The next generation of Intel power has arrived thanks to the formal reveal of 12th generation Alder Lake chips. This jump represents a big overhaul for Intel, with a new structure offering support for advanced features. However, with that new structure comes the new LGA 1700 socket. Will your old CPU cooler fit 12th-gen Z690 motherboards?
Will old CPU coolers fit Intel Z690 LGA 1700 motherboards?
No, your old CPU cooler will probably not fit the new LGA 1700 socket. Put simply, the socket dimensions have changed, so cooling components designed for LGA 1200 will not work with Z690 motherboards. However, you may be able to adapt your old cooler through the use of upgrade kits offering different mounting options.
In other words, there’s a slim chance your existing cooling components will work. So far, only a handful of companies — be quiet, Noctua, and Corsair, among others — have adapters that will allow LGA 1200 coolers to be used on LGA 1700 boards. More are likely on the way, but choices are slim for now. And, there’s a catch: Not all coolers are supported, so you’ll have to dig around to find which adapters are available.
Otherwise, you’ll probably want to buy a new CPU cooler. Especially if you’re making the jump to a new motherboard and socket, you’ll want to make sure you have cooling appropriate to your build. Obviously, your GPU is choice important as well. On the plus side, a new cooler should keep you ready for upgrades for the next few years at least.
Don’t buy a 12th generation Intel Z690 motherboard expecting your old CPU cooler to fit, because it probably won’t. LGA 1700 is different enough from previous sockets to require all new mounting brackets for cooling. Thankfully there is a small chance your existing cooler can be adapted to fit, depending on what you have. Either way, it’s still worth considering buying a new cooler. For more helpful tips, be sure to check out some of our other PC hardware guides.
