INTEL Core i9-12900K

When modern CPUs use their turbo modes, they can (depending on the configuration of the UEFI BIOS) dissipate much more heat than indicated by the manufacturer’s TDP (Thermal Design Power) specification. Just like manual overclocking, this puts higher demands on the cooling solution. Our CPU compatibility list helps you to choose (choosing) the cooler model that is best suited for a given CPU and your individual requirements as far as turbo and overclocking headroom are concerned.

We classify our coolers according to the following categories:

Note that the turbo/overclocking headroom is classified in relation to the specified base clock speeds of the CPU, i.e. "compatible without turbo/overclocking headroom" means that a cooler can keep the CPU at base clock at highly intensive and continuous all-core loads (e.g. Prime95) and "best turbo/overclocking headroom" means that a cooler can go far beyond base clock at these loads. Therefore, if two CPUs are identical except for one having a lower base clock speeds, the same cooler might score higher on the CPU with lower clock speeds.

Please also see our general buying guide, motherboard compatibility list and FAQs for further help on how to select the best cooler for your configuration.