ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit - Compatible with Liquid Freezer III and vs upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler 45mm Height - 6 Heat Pipes

Overview of the Products

When comparing the ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit and the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler, the key difference lies in their intended functions. The ARCTIC mounting kit is designed to expand compatibility for ARCTIC’s Liquid Freezer III and other coolers, while the upHere cooler is a standalone solution that provides efficient cooling in compact spaces. With prices at C$26.70 and C$49.99 respectively, these products cater to different needs in the CPU cooling market.

Compatibility Features

The ARCTIC mounting kit enhances compatibility with various Intel sockets, specifically LGA1200, 1156, 1155, 1151, and 1150. This assembly kit allows users to utilise ARCTIC's Liquid Freezer III and Freezer 36 coolers with a broader range of Intel processors, making it an ideal choice for those upgrading or building systems with these sockets. Conversely, the upHere H45K6 CPU cooler supports a wide array of socket types, including Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 115x, 1200, 2011, and 2066, as well as AMD AM5, AM4, and AM3. This universal hardware compatibility makes the upHere cooler versatile for various builds, especially in mixed-processor environments.

Size and Design Considerations

The ARCTIC mounting kit's compact design is meant to facilitate easy installation, complemented by a user-friendly assembly process. However, it does not directly provide cooling; instead, it serves to make existing coolers compatible with newer motherboards. On the other hand, the upHere H45K6 is specifically designed with a low profile of just 45mm in height. This ultra-compact design allows it to fit effortlessly in space-constrained Mini ITX cases without compromising on performance, making it a strong contender for users prioritising compact builds.

Cooling Efficiency

Cooling efficiency is a critical factor for any CPU cooling solution. The ARCTIC mounting kit does not provide any cooling on its own but allows for the use of ARCTIC's advanced liquid coolers, which are known for their efficiency. The upHere H45K6 features six heat pipes and dense aluminum fins that ensure efficient cooling with a thermal dissipation capacity of up to 150W TDP. This makes it suitable for mainstream CPUs, allowing it to maintain stable temperatures even under heavy workloads, which is a significant advantage over the mounting kit alone.

Installation Process

The installation process for the ARCTIC mounting kit is designed to be straightforward, with a proven user-friendly design and an online multilingual animated manual to assist users. This ease of installation is essential for those who may not be experienced in building PCs. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 promises a tool-free installation that can be completed in under five minutes. This quick setup is particularly beneficial for users looking to assemble their systems rapidly without the need for additional tools, making the upHere cooler a user-friendly option.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many PC builders, especially those who prefer quiet operation. The ARCTIC mounting kit does not have a noise level to report since it does not include cooling fans itself. The upHere H45K6, however, features a slim 90mm PWM fan that operates at a noise level of ≤27 dB(A) while pushing airflow of 35.34 CFM. This quiet operation is ideal for silent builds, ensuring that users can enjoy a peaceful computing environment without the distraction of loud fans.

Price Comparison

The ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit is priced at C$26.70, making it a budget-friendly option for those who already own compatible coolers and are looking to upgrade their socket compatibility. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 is priced at C$49.99, which reflects its additional features, including built-in cooling capabilities and universal compatibility across a wider range of sockets. While the mounting kit is more economical, the upHere cooler offers more value for those needing a complete cooling solution.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit and the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're looking to increase the compatibility of existing ARCTIC coolers with various Intel sockets, the ARCTIC mounting kit is a cost-effective solution. However, if you require an efficient, space-saving cooling solution that supports a wide range of sockets, the upHere H45K6 is the clear choice with its robust cooling performance and quiet operation. Consider your current setup and future upgrade plans to make the best decision.