Are CPU Coolers Intake or Exhaust?

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By Yasir Jamal

Any seasoned PC builder will tell you that one of the most important parts of a successful build is cooling. Sure, you can get by with the stock coolers that come with your CPU, but if you want to push your system to its limits, you’re going to need aftermarket cooling. But what kind of aftermarket cooling should you get? And more importantly, are CPU coolers intake or exhaust? In this blog post, we’ll explore the answer to that question and help you decide which type of cooler is right for your needs.

How do CPU coolers work?

Noctua NH-D15

CPU coolers come in many different shapes and sizes, but they all have one common goal: to keep your CPU cool.

There are two main types of CPU coolers: air coolers and water coolers. Air coolers use a combination of fans and heat sinks to move heat away from the CPU, while water coolers use circulating water to absorb and dissipate heat.

Both types of CPU coolers work by moving heat away from the CPU and into the cooler itself. The cooler then dissipates the heat into the surrounding air or water, keeping the CPU at a safe temperature.

With so many different types of CPU coolers on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a CPU cooler:

  • The size of your case: Make sure that the cooler you choose will fit inside your case without blocking any important components.
  • The noise level: Some CPU coolers can be quite noisy, so if you’re looking for a quiet PC, make sure to choose a silent cooler.
  • Your budget: Cooling solutions range in price from around $20 to $200, so be sure to pick one that fits your needs and budget.

Intake or Exhaust?

CPU cooler in case

There are two schools of thought when it comes to CPU coolers: intake or exhaust. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s ultimately up to the user to decide which is best for their needs.
The benefits of an intake cooler include increased airflow and better cooling performance. Drawbacks include increased noise levels and the potential for dust buildup.

Exhaust coolers have the opposite benefits and drawbacks of intake coolers. They’re generally quieter and don’t require as much maintenance, but they don’t provide as much airflow or cooling performance.

Pros and Cons of Intake and Exhaust CPU Coolers

There are two types of CPU coolers: intake and exhaust.

Each has its own pros and cons that you should consider before deciding which one is right for you.

Intake coolers draw air into the case, cooling the components inside. The main advantage of this type of cooler is that it helps to keep dust out of the case. However, intake coolers can also increase noise levels, as the fan will be drawing in air from outside the case.

Exhaust coolers expel hot air from inside the case, helping to keep components cool. The main advantage of this type of cooler is that it can help to reduce noise levels, as the fan will be exhausting air out of the case.

However, exhaust coolers can also make it easier for the dust to enter the case, as they are constantly pulling in air from outside.

How to Choose the Right CPU Cooler for You

Assuming you want a CPU air cooler, there are a few things to consider before buying. The size of the cooler is important because you need one that will fit in your case and on your motherboard. The height of the cooler is also something to think about since some cases have clearance issues with taller coolers. The number of fans is another factor to consider. More fans generally mean better cooling, but more fans also mean more noise. You’ll have to decide how much cooling you need and how much noise you’re willing to tolerate.

Once you’ve decided on the size and number of fans, it’s time to look at the features offered by different coolers. Some coolers come with lighting, which can be a nice touch if you’re building a gaming PC. Some coolers come with software that allows you to control the fan speed, which can be helpful if you want to fine-tune the noise level. And some coolers come with special mounting brackets that make installation easier or that allow for more creative fan placement.

Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to start shopping! Check out our selection of CPU coolers and find the perfect one for your rig.

Which is Better for Your System? Intake or Exhaust

When it comes to CPU coolers, there are two main types: intake and exhaust. So, which is better for your system?

Well, it depends. If you have a good case airflow, then an exhaust cooler will be fine. However, if you have poor case airflow, then an intake cooler will be better.

Generally speaking, an intake cooler will provide better cooling for your CPU. However, they can also be noisier. Exhaust coolers, on the other hand, are typically quieter but may not provide as good of cooling.

So, which is better for your system? It really depends on your specific situation. If you have good case airflow, an exhaust cooler will probably be just fine. But if you have poor case airflow, an intake cooler will likely be a better choice.

Conclusion

We hope that this article has helped clear up the debate on whether CPU coolers are intake or exhaust. There are pros and cons to both sides of the argument, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. If you want your CPU cooler to be as effective as possible, then we recommend installing it as an intake. However, if you’re more concerned with aesthetics, then installing it as an exhaust might be the better option for you.

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