8 Best CPU Coolers for i7-11700k in 2023 [Air, Liquid, and AIO]

The CPU cooler is the component mounted on top of the central processing unit (CPU) to help dissipate heat produced by the CPU, thereby cooling it down. This process is done by using heat pipes or copper plates along with aluminium fins for heat dissipation. Due to the latest CPUs running at higher clock speeds, there are chances of them getting heated up and causing damage due to overheating if adequate precautions aren't taken.

There's also a matter of overclocking, which requires higher clock speeds, thus leading to the requirement of a CPU cooler. There are many CPU coolers available in the market that come with pre-installed fans, but when it comes to overclocked CPUs or when there is no fan in the CPU Cooler, you have to buy one separately, which can be costlier.

There are also water-cooled setups where a pump is connected using tubes to an external radiator; this setup requires the use of distilled water, usually along with propylene glycol, for proper cooling and lubrication. These setups can be costly, but they provide maximum cooling due to their design, such as the radiator block, which has a large surface area made up of metallic fins having a good surface area for optimum cooling performance.

A buyer should consider a lot of factors, and these factors should include what they need from a CPU cooler and what their system can accommodate. This article not just contains a detailed list of products that you can consider while buying a CPU coolers for i7-11700k, but it also includes a buyers' guide that will help you in buying the CPU cooler that is suitable for your system. So, let's get started!

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a CPU Coolers For i7-11700k?

CPU Coolers come in various shapes and sizes, airflow designs, and price ranges. So, before you go out and buy a CPU cooler, make sure you know what you need from it; this will help you narrow down your choices & make comparisons easier between multiple products along with their specifications to see which one fits in perfectly in your system without taking too much space or making any noise while being good in performance. It would help if you considered the following factors.

Compatible Socket:

Always check if the CPU cooler is compatible with your motherboard's socket or not. If there are multiple models of CPUs available in different sockets, make sure you get one that is compatible with your current processor. It should also be compatible with any future processors you intend to buy.

Motherboard Compatibility:

Make sure the CPU cooler is compatible with your motherboard; if you have a high-end motherboard and want to install a low-budget CPU cooler, then it will not work.

The TDP (Thermal Design Power):

This should be calculated using an online calculator or found in product manuals. This will help you in buying a CPU cooler that can manage heat dissipation in the required amount.

RPM of the Fan:

Always look for high RPM fans with low noise; this will help get better temperatures and decent airflow. Always check if your motherboard supports PWM control over case fans or not to use with CPU coolers. If it doesn't support, you'll have to buy separate fans & controllers to go along with the CPU Cooler.

Size/Dimensions of the CPU Cooler:

This depends on the amount of heat dissipation you want; for overclocking i7 11700k, it is always better to go for high-end CPU Coolers with a large surface area and greater airflow. If the CPU cooler is bulky, then it might not be compatible with some cases or components in your system, so check that out before buying one.

Type of Cooling (Air, Liquid, Fanless):

You should know what you want your CPU cooler for. Do you need maximum cooling performance, or are silent operations necessary? This will help you in choosing your options and making comparisons easier between multiple products along with their specifications to see which one fits in perfectly in your system without taking too much space or making any noise while being good in performance.

Budget:

This is probably the most crucial factor; one should always set a budget after considering what they need. More expensive CPU Coolers usually have more cooling performance with less noise output due to better components used in their designs.

Type of Bearing (FMB/Sleeve/Hydro):

The most common type is sleeve bearing which has two metal rings separated by a thin layer of air, the first ring is attached to the fan blade & another metal ring is mounted on a shaft along with small copper circles which act as heatsinks.

The second type is the FMB or Fluid Dynamic Bearing, where oil provides a thin film between two metal rings which increases both laminar airflows and decreases friction noise; this results in quieter operation. Hydro-bearing fans are costly, but they last longer & run smoothly after initial startup.

That's all that you'd need to know about what you should be looking for in a CPU cooler for your i7 11700k. Continue reading to know more about the best CPU coolers for i7 11700k out in the market right now & how they perform against each other.

8 Best CPU Coolers for i7 11700k in 2023

If you are building a PC from scratch or just upgrading the components of your existing system, then you will find this list of the best CPU cooler for i7 11700k extremely helpful. So, without waiting any further, let's get started!

1. ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280

Best Liquid CPU cooler For Intel i7-11700k

Brand: ARCTIC | Type: Liquid Cooling | Dimensions (Fan): 140 x 140 x 27 mm | Fan Speed: 200 – 1700 RPM | Weight: 1572 g (Inc. Radiator, Pump, Fans, Tubes) | Noise Level: 0.3 Sone (at 1800 RPM) | Material: Copper (Cold Plate); Alluminum (Radiator) | Socket Compatibility: Intel 115X, 2011-3, 2066; AMD™ AM4

Pros

• Reasonable price in terms of performance
• Gives great cooling results with low noise levels
• Pre-assembled design for easy installation

Cons

• Lacks RGB lighting

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What is the most recent buyer's report?

ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 has a much larger surface area than other CPU coolers, allowing it to transfer heat efficiently & keep your i7 11700k well within its safe temperature range. It has a perfect RPM range for both stock clocks, overclocked speeds and manages noise levels at all these points without making too much noise or becoming unstable.

Its price is not high compared to how good this CPU cooler actually performs & you can easily install it in most cases with full compatibility. Many reviewers talk about how it has a heat dissipation capacity of 280 Watts and is capable enough to keep any i7 11700k cool without running into issues; this CPU Cooler also comes pre-applied with thermal paste for easy installation.

Why does it stand out to us?

This CPU cooler is the best option for any user looking for high performance with superior noise levels. It manages to stay cool & quiet while managing to offer exceptional cooling performance still. The only downside of this CPU cooler is that it does not support cheap cases or SLI setups, but other than that, you can go ahead and buy this one since it doesn't disappoint in terms of its price/performance ratio.

Additionally, many users also complain about poor quality or missing parts when they open the package they receive but trust us when we say that this CPU cooler is a reliable product in terms of its functionality & performance.

Who will use it the most?

ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 has been specially designed for gamers who are on a budget but still want to enjoy their games without any interruptions. This is also more of an all-rounder for anyone looking for excellent cooling performance with low noise levels.

A highly durable pump, Improved Cold Plate Structure & Pre-applied Thermal Paste are just some of the few things about this product that you should know before buying it.

ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 has a high flow rate which means that your system will not become clogged up with dirt or dust. Its airflow direction is perfect; the fan only rotates in one direction, so you don't have to worry about dirtying your PC components.

Bottom Line

This CPU cooler is more of an all-in-one solution for i7 11700k & overclocking has never been easier. It comes pre-assembled, so all you have to do is just mount it with the help of the original installation guides & you're good to go! If your case supports multiple fans, then you can easily install two or more of these CPU coolers for better cooling results.

2. Noctua NH-U12S

Best Air CPU cooler For Intel i7-11700k

Brand: Noctua | Dimensions: 6.22 x 1.77 x 4.92 inches | Fan Speed: 1500 RPM | Weight: 755 g (Inc. Fans) | Noise Level: 22 dBA (max.) | Material: Copper (Heat Pipes); Aluminum (Cooling Fins) | Warranty: 6 years | Socket Compatibility: Intel - LGA2066, LGA2011-0 & LGA2011-3 LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150; AMD - AM2, AM2+, AM3, AM3+, FM1, FM2, FM2+, AM4

Pros

• Top-performing CPU Cooler
• Great value for money

Cons

• Lacks RGB lighting
• Just enough TPD

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What is the most recent buyer's report?

Boasting a lower noise level of only 22 dBA & Noctua's renowned build quality, the NH-U12S is an easy recommendation to make for i7 11700k. It has six incredibly effective heat pipes to ensure optimal cooling performance, along with 120 mm PWM fans that keep it spinning at 1500 RPM max when necessary.

It also has the SecuFirm2 mounting method, which is very handy for installation purposes since it can accommodate different sockets without any issues.

Why does it stand out to us?

This CPU Cooler was designed to ensure that users get great value for their money, performance & aesthetics all in one package! This unit also offers AMD AM4 & Intel LGA2066 sockets, meaning that it will smoothly work with i7 11700k CPUs.

Also, the aluminum fins & heat pipes not only help to keep this CPU cooler extremely quiet, but it is also very lightweight, which makes it easy to store & carry around for LAN parties.

Who will use this the most?

Anyone looking for a high-quality CPU cooler without breaking the bank can use this one, Noctua has been making top-of-the-line products & they only make these units available to those who genuinely believe in their brand. As far as aesthetics go, all Noctua CPU coolers are designed to be as non-disruptive as possible according to the case's layout, so you'll never see huge RGB LED fans on them, which we appreciate.

Bottom Line

Coming from such a reliable company as Noctua, it is no surprise that we recommend Noctua NH-U12S for users looking to upgrade their stock Intel coolers with something a lot more reliable. This unit comes pre-assembled & if your case supports multiple fans, you can also attach 2 Noctua NF-F12 PWM 120mm Fans for an even quieter experience. So if you're looking for both performance & affordability, then this CPU Cooler is the one to get.

3. Be quiet! BW007 Pure Loop 280mm

Best Water CPU cooler For Intel i7-11700k

Brand: Be quiet! |Type: Water Cooling | Dimensions: 14.38 x 5.99 x 8.08 inches | Fan Speed: 5500 RPM | Weight: 1.22 kg (Inc. Fans) | Noise Level: 38.1 dB (max.) | Material: Aluminium | Socket Compatibility: Intel 1200 / 1150 / 2066 / 1151 / 1155 / 2011(-3) square ILM; AMD: AM4 / AM3(+) | Warranty: 3 years

Pros

• Value for money
• For pump and LED, it has a SATA power splitter
• Easy installation

Cons

• LED power cables are loose
• You will have to fill the loop

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What is the most recent buyer's report?

The BW007 CPU Cooler has a lot more to offer than just performance! For starters, it comes with 2 Pure Wings 2 280mm fans that are designed for silence while keeping your components cool during regular usage or long gaming sessions, so there is no need to rush out & buy aftermarket fans.

What's better is that it is available in 3 other variants depending on the size of the fan. So, you can get it in 120mm, 240mm, and 360mm as well. We personally believe that 280mm is a better variant to go for. It also comes with a PWM splitter cable to help control both fans simultaneously if you decide to purchase them.

Why does it stand out to us?

What makes BW007 stand out is how it looks, especially if you decide to install all two fans on your system! It has an outstanding balance between aesthetics, performance & cooling power, so we definitely recommend this unit for users looking for something more than stock coolers but don't want to spend their whole budget on aftermarket water cooling units. This cooler is small enough to fit inside any case without disrupting airflow or taking up too much space, making it a good choice for beginners and experienced builders alike.

Who will use this the most?

If you're looking for an affordable CPU cooler that will provide you with great value for the money & make your system look a lot better at the same time, then be sure to check out BW007 from Be Quiet! You can expect to receive top-of-the-line performance & even better temps than you would with your stock cooler, so whether you want something basic or an upgrade, this one will do both.

Bottom Line

All in all, Be quiet! BW007 Pure Loop 280mm CPU Cooler provides users with a lot of value for their money as it is affordable and provides them with enough cooling power to keep any i7 11700k nice & cool even when they're overclocking. In addition to that, it comes with both low noise fans, so if you decide to upgrade your system, you can do so without having to worry about getting new fans.

If you have been looking for a cooler that will offer everything the stock Intel cooler does while being much more reliable at the same time, then this CPU Cooler is the one to get.

4. Scythe Fuma 2

Brand: Scythe | Type: Air Cooling | Dimensions: 51.57 x 60.83 x 53.94 inches | Fan Speed: 1400 RPM | Weight: 1000g (Inc. Fans) | Noise Level: 23.9 dBA (max.) | Material: Copper | Socket Compatibility: Intel - LGA 775 / 115X / 1366 / 2011(V3) / 2066; AMD - AM2(+) / AM3(+) / AM4 / FM1 / FM2(+)

Pros

• Additional space for extra fan
• Will fit easily in any PC case
• Universal mounting bracket makes installation a breeze

Cons

• Can be noisy for some
• Ordinary looks, some may want LED lighting

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What is the most recent buyer's report?

From Scythe, we have Fuma 2 CPU Cooler that has everything a budget-conscious user would need in an aftermarket cooler and more! It comes with two fans designed for optimal cooling and noise reduction. Installation is a breeze, especially with the clear installation manual included in the package. We have to mention that Fuma 2 will not disappoint even if you decide to overclock your i7 11700k as it provides excellent cooling performance at lower RPMs, which means you can get great results without being too loud.

Why does it stand out to us?

This CPU cooler is a standout product. Scythe has taken their time and tested this unit extensively before releasing it onto the market, and we believe that they did a great job with it. We like the fact that Fuma 2 can be used for both Intel & AMD sockets due to the universal mounting bracket included in the package (you also get extra fan clips, screws & thermal paste).

On top of all that, you will receive everything you need to install this cooler on your system, which is something not every manufacturer will do. We were pleased when we noticed how much attention they paid to small details such as hard-to-reach places or spots where cables might bunch up when installed.

Who will use this the most?

If you're looking for a nice cooler that will keep your system running smoothly but don't want to spend too much time or money on one, then be sure to take a look at Fuma 2 from Scythe! The sheer number of features & the performance it provides make this CPU Cooler easily worth every penny, so if you have been thinking about upgrading your stock cooling solution, we recommend giving this one a try.

Bottom Line

Scythe Fuma 2 provides users with everything they need at a very reasonable price. Scythe has done everything possible to include as many features as they could, and we can honestly say that it's one of the best CPU coolers for i7 11700k with fans on the market right now that offers not only top performance but also looks great while doing so!

5. NZXT Kraken X53

Brand: NZXT | Type: All-in-one Cooling | Dimensions: 12.09 x 8.35 x 5.39 inches | Fan Speed: Up to 2000 (+300) RPM | Weight: 4 lbs (1,080g) | Noise Level: 21 dBA (Max.) | Material: Nylon | Socket Compatibility: Intel - LGA 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066; AMD - AM4, TR4 | Warranty: 6 years

Pros

• Excellent aesthetics (RGB LED lighting)
• Durable construction made from premium materials
• Unbelievably quiet even without thermal paste

Cons

• Instruction manual is desultory
• Quite pricey

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What is the most recent buyer's report?

NZXT Kraken X53 offers everything an average user would want from a CPU cooler and more! It has NZXT's new smart hub built into the pump, which comes equipped with an OLED display that shows you stats like fan speed, coolant temperature & CPU load.

Its AIO design also makes it easy to install, and we like that you can purchase an additional (140mm) fan if you wish to make this monster cooler even better. It also supports NZXT's CAM software, allowing you to monitor coolant temperature, control your fans, & customize LED lighting effects. Why not use an LED logo maker if you don't want your PC looking like a disco?

Why does it stand out to us?

Thanks to its unique aesthetics and excellent performance, this is definitely one of the best CPU coolers for i7 11700k on the market right now! Thanks to its new smart hub, Kraken X53 has become more than just another AIO as it now comes with a built-in fan controller & OLED screen, which makes installing it a breeze.

Kraken X53's sleek & modern design looks great when installed next to your PC components, so if aesthetics are important to you, this is something worth looking into. NZXT has built its reputation by creating products that perform well and come packed with features & smart technology; Kraken X53 is no exception.

Why does it stand out to us?

We were certainly impressed by what the Kraken X53 offers! It features a high-quality design with sleek-looking RGB LED lighting, making it an excellent combination for most modern PC cases. The fact that you get a dedicated app from NZXT which allows you to monitor coolant temperature, control your fans & customize LED lighting effects with ease is definitely a plus. Let's not forget about the smart hub that was built into the pump, so you don't have to worry about attaching it to your motherboard's fan header.

Who will use this the most?

There's no doubt that enthusiasts will appreciate what the Kraken X53 has to offer as it comes with a very slim & elegant design which should look great in most PC cases. It has been built using high-quality rubber, which will seamlessly optimize the case's temperature, and its pump is exceptionally silent when in operation. NZXT never fails to include useful features, so you get a dedicated app that gives you the ability to monitor coolant temperature, control your fans & customize RGB lighting effects with ease.

Bottom Line

Kraken X53 is undoubtedly one of the best CPU coolers for i7 11700k on the market right now, and we highly recommend giving it a try if you're looking for an all-in-one cooling solution. Its stylish design, high performance & intuitive features make it well worth its price tag, and we do not doubt that it will give its competitors a run for their money.

6. PHANTEKS PH-TC14PE

Brand: Phanteks | Bearing: Updraft Floating Balance | Dimensions: 6.58 x 7.48 x 8.43 inches | Fan Speed: Up to 1200 RPM | Weight: 1100 / 1250g (single and dual fan resp.) | Noise Level: 19 dBA (Max.) | Material: Copper and alluminum | Socket Compatibility:Intel - LGA 2011/1155/1156/11366/775; AMD - AM2/AM2+/AM3/3+/FM 1

Pros

• Outstanding cooling performance
• Stylish design with premium materials
• Expandable fan slot

Cons

• Lacks RGB lighting effects

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What is the most recent buyer's report?

It offers seven 8mm heat pipes that increase its overall cooling efficiency and two powerful fans that will actively cool down your PC components under heavy load. The way PHANTEKS has designed this model makes it very appealing as it has been built using premium materials which make it both stylish & durable at the same time!

It also features multiple clips to allow you to install an additional 140mm fan on top if you wish to boost its cooling power further. Filled to the brim with features, it has excellent thermal performance, perfect for any overclocking enthusiast who wants to keep temperatures low.

Why does it stand out to us?

This CPU cooler is designed and built with high-quality materials and gives you solid cooling performance every time your PC is stressed. The PHANTEKS PH-TC14PE has been made to last as it features a stylish all-aluminum fin array heatsink which further reduces the weight of this unit, making it easier for you to install and transport from one place to another.

The only real downside I have come across with this CPU cooler is that it can get slightly loud on full load depending on the fan speed you have set your PC at. However, if you're looking for a high-performance CPU cooler that doesn't cost an arm and a leg, then this is the best model for you!

Who will use this the most?

Phanteks PH-TC14PE has been tailored for those who want the best CPU cooler for their i7 11700k. The physical anti-oxidant thermal shield in this cooler's tower has been made to protect your PC components from getting damaged should a foreign body enter into its operational area. Its elegant design will add a nice touch of style to any gaming rig, and the nickel-plated heat-pipes help spread heat very quickly all across the heatsink.

Bottom Line

This is hands down one of the best CPU coolers you can get your hands on at the moment. It has been designed with high-quality components and gives you excellent performance both in terms of cooling as well as durability! If you're looking for a good all-around CPU cooler that will give its competitors a run for their money, then this is certainly the model for you.

7. Corsair H115i RGB Platinum AIO Liquid

Brand: Corsair | Type: All-in-one liquid cooling | Dimensions: 12.6 x 5.51 x 1.18 inches | Fan Speed: Up to 2000 RPM | Weight: 2.6 lbs. | Noise Level: 37 dB | Material: Copper (cold plate) and Aluminum (radiator) | Socket Compatibility: Intel - 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200, Intel 2011/2066; AMD - AM3/AM2, AMD AM4, AMD TR4 | Warranty: 5 years

Pros

• Unique design with RGB lighting effects
• Brushed aluminum plate

Cons

• Expensive

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What is the most recent buyer's report?

The unique design of this liquid cooler offers outstanding graphics-card cooling while still maintaining one of the best gaming CPU coolers for its size on the market! If you're looking to get one of these, You will not be disappointed because it comes with an exceptional 5-year manufacturer warranty.

The Corsair H115i RGB Platinum AIO Liquid CPU Cooler features distinctly styled LED lighting, which can be customized to your individual preference. It also comes with a sealed pump housing, meaning that you won't have to worry about contamination in the water cooling system. The radiator is made of aluminum which helps reduce weight and allows for quick heat dispersion. One of the cooler's most noticeable characteristics is that it's compatible with AMD and Intel CPUs, making it one of the few coolers you can use on both platforms!

Why does it stand out to us?

This is one of the few models that offer full RGB lighting effects both on the water block as well as the radiator fans. Corsair has made an excellent design choice with this model, which allows you to customize your PC rig in accordance with your preference! Alongside its brilliant performance, you'll also be able to enjoy the incredible array of extra features that come included with this CPU cooler - it's like having all your favorite toys in one, making for a delightful experience indeed!

Who will use this the most?

Corsair H115i has been designed for those wanting to upgrade their current gaming system without purchasing new components altogether. This is especially useful if you're looking into getting a high-end cooling performance that will allow you to stress your PC for hours at a time without worrying about overheating. Its solid construction, aluminum radiator, and copper water block make it heavy enough not to be moved by the fans' airflow, providing a nice level of stability.

Bottom Line

This is one of the best graphics card coolers on the market right now! If you have been using an older model or simply wanting to upgrade your rig with newer parts - this is certainly going to be a diamond in the rough! Corsair H115i comes with excellent RGB lighting effects and has been built from high-quality materials, making it both stylish as well as durable. And once people get their hands on they just can't stop talking about it.

8. MSI MAG Core Liquid 240R AIO Liquid

Brand: MSI | Type: All-in-one liquid cooling | Dimensions:31.7 x 20.5 x 13.7 centimeters | Fan Speed: 500 - 2000 RPM | Weight: 3.93 lbs. | Noise Level: 16.7 dB | Material: Aluminum (radiator) | Socket Compatibility: Intel - LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA 1200, LGA 1366, LGA 2011, LGA 2011-v3, LGA 2066; AMD - AM2, AM2+, AM4, AM3, AM3+, FM1, FM2, FM2+ | Airflow: 78.73 CFM

Pros

• High-quality materials used for construction
• Full LED ring gives your PC a great look

Cons

• Lackluster sale support

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What is the most recent buyer's report?

MSI MAG Core Liquid presents a whole new level of AIO coolers with state-of-the-art engineering techniques. The enhanced high-performance copper base plate accelerates the heat conductivity. Along with reliable MSI components, it provides outstanding cooling performance and fulfills its promises on stable liquid flow and low noise. It is compatible with all of the most recent sockets.

Why does it stand out to us?

MSI MAG Core Liquid can give your PC an incredible look thanks to its full-LED ring! This is also one of the few All-in-one liquid CPU coolers that allows you to control both the lighting effects and fan speed depending on your preference. MSI has made an excellent design choice by including fans with a wide range of RPMs - this will allow you to have complete control over your PC's performance. It has a three-phase motor design and advanced fluid dynamic bearing (FDB), which can further reduce fan noise even at full load.

Who will use this the most?

MSI MAG Core Liquid is one of the best CPU coolers for those who are looking forward to building their own gaming system - it isn't too expensive, and you can easily install it yourself! It comes with an adjustable led ring, making your PC look even more attractive. This product is perfect for casual gamers who simply want to play their favorite games without worrying about overheating. The radiator has a split to facilitate an accelerated heat dispersion.

Bottom Line

MSI MAG Core Liquid has been designed to make sure that your computer does not overheat due to overclocking or extensive use of high-performance graphics. It is one of the best budget AIO coolers out there, but it has an excellent price-quality ratio. It is compatible with all the current sockets and can be installed very easily - you'll also receive a three-year warranty as a bonus!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There are several choices available when it comes to choosing a good CPU cooler. Depending upon the size of your motherboard's CPU socket, you may need to pick an appropriate fitting which can be either single tower type or double tower type. If you're building a budget box and want to save some money on your cooler, don't be fooled into thinking that cheaper is always better.

Make sure it fits the mounting system on your motherboard and that all fan components work correctly before using it; otherwise, you might end up buying another cooler in no time.

If you want to get the best out of your gaming system, carefully consider all the options mentioned in the list, read reviews and make sure that you are purchasing exactly what you need! We hope this guide will make your search for the best CPU cooler for i7 11700k easier.