Raspberry Pi 4 Cooler Comparison
Comparing 4 cooling configurations for the Raspberry Pi 4. SoC: Broadcom BCM2711.
Thermal Analysis
We tested 4 cooling configurations on the Raspberry Pi 4, built around the Broadcom BCM2711, each with an identical 60 minute sustained CPU stress workload. With no cooling fitted, the board idles at 43°C and peaks at 78°C under load and completes the full test without thermal throttling.
The strongest result came from the EDATEC ED-Pi4Case-OB (passive cooling), which cut the peak load temperature by 15.0°C to 63°C at a price of $8.95. For tighter budgets, the EDATEC ED-Pi4COOLER delivers a 7.0°C improvement for $3.50, the best value of the group at $0.50 per degree.
Across all configurations, peak temperatures ranged from 63°C to 78°C, a spread of 15°C. 3 of 3 aftermarket coolers completed the test without any thermal throttling. The Raspberry Pi 4 can run without extra cooling, but even a basic heatsink lowers operating temperatures and helps long term reliability.
Peak Temperatures at a Glance
Temperature Comparison
Cooling Solutions
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot does the Raspberry Pi 4 get without a cooler?
The Raspberry Pi 4 reaches 78°C under sustained CPU load without a cooler, with an idle temperature of 43°C. No thermal throttling was observed.
What is the best cooler for the Raspberry Pi 4?
The EDATEC ED-Pi4Case-OB provides the best thermal performance, reducing load temperatures by 15.0°C to a peak of 63°C at a price of $8.95.
Does the Raspberry Pi 4 need a cooler?
The Raspberry Pi 4 does not thermally throttle under sustained load even without an aftermarket cooler. However, a cooler will still reduce operating temperatures, which can improve long-term reliability.