Planning to upgrade your CPU cooler but don’t know if it’ll fit? After all, there’s nothing on the product sheet to indicate that it only works with a select processor lineup. Before you start disassembling your computer, there are a few things you should know.

Are Stock CPU Coolers Universal?

Most CPUs come with a cooler bundled in the box. Both AMD and Intel have a few models, and the one you get depends on what processor you buy—more powerful processors come with a beefier cooling solution to accommodate the increased heat output.

Now, whether they’re universal isn’t exactly clear-cut. You can typically use a cooler from a different processor if it’s the same socket or the installation holes match. For example, AMD’s Wraith coolers are interchangeable across different models and generations. However, you may run into overheating issues if the cooler isn’t designed to handle the processor’s Thermal Design Power (TDP).

As for using AMD coolers on Intel CPUs or vice versa, you can’t do that out of the box. You could try to DIY mount using a bracket from an aftermarket cooler, but I’d advise against it. The cooler could permanently damage the processor or motherboard if not installed correctly. If the pressure from the cooler is uneven, it could crack the processor’s integrated heat spreader (IHS), damage the socket, or bend your CPU pins.

Are Aftermarket CPU Coolers Universal?

Unlike stock CPU coolers, aftermarket coolers are often designed to be as universally compatible as possible. That’s why they come with a few different mounting brackets and adjustable backplates. You can use them across different generations, sockets, and even brands. As long as the cooler is designed to handle your CPU’s TDP rating or higher, it’s good to go.

Note that cooler manufacturers typically continue to support their older coolers. If you have an older cooler and want to install it on your new CPU, you can buy a separate mounting kit. Just be sure to double-check the compatibility list on the manufacturer’s site.

However, even if the cooler could theoretically work with your cooler, you’re not out of the woods just yet. There are a few other things you have to take into account before purchasing an aftermarket cooler.

How to Check if a CPU Cooler Is Compatible With My Motherboard

The CPU socket is the most important factor that determines compatibility. You can check if a given CPU cooler is compatible by checking what sockets it supports under the cooler’s specifications on the manufacturer’s website or the box it came in.

If you don’t know what socket is in your computer, refer to your motherboard manual or check the motherboard or CPU’s specifications online. Consumer-grade Intel sockets start with “LGA,” and for AMD, it’s “AM.” As long as the CPU cooler lists the socket as supported, it’ll work.

Make Sure the Cooler Fits in Your Case

Aftermarket CPU coolers come in various sizes and designs, so make sure that there’s sufficient room in your case. If it’s an AIO water cooler, you must have enough space for the radiator and fans. Radiators are 120mm, 240mm, or 360mm and have fairly universal mounting holes, so as long as your case has a place to mount it, you’re good to go.

If you opt for an air cooler, you must pay attention to a few parameters. Make sure the cooler isn’t too tall by checking the cooler’s height against the case’s width. Use a ruler to measure the distance from the socket to the side panel. Even better, check the case manufacturer’s website or user manual to see if there’s a spec for the maximum CPU cooler height.

Also, check the cooler’s RAM clearance on the manufacturer’s website or measure the distance between the fins and cold plate (CPU contact area). Thankfully, high-quality air coolers today take RAM sticks with tall heat sinks into account.

If you’re buying an aftermarket cooler, you most likely won’t have to worry about compatibility. CPU coolers on the market today aren’t so large that they can’t fit inside a normal-size PC case, and they’re tall enough to avoid rubbing against the RAM.