Best of 2026 · PC Build · Updated November 2026
Best CPU cooler 2026: the most picked CPU coolers right now
The most picked CPU cooler in November 2026 is the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE, chosen in an estimated 24.2% of PC builds, ahead of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE (8.1%).
Cheapest in the top five: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ($32).
By region: Europe Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE (24.2%)
Est. % of PC builds · How we rank
The ranking: November 2026
| # | CPU cooler | Est. share | vs last month | Price (US) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE | 24.2% | – | $32 |
| 2 | Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Cult favourite | 8.1% | – | $35 |
| 3 | be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 | 4.8% | – | $89 |
| 4 | Noctua NH-D15 G2 | 2.2% | – | $149 |
Share = estimated % of PC builds (how we rank). Change is in percentage points since last month. Prices are approximate US street prices (– where we don't have a reliable one); see shops.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE over the last 6 available months
| Jun 26 | Jul 26 | Aug 26 | Sep 26 | Oct 26 | Nov 26 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| – | – | – | – | – | 24.2% |
Questions
What is the most popular CPU cooler right now?
The most picked CPU cooler in November 2026 is the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE, chosen in an estimated 24.2% of PC builds, ahead of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE (8.1%).
What is the best budget CPU cooler?
The cheapest CPU cooler in the top five for November 2026 is the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE at about $32, picked in an estimated 24.2% of builds.
How does Ask Bestie Computers rank CPU coolers?
By the estimated share of PC builds in the category that went to each product in November 2026, worked out from shop bestseller lists and sales counts in each region and checked against hardware surveys. Based on Tweakers Pricewatch. Low confidence. It is a popularity ranking, not a lab test, and it updates every month. Full method: https://computers.askbestie.me/methodology/