for the Intel Core i7 8700k processor. These models are compatible with various motherboards and will ensure the heat produced by the processor is managed accordingly. The work will prevent the processor from being too harmful to the rest of your computer.
A Look At the Seven Best Models
1. Noctuna NH-U12S – Best CPU Cooler
The 120mm slim design of the Noctuna NH-U12S makes it a useful option. The design will fit well on your motherboard without creating an obstructive overhang over your RAM or PCIe slots. The low-noise adapter feature lets you keep the fan quiet. You can use the automatic speed adjustment feature to help you keep the model working carefully.
The unit is built with fan clips for a secondary fan, which may be useful for advanced operations and cases where the computer will produce more power. The best part of the feature is that it will not hang over the RAM module units even when a second fan is installed at a time. The anti-vibration pads also ensure the unit will not shake or cause disruptions in the computer.
The fan unit can also stay near the motherboard chip as necessary. The proximity of the fan ensures the model will stay operational and useful.
2. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo CPU Cooler – Cool and Hypnotic
There are four heat pipes on this Cooler Master CPU cooler. The pipes regulate the air that moves through and conducts heat without a hassle. The CDC or Continuous Direct Contact system uses the heat pipes positioned next to each other to create a consistent rate of thermal transfer. The 120mm design provides a helpful body that won’t obstruct your computer, not to mention the aluminum fins on the fan will allow the air to move through without harm.
The wave-shaped designs on the fan blades allow air to move through in moments and to produce a cool body without being hard to maintain. The fins can also work well in high and low-speed situations. The effectiveness of the cooler remains the same all around.
The fan also has a lifespan of about 40,000 hours. This means that a computer could stay on for nearly five years, and the fan will still be functional and active.
3. Corsair Hydro Series H150i – Best AIO Liquid CPU Cooler
There are often times when a liquid-cooling system might be necessary for your CPU. The Corsair Hydro Series of fans provide enough cooling for the most intense computing processes you might need help with. The two 140mm fans provide a comfortable amount of airflow. But the liquid-cooling feature provides you the opportunity to stop the fans altogether depending on the amount of power or heat being produced by your computer. The design eliminates almost all the sound from your system depending on how much is going through.
The zero RPM cooling profile is a substantial feature to note. The profile operates without taking up lots of space inside your computer, thus being easier to operate.
You can also adjust the pump to the cooler. The control adjusts how well the cooler operates, thus letting you add more power when you’re going to use a stronger program that requires extra power.
4. beQuiet! Dark Rock TF – Extremely 220W TDP cooling performance
The Dark Rock TF cooler has rubber inserts that prevent vibrations from occurring. The nickel-plated heat sinks are efficient in collecting heat and preventing the heat from being a threat. The six-pole motor and fluid bearing system provide extra help for managing your heat without putting in more pressure than necessary.
You can use the dual or single-fan assembly design on the cooling fan depending on the space you have for the model. It is easy to remove the second fan as necessary and to also affix it as necessary.
A six-pole motor appeals to the fans. The motor produces a stable body, thus reducing the threat of vibrations. The fluid-dynamic bearing setup also prevents the fan from becoming dislodged or otherwise incapable of operating well enough.
5. NXZT Kraken M22 120mm – Best high-performance CPU Liquid Cooler
NZXT makes the next choice for the i7 8700k processor. The fan is appealing for how it comes with various fashionable lighting options. But the 120mm profile is the best part, as it prevents the cooling unit from taking up lots of space. The nylon sleeves will protect the rubber tubing and establish a layer that keeps the cooling pipes from being harmed. All of these features work without producing lots of concerns.
Software integration is a critical part of what NZXT offers on this processor model. The software support feature works by providing the user with extra controls over how well the system can handle its speed and even it is color. The software also reviews the speed consistency and lets the user know if there are any problems coming about. The reliable design of the fan ensures that the model won’t be hard to maintain like what people might find elsewhere.
6. Golden Field PBZ8 Cooler – A Budget Air Cooler
You’ll also find some beautiful colors on this next cooling fan. The Golden Field PBZ8 cooler has a fine LED look on its 120mm body. The fans provide enough airflow all around to prevent overheating, while it also responds almost instantly to when you start your computer up. You’ll get continuous cooling protection with this model. Four heat pipes are also included to protect your computer and provide a powerful body all over.
A multi-plate design provides extra room for collecting heat and moving it around the body. The design prevents the heat from building up. All parts in the heat sink are divided up at the same distance, preventing air leakage from being a threat. The heat sink is stronger thanks to the sturdy layout, while the air duct allows materials to move through in moments.
7. FSP Windale 6 CPU Cooler – Low Profile Air Cooler
Your last choice to see for a CPU cooler is this FSP model. The Windale 6 uses heat pipes that connect directly to the assembly for increased heat dissipation. The solder-less fin assembly provides a powerful look all around. The rubber surroundings on the body provide protection without producing vibrations. The layout also prevents excess noises from coming about in the work, thus producing the best results for your computer.
Four rectangular holes are found on the fan. The holes go on each cooling fin. These add to the surface area, thus increasing the surface area for proper heat conduction. The inside airflow improves thanks to the quality of the design. The 120mm fin design produces a better heat dissipation setup.
CPU Cooler Buying Guide : Everything you need to know
Air or Liquid?
As you look for a CPU cooler for the i7 8700k processor, you have to look at whether the cooler is air or liquid-based model. The two options come with different features:
- An air-cooling model does not cool as well as a liquid-based option.
- A liquid-based cooler is easier to install and requires fewer clearance concerns.
- You could be at risk of leaks when using a liquid cooler. These leaks will not occur in an air model.
- An air-cooling unit is easier to maintain and clean off.
You’ll have to look at what you’re comfortable with when finding a cooler. Review the needs you have for a cooler versus whatever you might prefer when making your content work well enough.
Review the Physical Size
The clearance on your cooling unit should be noted versus the size of the motherboard. The clearance may be bulky, especially if it is an air-based model. Some coolers may obstruct a RAM or PCIe slot depending on how the motherboard is laid out. Review the clearance of your cooler versus how your motherboard is arranged to ensure you don’t use anything that might be difficult to set up on your computer.
Review Your Plans
You can use your cooling fan for many purposes, but you’ll have to figure out what you plan on doing with your computer when figuring out what works. Are you planning on overclocking your processor? You’ll need a larger and more efficient fan to make up for the intense heat generated by the model.
What Is the Sound Like?
The sound produced by your cooling fan should also be noted. The sound might be distracting depending on what happens. An air-based model will be more likely to produce noise, although many models come with different cases with borders that absorb vibrations and prevent excess noise from being a threat.
Software Control
You might have the ability to adjust the speed of the fan through a software program that links to the fan. The program would be produced by the manufacturer of the processor to help you with reviewing everything from the speed of the fan to its temperature settings and even the color depending on the model. The unit should provide enough software control options to ensure the fan works at varying conditions, but also provides enough cool air based on whatever you plan on doing with your computer.
A Final Note
All of these options for the i7 8700k processor will fit in with the LGA 1151 socket standard that Intel uses for this Core model. You can use any of these choices for your cooling needs, but you must always make sure no matter what you search for that you find something that can handle the LGA 1151 standard.
Fortunately, there are many options out there that work with the socket in mind. But you must ensure that you look carefully at how you’re going to get a quality cooling fan ready. Be sure to look at these options among others when finding something that fits your cooling needs.
Recommendation
The best option to use when finding a fan for the i7 8700k processor is the Nocturna NH-U12S. The comfortable design produces a firm body that stays active and functional, while the unit will not obstruct over ports and features around the computer. The focused flow in the fan also provides a better approach to cooling that works in moments. The arrangement provides a comfortable feeling all around.