AIO vs. Air Cooler: Which to Choose for Your PC Build?

Acquiring the latest and greatest CPU for your PC build is hot, hot, literally. PC components generate heat, so it is also important to consider your PC's dynamic: is it intake or outtake, or will it be completely exposed for viewing purposes? It is completely up to you. 

The solution? Fans! Well, to be more specific, a dedicated cooling system that sits nicely on top of the CPU. If this is your first time building, you will be met with two choices: an air cooler or an AIO cooler. But don’t worry—we will try to simplify and teach you so that you can make your best-informed decision. 

As a great man once said anxiously, “Cool, cool, cool, cool.”

From Broklyn Nine Nine Official GIPHY

In terms of cooling mechanisms, an Air Cooler relies on a combination of heat pipes and fans to dissipate heat from your CPU and into your overall system. To be more descriptive, these heat pipes draw heat away from the CPU, transfer it to the metal fins, and are then cooled down by the fans surrounding it. 

On the other hand, an AIO (All-in-one) Liquid Cooler uses a closed-loop system that circulates coolant through the radiator attached to the CPU. Just like the metal pipes of the Air Cooler, the liquid absorbs the heat from the CPU, moves it to the radiator, and is cooled down by the fans built within it. 

Performance

From Intel Official Website

Let’s consider things in the context of how they work. Air coolers are regularly known for their reliability and performance. While they might not provide the same level of performance as some high-end liquid coolers, they’re often more sufficient for most PC builds, especially if you’re not planning on overclocking your CPU. 

AIO liquid coolers tend to be better in the cooling game, especially under heavy loads or during overclocking. Why? The liquid coolant has a higher heat capacity than air, allowing for more efficient heat dissipation. Just keep in mind compatibility since AIO coolers consume more room than your average air cooler. If you want to check out an overview of component compatibility, you can check out the PC Part Picker website. 

Under different scenarios, what should you go for? 

If you are on a budget and want to save some extra cash, you can opt for an air cooler. Some CPU packages provide a stock air cooler you can use, so you can maximize that option ‘till you can find a better replacement. But you can jump into AIO cooling if you have the budget. 

From Nick Jonas Official GIPHY

I initially opted for air cooling but found my temperature levels less desirable despite living in the mountains of Baguio. When I made the switch, my temperatures dropped by an average of 7°-12°. The reason it mattered was because of the noise. My current system automatically adjusts fan speeds whenever it is going through a heavy load, which means the fans become noisier the faster they spin. 

I disliked that, so I chose to switch to an AIO. If this applies to you, go ahead and weigh down your choices. Just remember to keep in mind compatibility, use cases, and personal preference since aesthetics can weigh in heavily on one's build. 

If you are one to do their due diligence when researching but don’t know where even to start, you can set your eyes towards the Next Upgrade Shop! Ranging from smart assistants, smart bulbs, and even coffee makers, you can begin your dive into the smart home universe here!