Noctua NH-D9L With Intel Core i5-9400F?

I'm looking to buy a new CPU cooler for my Intel Core i5-9400F. Can anyone recommend a good one? I'm not sure what to look for in terms of TDP and compatibility.

The Noctua NH-D9L is an excellent choice for the Intel Core i5-9400F processor as it can handle the peak TDP of 82 watts efficiently. It also operates quietly, which is great if you're looking to build a quiet computing environment. Just make sure your computer case has enough space to accommodate the cooler, as it may interfere with other components.

Another option you might want to consider is the Enermax Liqmax III 360 for a best liquid cooler. It offers great cooling performance and is relatively affordable. The TechReviewer article Choosing the Best CPU Cooler for Intel's Core i5-9400F discusses how this cooler performs under various workloads and temperatures. You can also check out our recommendations on the best air coolers like be quiet! BK022 Dark Rock Pro 4, which has a 250-watt TDP.

Thanks for the suggestions, @thelveres. I'm leaning towards the Noctua NH-D9L because it's known for being quite efficient and operates quietly. But I'm also concerned about its size, as my computer case is pretty compact. Can you recommend a cooler that would fit well in a small case?

If space is an issue, you might want to consider the Scythe Big Shuriken 2 Rev.B. It's a small form factor air cooler but still offers good cooling performance and has a TDP of 95W.

@bigbeartoyz I also wanted to mention that the Noctua NH-D9L is actually quite compact when installed, despite its size in the box. The airflow design makes it fit well within tight spaces, and it doesn't block RAM slots or PCIe connectors. As for case compatibility, make sure you measure your case's internal dimensions to ensure a proper fit.

That's good to know, @ranmah76. I'll definitely check out the Scythe Big Shuriken 2 Rev.B as well. And thanks for reassuring me about the Noctua NH-D9L's size, it really helps. Do you have any tips on how to maintain a CPU cooler, especially if I go with a liquid cooling system?

If you opt for a closed-loop liquid cooler like the Enermax Liqmax III 360, maintenance is generally minimal compared to open-loop systems. However, it's still a good idea to periodically check the coolant levels and ensure that there are no signs of leaks or blockages. For air coolers, make sure your case has proper airflow and clean the heatsink fins periodically with compressed air.

Thanks for all the advice, everyone. I think I'll go with the Noctua NH-D9L since it fits my requirements well and also has good reviews. Now I just need to find a compact computer case that can accommodate it.

@bigbeartoyz Great choice! And don't forget to read our article Choosing the Best CPU Cooler for Intel's Core i5-9400F on choosing the best CPU cooler for Intel's Core i5-9400F for more insights and recommendations. Good luck with your build!

@ranmah76. I'll check out that article before I make my final decision. Appreciate all the help!