The AMD Ryzen 7 3700X is but a touch slower than the more capable 3800X sibling, but it still has eight cores and 16 threads. That's plenty of performance at a reasonable price. But for you to enjoy such high clock speeds, you'll want a decent cooler. AMD bundles a good stock cooler with this CPU, but if you want something a little better, check our selection.
If we're to make a suggestion
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700X won't throw out too much heat. The stock cooler included with the processor will easily keep it within the desired operating temperature ranges. But if you want something a little quieter, fancier-looking, or with more headroom for overclocking, you'll need an aftermarket cooler.
Slapping the NZXT Kraken Z63 atop the Ryzen 7 3700X is a great way to get as much performance out of the processor as possible, featuring a 280mm radiator, latest Asetek pump, and LCD display for a unique-looking build. It's a little on the pricey end, but well worth it if your budget can stretch.
The Shadow Rock 3 (opens in new tab) from be quiet! is a sound air cooler with an even better price tag. Don't let this affordability fool you into thinking it's not up to the job of taking on the Ryzen 7 3700X, because it is.
Rich Edmonds is Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him over on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.
