Tech For Mass is supported by readers. If you buy products from links on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn more
By: Robert Llarves | Date Posted: December 30, 2022
Intel’s Core i5 processors have been known to be the perfect blend of performance and affordability. The newest iteration, the Core i5-13600K, is no exception and provides even more powerful performance at a competitive price.
With a total of 14 cores (6 Performance-cores & 8 Efficient-cores) and 20 threads, the Core i5-13600K is capable of handling even heavy workloads without breaking a sweat. It provides outstanding multi-core performance that enables smooth gaming experiences and can be a good entry-level CPU for other high-performance tasks such as video editing and 3D rendering.
The processor also offers impressive clock speeds with a maximum turbo frequency of 5.10 GHz for the Performance-core and 3.90 GHz for the Efficient-core. Furthermore, its base frequency is 3.50 GHz for the Performance-core and 2.60 GHz for the Efficient-core, allowing it to achieve consistently high speeds without needing to throttle down performance during intense tasks.
While there are more powerful CPUs, the Core i5-13600K offers exceptional value for money and delivers solid performance within its price class. For those looking to get the most bang for their buck, this processor is an ideal pick. However, many benchmarks reported that the processor runs hotter than expected, so an effective cooling system is necessary for optimal performance.
As such, to help you keep your Core i5-13600K running cool and quiet, here is a list of some of the best CPU coolers that work great for this processor. All these coolers come with various features to provide adequate cooling capacity while ensuring low noise levels. It’s very essential to have a good cooler and a motherboard for the Core i5-13600K. But before we get into the details, let’s take a look at some important things to consider when shopping for a CPU cooler.
One of the key factors to consider when shopping for a CPU cooler is the type of cooler you want. The two most common types are air coolers and all-in-one (AIO) liquid coolers.
Air Cooler: Air coolers rely on heatsink fans to dissipate heat away from the processor, making them a great choice for users who need their PCs to remain quiet while running at full throttle. They are also typically cheaper than AIO units and provide good cooling performance for moderate overclocking.
AIO Cooler: AIO coolers, on the other hand, employ a closed-loop liquid cooling system that provides superior thermal performance compared to air coolers. They are generally quieter as well and offer more flexibility in terms of customization. However, they also tend to be pricier than air coolers.
The socket compatibility of the CPU cooler is another important factor to consider. Most air coolers and AIOs are compatible with Intel’s LGA 1700 socket, which is what the Core i5-13600K uses. You don’t have to worry as all CPU coolers on this list are compatible with the LGA 1700 socket.
It’s also important to make sure that the CPU cooler fits in your PC case. Some air coolers and AIOs require a larger PC case to accommodate the larger heatsink and fan assemblies. So, if you’re using a smaller PC case, in particular, make sure to double-check the product measurements and compatibility with your specific model.
If you plan on overclocking your processor, then it’s important to choose a CPU cooler that is suitable for this purpose. Not all CPU coolers are designed to handle the increased heat output of an overclocked processor, so make sure to pay attention to this when shopping. This list includes some powerful CPU coolers that are great for overclocking the Core i5-13600K.
Finally, when shopping for a CPU cooler, you should also consider your budget. As mentioned earlier, air coolers are typically cheaper than AIO units, so if cost is an issue then this might be a good option to look into. However, if you want superior cooling performance and don’t mind spending a bit more money, then an AIO liquid cooler can offer an ideal solution. In the end, it all comes down to your preference and budget.
Now that we have covered the basics, let’s take a look at some of the best CPU coolers for Core i5-13600K.
 | Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB |
| Check On Amazon |
 | Noctua NH-U12S Redux |
| Check On Amazon |
 | be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 |
| Check On Amazon |
 | ARCTIC Freezer 34 eSports DUO |
| Check On Amazon |
 | CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 |
| Check On Amazon |
 | ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 |
| Check On Amazon |
Best Entry-Level Air Cooler for Core i5-13600K
Starting with our entry-level CPU cooler recommendation, we have the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB.
Equipped with a 4 heat pipe design and cutting-edge direct contact technology, this CPU cooler offers outstanding thermal performance. With an airflow rate of 57.3 CFM, it will help keep your system cool even during intense gaming sessions. Meanwhile, its noise level of 30.0 decibels won’t distract you from your gaming experience.
To ensure maximum cooling efficiency, the Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB is equipped with a stacked fin array to minimize airflow resistance and promote cooler air flow into the heat sink. To top it off, nickel plating enhances the radiator’s heat dissipation capabilities even further so your system will stay cool without breaking a sweat.
Aesthetically wise, this cooler also impresses. It comes with an anodized gun-metal black finish and a brushed aluminum surface to give it a more refined look that will blend well with any interior design of your system’s case. Plus, the included RGB LED controller allows you to customize colors and effects so you can make this cooler truly your own. With just the touch of a button, you can turn up the heat on your rig in style.
The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition RGB is an excellent entry-level CPU cooler for a Core i5-13600K processor. It offers great thermal performance and noise levels without compromising on looks. Plus, it comes with an RGB LED controller to help you customize your system’s design even further.
If you’re looking for an efficient and stylish cooling solution for your Core i5-13600K processor, then this is definitely one to consider.
Cheap CPU Cooler for Core i5-13600K
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a good option if you don’t want to spend a lot on a CPU cooler.
The NH-U12S heatsink, a recipient of multiple awards, has been improved and simplified to create a more budget-friendly version. It comes with a silent NF-P12 redux-1700 120mm fan controlled by PWM for adjustable speed functionality.
The slim 120mm size ensures case, PCIe, and RAM compatibility as it fits most tower cases without overhanging the RAM slots or blocking the PCIe on most motherboards.
Also, it does come with a pre-applied thermal paste (Noctua NT-H1) so you don’t need to purchase any additional thermal paste. The SecuFirm2 mounting system, on the other hand, makes it easy to install on Intel LGA1700 sockets without any hassle.
Thanks to its slim design and efficient cooling performance, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux is an ideal choice for those looking for a cheap yet reliable CPU cooler for their Core i5-13600K processor.
With an improved design that offers better cooling and whisper-quiet operation, Noctua’s NH-U12S Redux CPU Cooler is a great budget cooler for the Core i5-13600K processor.
However, overclocking might not be an option due to its adequate capacity. But, if you are not interested in overclocking and looking for a cheap yet reliable CPU cooler, this one will suffice.
Best Overall Air Cooler for Core i5-13600K
Moving on with our best overall CPU cooler recommendation, we have the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4.
The be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 features a dual-tower design with 7 high-performance copper heat pipes providing excellent heat dissipation.
To keep the noise level to a minimum and improve cooling performance, it is equipped with two Silent Wings PWM fans featuring funnel-shaped frames for increased air pressure. Even at maximum fan speed, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 only produces 24.3 dB(A) of sound – barely audible even in a silent environment.
The airflow-optimized fins feature cutouts to enhance RAM compatibility while the top cover provides an aesthetically pleasing design that should fit any rig. In addition, the mounting kit is completely black and perfectly matches the cooler’s design.
The be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 is indeed a great air cooler. Whether you’re an overclocking enthusiast or simply want to keep your CPU temperatures in check, it should definitely be on your list of choices. It offers excellent cooling performance with low noise levels.
Best White Air Cooler for Core i5-13600K
For people planning to build a white theme Core i5-13600K PC, the ARCTIC Freezer 34 eSports DUO is a great choice. The white finish on the heatsink makes it look clean and simple, yet still strongly modern.
The ARCTIC Freezer 34 eSports DUO features a combination of heat pipes and cooling fins that are evenly spread out to ensure optimal heat dissipation. The contact surface of the Freezer 34 eSports DUO heat pipes specifically targets the processor DIE, making it suitable even for larger processors (18 cores). Additionally, two BioniX P-fans are included, which work in push-pull mode to increase airflow and ensure that the CPU stays cool even under heavy load.
In terms of installation, the ARCTIC Freezer 34 eSports DUO is incredibly easy to mount. Its mounting system is 100% compatible with the LGA 1700 socket, while its low weight makes it transport safe as well.
White theme PC builds have been gaining traction lately and if you’re looking to build one with a Core i5-13600K, then the ARCTIC Freezer 34 eSports DUO is definitely worth considering.
Its combination of efficient cooling and aesthetically pleasing design makes it an ideal choice for those who want both performance and style.
Best Entry-Level AIO Cooler for Core i5-13600K
If you are opting for an entry-level cooling solution for your Intel Core i5-13600K processor, then the CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 is an ideal choice. This All-in-One liquid CPU cooler comes with a 240mm radiator and Gen3 dual chamber pump with reliable durability and quiet performance.
This CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 comes with a refreshed exterior design for improved lighting as well as fan blades for whisper-quiet operation. The fans are designed to provide an optimal balance between silence and cooling power, allowing you to maximize the potential of your processor without sacrificing noise levels.
Moreover, CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 also features an industrial-grade seal made from high EPDM material that reinforces the seal for improved longevity and anti-leaking capability.
In terms of looks, the CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 offers a unique RGB lighting design to suit all tastes. You can customize your lighting setup using the CoolerMaster software, allowing you to easily match your system’s theme.
All in all, the CoolerMaster MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 is a great entry-level AIO cooler for the Intel Core i5-13600K processor. It offers reliable performance, good looks, and great features at an affordable price point.
Best 280mm AIO Cooler for Core i5-13600K
As the Core i5-13600K runs quite hot, overclocking this processor requires an efficient cooling solution that does not compromise performance. The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 is a great option for this as it’s designed to cool high-end CPUs.
The 280mm radiator provides enough cooling surface area to keep the i5-13600K running cool and stable even when it’s overclocked. It also comes with two fans, a 200-1700 RPM PWM fan, and an additional 40mm VRM fan near the pump to provide extra cooling for the base and voltage transformer. In addition, the fans are also PWM controlled so you can adjust the speed depending on your needs.
The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 also comes with an 80% less power consumption feature, which means that it won’t run at full load even when idle. This helps reduce noise and power costs while still providing effective cooling performance.
The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 also has an 80% lower power consumption than other pumps from competitors, so it won’t be taking up too much energy even when idle or in low-load situations. Plus, it also runs quite quietly which is great for those who don’t want to be distracted by a loud noise coming from their PC.
Both gamers and overclocking enthusiasts looking for an AIO cooler that works great with the Core i5-13600K will be very satisfied with the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280. It provides cooling performance that is efficient and reliable, while also being energy-efficient and quiet at the same time.
The Core i5-13600K is a great mid-range processor, and it deserves to be paired with a quality cooler. Whether you’re looking for an air-based or liquid-cooled solution, this list has a number of options that should fit the bill.
We’ve included a buying guide designed to help you find the best cooler for your needs, as well as what features are most important to consider when making your selection.
Investing in the right cooler can make all the difference when it comes to squeezing every last bit of performance out of your Core i5-13600K processor. So take some time and review your options before making a final decision – you won’t regret it.
