Fan or Water Cooling: We Help You Choose

Updated on 8 May 2023

The fan CPU cooler, ideal for small budgets

The fan is a cooling system that uses air to control the temperature of your CPU. It is often the cheapest solution, which explains its popularity. It is also affordable in terms of installation and setup, making it ideal for learning how to set up your PC’s internal configuration.

It sits in its socket to “attach ” to your computer. Therefore, if you decide to install a large cooling unit, it will be necessary to invest in a reinforced motherboard to prevent the socket from being overstressed and minimise the risk of breakage.

The final point to consider is that the cooling potential of a fan system is theoretically less than an AIO watercooler. However, unless you are doing heavy overclocking, an air model may be more than enough.

The AIO Water-Cooling, designed for perfectionists

Water cooling is considered the best due to the use of water to cool the system. AIO (all-in-one) models have improved this system by making it easier to operate. As a result, it is now possible to exploit the cooling power of these systems without being an expert.

However, water cooling is made up of several mechanical components, which means a higher risk of failure (and therefore a shorter lifetime) and, in general, a higher noise level due to the pump needed to circulate the liquid.

In conclusion

The choice of a CPU cooling system, whether air or water-cooled, is a matter of taste, but also of budget.

Your choice should be made with knowledge and according to your preferences and needs. In our opinion, air cooling remains the most suitable solution for everyone. Fans are still the most versatile solution and can even compete with AIO watercooling systems. Custom water solutions, on the other hand, are reserved for the elite.

Translated by Ramsés El Hajje