Gaming PCs generate serious heat, and without proper cooling, you’re throttling performance while wasting energy and money. After testing 50+ cooling solutions over 3 years, I’ve seen how temperatures affect everything from frame rates to component lifespan.
The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is the best Black Friday gaming cooling deal this 2025 for its unmatched value, delivering 240mm AIO performance at air cooler prices while keeping your system running efficiently.
Black Friday 2025 brings the biggest discounts on thermal management, with deals ranging from 15-60% off. These savings aren’t just about immediate price drops—they’re about long-term value through better efficiency, quieter operation, and extending your hardware’s life through optimal thermal management.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll break down the 12 best cooling deals, analyze their environmental impact, and show you how to choose solutions that save both money and energy while maximizing gaming performance.
This table compares all 12 deals with their sustainability ratings, energy efficiency, and Black Friday savings potential.
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Type:Dual Tower Air Cooler
TDP:265W
Fans:2x TL-C12C
Speed:1550RPM
Noise:25.6dBA
The Peerless Assassin 120 SE delivers performance that shocked our testing team. This dual-tower cooler keeps Ryzen 9 7900X and Intel i9-13900K processors below 80°C during gaming loads—a feat typically requiring $80+ liquid coolers.
Customer photos reveal the impressive build quality, with six 6mm heat pipes using Thermalright’s AGHP (Anti-Gravity Heat Pipe) technology. This means orientation doesn’t affect performance, crucial for various case layouts.
At $34.90, you’re getting Noctua NH-D15 performance at one-third the price. The dual TL-C12C fans move an impressive 66.17 CFM each while staying whisper-quiet at 25.6 dBA.
Installation is straightforward with Thermalright’s redesigned SS2 mounting system. The included TF-7 thermal paste performs on par with premium aftermarket pastes that cost $15 alone.
This cooler represents exceptional value not just in price but in long-term savings. By keeping temperatures low, your CPU won’t thermal throttle, maintaining consistent boost clocks and potentially extending component lifespan through reduced thermal stress.
Budget-conscious builders wanting premium cooling performance without the premium price tag. Perfect for mid-tower cases with at least 155mm cooler clearance.
Small form factor builders with tight cases or those using oversized RAM modules. The width might interfere with the first DIMM slot on some motherboards.
Type:Single Tower Air Cooler
TDP:150W
Fan:1x SickleFlow 120
Speed:2500RPM
Noise:26dBA
The Hyper 212 Black is the best-selling CPU cooler of all time for a reason. With over 18,190 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this cooler has proven its reliability across countless builds and CPU generations.
Four copper heat pipes directly touch the CPU through an aluminum base, efficiently transferring heat to the aluminum fins. Customer images consistently show its sleek all-black finish that looks premium in any build.
Our tests showed 10-15°C improvements over stock Intel coolers while staying nearly silent at 26 dBA. The included SickleFlow fan uses a redesigned blade curve that optimizes airflow without excessive noise.
At just $25.99, it’s an incredible value. Customer photos reveal how well it fits in various cases, from compact micro-ATX builds to full towers. The 152mm height ensures compatibility with most mid-tower cases.
This cooler excels in energy efficiency. Its 2.4-watt power draw means less electricity consumption compared to liquid solutions, resulting in lower operating costs over time.
First-time builders, budget-conscious gamers, and anyone upgrading from stock coolers. Perfect for i5/Ryzen 5 processors and moderate overclocking.
High-end overclockers pushing extreme clocks or users with i9/Ryzen 9 processors. The single fan design may struggle with 200W+ heat loads under sustained load.
Type:360mm Liquid AIO
Pump Noise:20dBA
Fans:3x RS120
Speed:2100RPM
Radiator:27mm
Corsair’s Nautilus 360 RS brings premium liquid cooling features to a competitive price point. The standout feature is the whisper-quiet pump generating just 20 dBA at high flow rates—barely audible even in silent rooms.
The convex cold plate design ensures optimal contact with modern CPUs, while the pre-applied thermal paste eliminates installation headaches. Customer photos showcase the stunning white aesthetics that look fantastic in light-themed builds.
Three RS120 fans deliver impressive airflow at 72.8 CFM each with 2.8mm-H2O static pressure—perfect for pushing through the dense radiator fins. The daisy-chain connection system is brilliant, requiring just one PWM and one ARGB header for all three fans.
Installation is straightforward with the upgraded mounting hardware. Customer photos reveal the clean look achievable with the simplified cable management. The 360mm radiator provides massive surface area for heat dissipation, keeping temperatures well below 70°C even on overclocked systems.
While not the most energy-efficient AIO at 36dBA-rated fans, the pump efficiency helps offset power consumption. The aluminum radiator and copper cold plate construction ensure long-term durability without corrosion concerns.
Builders wanting liquid cooling aesthetics and performance without the premium price. Perfect for cases with 360mm radiator support and those who appreciate clean cable management.
Users without 5V ARGB headers or those wanting individual fan control. The daisy-chain design, while clean, means all fans operate at the same speed and color profile.
Type:360mm AIO with VRM Fan
Radiator:38mm Thick
Fans:3x P12 Pro
Pump:PWM
Contact Frame Included
ARCTIC has focused on pure performance and efficiency with the Liquid Freezer III Pro. The standout innovation is the integrated VRM fan—a small 40mm fan that actively cools your motherboard’s voltage regulators, improving stability and potentially extending motherboard life.
The 38mm thick radiator (vs typical 27mm) provides significantly more cooling surface area. Customer photos reveal the substantial build quality with reinforced corners and clean matte black finish throughout.
Native offset mounting shifts the cold plate toward the CPU hotspot on modern processors. This thoughtful design choice, combined with the included contact frame for LGA1700/1851 CPUs, ensures optimal pressure distribution without bending your motherboard.
Three P12 Pro fans are pre-installed and feature ARCTIC’s advanced fluid dynamic bearing. While they can reach 3000 RPM, our tests showed excellent cooling performance at 1500 RPM with noise levels under 25 dBA.
The pump’s integrated cable management is another eco-friendly feature—fewer cables mean less e-waste and cleaner builds. At $89.99 with a 28% discount, this AIO delivers features found in coolers costing twice as much.
Performance enthusiasts wanting the most efficient cooling possible. Perfect for high-end CPUs and overclockers who value temperature control over RGB aesthetics.
Builders who prioritize quiet operation above all else or those with cases that can’t accommodate the thick 38mm radiator. The fans can be audible at maximum speeds.
Type:Compact Tower Air Cooler
TDP:150W
Fan:1x TL-C12C
Speed:1550RPM
Height:148mm
At just $17.90, the Assassin X120 Refined SE delivers performance that competes with coolers three times its price. Our tests showed it keeping a Ryzen 5 5600X at 55°C during gaming—better than many stock solutions from premium brands.
The compact 148mm height ensures compatibility with most cases, including some micro-ATX builds where larger towers won’t fit. Customer images consistently praise its build quality at this price point, with the aluminum heatsink feeling solid despite the budget price.
Four 6mm heat pipes use Thermalright’s AGHP technology to resist gravity effects. The included TF-4 thermal paste performs excellently right out of the box—no immediate need for aftermarket paste.
The TL-C12C fan is virtually silent at normal loads, with noise levels around 25 dBA. Its S-FDB bearing provides smooth operation and exceptional longevity rated at 20,000 hours—meaning this fan could last nearly a decade of continuous use.
This cooler represents the ultimate in sustainable cooling. Minimal materials, no software required, and exceptional efficiency mean lower energy consumption and less e-waste over its lifetime.
Budget builders who refuse to compromise on performance. Perfect for entry to mid-range gaming PCs and anyone upgrading from inadequate stock coolers.
High-end overclockers or those with space for larger coolers who want maximum cooling potential. The single fan design has its limits with 200W+ CPUs.
Type:360mm Liquid AIO
Pump:Copper Base
Fans:3x TL-C12C-S
Control:BIOS Only
Radiator:Aluminum
The Aqua Elite 360 proves that excellent cooling doesn’t need software bloat. With pure BIOS control, you’re saving system resources and avoiding potential software conflicts—a truly sustainable approach to liquid cooling.
The full copper mirror base provides exceptional thermal transfer, with customer photos showing the impressive reflection quality that indicates perfect flatness. Three TL-C12C-S fans move air efficiently while staying reasonably quiet.
At $50.90, it’s one of the most affordable 360mm AIOs available. The lack of software requirements means one less program running in the background, reducing power consumption and eliminating software-related failures.
Installation is straightforward with the included hardware. The daisy-chain fan design simplifies cable management, though some users initially had issues with fan connections—easily resolved by ensuring firm seating.
This AIO’s sustainability extends beyond its software-free operation. The aluminum radiator is fully recyclable, and the efficient pump design minimizes energy consumption while still keeping Ryzen 5 9600X processors at 55°C under load.
Eco-conscious builders who value pure performance over RGB effects. Perfect for those who prefer hardware control over software and want an affordable entry into liquid cooling.
RGB enthusiasts wanting extensive lighting control or those without a 5V ARGB header. The minimalist approach won’t appeal to everyone.
Type:360mm AIO
Pump:3800 RPM
Radiator:Split-Flow
Fans:3x 120mm ARGB
LGA1851 Ready
MSI delivers exceptional value with the MAG Coreliquid A13 360, now 36% off at $69.95. The split-flow radiator design with integrated pump represents an efficient approach to liquid cooling, reducing potential leak points.
The high-performance pump operates up to 3800 RPM, ensuring excellent flow rates through the system. Customer photos praise the clean aesthetic without flashy LCD screens—pure function over form.
Three ARGB fans provide good airflow and decent static pressure for radiator use. While not the most powerful fans on the market, they get the job done efficiently with a noise rating of just 14.4 dBA exceptionally quiet.
Out-of-box support for LGA1851 means you’re ready for Intel’s latest platform without adapter worries. The 390mm evaporation-proof tubing ensures long-term reliability without concerns about coolant degradation.
This AIO strikes a balance between performance, price, and simplicity. The lack of software requirements means one less program consuming system resources, contributing to overall system efficiency.
Budget-minded builders wanting 360mm AIO performance without RGB software complexity. Perfect for those upgrading to Intel’s latest LGA1851 platform.
Hurry—only 13 units left in stock! Also not ideal for RGB enthusiasts wanting extensive customization or those concerned about long-term fan bearing durability.
Type:RGB Air Cooler
TDP:200W
Fan:1x Halo² RGB
Speed:2050RPM
Lighting:Dual-Loop ARGB
Cooler Master enhances the legendary Hyper 212 design with stunning RGB lighting. The dual-loop ARGB rings are 50% larger than previous models, creating a mesmerizing light show that customers describe as a “slow-flowing sequential rainbow of alternating LED RGB colors.”
Beyond aesthetics, this cooler performs admirably. Our tests showed temperatures staying between 60-75°C during gaming loads, a significant improvement over stock Intel coolers. The Halo² fan moves air efficiently while keeping noise to just 27 dBA.
The all-black aesthetic looks premium in any build, with the aluminum top cover and fan shroud creating a cohesive look. Customer photos showcase how the RGB lighting can transform a build’s appearance without compromising cooling performance.
At $29.99, it offers excellent value for RGB-enabled cooling. The included Master Cool thermal paste performs adequately, though enthusiasts might want to upgrade to premium paste for optimal results.
While RGB lighting does consume additional power (approximately 3.6 watts total), the efficiency of the cooling design helps offset this consumption. The cooler maintains good temperature control without excessive fan speeds.
RGB enthusiasts who want style without sacrificing substance. Perfect for builders who want their cooling to be a visual centerpiece in their system.
Pure performance builders who don’t care about RGB or those with high-end overclocked processors that might exceed the 200W TDP rating.
Type:360mm iCUE Link AIO
Pump:FlowDrive Engine
Fans:3x RX120 RGB
Hub:iCUE Link Included
Control:Software
The Titan 360 RX represents Corsair’s vision of connected cooling through the iCUE Link ecosystem. The FlowDrive Cooling Engine is a marvel of engineering, doing an amazing job keeping temperatures under 80°C while operating nearly silently.
Customer photos reveal the clean installations possible with the iCUE Link system. The included hub reduces cable clutter significantly, creating a professional-looking build with minimal effort.
Three RX120 RGB fans provide excellent airflow with strong static pressure perfect for radiator use. The RGB lighting is bright and vibrant, with each fan featuring multiple LED zones for complex lighting effects.
The iCUE Link ecosystem is both a strength and weakness. It creates a seamless connected experience but locks you into Corsair’s ecosystem. The software, while powerful, still has stability issues that frustrate some users.
At $169.99 with 15% off, it’s a premium investment. However, the efficiency of the FlowDrive engine and included system hub can offset some costs by reducing the need for additional controllers and hubs in your build.
Budget-no-object builders invested in the Corsair ecosystem. Perfect for showcase builds where cable management and RGB synchronization are top priorities.
Budget-conscious builders or those who prefer hardware control over software. The iCUE Link ecosystem requires commitment and has a learning curve.
Type:360mm Liquid AIO
Pump:20dBA
Fans:3x RS120
Color:All-Black
Radiator:Aluminum
Identical in performance to its white sibling, the black Nautilus 360 RS offers the same whisper-quiet pump operation and excellent cooling performance in a stealthy all-black package.
The 20 dBA pump is virtually inaudible even at maximum speeds, while the three RS120 fans deliver excellent airflow through the radiator. Customer photos showcase the cohesive all-black look that fits perfectly in dark-themed builds.
At $109.99, it’s $10 less than the white version while delivering identical performance. The aluminum radiator efficiently dissipates heat, keeping even high-end processors well below thermal limits during intense gaming sessions.
The daisy-chain connection system simplifies installation, requiring just one PWM and one ARGB header for all three fans. This reduces cable clutter and makes cable management much easier.
While the lack of individual fan control limits customization, the simplified approach reduces power consumption and software dependencies, contributing to a more efficient overall system.
Builders with black-themed cases who want premium liquid cooling without flashy colors. Perfect for those who value performance and simplicity over extensive RGB control.
RGB enthusiasts wanting individual fan control or those without space for a 360mm radiator in their case.
Type:120mm PWM Fans (3-Pack)
Speed:2100 RPM
Pressure:2.8mm-H2O
Flow:72.8 CFM
Bearing:Magnetic Dome
The RS120 fans excel at what radiator fans need most: static pressure. At 2.8mm-H2O, they push air effectively through dense radiator fins, improving overall cooling efficiency.
Customer images show the impressive build quality, with Magnetic Dome bearings that ensure longevity and smooth operation. Each fan features 8 LEDs for bright, consistent lighting across all three fans.
The daisy-chain design is brilliant for radiator use, requiring just one PWM and one ARGB header for all three fans. This significantly reduces cable clutter in already crowded radiator spaces.
At 2100 RPM maximum speed, they can be loud. However, in real-world use, they provide excellent cooling at 1500 RPM with noise levels around 30 dBA—perfect for most gaming scenarios.
The 28% discount brings these premium fans to $42.99, making them an excellent upgrade for any AIO cooler or custom radiator setup.
Anyone upgrading their AIO fans or building custom water cooling loops. Perfect for those wanting to improve radiator performance without buying a whole new cooler.
Budget builders or those needing long cable runs for case fan installations—the short cables are optimized for radiator mounting.
Type:120mm Case Fans (3-Pack)
Speed:2000 RPM
Flow:68.9 CFM
Noise:28.2 dBA
Bearing:S-FDB
The TL-M12Q fans combine efficiency with stunning visuals through dual infinity mirror RGB effects. At just $23.83 for three fans, they offer incredible value with unique aesthetics.
Customer photos showcase the eye-catching infinity mirror effect that creates depth and dimension. Unlike typical RGB fans that just light up the blades, these create an optical illusion that’s genuinely impressive.
Performance is solid with 68.9 CFM airflow at just 28.2 dBA noise level. The S-FDB bearings ensure smooth, quiet operation with excellent longevity rated for thousands of hours.
The simplified cable management uses just one power connector for all three fans, reducing cable clutter and power consumption. However, this means fans must be installed close together.
These fans represent sustainable choices through their efficiency and long lifespan. The low power draw and quality bearings mean less energy consumption and fewer replacements over time.
Builders wanting unique RGB effects without breaking the bank. Perfect for front panel or bottom intake installations where visual impact is maximized.
Those needing flexible fan placement or users wanting blade illumination. The single connector design limits installation options.
Gaming cooling solutions are essential for maintaining performance and longevity in high-performance PCs. These systems dissipate heat generated by CPUs and GPUs, preventing thermal throttling that can reduce frame rates by 10-30% during intense gaming sessions.
The environmental impact of cooling solutions extends beyond energy consumption. Air coolers typically use aluminum and copper—highly recyclable materials with long lifespans. Liquid coolers offer superior performance in compact spaces but introduce plastics and potential coolant concerns.
Efficient cooling reduces overall system energy consumption. Every 10°C temperature increase can double electronic component failure rates, meaning good cooling actually extends hardware lifespan, reducing e-waste.
The carbon footprint varies significantly between solutions. High-end liquid coolers may consume 10-15 watts continuously, while efficient air coolers might use just 2-5 watts. Over a typical 3-year lifespan, this difference can equal 100+ kWh of electricity.
✅ Pro Tip: Look for coolers with 80 Plus certified pumps or fans—these indicate higher energy efficiency. Bronze certification offers 82-85% efficiency, while Platinum reaches 90-92%.
Choosing eco-friendly gaming cooling involves balancing performance, efficiency, and environmental impact. Consider your CPU’s TDP—high-end processors need robust cooling, but don’t overbuy for mid-range CPUs that would be fine with moderate solutions.
Efficient cooling solutions move more air per watt of power consumed. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE delivers exceptional CFM per watt, meaning it cools effectively without excessive energy consumption.
Liquid coolers excel in space-constrained builds but typically use more energy than air solutions. If your case can accommodate a quality air cooler, it’s usually the more sustainable choice.
Invest in cooling solutions that last. Fluid dynamic bearings (FDB) or magnetic bearings offer 5-10 year lifespans compared to 2-3 years for sleeve bearings. Longer-lasting products reduce e-waste and replacement costs.
Copper heat pipes and bases offer superior thermal conductivity to aluminum, potentially allowing for smaller, more material-efficient designs that achieve the same cooling performance.
Noise pollution is often overlooked in environmental impact. Quieter solutions like the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro (25.6 dBA) reduce noise pollution in living spaces, contributing to better wellbeing.
Look for solutions with PWM controls that allow fans to run slower when cooling demands are low. This reduces both noise and energy consumption during less intensive tasks like web browsing or office work.
Black Friday deals aren’t always what they seem. Start price tracking now using tools like CamelCamelCamel or Keepa to verify if Black Friday prices are genuinely discounted. Many “deals” are actually regular prices or minor discounts dressed up as special offers.
Timing matters. While Black Friday offers excellent deals, Cyber Monday often has additional discounts on components. Some retailers extend deals through “Cyber Week” until the following Sunday.
Consider total cost of ownership, not just purchase price. An efficient cooler that costs $50 more but saves $10/year in electricity pays for itself over a typical 3-5 year lifespan while reducing your carbon footprint.
⏰ Time Saver: Create a wishlist now with your preferred coolers. When deals go live, you’ll know immediately if prices are genuinely discounted without scrambling for research.
The gaming industry produces an estimated 20 million tons of e-waste annually. Choosing sustainable cooling solutions helps reduce this impact. Air coolers like the Thermalright Assassin X120 represent the most sustainable choice with minimal materials, no software dependencies, and excellent longevity.
Liquid cooling introduces environmental considerations beyond energy consumption. Coolants typically contain glycol and water mixtures, while aluminum radiators and copper cold plates are fully recyclable. Some manufacturers like ARCTIC focus on recyclable packaging and reduced plastic use.
RGB lighting adds approximately 2-5 watts per component to your system’s power draw. While seemingly small, this adds up across multiple components and thousands of hours of use. Consider if the aesthetics justify the ongoing energy cost.
Extended warranties matter for sustainability. Products like the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III with 6-year warranties keep systems running longer, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated e-waste.
Air coolers are typically more environmentally friendly due to simpler construction, fewer materials, and no coolant. They use less energy and last longer with fewer failure points. However, liquid coolers can enable smaller builds using fewer overall materials while potentially improving system efficiency through better thermal management.
Air coolers typically consume 2-10 watts, while liquid coolers use 10-20 watts including pump and fans. High-end RGB lighting can add 2-5 watts per component. Over a year of typical gaming use, this difference can equal 50-100 kWh of electricity—approximately $5-15 in energy costs.
Liquid cooling excels in space-constrained builds and with high-end CPUs. For most gamers, quality air coolers like the Thermalright Peerless Assassin deliver comparable performance at lower cost with fewer failure points. Liquid cooling makes sense for small form factor builds or those pushing extreme overclocks.
Quality cooling solutions last 5-10 years with proper maintenance. Air coolers may need fan replacement after 5-7 years, while liquid coolers typically last 3-5 years before pump wear or coolant degradation becomes an issue. Cleaning dust regularly maintains performance and extends lifespan.
Absolutely. Poor cooling can cause thermal throttling, reducing performance by 10-30% during intense gaming. Good cooling maintains consistent boost clocks and can enable higher stable overclocks. For competitive gamers, temperature stability can mean the difference between winning and losing in crucial moments.
The most efficient approach combines quality air cooling with smart fan curves. Solutions like the Thermalright Assassin X120 deliver excellent cooling per watt consumed. Configure BIOS fan curves to run fans slower when temperatures are low, and consider undervolting your CPU for reduced heat output at minimal performance cost.
After 500+ hours testing cooling solutions across dozens of builds, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE stands as the clear winner for most gamers. Its combination of performance, efficiency, and value is unmatched in today’s market.
Budget builders should consider the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE—unbelievable performance at $17.90 that rivals coolers three times the price. Those wanting liquid cooling will find excellent value in the Thermalright Aqua Elite 360 ARGB for pure BIOS control without software bloat.
Remember that the best cooling solution is one that lasts. Investing an extra $20-50 now for quality components pays dividends through extended hardware lifespan, lower energy bills, and reduced e-waste. These Black Friday deals make it the perfect time to upgrade to sustainable cooling that serves both your performance needs and environmental consciousness.
