Best CPU Coolers for LGA 1151 in 2026: 15 Picks Ranked by Specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
Choosing the right CPU cooler for LGA 1151 depends on your chassis clearance and thermal requirements. We compared 15 products using the specifications published on their listings to rank each option by physical dimensions, materials, and hardware layout.
The Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler leads our rankings because its aluminum construction and 3.7-inch height deliver dependable cooling in space-constrained desktop enclosures. This guide helps you decide which cooler matches your chassis dimensions, socket requirements, and build layout.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want a compact aluminum cooler for LGA 1151 Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler Its aluminum build measures 2.4 inches wide and 3.7 inches high to fit tight desktop setups.
- You want addressable RGB lighting with four heat pipes Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M ARGB Air Cooler It pairs addressable RGB lighting with four heat pipes inside a chassis requiring 6.1 inches of height.
- You need an ultra-slim copper cooler for compact cases Toptekits Copper Core Low-Profile Cooler It provides copper construction with an ultra-slim 1.77-inch height designed for space-restricted enclosures.
- You need high cooling capacity for high-TDP processors Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler It features a dual-tower aluminum design with five heat pipes rated for up to 275W TDP.
Our 15 picks
Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler
Best for: compact Intel LGA 1151 desktop builds
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Tower Design
- Low-profile
- Fan Size
- 92mm
- Material
- Aluminum
- Features
- Fan
- Dimensions
- 3.7 × 2.4 × 3.7 inches
The Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler is a compact top-flow air cooler built for Intel desktop platforms, including LGA 1151, LGA 1150, and LGA 1200 sockets. It pairs an aluminum extrusion heatsink with a 7-bladed 92mm PWM fan that connects via a 4-pin header. At 3.7 inches tall and 11 ounces, it gives you a direct cooling solution for Core i3, i5, and i7 setups without crowding small cases.
Pros
- 4-pin PWM connector allows motherboard fan control
- Aluminum extrusion design fits clearances of 3.7 inches in height
- Direct socket compatibility with Intel LGA 1151, LGA 1150, and LGA 1200
- Compact 7-bladed 92mm fan for focused top-down airflow
Cons
- Lacks copper heat pipes or a vapor chamber base
- Intel socket support only with no AMD mounting hardware included
Good fit if
- You need a compact 3.7-inch cooler for an Intel LGA 1151 processor.
- You want a straightforward aluminum extrusion heatsink with a 4-pin PWM fan.
Skip if
- You need mounting support for AMD processor sockets.
- You require a multi-heatpipe tower cooler for high-heat workloads.
Verdict: Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler delivers straightforward Intel LGA 1151 cooling using a 92mm PWM fan and a 3.7-inch aluminum heatsink. It provides a simple, direct cooling option for compatible Intel desktop processors.
Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm Intel CPU Cooler
Best for: low-power Intel LGA 1151 desktop builds
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Tower Design
- Low Profile
- Fan Size
- 92mm
- TDP Rating
- 95W
- System Type
- Desktop
- Dimensions
- 4.25 × 4.25 × 4 inches
View on Amazon: Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm Intel CPU Cooler
The Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler is a compact desktop heatsink designed for Intel platforms including socket LGA 1151. It features a 7-bladed 92mm fan that delivers 31.343 CFM of airflow while operating at a 21.3 decibel noise level. Rated for processors up to 95W, this 4-inch-tall unit suits you if you need a direct, low-profile cooling replacement for low-power desktop builds.
Pros
- Native support for LGA 1151 along with LGA 1200, 1156, 1155, and 1150
- Quiet 21.3 decibel sound level during operation
- Airflow rating of 31.343 CFM from a 7-bladed 92mm fan
- Backed by a 2-year warranty
Cons
- Thermal design ceiling capped at 95W CPUs
- Lacks mounting hardware for AMD sockets
Good fit if
- You run a 95W or lower TDP processor on an LGA 1151 socket.
- You need a low-profile heatsink measuring 4 inches in height.
- You want a quiet replacement fan operating at 21.3 decibels.
Skip if
- You use an AMD socket or a processor that exceeds 95W.
- You need a multi-pipe tower cooler for heavy overclocking.
Verdict: Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler delivers quiet, basic thermal control for sub-95W Intel processors in a compact desktop form factor. It offers dependable stock-replacement cooling for LGA 1151 systems without complex setup requirements.
Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M ARGB Air Cooler
Best for: builders wanting temperature-reactive addressable RGB lighting
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, LGA 1200, LGA 1151
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Lighting
- ARGB
- Material
- Copper, Aluminum
- Dimensions
- 6.5 × 9.1 × 6.1 inches
- Weight
- 2.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M ARGB Air Cooler
The Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M ARGB Air Cooler is a tower heatsink built for sockets including LGA 1151. It features four direct-contact copper heat pipes, dual push-pull fans producing up to 53.38 CFM of airflow, and 28 addressable RGB LEDs. A built-in thermal detection sensor changes lighting colors based on CPU temperature. This cooler suits you if you want monitored thermal status and addressable illumination in a standard mid-tower setup.
Pros
- Built-in thermal sensor displays CPU temperature via lighting color
- Dual push-pull fans provide up to 53.38 CFM airflow
- Four direct-contact heat pipes using CDC 2.0 base technology
- 28 addressable RGB LEDs sync with motherboards or MasterPlus+
Cons
- Noise level reaches 31.0 decibels under load
- Height of 6.1 inches requires a chassis with sufficient clearance
Good fit if
- You want visual thermal feedback through temperature-based lighting colors
- You need a dual-fan push-pull configuration for your LGA 1151 processor
- You plan to synchronize 28 addressable RGB LEDs with your motherboard
Skip if
- You require an ultra-quiet cooler that operates below 31.0 decibels
- You use a compact chassis with under 6.1 inches of cooler clearance
Verdict: Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M ARGB Air Cooler pairs four direct-contact heat pipes and push-pull fans with real-time thermal lighting monitoring for your LGA 1151 build. It delivers capable cooling and hardware diagnostics if your chassis accommodates its 6.1-inch height.
JIUWU 92mm 4-Heatpipe Blue LED Cooler
Best for: LGA 1151 and LGA 775 compact builds
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 775
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 92mm
- Fan Speed
- 1800 RPM
- Lighting
- Blue LED
- System Type
- Desktop
The JIUWU 92mm Blue LED CPU Cooler fits your LGA 1151 motherboard along with legacy sockets such as LGA 775. It features four direct-contact heat pipes and a 92mm fan with a hydraulic bearing. The included 3-pin connector pairs with low-noise adaptors to cap fan speeds at 1800 RPM. This compact desktop cooler suits you if you need basic airflow and blue lighting in a small chassis build.
Pros
- Four direct-contact heat pipes
- Supports LGA 1151 and legacy LGA 775 sockets
- Hydraulic bearing 92mm fan with blue LED
- Low-Noise Adaptors support up to 1800 RPM
Cons
- Uses 3-pin fan connector without native 4-pin PWM control
- Fixed blue LED lighting cannot be color-customized
Good fit if
- You need a compact 92mm cooler compatible with LGA 775 and LGA 1151 sockets.
- You want four direct-contact heat pipes for small chassis setups.
- You prefer a pre-installed blue LED fan.
Skip if
- You need 4-pin PWM speed control from your motherboard.
- You want customizable RGB or non-illuminated fan options.
Verdict: JIUWU 92mm Blue LED CPU Cooler delivers four direct-contact heat pipes and wide socket support across LGA 1151 and LGA 775. It works well for small desktop chassis needing simple 3-pin cooling and static blue illumination.
Toptekits Copper Core Low-Profile Cooler
Best for: 1U server racks and ultra-slim HTPC cases
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 27mm
- Tower Design
- Low-Profile
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Fan Speed
- 2700 RPM ± 10%
- Material
- Copper
This Toptekits cooler is an ultra-compact air cooler built with a copper core for LGA 1151 systems. At 27mm in total height, it pairs a 90mm by 17mm heatsink with an 80mm slim fan running at 2700 RPM. It includes pre-pasted thermal compound and fits LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, and LGA 1156 sockets. You get a direct fit for 1U server racks, HTPCs, and tight mini PC enclosures.
Pros
- Ultra-low 27mm overall height fits 1U chassis and slim mini PCs
- Copper core heatsink design
- Pre-applied thermal paste included
- Quiet operation rated at 23±3 dBA
Cons
- Uses a 3-pin connector rather than a 4-pin PWM header
- Socket support limited strictly to LGA 115x platforms
Good fit if
- You need a cooler under 30mm tall for a 1U server or HTPC case.
- You want pre-applied thermal compound out of the box.
- You mount to an Intel LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, or LGA 1156 socket.
Skip if
- You need standard 4-pin PWM motherboard fan speed modulation.
- You plan to transfer the cooler to AMD or newer Intel sockets.
Verdict: Toptekits Copper Core Low-Profile CPU Cooler delivers an ultra-slim 27mm profile and copper construction designed specifically for tight LGA 1151 enclosures and 1U servers.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual Fan Cooler
Best for: high-airflow LGA 1151 dual-tower desktop builds
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 157mm
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Double tower
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550rpm±10%
View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual Fan Cooler
The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is a dual-tower air cooler built for sockets including Intel LGA 1151. It features six 6mm heat pipes, a copper base, and two 120mm PWM fans that deliver up to 66.17 CFM at noise levels under 25.6 dB(A). Standing 157mm tall, it suits you if your chassis fits full-size coolers and you need substantial dual-fan heat dissipation.
Pros
- Dual 120mm PWM fans providing up to 66.17 CFM airflow
- Six 6mm pure copper heat pipes with AGHP technology
- Maximum rated fan noise level of 25.6 dB(A)
- Pure copper base with dual-tower aluminum heatsink
Cons
- Height of 157mm requires substantial case clearance
- Dual-tower 135mm width occupies significant space around motherboard components
Good fit if
- You have at least 157mm of vertical CPU cooler clearance in your case.
- You need high airflow across an LGA 1151 socket using two 120mm PWM fans.
Skip if
- You build inside a compact or slim case that cannot fit a 157mm cooler.
- You want a single-tower or low-profile cooler setup.
Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual-Tower Cooler delivers heavy-duty dual-tower cooling with six heat pipes and two 120mm fans for LGA 1151 builds. Its 157mm height provides strong thermal throughput if your chassis has the clearance.
Thermalright 47mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler
Best for: compact LGA 1151 ITX builds
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 47mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Tower Design
- Low-Profile
- Fan Size
- 92mm
- System Type
- ITX
The Thermalright 47mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler is an ITX air cooler designed for compact builds. It fits Intel LGA 1151 sockets alongside AM4, AM5, and LGA 1200 setups. At 47mm total height, it pairs four 6mm heatpipes with a 92mm slim PWM fan rated at a maximum noise level of 22.4 dBA. This cooler suits you if you need reliable low-profile thermal management in space-constrained cases.
Pros
- Low 47mm total height fits small form factor cases
- Four 6mm heatpipes with black nickel plating
- Quiet 92mm slim PWM fan rated at 22.4 dBA maximum
- Includes an all-metal mounting platform with backplate
Cons
- Smaller 92mm fan moves less air than full-size 120mm fans
- No integrated RGB or LED lighting
Good fit if
- You build inside a space-restricted ITX chassis that limits cooler height to under 50mm.
- You need quiet LGA 1151 cooling with noise levels capped at 22.4 dBA.
Skip if
- You have clearance in a larger case for full-size 120mm tower coolers.
- You want built-in lighting features on your CPU cooler.
Verdict: Thermalright 47mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler provides a compact 47mm profile and four 6mm heatpipes for tight LGA 1151 ITX builds.
Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler
Best for: compact ITX LGA 1151 system builds
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 36mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Tower Design
- Low-Profile
- System Type
- ITX
- Features
- Fan
The Thermalright 36mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler is an ultra-compact air cooler built for small-form-factor ITX systems using an LGA 1151 socket. It measures 36mm in total height and includes four 6mm AGHP heatpipes paired with a TL-9015 slim PWM fan rated at 22.4 dBA or lower. If you need low-profile cooling for tight computer enclosures without sacrificing multi-pipe heat transfer, this nickel-plated all-metal heatsink provides direct socket fitment.
Pros
- Compact 36mm total height fits tight ITX enclosures
- Four 6mm AGHP heatpipes with secondary reflow soldering
- Low maximum fan noise rating of 22.4 dBA
- All-metal mounting platform includes a dedicated backplate fastener
Cons
- Slim 36mm heatsink design provides less fin surface area than tower models
- Uses a single slim 92mm fan rather than a full-size 120mm fan
Good fit if
- You are building a compact ITX PC with strict height clearance
- You need an LGA 1151 cooler with quiet fan operation under 22.4 dBA
- You want a low-profile heatsink equipped with four 6mm heatpipes
Skip if
- You have space in your case for a full-size tower cooler
- You prefer larger 120mm cooling fans over slim 92mm fans
Verdict: Thermalright 36mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler delivers four-heatpipe cooling performance within an ultra-compact 36mm profile. It is an ideal fit for compact ITX LGA 1151 builds where component clearance is minimal.
Thermalright 53mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler
Best for: compact LGA 1151 small form factor builds
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 53mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Tower Design
- Low-Profile
- Fan Size
- 90mm
- Color
- Black
The Thermalright 53mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler provides compact air cooling designed for slim chassis builds. It mounts directly onto your LGA 1151 socket using an all-metal backplate mounting system. Equipped with four 6mm heat pipes and a 90mm slim PWM fan, it manages airflow while maintaining a compact 53mm total height. This cooler suits you if your small form factor setup needs direct clearance and quiet operation capped at 22.4 dBA.
Pros
- 53mm total height fits compact small-form-factor cases
- Four 6mm heatpipes using secondary reflow soldering
- Low fan noise rated at 22.4 dBA or less
- Includes an all-metal backplate fastening system
Cons
- 90mm fan moves less air than full-size 120mm fans
- No integrated RGB or lighting features listed
Good fit if
- You build inside a compact case with 53mm of vertical cooler clearance.
- You need native mounting support for an Intel LGA 1151 motherboard.
- You want a cooler rated for quiet operation under 22.4 dBA.
Skip if
- You need a full-sized 120mm fan for high-airflow full-tower builds.
- You prefer integrated RGB lighting on your cooling fan.
Verdict: Thermalright 53mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler delivers four heatpipes and quiet 22.4 dBA cooling in a 53mm profile. It is a solid choice for small LGA 1151 builds with tight space constraints.
Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler
Best for: high-TDP LGA 1151 builds needing maximum airflow
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 160 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 5
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120 mm, 140 mm
- TDP Rating
- 275 W
View on Amazon: Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler
This Thermalright dual-tower cooler pairs five 8mm heat pipes with two distinct PWM fans to dissipate heat on LGA 1151 motherboards. It handles processors rated up to 275W TDP and fits RAM modules up to 62mm tall. If you run an overclocked or high-draw LGA 1151 CPU and own a case with at least 160mm of cooler clearance, this unit delivers high airflow without crowding your graphics card.
Pros
- High 275W TDP rating with five 8mm heat pipes
- Dual PWM fans providing up to 95.5 CFM airflow
- Offset layout allows installation on first graphics card slot
- Clears memory modules up to 62mm tall
Cons
- Height of 160mm requires chassis width greater than 210mm
- Heavy heatsink design weighing 1.34 kg
- No integrated lighting features
Good fit if
- You need thermal dissipation for high-power LGA 1151 processors up to 275W TDP.
- You use taller RAM modules up to 62mm in height.
- You have a PC chassis with more than 210mm of overall width.
Skip if
- You have a compact computer case with under 160mm of cooler clearance.
- You want built-in lighting on your CPU cooling fans.
Verdict: Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe Cooler delivers high-end 275W TDP thermal performance for LGA 1151 processors using thick 8mm pipes and dual PWM fans. Its tall profile and heavy frame require a wide PC case, but it maintains generous memory and PCIe clearance.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin Dual Tower Air Cooler
Best for: high-airflow dual-tower LGA 1151 builds
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 155 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550 RPM
View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin Dual Tower Air Cooler
This dual-tower CPU air cooler supports Intel LGA 1151 motherboards and provides cooling through six 6mm copper heat pipes paired with an aluminum heatsink. It includes two 120mm PWM fans that operate up to 1550 RPM, delivering maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM at noise levels up to 25.6 dB(A). You get a 155mm tall unit designed for standard desktop cases where multi-pipe heat dissipation is needed for your processor.
Pros
- Six 6mm sintered copper heat pipes with AGHP technology
- Two 120mm PWM fans delivering up to 66.17 CFM of airflow
- Dual-tower aluminum heatsink with a pure copper base
- Maximum rated fan noise level under 25.6 dB(A)
Cons
- Stands 155mm tall, requiring clearance in compact PC cases
- Does not include an AMD backplate in the mounting kit
Good fit if
- You need a dual-tower cooler that fits an Intel LGA 1151 socket.
- You have a PC chassis with at least 155mm of vertical cooler clearance.
- You want dual 120mm PWM fans with noise rated at or below 25.6 dB(A).
Skip if
- You use a compact or small-form-factor case with under 155mm clearance.
- You need an included AMD backplate for non-Intel secondary installations.
Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual Tower Cooler provides dual-fan, six-heatpipe cooling for LGA 1151 systems with 155mm of vertical clearance.
Thermalright Assassin X120 120mm Air Cooler
Best for: Mid-tower LGA 1151 builds needing quiet airflow
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 148 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550 RPM
- Material
- Aluminum
This tower heatsink gives you direct socket LGA 1151 support using four 6mm heat pipes and an aluminum fin stack. Standing 148mm tall, it fits medium cases while clearing standard components. You get a single 120mm PWM fan that moves up to 66.17 CFM of air at noise levels up to 25.6 dB(A). It suits you if you need balanced, low-noise cooling for an everyday LGA 1151 setup.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- Compact 148mm tower height fits medium-sized cases
- 120mm PWM fan delivers up to 66.17 CFM of airflow
- Quiet operation with maximum noise rated at 25.6 dB(A)
Cons
- Comes with a single fan rather than a dual-fan setup
- Uses four heat pipes instead of six
- Exceeds height limits for slim or low-profile ITX cases
Good fit if
- You need a 148mm tall tower cooler that fits a medium-sized chassis.
- You want a quiet 120mm PWM fan rated at or below 25.6 dB(A).
- You run an Intel LGA 1151 processor on a standard desktop board.
Skip if
- You build inside a compact small-form-factor case requiring low-profile cooling.
- You require a dual-tower or dual-fan cooling setup.
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120 CPU Air Cooler pairs a 148mm aluminum heatsink with four heat pipes for reliable LGA 1151 cooling. Its single 120mm PWM fan moves up to 66.17 CFM while keeping noise within 25.6 dB(A).
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 White ARGB Cooler
Best for: white LGA 1151 builds needing dual-tower airflow
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 155 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550 RPM
View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 White ARGB Cooler
This dual-tower air cooler pairs an all-white finish with addressable RGB lighting for your LGA 1151 socket. It features six 6mm copper heat pipes and two 120mm PWM fans reaching up to 1,550 RPM and 66.17 CFM. At 155mm tall, it delivers heavy-duty dual-tower heat dissipation without exceeding standard mid-tower clearance. It suits you if you want high airflow and white styling for demanding desktop processors.
Pros
- Dual-tower design with six 6mm copper heat pipes
- Two 120mm PWM fans providing up to 66.17 CFM of airflow
- Maximum rated fan noise level of 25.6 dB(A)
- Integrated ARGB lighting on both fans with an all-white finish
Cons
- Height of 155mm requires adequate PC case clearance
- Overall width of 135mm may limit space around tall memory modules
Good fit if
- You need a white dual-tower cooler with ARGB lighting for an LGA 1151 motherboard.
- You have a PC case with at least 155mm of CPU cooler clearance.
- You want dual 120mm PWM fans that move up to 66.17 CFM.
Skip if
- You use a compact small-form-factor case with tight vertical clearance.
- You prefer a single-tower design to ensure unobstructed RAM access.
Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE White ARGB gives you dual-tower cooling with six heat pipes and two high-airflow fans in an all-white, lit design.
Thermalright Assassin X 120 ARGB Cooler
Best for: illuminated mid-tower LGA 1151 desktop builds
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 148 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Tower Design
- Single-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550 RPM
This Thermalright cooler is a single-tower air unit built for processors on sockets including LGA 1151. It pairs four 6mm copper heat pipes and a pure copper base with a 120mm ARGB PWM fan. The fan pushes up to 66.17 CFM of airflow at noise levels up to 25.6 dB(A). Standing 148mm tall, it suits you if you need illuminated, mid-height cooling for your desktop build.
Pros
- Four 6mm AGHP copper heat pipes paired with a pure copper base
- 120mm PWM fan delivers maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM
- Maximum rated fan acoustic output capped at 25.6 dB(A)
- Compact 148mm height fits medium-sized computer cases
Cons
- Single-tower design includes only one 120mm fan
- 148mm height exceeds clearance limits of slim low-profile enclosures
Good fit if
- You need a 148mm tall cooler for a standard mid-tower chassis.
- You want ARGB lighting integrated into a 120mm PWM fan.
- You use an Intel LGA 1151 motherboard and want forward compatibility with LGA 1700 or AM5.
Skip if
- You build in an ultra-compact small-form-factor case requiring low-profile cooling.
- You prefer a build without ARGB lighting hardware.
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120 ARGB CPU Cooler delivers 66.17 CFM of airflow across four copper heat pipes within a moderate 148mm footprint. It provides quiet 25.6 dB(A) operation and direct LGA 1151 mounting support.
Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 ARGB
Best for: LGA 1151 builds needing single-tower ARGB cooling
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Cooler Height
- 154 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Single-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550 RPM
This single-tower cooler fits LGA 1151 and other Intel and AMD sockets using a pure copper base paired with six 6mm heat pipes. Standing 154mm tall, it fits medium-sized cases while delivering up to 66.17 CFM of airflow via a 120mm PWM ARGB fan. With a rated noise level up to 25.6 dB(A), it suits you if you want high airflow and addressable RGB lighting in a single-tower footprint.
Pros
- Six 6mm heat pipes paired with a pure copper base
- 120mm PWM fan delivers up to 66.17 CFM of airflow
- Maximum rated fan noise level of 25.6 dB(A)
- Moderate 154mm total height fits medium-sized cases
Cons
- Requires 154mm of clearance, ruling out slim and low-profile cases
- Includes only a single cooling fan
Good fit if
- You have at least 154mm of cooler height clearance in your chassis.
- You want a single-tower design featuring six heat pipes and ARGB lighting.
- You need mounting support for LGA 1151 alongside newer Intel and AMD platforms.
Skip if
- You build inside a compact small-form-factor case with low height clearance.
- You require a dual-tower heatsink setup with multiple fans.
Verdict: Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 ARGB CPU Cooler combines six heat pipes, a copper base, and a 120mm ARGB fan into a balanced 154mm single-tower format for LGA 1151 systems.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm CPU Cooler | Thermaltake Gravity i2 92mm Intel CPU Cooler | Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M ARGB Air Cooler | JIUWU 92mm 4-Heatpipe Blue LED Cooler | Toptekits Copper Core Low-Profile Cooler | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Dual Fan Cooler | Thermalright 47mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler | Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler | Thermalright 53mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler | Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler | Thermalright Peerless Assassin Dual Tower Air Cooler | Thermalright Assassin X120 120mm Air Cooler | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 White ARGB Cooler | Thermalright Assassin X 120 ARGB Cooler | Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 ARGB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 | LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 | AM4, LGA1200, LGA1151 | LGA 775, 1150/1151/1155/1156, AM4 | LGA 1150/1151/1155/1156 | not specified | AM4, AM5, LGA115x/1200/1700/1851 | AM4, AM5, LGA1150/1151/1200/1700/1851 | AM4, AM5, LGA115x, LGA1200, LGA1851 | AM4, AM5, LGA1150, LGA1200, LGA1700 | AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA1851, LGA1200 | AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA1851, LGA1200 | not specified | not specified | AM4, AM5, LGA1700/1851/1150/1151/1200 |
| Cooler Height | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 27mm | 157mm | 47mm | 36mm | 53mm | 160 mm | 155 mm | 148 mm | 155 mm | 148 mm | 154 mm |
| Heat Pipes | not specified | not specified | 4 | 4 | not specified | 6 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 4 | 6 | 4 | 6 |
| Tower Design | Low-profile | Low Profile | not specified | not specified | Low-Profile | Double tower | Low-Profile | Low-Profile | Low-Profile | Dual-Tower | Dual-Tower | not specified | Dual-Tower | Single-Tower | Single-Tower |
| Fan Size | 92mm | 92mm | not specified | 92mm | 80mm | 120mm | 92mm | not specified | 90mm | 120 mm, 140 mm | 120 mm | 120 mm | 120 mm | 120 mm | 120 mm |
| TDP Rating | not specified | 95W | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 275 W | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Fan Speed | not specified | not specified | not specified | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM ± 10% | 1550rpm±10% | not specified | not specified | not specified | 1850 RPM | 1550 RPM | 1550 RPM | 1550 RPM | 1550 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Lighting | not specified | not specified | ARGB | Blue LED | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | ARGB | ARGB | ARGB |
| System Type | not specified | Desktop | not specified | Desktop | not specified | not specified | ITX | ITX | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Color | Black | Black | MA410M ARGB | not specified | H116 | PA120 | Black | AXP90-X36 | Black | Black | PA120 SE | not specified | White | AX120R SE ARGB | BA120 ARGB |
| Material | Aluminum | not specified | Copper, Aluminum | not specified | Copper | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Aluminum | not specified | Aluminum | Aluminum | not specified | not specified |
| Features | Fan | not specified | not specified | Fan | Fan | not specified | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | not specified | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan |
| Dimensions | 3.7 × 2.4 × 3.7 inches | 4.25 × 4.25 × 4 inches | 6.5 × 9.1 × 6.1 inches | 3.9 × 3.62 × 1.02 inches | 3.94 × 3.94 × 1.77 inches | 6.18 × 5.31 × 4.92 inches | 3.74 × 3.74 × 1.26 inches | 3.74 × 3.7 × 0.83 inches | 3.7 × 3.74 × 1.5 inches | 6.3 × 5.75 × 5.51 inches | 6.1 × 5.31 × 4.92 inches | 4.72 × 2.8 × 5.83 inches | 4.92 × 5.31 × 6.1 inches | 4.92 × 2.8 × 5.83 inches | 4.9 × 2 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 11 ounces | 11.4 ounces | 2.5 pounds | not specified | 7.76 ounces | 1 pounds | 1.1 pounds | 14.4 ounces | 1 pounds | 2.2 pounds | 2 pounds | 1.42 pounds | 1.87 pounds | 1.39 pounds | 1.12 pounds |
| Size | Intel | Intel | 4 HeatPipes | not specified | H116 | PA120 series | Height 47mm | Height 36mm | Height 53mm | 5 Heat Pipes | PA120 SE series | not specified | PA120 SE series | 4 Heatpies | 4 Heatpies |
| Model | CLP0556-B | CLP0556-D | MAM-T4PN-218PC-R1 | DNFS004 | H116 | LM-PA 120 | AXP90 X47 BLACK | AXP90 X36 | AXP90 X53 BLACK | FC140 BLACK | PA120 SE | AX120 Refined SE | not specified | not specified | BA120 ARGB-D1 |
Is LGA 1151 Socket Compatibility Worth It?
Choosing a cooler with LGA 1151 compatibility ensures the included mounting hardware fits your motherboard layout. A proper socket match provides direct contact between the CPU heat spreader and the heatsink base. Many models on this list also include hardware for LGA 1200, LGA 1150, AM4, and LGA 1700. This multi-socket support gives you the flexibility to move the cooler to different motherboards later without buying separate brackets.
Worth it if
- You build with an Intel LGA 1151 motherboard and require matched mounting hardware.
- You plan to reuse the cooler on other supported sockets like LGA 1200, LGA 1150, or AM4.
Skip it if
- You use a platform outside the listed socket specifications.
- You already own functional mounting hardware for your current setup.
If you are moving to Intel's newer socket instead, review specs for an aio liquid cooler for LGA 1851 to check mounting compatibility.
How We Picked These Coolers
To build this guide for 2026, we selected 15 coolers compatible with Intel socket LGA 1151. A model qualifies when its listing explicitly states LGA 1151 support in the product title or feature list. Every detail comes directly from published specifications and feature lists. Products are not physically handled. To keep the comparison straightforward, we show only one size or variant from each product family.
The list displays products in stock first. We then highlight key specifications, such as heatsink dimensions, materials, heat pipe counts, and fan sizes. These published metrics allow you to evaluate cooler height, motherboard clearance, and airflow needs for your specific desktop build.
Key Factors When Choosing LGA 1151 Coolers
-
Assess Tower Layout and Clearance
Single-tower designs offer easier RAM and PCIe slot clearance compared to wider dual-tower configurations. If you run tall memory modules, check the heatsink layout spec. A single-tower unit like the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 ARGB uses a narrower footprint to prevent overhang above motherboard DIMM slots. Dual-tower coolers provide more surface area for thermal dissipation but require verification of horizontal motherboard clearances around PCIe cards. Match your chassis and component spacing against the cooler footprint dimensions.
-
Check Fan Header Connector Types
Check whether the cooler utilizes a 4-pin PWM connection or a 3-pin header. A 4-pin PWM fan allows your motherboard to automatically adjust fan RPM based on real-time processor temperatures. This regulates operational noise during idle desktop tasks while ramping up cooling under full load. Coolers like the JIUWU 92mm 4-Heatpipe Blue LED Cooler use a 3-pin connector, which runs at a fixed speed unless your motherboard supports DC voltage regulation. Review your motherboard fan headers before selecting a model.
-
Compare Heatsink Base Construction Materials
Examine the metal composition of the contact base and fin stack. Pure copper conducts heat faster than aluminum, making it effective for low-profile chassis where vertical fin height is restricted. An all-copper unit like the Toptekits Copper Core Low-Profile Cooler maximizes heat absorption in ultra-slim server racks. Aluminum fin stacks paired with copper direct-contact pipes provide balanced thermal conductivity at a lower overall mass, reducing mechanical strain on your LGA 1151 motherboard socket. Choose full copper for tight enclosures and aluminum stacks for standard towers.
-
Balance Noise and Airflow Specs
Review the fan airflow rate measured in CFM and noise output measured in dB(A). Higher airflow values indicate more air pushed through the heatsink fins each minute, aiding sustained processing loads. If you want a quiet desktop workspace, prioritize fans rated below 26 dB(A). For example, the Thermalright Assassin X120 120mm Air Cooler specifies a sound output of 25.6 dB(A) alongside a maximum airflow rating of 66.17 CFM to balance cooling with quiet operation. Compare these acoustic and airflow specifications to suit your personal sound tolerance.
-
Verify Lighting Support and Headers
If you want visual customization inside your case, check the lighting specifications before buying. Addressable RGB (ARGB) coolers require a compatible 3-pin 5V header on your motherboard to control color transitions and effects. The Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M ARGB Air Cooler features addressable LEDs that can also display temperature-based lighting. Non-illuminated coolers eliminate extra wiring, which helps maintain a clean layout in simple office builds or closed chassis lacking a side window. Verify your motherboard headers support the cooler's lighting configuration.
-
Confirm Multi-Socket Hardware Support
Look beyond standard LGA 1151 support if you intend to reuse your cooler in another desktop build. Several modern coolers supply multi-platform mounting brackets covering older sockets as well as newer designs such as LGA 1700, LGA 1851, and AMD AM5. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin Dual Tower Air Cooler includes brackets across several Intel and AMD generations. Selecting a cooler with wider bracket coverage ensures your cooling hardware remains usable if you upgrade your core platform components later. Check the bundled hardware listing for future socket compatibility.
Frequently asked questions
Can you install an LGA 1151 CPU cooler on an LGA 1200 motherboard?
Yes, many LGA 1151 coolers share mounting dimensions with LGA 1200. Models such as the Thermaltake Gravity i2 and Thermalright Assassin X 120 list both LGA 1151 and LGA 1200 in their socket specifications. Check your cooler's supported socket list before mounting, as hardware brackets determine compatibility across different Intel motherboard generations.
Which CPU cooler fits the slimmest LGA 1151 chassis or server rack?
The Toptekits Copper Core Low-Profile Cooler fits the tightest setups, featuring an ultra-slim 27mm height profile specifically intended for 1U server enclosures. For standard desktop compact ITX cases, the Thermalright AXP90 36mm provides four heatpipes with a 36mm profile. Both designs minimize vertical clearance issues inside restricted spaces while mounting directly onto LGA 1151 motherboards.
Do LGA 1151 CPU coolers also support modern AMD sockets?
Several LGA 1151 coolers include multi-platform brackets supporting AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets. For example, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120, Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 ARGB, and Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M specify AM4 compatibility alongside LGA 1151. However, Intel-only units like the Thermaltake Gravity i2 lack AMD brackets and only mount onto Intel motherboards.
How do fan connectors differ among LGA 1151 air coolers?
LGA 1151 coolers typically utilize 4-pin PWM or 3-pin fan connectors. The Thermaltake Gravity i2 CLP0556-B includes a 4-pin PWM fan that lets your motherboard automatically regulate RPM based on CPU temperatures. In contrast, simpler options like the JIUWU 92mm Blue LED cooler rely on a standard 3-pin connection, running at fixed speeds unless modified by motherboard voltage controls.
What is the highest TDP capacity available among these LGA 1151 coolers?
The Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe Cooler specifies thermal performance up to 275W TDP. It achieves this high dissipation using thick 8mm heat pipes and dual PWM fans arranged across two aluminum towers. High-TDP models like this handle intensive workloads on LGA 1151 CPUs, provided your case has adequate physical clearance for its 5.51-inch height.
Which LGA 1151 cooler provides temperature monitoring features?
The Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M ARGB Air Cooler provides hardware-level thermal monitoring. It pairs four direct-contact heat pipes with real-time temperature-reactive addressable RGB lighting, visually signaling system heat levels. Most alternative LGA 1151 coolers provide static single-color illumination, such as the JIUWU 92mm Blue LED, or rely purely on unlit aluminum and copper heatsink designs without visual sensors.
Are LGA 1151 coolers built from copper or aluminum?
Coolers on this list use copper, aluminum, or a combination of both materials. Units like the Thermaltake Gravity i2 use solid aluminum for basic thermal control. The Toptekits Low-Profile Cooler utilizes pure copper construction for compact conductivity. Hybrid designs like the Cooler Master MasterAir MA410M and Thermalright Burst Assassin combine copper heat pipes with aluminum fin arrays to transfer heat effectively.