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Hey everyone, I'm building a new mid-range PC focused on gaming and I'm a bit stuck on choosing the right CPU cooler. I'm pairing it with a Ryzen 5 7600X, and I want something that can keep temps in check without breaking the bank. I'm looking for either an air cooler or an AIO, but I'm leaning towards air for simplicity and reliability. My budget for the cooler is around $50-$75. I've seen the Deepcool AK620 and the Noctua NH-U12S being recommended, but are there any other great options in this price range that offer good performance and aesthetics? Any advice or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Hey TechGuru88, For a Ryzen 5 7600X in that budget range, you can't go wrong with the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE. It's an absolute beast for the price, often outperforming much more expensive coolers. It's also relatively easy to install and looks pretty sleek. The Deepcool AK620 is also a fantastic choice, and if you can find it on sale, it might fit your budget. Noctua coolers are top-tier but usually cost a bit more. The NH-U12S is great, but for a 7600X, you might get more bang for your buck with the Thermalright.

I second the Thermalright Phantom Spirit! I have it on my 7700X and it keeps it under 70°C even during heavy gaming loads. It's a dual-tower cooler with two 120mm fans, offering incredible value. Installation was a breeze, and it doesn't interfere with RAM slots on most motherboards. If aesthetics are a big concern, consider the ID-COOLING FROZN A620. It's another dual-tower cooler that offers comparable performance to the Phantom Spirit and often comes in black for a cleaner look. Both are well within your budget.