Intel's Arrow Lake: Compatible CPU Coolers for Next-Gen Processors

October 25, 2023

{Intel Arrow Lake CPU leak blows i9 13900K out of the water | PCGamesN}

Source: PCGamesN

Good news for PC enthusiasts! Intel’s next-gen desktop processors, codenamed Arrow Lake, will be compatible with current-gen CPU coolers, according to recent information. This means that you won’t have to invest in a new cooler when upgrading to an Arrow Lake PC next year.

Confirmation from Cooler Manufacturers

{LGA1700 Coolers Are Compatible With Next-Gen Intel Arrow Lake CPUs ...}

Source: Tom's Hardware

Leading cooler manufacturers like Azza and Noctua have confirmed the compatibility of their products with the upcoming Arrow Lake processors. Azza recently launched two new liquid coolers, the Cube 240 and 360, which explicitly state their support for the LGA1851 socket. This socket will be used for future Arrow Lake processors and motherboards set to debut next year.

Same Socket Size as LGA1700

{Intel LGA1851 to Succeed LGA1700, Probably Retain Cooler ...}

Source: TechPowerUp

The reason why current coolers will work with Arrow Lake processors is that the LGA1851 socket has the same size (45 x 37.55mm) as the LGA1700 socket. Design schematics that have been leaked in the past have also confirmed this. Since the dimensions are identical, existing coolers made for the LGA1700 socket will fit Arrow Lake PCs without any issues.

Save Money on Cooling Solutions

If you already have a cooling solution for a PC using the current LGA1700 socket (starting from Alder Lake onwards), you can save money by reusing it for your Arrow Lake processor. This is assuming that your current cooler is in good condition and meets your cooling needs.

Changes in Maximum Dynamic Pressure

{Want to build a new PC with an Intel Arrow Lake CPU next year ...}

Source: TechRadar

It’s worth noting that there is one notable change with the LGA1851 socket. Reports earlier this year suggested that the rating for maximum dynamic pressure for Arrow Lake has almost doubled compared to the LGA1700 socket. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that your CPU cooler will require more mounting pressure or a new mounting kit. It simply means that the socket can handle more pressure if needed.

Power Efficiency and Compatibility

When considering compatibility, it’s essential to account for the power consumption of the Arrow Lake processor compared to your current CPU. If Arrow Lake is more power-hungry, it could pose a problem for cheaper cooling solutions. However, it’s unlikely that Intel would release a processor that is less efficient than its predecessors. Intel has been emphasizing power efficiency in their recent releases, which should extend to the desktop segment as well.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Intel’s next-gen desktop processors, Arrow Lake, will be compatible with current-gen CPU coolers. This compatibility will allow PC enthusiasts to save money on cooling solutions when upgrading their systems. As long as your current cooler is in good condition and meets your cooling needs, there is no need to invest in a new one. Intel’s focus on power efficiency should ensure that Arrow Lake processors are not only compatible but also deliver optimal performance.