Building a new workstation around AMD’s latest Ryzen Threadripper CPU? You’re staring down a 350-watt thermal challenge that standard coolers simply can’t handle. The massive sTR5 socket and its enormous Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS) demand a specialized cooling solution, and choosing the wrong one means leaving critical performance on the table.
The market is a minefield of “compatible” coolers with partial coverage alongside dedicated solutions engineered for the task. How do you choose? This definitive 2025 guide is your map. We’ve analyzed every sTR5-compatible AIO and custom water block—from dedicated workstation models by SilverStone and Thermaltake to adapted consumer coolers from Corsair and be quiet!. We’ll break down the critical difference full IHS coverage makes, list the required mounting kits, and provide expert recommendations to ensure your new HEDT or workstation build stays cool and performs at its absolute peak.
The Definitive 2025 Guide to sTR5 CPU Cooling
An exhaustive report on every compatible AIO & water block for AMD's 350W Ryzen Threadripper beasts. Don't let thermals throttle your potential.
The sTR5 Thermal Challenge
Why your old cooler won't cut it.
Size Matters: IHS Coverage is Mandatory
The AMD sTR5 Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS) is massive, measuring 58.5mm × 75.4mm. This is more than double the surface area of a standard AM5 CPU. Using a cooler with a small cold plate creates thermal hotspots, crippling performance. Full coverage is not a recommendation; it's a requirement for taming the 350W TDP of modern Threadripper CPUs.
4411 mm²
sTR5 IHS Area
1600 mm²
AM5 IHS Area
Platform Deep Dive
Understanding the sTR5 Ecosystem: TRX50 vs. WRX90.
TRX50: The HEDT Powerhouse
Designed for high-end desktop enthusiasts and prosumers, the TRX50 chipset supports both standard Threadripper and Threadripper PRO CPUs. It's the more "mainstream" of the two, offering incredible performance for content creation, rendering, and complex multitasking.
- ✓Memory: Quad-channel DDR5 RDIMM support.
- ✓PCIe 5.0: Up to 80 usable lanes (with 9000-series CPU).
- ✓Target User: Power users, 3D artists, video editors.
WRX90: The Professional Workstation
The WRX90 chipset is the pinnacle of the platform, built exclusively for Threadripper PRO processors. It's designed for the most demanding professional applications, including scientific computing, AI/ML development, and large-scale simulations.
- ✓Memory: Eight-channel DDR5 RDIMM support for massive datasets.
- ✓PCIe 5.0: Up to 144 usable lanes for multi-GPU and high-speed storage arrays.
- ✓Target User: Data scientists, engineers, enterprise-level production houses.
sTR5-Compatible AIO Coolers
Dedicated workstation solutions vs. adapted consumer models. Choose wisely.
SilverStone XE360-TR5
SST-XE360-TR5
A premier, purpose-built workstation AIO with a massive copper base and a unique radiator-integrated pump to reduce CPU block height and improve clearance.
Thermaltake AW360
CL-W450-PL12BL-A
Part of a new workstation ecosystem, this AIO features a full-coverage block and high-static-pressure TOUGHFAN Pro fans for excellent thermal dissipation.
Thermaltake AW420
CL-W445-PL14BL-A
The larger 420mm version of the AW series, offering even more cooling capacity for the most demanding workloads and overclocking scenarios.
Corsair iCUE H150i ELITE...
Multiple Models
Popular consumer AIOs (CAPELLIX XT, LCD XT, RGB ELITE) that include sTR5 mounting. Convenient but use a standard 56x56mm cold plate.
Corsair iCUE H170i ELITE...
Multiple Models
The 420mm versions of Corsair's ELITE series. Offer more radiator surface area but still feature the partial-coverage cold plate.
Enermax LIQTECH TR4 II
All Sizes
Originally a full-coverage TR4 cooler, it's a strong performer on sTR5 but requires a specific upgrade kit to be purchased separately.
be quiet! Silent Loop 3 360mm
BW015
Known for quiet operation with Silent Wings 4 fans and a dampened pump. Offers out-of-the-box sTR5 support with a partial-coverage plate.
be quiet! Silent Loop 3 420mm
BW016
The larger version of the Silent Loop 3, prioritizing low noise levels. Compatible out-of-the-box but with a standard-sized cold plate.
A Word of Caution: TDP Ratings Matter
Some "compatible" coolers, like the server-focused Dynatron L36, fit the sTR5 socket but are not rated for the full 350W TDP of high-end Threadripper CPUs. This chart illustrates the performance gap.
The Compatibility Minefield
Prominent brands that DO NOT support sTR5.
NZXT (Kraken 2024 / Elite)
NZXT officially states its newest coolers are not compatible. Older models relied on a CPU-included bracket that is no longer provided with Threadripper 7000/9000 CPUs. Avoid for sTR5 builds.
Cooler Master (Mainstream)
Mainstream lines like the MasterLiquid Atmos and Core do not support sTR5. Cooler Master is developing dedicated TR5/SP6 editions, but they are not yet on the market.
Lian Li & Phanteks
A review of the Galahad (Lian Li) and Glacier One (Phanteks) product lines shows no official support for sTR5 or its predecessors. These coolers should not be considered for Threadripper builds.
sTR5 Custom Loop Water Blocks
For ultimate performance, accept no compromises. These blocks offer the best cooling possible.
EKWB EK-Pro & Quantum Magnitude
Professional & Enthusiast Tiers
Full CoverageEK offers both a server-grade block (EK-Pro) for reliability and a high-end enthusiast block (Magnitude) with premium aesthetics. Both are fully sTR5 compatible out of the box.
Watercool HEATKILLER® IV PRO
Premium German Engineering
Full CoverageA full-metal, nickel-plated water block renowned for its exceptional build quality and thermal performance. Engineered specifically for the massive Threadripper IHS.
Alphacool Eisblock XPX Pro 1U
Server & Workstation Focused
Full CoverageA versatile, low-profile block perfect for 1U rackmount cases. Features numerous G1/4" ports for flexible tube routing in tight spaces.
Comino Monoblock for ASUS WRX90E-SAGE
The Ultimate Integrated Solution
Full CoverageThe most specialized solution available. This monoblock cools both the sTR5 CPU and the motherboard's critical VRMs simultaneously, ensuring total system stability under extreme loads. Only for the ASUS Pro WS WRX90E-SAGE SE.
Master Comparison Table
All the data in one place. Click headers to sort.
| Manufacturer | Model Name | Type | Coverage | Mount Kit Part No. |
|---|
Expert Recommendations
The right cooler for your build profile.
Maximum Performance
For professionals and enthusiasts demanding the absolute best. A custom loop with a Watercool HEATKILLER IV PRO or EKWB block is unmatched. For AIO simplicity with top performance, the SilverStone XE360-TR5 is the clear winner due to its full-coverage design.
Plug-and-Play Builder
For those who value convenience and availability. The Corsair iCUE ELITE XT series (H150i/H170i) offers a great balance of performance and ease-of-use with its included sTR5 bracket. The be quiet! Silent Loop 3 is a fantastic alternative if acoustics are your top priority.
Specialized Integrator
For unique workstation or server builds. The Comino Monoblock is the only choice for the flagship ASUS WRX90 board. For 1U rackmounts, the low-profile Alphacool Eisblock XPX Pro 1U provides the necessary clearance and flexibility.
Future Outlook
What's next for sTR5 cooling?
The sTR5 cooling market is still maturing. The confirmation of upcoming dedicated AIOs, such as the Cooler Master "PL360 TR5/SP6 Edition", indicates that manufacturers are recognizing the need for purpose-built solutions beyond simple mounting bracket adaptations. As the Zen 5-based Threadripper 9000 series becomes more established, it's plausible that other manufacturers may introduce dedicated coolers to compete in this high-margin segment. The final verdict for cooling the sTR5 platform in 2025 is one of informed diligence. Prioritizing full IHS coverage over brand familiarity is the most critical factor for success.