Best CPU Coolers for AMD Ryzen 7 3800X in 2020

AMD Ryzen 9 3900x
AMD Ryzen 9 3900x (Image credit: Windows Central)

If you want the best mid-range processor from AMD right now, it'll be the Ryzen 7 3800X. It has eight cores, 16 threads, and plenty of performance. To make the most of this CPU, you need decent cooling. This is where our round-up comes in with plenty of options to choose from.

NZXT Kraken Z63

<a href="http://shrsl.com/22wi4" data-link-merchant="shrsl.com""> NZXT Kraken Z63

Beastly Performance

This smashing AIO cooler from NZXT rocks a fancy LCD display, massive 280mm radiator with two 140mm fans, and the latest Asetek pump, making it one of the best AIO around. Hook it up to your motherboard, and you can use NZXT CAM to control everything.

Noctua NH-D15

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FNoctua-NH-D15-heatpipe-NF-A15-140mm%2Fdp%2FB00L7UZMAK%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US""> Noctua NH-D15

Best Air Cooler

You don't need to go for liquid cooling to max out the performance of the Ryzen 7 3800X. The Noctua NH-D15 is a prime example of a superb air cooler, thanks to the dual fan configuration.

Corsair iCUE H100i

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FCORSAIR-Radiator-Software-Control-CW-9060043-WW%2Fdp%2FB0829RTMKY%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US""> Corsair iCUE H100i

Liquid Cooling

Another solid AIO is the Corsair H110i, which will allow for some degree of overclocking, though you will need to make sure your other PC parts are capable of handling the additional load. The large 280mm radiator is more than enough, and there's even a zero fan mode for near-silent operation.

be quiet! Shadow Rock 3

<a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=kXQk6%2AivFEQ&mid=44583&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.newegg.com%2Fbe-quiet-shadow-rock-3-shadow-rock-2%2Fp%2F13C-001F-00037" data-link-merchant="newegg.com""> be quiet! Shadow Rock 3

Best Value

be quiet! makes some excellent coolers, and the Shadow Rock 3 is an impressive mid-range option for processors like the AMD Ryzen 7 3800X. If you want a quiet, but well-ventilated PC, this is for you.

If we're to make a suggestion

Why you can trust Windows Central Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

AMD's Ryzen 7 3800X doesn't have a ridiculous number of physical cores and, as such, doesn't require the best cooling on the market. However, it's still an 8-core CPU, even if AMD made considerable strides in keeping power consumption and heat generation low. By going with an aftermarket solution, you'll be able to overclock, reduce noise, and improve aesthetics.

The Ryen 7 3800X becomes even more impressive should you pair it up with the NZXT Kraken Z63, which features a 280mm radiator, latest Asetek pump, and LCD display for a unique-looking build. It's a little on the pricey end, but well worth it if your budget can stretch.

The Shadow Rock 3 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 Ryzen 7 3800X, because it is.

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.