Are you interested in heading out and buying the best CPU cooler for Ryzen 5 5600x? There’s a lot to choose from. And we made this guide to making things easier for you!
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600x is a robust CPU that offers excellent speeds for gaming, creating content, and overclocking.
And for those wondering, does the Ryzen 5need a cooler?
The answer is an absolute yes! Every CPU requires a CPU cooler. If you want your computer to function correctly for a long time and efficiently, you need a CPU cooler for it. Moreover, Ryzen 5 is a high-end CPU, so chances are that it can significantly overheat your system.
Read on to learn more about our review list featuring the top CPU coolers for the Ryzen 5 5600x!
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Best CPU Coolers for Ryzen 5 5600x
The Ryzen 5 5600x is the only one of AMD’s Ryzen 5000 CPUs with a basic air cooler (Wraith cooler). It would help if you had a more advanced cooler for two reasons:
- If you decide to overclock, you require a better cooler than the wraith cooler.
- If you need a better-performing cooler with additional features and capability.
Here’s the review list!
| PHOTO | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
#1 Top Pick  | Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L The Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 is produced from the famous MasterLiquid Lite Series. This cooler is amongst the best CPU cooler for Ryzen 5 5600x because of its upgraded exterior design elements and good specs. | Check Price → |
Overall Best CPU Cooler  | Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO V2 The Cooler Master is the upgraded version of the Hyper 212 EVO. This model has several features that have been improved. The Cooler Master’s unique Direct Contact Technology coupled with the SickleFlow 120 Fan provides optimal cooling and quiet performance, making it the best CPU cooler for Ryzen 5 5600x. | Check Price → |
Budget-Friendly  | Vetroo V5 CPU Air Cooler In our opinion, the Vetroo V5 is one of the top competitors of the Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO V2. Many of the less pricey CPU coolers lack aesthetics. However, this CPU cooler is matte black and has RGB that adds to the overall design. | Check Price → |
Best Quiet and Powerful CPU Cooler  | NZXT Kraken X53 The NZXT Kraken X53 may look very similar to its predecessor, the X52. But, it has many upgraded features. You can expect better performance, amazing visual effects, and built-in installation. | Check Price → |
Best Liquid CPU Cooler  | MSI MAG Series Coreliquid The MAG Coreliquid Series has everything that is required in a liquid cooler. Whether it is the top-notch quality materials or heat dissipation technology, this CPU cooler is one of the best CPU coolers for Ryzen 5 5600x. | Check Price → |
Most Popular Choice  | Cooler Master MasterAir MA620M Cooler Master manufactured MasterAir MA620M after their success from high-end desktop CPU coolers. This CPU cooler is suitable for mainstream desktop users. | Check Price → |
Mid-level Cooling  | AMD Wraith Prism The AMD Wraith Prism CPU cooler would be a fine cooler to go with the Ryzen 5 5600x. Ryzen 5 5600x comes with a basic Wraith cooler, but this is a Wraith Prism. | Check Price → |
1. Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L – Top Pick
The upgraded 3rd Gen Dual Chamber Pump improves the cooling performance of the AIO water cooler. The design of the pump has been improved with the block taller than before. The top-notch quality of the pump and dual chamber design ensures high cooling performance and durability.
The 240 mm radiator has an increased surface area to allow heat to spread out and allow optimal cooling performance. The radiator has dense patterns that may look odd at first. However, it has been designed this way to provide better cooling.
The two SickleFlow 120 RGB fans have Air Balance fan blades with a unique design and are not loud. They help in providing excellent airflow and pressure. The fans have RGB lights, so they glow when working. You can control and customize these lights through a controller. The fans are not loud at all. You do not hear much unless you come near the rig and listen to the fans’ noise.
Item weight: 2.95 pounds
Cooling method: Water
Compatible devices: Desktop
Noise level: 15 decibels
The manual provided with the cooler is not that helpful, instead, you can watch any YouTube videos to learn how to install this cooler. It is pretty simple to install and use. The only downside is mounting. Putting the mounting bracket behind the motherboard can be a bit of a task.
The Cooler Master MasterLiquid is an excellent option for people looking for a budget-friendly CPU cooler for their Ryzen 5600x processor.
Pros
- Includes installation accessories
- Value for money
- It is made of durable materials.
2. Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO V2 – Overall Best CPU Cooler
Item weight: 1.68 pounds
Cooling method: Fan
Compatible devices: All RAM module heights
Noise level: 30 decibels
The asymmetrical design of the four copper heat pipes makes this cooler compatible with most RAM module heights and ensures that the fan is clear of the memory slots. The SickleFlow 120 fan has the same design as the previous model, providing better airflow. It has anti-vibration rubber pads to provide more firmness.
You also have the option to add an extra fan. The cooler includes mounting hardware for adding an extra fan. The mounting kit included in the package makes the installation process a piece of cake. The heatsink design of the cooler ensures better airflow and less accumulation of heat.
The cooler is not noisy but not as quiet as the other best CPU coolers for Ryzen 5 5600xin this list. Since this is a low-budget cooler, you have to let go of certain things with it. Overclocking the CPU also increases the noise of this low-budget cooler above 40 dB.
One more feature that this cooler does not have is RGB lighting. You have the option of buying the RGB variant from the same manufacturer but for a higher price. Overall the CPU cooler is an excellent option if you want to purchase a cooler with an outstanding cooling performance that does not make a hole in your pocket.
Pros
- Mounting system
- Very affordable price
- Easy to install
3. Vetroo V5 CPU Air Cooler – Budget-Friendly
Altogether, this is the only CPU cooler available in this price range ($30-$40) with five 120 mm pipes. These heat pipes enable the efficient passing of heat to maintain the temperature of the CPU.
The copper base is not glossy and HDT. It is made of copper and is suitable for effective thermal conductivity. One of the best features of this CPU cooler is the RGB socket that you can control by aura sync. However, it does not come with an RGB controller, so you have to buy one if you need it. The fan’s speed is 1700 RPM, ensuring average static pressure.
Item weight: 1.68 pounds
Cooling method: Air
Compatible devices: A gaming console, desktop
Noise level: 30.8 decibels
Vetroo V5 is the best CPU cooler for Ryzen 5 5600x that you can get at this price. It has almost all the fantastic features for the people who want to buy a CPU cooler. The cooler fits most of the CPU cases available in the market.
Pros
- 5x heat pipes
- Overall design
- RGB Fan with Aura sync
4. NZXT Kraken X53 – Best Quiet and Powerful CPU Cooler
The CAM’s software interface allows you to alter settings to ensure that the cooler performs efficiently during the most intense gaming sessions. The lighting is customizable, and there is an additional HUE 2 connector for enhanced RGB options. The NZXT Kraken offers excellent RGB liquid cooling.
Item weight: 4.15 pounds
Cooling method: Fan
Compatible devices: supports many Intel sockets like LGA 1151, 1155X,1200, 1366,2011, 2011.3, and 2066 AMD Socket AM4, sTRX4, TR4 (Threadripper frame is not added)
Noise level: 21 decibels
The best feature in this CPU cooler is its Asetek 7th generation pumps that operate from 800 RPM to 2800 RPM. These pumps ensure that the cooler performs quietly, allowing you to enjoy the cooler’s performance without compromising on the peace due to very little noise. This upgraded version also has an enhanced RGB logo design.
The cooler has a rotational logo, thus allowing you to mount the pump in four different directions. This makes the overall procedure of installing the cooler much more manageable. You no longer have to try hard to make sure the pump is installed. The Aer P2 fans are quieter than the fans of other CPU air coolers. The pump also is not noisy at all at maximum output.
The NZXT Kraken X53 is the best CPU cooler for Ryzen 5 5600x due to its new 7th Gen Asetek pumps and quiet Aer RGB fans. You can expect it to handle Intel and AMD processors efficiently. It is pricey but worth it.
Pros
- Quiet performance
- Efficient performance by 240 mm radiator
- Great 7th Gen Asetek Pumps
5. MSI MAG Series Coreliquid – Best Liquid CPU Cooler
Some of the great features include the ARGB lighting and a 270-degree rotating blockhead. You can mount the cold plate in any direction and turn the blockhead up to 270 degrees. The blockhead has a stylish design too.
There is a durable three-phase motor at the center of the pump to produce zero vibrations resulting in a long-lasting operation. The radiator fins have a pump inside them to make no vibration. Due to this, you can’t sense that the pump is operating even when you touch the radiator. Moreover, the fans are not noisy, producing only 16.7 dB.
Item weight: 3.9 pounds
Cooling method: Water
Compatible devices: Desktop
Noise level: 16.7 decibels
Expect outstanding performance with excellent ARGB implementation when using this liquid CPU cooler. The liquid CPU cooler fulfills the thermal needs of higher-end gaming CPUs. This powerful yet flexible model is compatible with numerous Intel and AMD motherboards.
Pros
- Two 120mm MSI ARGB PWM fans
- Low vibration and noise
- 240mm Slim radiator
6. Cooler Master MasterAir MA620M – Most Popular Choice
MasterAir MA620M is a great air cooler that is large but not bulky. The entire cooler is black, which doesn’t look bad. It is amongst the best CPU coolers offered by Cooler Master. It is perfect to be kept atop any gaming build.
Item weight: 3.57 pounds
Cooling method: Fan
Compatible devices: Desktop
Noise level: 30 decibels
It does an excellent job at cooling CPUs. Towards the bottom of the cooler, there are six copper heat pipes to prevent the heat from accumulating. The heat spreads out from these pipes. The SF120R fan is at the center. The 120 mm PWM fan works at 650-2000 RPM speed. It is not that noisy unless you intently try to bring your ears closer to listen to it.
The cooler has an RGB lighting feature. You will not have a problem if your board doesn’t support RGB as the cooler includes an RGB controller. The RGB lights are not too flashy to disturb your eyes; instead, they are sleek and elegant LED lights.
Installing the MasterAir MA620M is more accessible than the previous Cooler Master CPU coolers. The cooler comes with a backplate that is suitable to work with AMD and Intel sockets. Hence, the MasterAir MA620M is compatible with AMD and Intel processors.
Pros
- Stylish design
- RGB lighting with controller included
- Easy to install
7. AMD Wraith Prism – Mid-level Cooling
The AMD Wraith Prism CPU cooler would be a fine cooler to go with the Ryzen 5 5600x. Ryzen 5 5600x comes with a basic Wraith cooler, but this is a Wraith Prism. A Wraith Prism is much better than the basic one. The CPU cooler efficiently dissipates heat and cools your CPU. The overall aesthetic of your system looks elegant with this CPU air cooler.
Item weight: 1.20 pounds
Cooling method: Fan
Compatible devices: Desktop
Noise level: 42 decibels
The Wraith Prism Cooler is compatible with CPUs having a TDP of 150W. Hence, it also functions well with the Ryzen 7 and Ryzen 9. This cooler is also compatible with ASRock RGB LED, Razer Chroma, ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light, Biostar VIVID LED DJ and GIGABYTE RGB Fusion.
The RGB LED fan is ideal for Ryzen processors on socket AM4. You can set the fan at different speeds. The 92 mm top-flow design fan works at up to 2800 RPM speeds. The air coolers include RGB and USB cables to enable attachment to the motherboards.
You also have the option of downloading Wraith Prism RGB software. The software provides you with a wide range of color spectrum and patterns for the fan. The only issue with this CPU cooler is that it becomes noisy when it works at maximum speed. Moreover, the mount provided with the cooler is made of plastic. Overall, the cooler is excellent and much better than the basic wraith cooler provided with the Ryzen 5 5600x.
Pros
- Great LED lights
- Durable
- Impressive thermal performance
Buying Guide for best CPU cooler for Ryzen 5 5600x
Here are some factors that you should consider when buying the best CPU cooler for Ryzen 5 5600x!
Air Vs Liquid Coolers
The air cooler consists of a heat sink and a fan attached by heat pipes. Different air coolers have various heat pipes, and the heat sink draws out the heat from the CPU. The fan disperses the heat. The more heat pipes there are, the more heat will spread out fast.
Liquid coolers are also termed AIO. They come in a package that consists of pumps, radiators, and fans. They provide more cooling performance than air coolers.
Ryzen 5 5600x doesn’t emit much heat like the Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 9. Hence, an air CPU cooler is good for it even when overclocking. Therefore, liquid coolers aren’t that necessary unless you want additional features like quiet and more cooling.
Clearance
Before buying a CPU cooler, make sure you check whether it is compatible with your motherboard. Also, make sure to check its specifications to prevent clearance problems. The fans should not be large enough to cover the motherboard area. The clearance should not be that low that they fidget with the RAMs and graphic card slots.
Noise
Some people do not mind a little noise. While some people think it is a big distraction. If you want a quiet and powerful CPU cooler, then NZXT Kraken X53 is a good choice for you. It is one of the noise-free CPU coolers on the list. It has a noise level of only 21 dB, so you can enjoy peace when gaming or working. It is also the most expensive CPU cooler on the list due to several premium features offered by the cooler.
Objective
One factor that determines the kind of CPU cooler you should purchase is the type of work you intend to carry out on the CPU. For example, if you plan to use the Ryzen 5 5600x for general use, you can buy an affordable air cooler like the Vetroo V5 CPU Air Cooler. When CPUs are used for general purposes, they emit less heat.
However, if you play games with Ryzen 5 5600x, a lot of heat is discharged. A high-capability cooler is required to counter it, like the Cooler Master Hyper 212 or Cooler Master MasterAir MA620M to meet the cooling needs of Ryzen 5 5600x.
FAQs
Do I need a CPU cooler for the Ryzen 5 5600X?
Yes, every CPU requires a cooler to perform efficiently. With that being said, the Ryzen 5 5600X is the only one from the series that includes a basic wraith cooler. It is highly recommended that you use an upgraded CPU cooler for Ryzen 5 5600x.
However, you cannot use any cooler that you come across. Ryzen 5 5600x does not emit a lot of heat like Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 9, so the ideal cooler will be the one having a 240 mm radiator. It would be enough to cool down the Ryzen 5 5600x.
Do I need thermal paste for Ryzen 5 5600X?
Yes. If you require a heatsink, you need Thermal Interface Material or thermal paste. You can buy any thermal paste according to your budget and choice. Different thermal pastes are available in various colors by multiple companies. Additional thermal paste will have a 1-3 Celsius difference.
The prices are usually not much different. Although not necessary, you can look out for special thermal pastes. For example, the liquid metal and Thermal Grizzly’s Kryonaut work great for overclocking.
Should I liquid cool my Ryzen 5 5600X?
You can use a liquid cooler to cool Ryzen 5 5600x. However, it is unnecessary as an air cooler may work fine or even better than a liquid cooler. Good overclocking can also be done using a standard air cooler.
However, a liquid cooler will dissipate more heat and provide more cooling performance for overclocking. It is also usually easier to install liquid coolers, and they look stylish too.
Conclusion
There are many CPU coolers available in the market for Ryzen 5 5600x. However, you cannot randomly buy any cooler. This guide has mentioned the top 7 best CPU coolers for Ryzen 5 5600xlist. The list includes air as well as liquid coolers. While we think air coolers work fine for Ryzen 5 5600x, liquid coolers have additional features like a more stylish design, more cooling, and a quieter fan.
The ideal cooler for Ryzen 5 5600x should have the following specifications:
- The CPU cooler should work at 65W TDP because Ryzen 5 5600x has 65W TDP. The recommended cooler should work at 120W.
- A 240 mm radiator is enough to dissipate heat from Ryzen 5 5600x.
Ryzen 5 5600x comes with a basic wraith cooler. However, it is not sufficient to cool down the CPU. It will not give you the optimal cooling performance like the Cooler Master Hyper 212. Or, if you want superior cooling performance and premium design, you can opt for a liquid cooler like MSI MAG Series Coreliquid. If you are just looking for a CPU cooler that does its job at an affordable price, then AMD Wraith Prism (upgraded version of the basic wraith cooler provided with the Ryzen 5 5600x) does a good job.
