Intel packs a stock cooler in the box for a number of their processors. These stock coolers are low-profile and come included with most processors from Intel. Some high-end models like the Intel Core i9-12900K do not include a stock cooler in the box, and Intel intends for customers to use custom cooling solutions for these extremely hot running chips. But, the Intel stock coolers are often regarded as sub-par, and “trash” by the media. So, do they not pack any potential? Let us find out.
What are the Stock Coolers Intel Makes?
Intel has come up with several designs over the years. Their E97379 cooler, which was widely included with almost all of their chips until 2019 was declared horrible by reviewers, users, and the media. Subsequently, Intel revised their formula with the 10th generation Intel Comet Lake processors, and came up with an improved cooler with the part number “TS15A”. This cooler outperformed the E97379 by a huge margin and Intel was praised for considering this much-needed revision.
Intel introduced a completely new cooler lineup with the 12th gen Alder Lake processors. These new coolers include the Laminar RH1 and the RM1. The RH1 marks the first Intel stock cooler to come with any form of lighting. These cooling solutions turned out to be much better than any cooler that Intel has ever come up with.
Are Intel Stock Coolers Enough for Gaming?
The answer varies. The old E97379 cooler had some insanely good temps while idling, but as soon the Core i7-7700K shot up to the full load, the temps crossed the maximum safe temperatures rated by Intel. But, that was not the case with some much cooler processors like the Core i3-8100 or even the Core i5-9400F. These chips do not thermal throttle when paired with the oldest stock cooler from the company. And, since this cooler is installed in several PCs even to date, draw your conclusion based on the overall thermal output of your CPU.
The newer TS15A cooler, which came with the 10th and 11th generation Intel CPUs is a huge step up from the older cooler, and it can handle CPUs like the Core i5-11600K at stock speeds with ease. The newest Laminar coolers are much more capable than these coolers and can handle almost any Alder Lake CPU at stock speeds.
“Stock speeds” is a very important word here. CPUs output a lot of heat when overclocked, and stock coolers are not designed to handle these situations. If you intend on overclocking your chip you should get a good aftermarket cooler.