Recommendations for CPU Cooler for i5-12600KF CPU

jollster101 on 13/10/2024 - 17:05

Hi all

I am in the process of building a new PC that will be used primarily for gaming, moreover, for virtual pinball. I have ordered a MSI B760M Gaming Plus Wifi motherboard and will be using an i5-12600KF CPU along with an RTX 3070TI GPU. The last thing I am looking at buying is a CPU cooler.

I was wondering what others are using currently that is reasonably priced, does the job but isn't total overkill. This setup will only be used for pinball and so I don't think I need the bells and whistles of liquid cooling (unless someone can give a compelling argument as to why I should consider that).

Any pointers on what performs well and what I should definitely stay away from? There are a myriad of coolers out there so trying to get the right one, with all the marketing spin, can be a head spin.

Cheers

Computing Computer Component CPU CPU Cooler Intel LGA1700

Comments

  • jtay1991 on 13/10/2024 - 18:21
    +5

    PA120se would be a great budget pick at around $50+ on Amazon right now. See review: https://youtu.be/ASeu5BjaVJo?si=jA4oukqSTsqwUFdP

    • jollster101 on 13/10/2024 - 18:39

      Thanks for the link, looks decent for the price.

  • Malik Nasser on 13/10/2024 - 19:23
    +2

    If you don't plan on upgrading to an i7 or i9, or overclocking heavily then this BA120
    If you do then go with the PA120se or this PS120SE

  • jollster101 on 13/10/2024 - 19:45

    What's the key difference between the PA120SE and the PS102SE? I spotted that one has an additional heat pipe over the other but couldn't see much else other than that.

    • Malik Nasser on 13/10/2024 - 20:05
      +2

      There is not much difference. Performance would be very similar.
      The 1 extra heat pipe (as you noted), and also the ram clearance (PA120SE has 51mm clearance whilst the PS120SE has 60mm clearance).
      Don't overthink it. Just choose the one you can get cheapest.
      Also check these coolers will fit into your case, as they are dual tower, so are rather large.

      • jollster101 on 13/10/2024 - 22:17

        There is no case in this scenario, they will be freebagging in a plywood cabinet.

        I think I'm set in the option though.

  • OMGJL on 13/10/2024 - 20:50
    +3

    since you won't be able to overclocking, and it'll only run somewhere around 4.5Ghz, something better than a potato will cool it alright.

    All those thermalright coolers mentioned in this thread will be more than capable.

    • tekisei on 15/10/2024 - 18:11

      Would a 4 heat pipe model still work? E.g. if you dig into the budget tier e.g. $25 Thermalright 120mm Assassin X

      • OMGJL on 15/10/2024 - 22:48

        I'd say without OC (which OP can't using B760), under reasonable room temp, with a good case that have ok airflow,

        It'll be definitely fine for gaming, it'll be hot in rendering/compiling etc but likely won't trigger thermal throttle, and in full stress test like yCruncher/Linpack/Prime95, it'll throttle a bit, if OP didn't set any undervolt.

        might get a little loud due to higher temp trigger higher fan speed, which is the advantage of getting a over-powered cooler—- fan won't need to run very hard.

        in the end of the day, you can never have too much cooling.

  • YeemaiI on 13/10/2024 - 21:12
    +2

    Can vouch for the PS120SE and some MX6, keeps my 13600K nice and cool. Fans are quiet too.

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