Best CPU Cooler For i7 8700k
A CPU cooler is an essential part of a computer system, even if the processor has been overclocked. The i7 8700k is one of Intel’s most powerful processors and can get quite hot while running at high speeds.
Many people choose to buy air-cooled coolers because they are cheaper and easier to install than water-cooling systems, but some people buy liquid coolers, and maybe some buy both for maximum cooling performance. Best CPU Cooler For i7 8700k
At a Glance:
This article will cover the best CPU cooler for i7 8700k processor. Moreover, we will cover all of the different types of coolers and what they do so that you can find one that’s perfect for your needs. Plus, there are reviews on some of the most popular options.
- Our Recommendations
- Be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4, BK022, 250W T.D.P., CPU Cooler
- Features
- Positive about this:
- Negative about this:
- Best Amazon Verified Review
- Noctua NH-D15, Premium CPU Cooler
- Features
- Positive about this:
- Negative about this:
- Best Amazon Verified Review:
- Noctua NH-D15 chromax. Black, Dual-Tower CPU Cooler
- Features
- Positive about this
- Negative about this
- Best Amazon Verified Review
- Corsair Hydro Series H115i PRO RGB AIO Liquid CPU Cooler
- Features
- Positive about this
- Negative about this
- Best Amazon Verified Review
- Mugen 5 Rev. B CPU Cooler with AMD AM4 Support
- Features
- Positive about this
- Negative about this
- ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 – Multi Compatible All-in-One CPU AIO Water Cooler
- Features
- Positive about this
- Negative about this
- Best Amazon Verified Review:
- Conclusions
- Frequently Asked Questions
Our Recommendations
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Be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4, BK022, 250W T.D.P., CPU Cooler
Best PickBrand: be quiet! | Power Connector Type: 4-pin PWM | Wattage: 125 | Dimensions LxWxH: 5.3 x 5.7 x 6.4 inches | Noise Level: 24.3 dB | Compatible Devices: Desktops
The Dark Rock Pro 4 is a sleek and attractive CPU cooler that can be used with your next PC. Build. It has an up-to-date design and offers top-of-the-line performance at 250W T.D.P.
This great cooler offers 250W of cooling power, ensuring that your system runs smoothly even under high load.
Its virtually inaudible operation means you won’t even know it’s there. So don’t let your PC overheat. There is very little noise from this CPU cooler. So, this could lead you to forget to turn the PC off.
This cooler will keep your processor running smoothly no matter how hard you push it-and that means more time playing games instead of waiting around for your PC to finish processing.
If you’re looking for cooling performance without spending an arm and a leg, this best cooler for i7 8700k is definitely worth checking out.
Features
- It features two silent Wings P.W.M. fans, which generate little noise and ensure good airflow.
- The front fan’s funnel-shaped frame also helps create high air pressure.
- This cooler has seven high-performance copper heat pipes to dissipate heat quickly and effectively.
- It also comes with all the mounting material you need for easy installation.
- Featuring two virtually inaudible Silent Wings P.W.M. fans, this cooler achieves a maximum of just 24.3 decibels – making it one of the quietest on the market.
Positive about this:
It’s a big cooler. It would be best if you have a large case for it. Fortunately, you can use it in a Dark Base 900 Pro rev.2, a big case. It didn’t take long to install it. Be Quiet provides a long screwdriver to make mounting screws easier to insert.

Negative about this:
There is one major problem with the DR4. It is very quiet. Definitely louder than the stock Intel fan. It’s not an annoying high pitch or vibration, just a constant sound as if you are sitting over an air conditioning vent.

Pros
- A powerful cooling system
- Operation that is virtually unheard
- High-tech design
- Layout with two towers
Cons
- It does not work with S4 sockets
Best Amazon Verified Review
Zer0Cool a verified Amazon purchaser reviews be quiet Drak Rock Pro 4. He says: “Got this for a new desktop build,” he says. “I wanted 2 main things from my CPU cooler, quiet operation and good cooling performance.”
Noctua NH-D15, Premium CPU Cooler
Staff PickBrand: Noctua | Dimensions: 15 x 16.1 x 16.5 centimeters | Voltage: 12 Volts | Compatible devices: Desktops | Noise level: 24.6 dB | Maximum rotational speed: 1500 RPM |
The Noctua NH-D15 is one of the most popular CPU coolers on the market. It’s a great choice for gamers, overclockers, and PC enthusiasts in general because it has excellent cooling performance while keeping noise levels low.
It has two fans that provide an excellent cooling system for any i7 8700k processor. The design is also quite sleek and attractive, which many people like in their components.
This is a good CPU cooler as it can drop CPU temp by about 6 degrees Celsius. It is a 2,000 RPM Heavy Duty Cooling Fan. So, it is much noisier, but you will deal with that to avoid overheating issues.
If you decide to buy this cooler, be sure to use our installation guide to mount it without any problems or issues.
Features
- This top-of-the-line CPU cooler features a dual-tower design with 6 heat pipes and 2 fans, providing class-leading cooling performance.
- Thanks to its optimized NF-A15 140mm fans and Low Noise Adaptors, this CPU cooler is also extremely quiet.
- It includes high-quality NT-H1 thermal paste and a SecuFirm2 mounting system for easy installation on many Intel processors.
- And don’t worry about quality; Noctua backs this cooler up with a 6-year manufacturer’s warranty. Finally, all of this comes at a great price point that won’t break the bank.
Positive about this:
Everything is of high quality. There is even a mirror-polished mounting surface. It isn’t as heavy as it looks since most of it is thin aluminum, but either way, the mount holds it securely, and the backplate distributes the load adequately, so the motherboard isn’t stressed.

Negative about this:
The fins of tower coolers are quite fragile. Adjusting the fans while they’re running is not the best idea. They also smack your fingers and bend the fins, sometimes popping the tabs at the sides of the tower that hold them together. I wish the fins could be joined by laser welding or some other method that was more robust.

Pros
- Thermal compound NT-H1
- NF-A15 140mm dual fans
- High RAM compatibility with a single fan
Cons
- It’s big
Best Amazon Verified Review:
Tim Hatchard – a verified purchaser reviews Noctua NH-D15. He says: “I got this cooler as part of a new custom-built desktop for myself,” he says. “I decided to go all air cooled as my previous computer used two AIO coolers, which were good, but heavy and expensive. I chose this as I researched and found it’s the best in the business; offering incredible cooling performance, while being almost half the price of an equivalent AIO.”
Noctua NH-D15 chromax. Black, Dual-Tower CPU Cooler
Budget PickBrand: Noctua | Dimensions LxWxH: 5.31 x 5.91 x 6.5 inches | Voltage: 12 volts | Noise Level: 24.6 dB | Size: 140 mm
If you’re looking for a CPU cooler that will keep your system cool and quiet, the Noctua NH-D15 chromax.Black is an excellent option to consider.
Boasting four heat pipes in dual towers with two fans running at 1500 RPM or below, this cooler can handle any task thrown its way–even overclocking.
The fan’s noise is worst, but if you can deal with the heat, then I think noise can be neglected.
A 6-year warranty backs this liquid cooler for CPU, so there are no worries that it doesn’t go good on you anytime soon.
This cooling solution is one of few that comes with a color scheme matching most builds these days, too, which makes it easy to match up if aesthetics matter to you and performance.
Features
- With a dual-fan design and 6 heat pipes, this cooler can handle even the most demanding loads without breaking a sweat.
- Installing Intel CPUs like the i7 8700k is a breeze with the NT-H1 thermal paste and SecuFirm2 mounting system included.
- In comparison to many all-in-one water coolers, this 140mm dual-tower design provides maximum cooling efficiency.
Positive about this
It performs perfectly, looks stunning, and works brilliantly. Its mounting design is so simple. Installation is easy with the help of the included screwdriver and thermal grease. Your only concern should be the height. On the Cooler-Master H500, the front fan barely fits (with it sitting directly on top of the Corsair Vengeance Low Profile memory).
Negative about this
Since the cable is on the other side of the serial, turning the fan 90 degrees is not possible. Rather than stare at the white serial number attached to each fan, which looks horribly out of place, you can only look at the loose cable hanging from the top.
Pros
- Colors are customizable
- Provides high RAM compatibility
- 140mm dual NF-A15 fans
- Dual-tower heat-pipe design with six heat-pipes
Cons
- Not suitable for a standard 4U server case
Best Amazon Verified Review
Adam Looney – a verified Amazon purchaser reviews Noctua NH-D15 chromax. Black. “Amazing product! Was using a nzxt kracken x52 AIO and it was keeping my cpu underload streaming 1600×900 60fps and gaming at 1080p 144hz was around 65c now with the NH-D15 under same conditions I am averaging 50c,” he says. “This product is keeping my AMD Ryzen 3700x nice and cool. Also the temp for the stock cooler from amd i was around 75c under same conditions. Highly recommend and get yours quick if you want the LinusTechTips edition with Orange Accents!”
Corsair Hydro Series H115i PRO RGB AIO Liquid CPU Cooler
Brand: Corsair | Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12.4 x 5.63 x 1.14 inches | Cooling Method: Water | Compatible Devices: Desktops | Noise Level: 20.4 dB | Air Flow Capacity: 55.4 Cubic Feet Per Minute
Gaming and professionals who demand nothing but the very best from their hardware will appreciate the Hydro Series H115i PRO RGB AIO Liquid CPU Cooler from Corsair.
With this cooler, you can both overclock your system to get more performance out of it or keep your system cool enough to avoid thermal throttling in demanding environments like gaming tournaments.
I realize that the pump module can be mounted on various CPUs, though the AMD socket mounting is tricky. Thermal paste is not supplied since the module features no thermal pad. Other than this, it’s the best CPU cooler for i7 8700k.
The variable speed pump with four preset modes allows you to tune the fan speeds according to how much heat your computer generates while running different applications without having any concerns about noise levels.
Features
- Three vibrant RGB LED fans to produce vivid lighting effects customized with CORSAIR iCue software.
- A zero R.P.M. mode reduces fan noise by halting the motor at low temperatures.
- With its aluminum radiator, this cooler is sure to keep your processor running smoothly without making too much noise.
Positive about this
The fans are very quiet when they are in balance mode, and the pump is silent. It keeps temperatures in line well. Even though it barely fits in NZXT H500i, it’s easy to install. I don’t care for RGB, but it’s a nice extra feature.
Negative about this
Due to the overheating protection being activated, the PC shut down several times. Getting the pump to start took a lot of fiddling with the fan pump header connection and turning it off and on.
Read About: Best Motherboard for i9 9900k
Pros
- Multicolor RGB dynamic lighting
- Levitation magnetic
- Mode zero RPM is available
- Accurate pump control
Cons
- Pump cables are fairly rigid to handle
Best Amazon Verified Review
Harry – a verified Amazon purchaser reviews Corsair Hydro Series H115i PRO. “The first cooler I got was filled with air, the pump was loud as hell because of all the bubbles going through the motor. Shaking the cooler while it was running and trying to let it settle did nothing to help. I got an exchange and the new one is much better,” he says. “The pump DOES make a whirring sound, so if you’re looking for absolute silence and have sensitive hearing, you may hear the pump at times. The maglev fans are insane. They make almost no noise and the zeroRPM feature is great.”
Mugen 5 Rev. B CPU Cooler with AMD AM4 Support
Brand: Scythe | Dimensions LxWxH: 16.5 x 14.6 x 10 Centimeters | Voltage: 12 Volts | Fan Size: Kaze Flex 120 PWM
The Mugen 5 Rev. B CPU cooler is a great choice for your AMD AM4 supported i7 8700k processor. Its four high-performance copper heat pipes and the sleek, stylish design give you all the features you need to keep your system running at its best.
With this product in hand, you can be sure that your computer will always run smoothly no matter what task it’s tackling.
For the price, it is a good cooler. An i7 8700k can easily be kept cool with this cooler. But the included fan can be replaced with something slightly more powerful, like the Arctic P12.
If you want to buy an efficient cooling solution for your PC but don’t know where to start, look no further than the Mugen 5 Rev. B CPU Cooler with AMD AM4 Support for i7 8700k.
Features
- This top-of-the-line cooler uses a KazaFlex F.D.B. fan for ultra-quiet operation.
- Its asymmetrical design ensures optimal airflow.
- It comes with H.P.M.S. II technology to keep your system running cool even under load.
Positive about this
It is easy to install on AM4 – you don’t have to remove the motherboard from your case. There is a back-plate that comes with the cooler for Intel and AM2 and AM3 processors, but if you’re not using one of those, you can just remove your old cooler and put the new one in. The finish looks good shiny, but not overwhelming. The fan has noise dampening pads on each corner and is big and quiet.
Negative about this
Don’t buy it if you already have big RAM sticks like Corsair V Pro RGB. If your motherboard is old and you have many heatsinks near your CPU. This is not recommended since it has a large base rack for the special 2 screws base. If you don’t have a black hole in your case, you have to remove the motherboard to install the backplate.
Pros
- Asymmetrical design
- Fan, Kaze Flex 120 PWM
- Ultra-Precise Mounting System
- Structure with dual fan mounts
Cons
- Heatsink problems
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 – Multi Compatible All-in-One CPU AIO Water Cooler
Brand: ARCTIC | Voltage: 12 Volts | Dimensions LxWxH: 11.81 x 7.09 x 5.91 inches | Noise Level: 0.3 Sones | Maximum Rotational Speed: 1800 RPM | Air Flow Capacity: 55.6 cc/min
If you’re looking for an all-in-one CPU AIO water cooler, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 is a great choice. It can cool anything from Intel to AMD processors, and it’s compatible with any motherboard form factor.
The best part? You don’t need to buy separate parts like tubing or radiators because this system comes preinstalled with everything you need.
Installation could be tricky for some reasons but overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to cool your CPU without having to spend hours installing or modifying existing setups, then definitely check out this one for the i7 8700k processor.
A six-year warranty also backs it to ensure that you won’t need to replace your expensive cooling unit.
Features
- The 40mm V.R.M. fan ensures your voltage transformer stays nice and cool.
- With its closed water loop and high-quality fiber-reinforced E.P.D.M. tubing, this cooler is easy to use and maintain – refill with distilled water as needed.
- The LGA1700 mounting kit makes it compatible with Intel’s new Alder Lake processors.
- The more efficient cool plate, pump, and radiator help keep your system running smoothly.
- Unlike most other AIOs on the market, our pump clocks down when no cooling is needed, saving power and producing less noise.
- The P.W.M. cable integrated into the sleeved tubing means only one short cable is visible from the pump to the motherboard.
Positive about this
What a beast this thing is. Initially, the pump is quite noisy, but I can’t even hear it after 15 minutes of running with the side panel on. I’ve come to expect high quality and low noise from the Arctic, which has replaced other fan providers.
Negative about this
Despite the noise, the temperature under load never surpassed 60 degrees, even when the block was being purged. The cooling performance is no better than a large (cheap) air cooler, but I love the ease of access to the motherboard.
Pros
- Awesome performance
- Efficient, in-house developed pump
- Classic radiator
- Smoother VRM fan
Cons
- SocketTR4 x399 motherboards do not support
Best Amazon Verified Review:
EdCaffreyMS – a verified purchaser reviews ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240. “I’ve been using AIO coolers for as long as they’ve been available. This one, is HANDS DOWN the BEST 240mm AIO cooler available….. and frankly the most fairly priced! I replaced a corsair and this cooler beat it by 5 degrees C in full load testing….and a full 10 degrees C at idle. Only thing left to say is to BUY IT before the company realizes just how good it is….and jacks up the price!!”
Conclusions
If you’re looking for the best CPU cooler to go with your new i7 8700k, look no further. This research is enough. Basically, this research depends on the size of case you would have, how much money you want to spend, and if you need a water cooling system or not. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, the option is also included. So, check out the list above to get the best CPU cooler for your i7 8700k processor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cooler is best for i7 8700k?
be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4, BK022, 250W T.D.P., CPU Cooler
Noctua NH-D15, Premium CPU Cooler
Noctua NH-D15 chromax. Black, Dual-Tower CPU Cooler
Corsair Hydro Series H115i PRO RGB AIO Liquid CPU Cooler
Mugen 5 Rev. B CPU Cooler with AMD AM4 Support
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 – Multi Compatible All-in-One CPU AIO Water Cooler
Does i7 8700K come with a cooler?
No, you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler.
Is i7 8700K still good in 2022?
Yes, but it depends if you’re just gaming or building a workstation. Computer games are typically processing-intensive tasks, whereas workstation applications tend to be more memory-intensive. So in the case of gaming needs, it’s usually better to go with an i5 8600K processor (higher per-core performance).
Is a liquid CPU cooler worth it?
Yes, Liquid CPU coolers are often rated more highly than air coolers because they’re more efficient, meaning they can move the same amount of heat with less noise and less fan speed.
Is i7 8700K good for streaming?
The i7 8700K is easily the best CPU for streaming. It’s 4x faster in 1080p and in 1440p than an Intel i3 8100 and 2x faster in 720p and in 1080i than an Intel i5 7600K. Lengthy video encoding tasks will be appreciably quicker on the high-end content creation platform, but it’ll still take a long time to encode something so large even with this CPU…but at least you get to do other things while it’s running.
Should I water cool my PC?
Ideally, the answer would be “Yes” if you want to overclock your CPU or GPU. You should keep it in mind. However, that water cooling systems can be both prohibitively expensive and prohibitively hard to set up.
Is i7 8700K 8th gen?
Yes, the Intel Core i7-8700K was released in October 2017. The release of the 8700K falls within the definitions of 8th Gen Intel processors. It is based on their Kaby Lake architecture and uses an improved 14nm+ process (14nm++) instead of their previous 14nm design for better battery efficiency and performance.