Expert Consulted: Adrian Gardiner. Years of experience buying both computers and computer parts for my own new customer builds has given me a keen eye for spotting great deals when shopping. In this article, I’ll be sharing my knowledge to help you find the best white CPU cooler.
Are you looking to add a touch of elegance to your PC setup? White CPU coolers not only keep your processor running cool but also lend a really stylish and clean look to your system.
As an experienced PC builder, I understand the importance of performance and aesthetics when it comes to choosing the right cooling solution. Everything has to look right, starting with the case and then the internal components. I have to admit to loving the look of a white gaming PC build.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 6 best white CPU coolers available in 2023, including 3 air and 3 liquid-cooled options to help you find the perfect white cooling solution for your build.
Related Article: Best White PC Case
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Best White CPU Cooler
The huge choice available in CPU coolers can make it a bit of a bewildering experience, with different types of coolers, air or liquid-cooled, coolers with different numbers of fans, ARGB or RGB lighting effects, and, of course, different colored coolers, in our case white.
Having used my own experience in sourcing coolers for my customer PC builds, I’ve had a good in-depth look at what’s available to select the best white CPU coolers for you to choose from, hopefully saving you the time and hassle of doing this yourself.
In line with my usual product selection philosophy, I’ve kept my choices to well-known, reputable brands that I can trust, both for the quality of their products and the reliable support options available.
The following tables highlight the CPU cooler options reviewed for you:
| Air Cooled | Reason for Selection | |
| 1. | DeepCool AS500 Plus CPU Air Cooler | ‘Premium Option’ |
| 2. | Cooler Master Hyper 212 Halo White CPU Air Cooler | ‘Compact Option’ |
| 3. | DeepCool AK620 WH CPU Air Cooler | ‘Best Performance Option’ |
| Liquid Cooled | Reason for Selection | |
| 1. | NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360 AIO CPU Cooler | ‘Premium Option’ |
| 2. | CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L ARGB V2 AIO CPU Cooler | ‘Compact Option’ |
| 3. | Corsair iCUE H150i Elite CAPELLIX XT AIO CPU Cooler | ‘Best Performance Option’ |
3 Best White CPU Coolers – Air Cooled
I’ve selected 3 excellent air-cooled CPU coolers for you, with Premium, Compact, and Best Performance options, hopefully covering all bases.
No. 1 – DeepCool AS500 Plus CPU Air Cooler – ‘Premium Option’
The DeepCool AS500 Plus CPU Air Cooler in White offers exceptional performance and compatibility for high-end systems.
Its slim profile ensures compatibility with tall DRAM modules, while the 220w TDP cooling capacity keeps noise levels under 29.2dB(A) for quiet operation.
The underglow ARGB lighting and easy installation make it an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking top-notch cooling solutions.
Specification:
- Noise Level: 29.2 dB(A)
- LED Lighting: Yes
- LED Control: Analog controller included
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 142 x 98 x 164 mm
- CPU Socket Support: AMD: AM5/AM4, AM3(+), AM2(+), FM2(+), FM1 and Intel: LGA 2066, 2011-3, 2011, 1200, 115x
PROs
Excellent 220w TDP capacity
Pure copper bottom with nickel-plated heat pipes
LED controller included
Slim profile for motherboard compatibility
Ease of installation.
CONs
Its 164 mm height needs careful consideration.
No. 2 – Cooler Master Hyper 212 Halo White CPU Air Cooler – ‘Compact Option’
The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Halo White CPU Air Cooler impresses with its MF120 Halo² fan featuring stunning dual loop ARGB lighting.
The white aluminum top cover adds a modern touch, and the four copper heat pipes ensure efficient heat conductivity.
The very compact 154mm height allows wide chassis compatibility without compromising performance.
With ARGB auto-detection and a dynamic PWM-controlled fan, this cooler delivers both style and functionality.
A top-notch choice for enthusiasts seeking a powerful and visually appealing air-cooled, compact solution with a max noise level of only 27 dB.
Specification:
- Noise Level: 27 dB(A)
- LED Lighting: Yes
- LED Control: ARGB Auto Detection via 3-pin header
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 124 x 73 x 154 mm
- CPU Socket Support: AMD: AM5/AM4, and Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 115x
Pros
A compact design will fit most systems
Increased fan blade size for improved airflow
Hugely popular, with many positive reviews.
Cons
Instructions could be improved.
No. 3 – DeepCool AK620 WH CPU Air Cooler – ‘Best Performance Option’
The DeepCool AK620 WH CPU Air Cooler impresses with its powerful cooling capabilities and all-white design.
Equipped with six copper heat pipes and a dual-tower “Chessboard” heat sink, it efficiently dissipates heat with an impressive 260w TDP cooling capacity.
The two high-speed DeepCool FK120 PWM fans ensure excellent airflow while keeping noise levels below 28dB(A).
Its silent efficiency and precision machined copper base make it a top choice for high-frequency overclocking.
With easy installation and broad compatibility, the AK620 WH is an excellent cooling solution for any ATX/M-ATX case.
Specification:
- Noise Level: 28 dB(A)
- LED Lighting: No
- LED Control: n/a
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 129 x 138 x 160 mm
- CPU Socket Support: AMD: AM5/AM4, and Intel: LGA 2066, 2011 v3, 1700, 1200, 115x
PROs
Exceptional 260w TDP cooling capacity
Attractive dual tower ‘chessboard’ design
Excellent quality design and build.
CONs
160 mm height is on the tall side and needs careful consideration
No LED lighting.
3 Best White CPU Coolers – Liquid Cooled
In this section, I’ve found 3 very nice liquid-cooled AIO (all in one) CPU coolers for you, again with Premium, Compact, and Best Performance options, hopefully covering all bases.
No. 1 -NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360 AIO CPU Cooler – ‘Premium Option’
The NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360 AIO CPU Liquid Cooler in white offers high-performance cooling with a customizable 2.36″ LCD display.
The wide-angle LCD display with 640×640 resolution and 60 Hz refresh rate allows you to display images, animated GIFs, and real-time performance info.
Its powerful Asetek pump ensures efficient and quiet coolant circulation, while the RGB Core Fans provide optimal cooling and vibrant RGB lighting effects.
NZXT made installation as easy as possible with pre-applied thermal paste, reinforced rubber tubing, and a single breakout cable from the pump to the motherboard.
The Kraken Elite is an excellent proposition for making a hassle-free and visually appealing cooling solution for your PC.
Specification:
- Noise Level: 34 dB(A)
- LED Lighting: Yes
- LED Control: RGB Controller included
- Radiator Size: 360 mm
- Water Block Dimensions: 81.9 x 59.5 mm
- Radiator Dimensions: 121 x 394 x 27 mm
- CPU Socket Support: Intel: Intel Socket LGA 1700, 1200/115X Intel Core i9 / Core i7 / Core i5 / Core i3 / Pentium / Celeron and AMD: AMD Socket AM5, AM4, sTRX4*, TR4* (*Threadripper bracket not included) AMD Ryzen 9 / Ryzen 7 / Ryzen 5 / Ryzen 3 / Threadripper
Pros
1.54″ LCD Temperature display on the water block
Single breakout cable for easy install
6-Year / 60,000 hrs Warranty
Cons
Expensive.
No. 2 – CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L ARGB V2 AIO CPU Cooler – ‘Compact Option’
The CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L White AIO CPU Liquid Cooler delivers outstanding cooling performance with its 3rd Gen dual chamber pump and enlarged radiator surface.
The luminescent ARGB lighting on the pump and fans allows for full customization, creating a vibrant and mesmerizing effect.
The new blade design improves airflow and reduces noise, while the SickleFlow120 ARGB white fans ensure quiet operation without compromising on airflow.
With easy installation, PWM fan control, and industrial-grade seals, this cooler is a top choice for a compact and stylish CPU cooling solution.
Specification:
- Noise Level: 27 dB(A)
- LED Lighting: Yes
- LED Control: ARGB LED Controller included
- Radiator Size: 240 mm
- Water Block Dimensions: 79.9 x 76 x 47 mm
- Radiator Dimensions: 119.6 x 277 x 27.2 mm
- CPU Socket Support: Intel: Intel Socket LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA2066, LGA2011-v3, LGA2011, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA1155, LGA1156 and AMD: AMD Socket AM5, AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, FM1
Pros
Dual chamber 3rd generation pump
Luminescent fan blades
Ease of installation
Tool-free mounting brackets.
Cons
None.
No. 3 – Corsair iCUE H150i Elite CAPELLIX XT AIO CPU Cooler – ‘Best Performance Option’
The Corsair iCUE H150i Elite CAPELLIX XT Liquid CPU Cooler in White delivers powerful and high-performance cooling with its 360mm radiator and three AF120 RGB Elite fans.
The efficient pump head with stunning CAPELLIX LEDs illuminates your system with customizable lighting effects.
With PWM control, the fans operate quietly at up to 2,100 RPM, and the 0 RPM PWM support allows them to stop entirely at low temperatures, eliminating fan noise.
The included iCUE COMMANDER CORE RGB controller offers precise fan speed and lighting control for up to six Corsair RGB fans, creating a fully immersive and mesmerizing setup.
Specification:
- Noise Level: not specified
- LED Lighting: Yes
- LED Control: RGB Controller included
- Radiator Size: 360 mm
- Water Block Dimensions: not specified
- Radiator Dimensions: 120 x 397 x 27 mm
- CPU Socket Support: Intel: Intel Socket 1700, Intel 1200, Intel 1150, Intel 1151, Intel 1156, Intel 2011, Intel 2066, and AMD: AMD Socket AM4, AMD AM5, AMD sTR4
Pros
Tool-free mounting brackets
Zero rpm mode to reduce fan noise
5-year warranty
Cons
None.
Understanding CPU Cooling
Your processor generates a lot of heat when it’s running, and without the right level of cooling, it can lead to performance throttling (to try and protect itself from damage) or even damage the CPU over time (even with the previously mentioned performance throttling).
There are two main types of CPU cooling solutions covered in our review:
Air Cooled vs AIO Liquid Cooled
- Air Cooled: Air coolers use a heatsink and one or more fans to get rid of heat from the CPU.
This type of cooler is generally more affordable and easier to install – maintenance is the same as for a liquid cooler.
However, fitting some high of the larger, high-performance air coolers can be tricky with considerations like height and clearance issues for other components like RAM, for example.
From experience, I would always recommend fitting all components to the motherboard before it goes into the case so you make sure everything goes together nicely. I build every new PC this way.
It’s also much easier to fit a large, fiddly cooler to the motherboard while they’re both out of the case – you’ll really appreciate the extra space when installing.
- AIO Liquid Cooled: AIO (All-In-One) liquid coolers use a sealed system comprising a liquid pump, a radiator with cooling fans, and a connecting tube. Liquid cooling can often provide better thermal performance, making it an excellent choice for overclocked and high-end gaming rigs.
AIO coolers have a nice, sleek design and can help save space, but they are usually more expensive.
Selection Criteria for the Best White CPU Coolers
When trying to decide the best white CPU cooler for your PC, there are a number of key areas that you’ll have to think about.
Cooling Performance and Efficiency
The role of your CPU cooler is to keep your processor’s temperature within acceptable limits. It’s, therefore, important to choose a cooler with the right cooling capacity to deal with the heat generated by your CPU.
If you’re not sure whether your chosen cooler will be up to the job, you can always get in touch with the manufacturer and ask for the TDP (Thermal Design Power or Thermal Design Point) – this is the maximum amount of heat in watts that the cooler can remove from the CPU.
The CPU will also have its own TDP, again stating the amount of heat that it produces in watts, which will help you select a cooler with the right capacity.
Noise Levels
If you’re like me and have your PC on your desk next to you, the last thing you want is noise! So, it’s important to find the best white CPU cooler with reasonable noise levels.
I particularly like the Corsair iCUE H150i Elite CAPELLIX XT AIO CPU Cooler (Option 3 from my AIO Cooler selection) for its unique noise control feature with zero RPM mode. This should be a very quiet option.
Whichever cooler you’re interested in, I would always read as many reviews as possible to assess their reputation for keeping noise levels down.
Build Quality and Reliability
You’ll want to ensure that your chosen cooler is of good construction with high-quality materials and from a well-known, reputable brand with good support to back it up.
A good quality indicator from me is a long warranty, like that provided by Corsair and NXZT, both of whom offer 5 and 6 years respectively.
Ease of Installation
It really helps if the cooler you choose is provided with clear and easy-to-follow instructions for installation. CPU coolers can be fiddly at the best of times to install, so a well-thought-out install process with clean and easy-to-follow guidelines can really help.
Value
Of course, we need to consider our budget when looking for the best white CPU cooler available.
Thankfully, there is a lot of cooler choice out there, with something for every budget, even for white coolers, and all of those in this review represent great value for money.
Tips for Maintaining Your CPU Cooler
To get the most out of your CPU, including great performance and a long working life, I recommend trying to follow these tips:
| Clean and Dust Regularly: Dust and debris can accumulate over time, affecting cooling performance. Regularly clean the cooler’s fins and the cooling fans to keep them free from dust and dirt. |
| Clean and Dust Regularly: Dust and debris can accumulate over time, affecting cooling performance. Regularly clean the cooler’s fins and the cooling fans to keep them free from dust and dirt. |
| Checking for Fan Functionality: Periodically check that the cooler’s fans are working correctly. Listen out for any unusual noises – if dust is allowed to build up, your fan(s) may start to struggle, with failure a possibility. Faulty fans can lead to significantly reduced cooling efficiency or even cause the CPU to overheat. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1 How can I control the RGB lighting on CPU coolers?
All of the major cooler brands have their own software to control the lighting on your cooler. In the case of the options reviewed in this article, for example, NZXT uses ‘NZXT CAM’, and Corsair uses ‘i’Cue’. Many coolers also include a physical device to control your LED lighting without software.
Q2 What maintenance is required on a CPU cooler?
Air Cooled: Keeping dust buildup at bay is the main concern, and regular cleaning here will help greatly. Check the cooler fans and the heatsink itself, removing dust and anything else that has built up. If you are experiencing excessively high CPU temps, it might be time to check the thermal paste on your heatsink and re-apply if required, as it can dry out over time.*
AIO Cooled: Dust again is an issue here with regular checking and, if necessary, cleaning of the radiator and fans. If you are experiencing excessively high CPU temps, it might be time to check the thermal paste on your heatsink and re-apply if required, as it can dry out over time.*
*In both cases, I recommend the use of temperature monitoring software to keep a regular eye on your CPU temperatures so that you can spot any changes over time.
To do this, you can use monitoring software like HWMonitor, Core Temp, and also the built-in Performance Monitor in Windows.
Q3 Will liquid AIO coolers leak and damage my PC?
Modern AIO coolers are designed not to leak as long as you install your cooler correctly by following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Conclusion
A cool, white CPU cooler not only keeps your processor running nice and smooth but also adds a touch of elegance to your PC setup.
Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or a creative professional, the top 6 best white CPU coolers in 2023 all offer excellent cooling performance together with stunning aesthetics.
When out shopping, just keep in mind to check compatibility with your preferred case (or your existing one if you’re upgrading) to make sure that an air cooler is not too high for the case and that it won’t cause issues with RAM clearance.
Also, some larger AIO radiators can take up more space than you realize and can get in the way of other case components like a GPU, for example.
With the right white cooler, you’ll have a very cool and visually appealing PC that stands out from the crowd.