The best way to keep your AMD Threadripper 3960X from overheating

Best CPU Coolers for AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3960X Windows Central 2020

Choosing a Ryzen Threadripper processor means that you’ll have a beefy CPU with plenty of physical cores on quite the large package. A drawback of such performance is heat, which the 3960X will produce plenty of. Luckily, there are some awesome options available to cool down the processor, including the stock cooler that comes with the CPU. If you want an aftermarket cooler, however, this collection is for you.

Staff Pick

ASUS got a lot right with the AIO ROG Ryujin 360 cooler. The pump and radiator combo makes for more efficient cooling, but the company also opted for excellent Noctua fans. There’s also a rather large CPU block, but that’s so the included fan can cool VRMs and other nearby components. There’s support for software and even an OLED panel for displaying temperature readings.

$236 at Amazon

There are many reasons system builders and PC fanatics stand by Noctua and the NH-U14S — it’s an incredibly impressive air cooler. The dual fan configuration with a large heatsink makes easy work of keeping the Ryzen Threadripper temps low. Don’t mistake this for a standard air cooler since it offers so much more.

$80 at Amazon

The Noctua NH-U14S is an excellent cooler, but if you want a more silent PC, you’ll want to consider the be quiet! Dark Rock TR4. It’s ridiculously efficient at cooling processors, including AMD Ryzen Threadrippers. Using the company’s super Silent Wings fans, it’s possible to run the cooler at low speeds without sacrificing too much on temperature.

$90 at Amazon

If you’re set on an AIO cooler, the EVGA CLC 280 is a solid option. It comes with two fans and so is better suited for smaller PC cases, but is more than able to handle the heat output of the 3960X. The included software can be used to control fan speeds and the entire unit can be configured to produce barely a sound.

$116 at Amazon

If we’re to make a suggestion

AMD packs quite a capable cooler with the Ryzen Threadripper 3960X and it’s pretty good at handling the monster of a processor. However, if you want to go the extra mile with an aftermarket solution, one of our recommendations here will be more than up for the job.

If you really want to see what the 3960X can do, pair it up with ASUS ROG Ryujin 360, which features a 360mm radiator, pump (with fan), and an LCD for a unique-looking build. It’s a little pricey, but well worth it if your budget can stretch. The included pump fan is brilliant for keeping VRMs and other important components cooled, which is something most AIO coolers fail to do.

The Noctua NH-U14S TR4-SP3 from be quiet! is a sound air cooler with an even better price tag. Don’t let this affordability fool you into thinking it’s not up to the job of taking on the Threadripper 3960X because it is.