Noctua NH-L9i-17xx vs Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm T

Price Comparison

The Thermalright AXP120-X67 is significantly more affordable than the Noctua NH-L9i-17xx, priced at C$38.79 compared to C$59.95. This represents a price difference of C$21.16, making the Thermalright a budget-friendly option for those looking for a low-profile CPU cooler without compromising on performance. When considering the financial aspect, the Thermalright is an attractive choice for users who may not want to invest heavily in CPU cooling solutions, particularly for systems that are not under extreme workload conditions.

Design and Dimensions

In terms of design, the Noctua NH-L9i-17xx boasts a height of only 37mm, making it suitable for compact HTPC and Small Form Factor (SFF) cases. On the other hand, the Thermalright AXP120-X67 stands slightly taller at 67mm. While both coolers are designed to fit in tight spaces, the Noctua's lower profile provides an advantage for those with limited vertical clearance in their cases. The tailored footprint of the Noctua also ensures 100% RAM and PCIe compatibility, which is crucial for users building high-density systems.

Cooling Performance

The Noctua NH-L9i-17xx features the renowned NF-A9x14 slim 92mm fan, which is praised for its performance and quiet operation. This cooler is designed to maintain full cooling performance under load while remaining whisper-quiet at idle. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP120-X67 comes with a 120mm fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1800 RPM, providing an airflow of 59 CFM. While both coolers are capable of delivering reliable cooling, the Noctua's emphasis on low noise levels might appeal more to those who prioritize a quiet computing environment.

Installation Process

Both the Noctua NH-L9i-17xx and Thermalright AXP120-X67 are designed for easy installation. The Noctua comes with its SecuFirm2 mounting system, making it straightforward to install on Intel LGA1700 and LGA1851 CPUs. Likewise, the Thermalright cooler includes metal fasteners compatible with a variety of Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a secure fit. However, the Noctua also includes high-end NT-H1 thermal paste, which adds value as it is specifically formulated to enhance thermal conductivity. This can simplify the installation process for users who may not have thermal paste readily available.

Brand Reputation

Noctua is a well-regarded brand in the cooling market, boasting over 200 awards and recommendations from international hardware websites. This reputation is built on a foundation of consistent quality and performance. Meanwhile, Thermalright, with over 20 years of development, has made a name for itself, particularly in the player market. While both brands have their strengths, the extensive accolades received by Noctua may provide extra reassurance for users seeking a reliable and proven cooling solution.

Compatibility

The Noctua NH-L9i-17xx is specifically tailored for Intel’s LGA1851 and LGA1700 platforms, ensuring optimal compatibility with modern Intel processors. It is also noted for its compatibility with various motherboard sizes, including ITX, Micro-ATX, and ATX. The Thermalright AXP120-X67 offers broader compatibility, supporting not only Intel sockets (1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, 2066) but also AMD AM4. This wider compatibility may appeal to users who are considering future upgrades or building systems with different CPU brands.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the Noctua NH-L9i-17xx is engineered for quiet operation, particularly due to its PWM fan, which adjusts speed according to the cooling needs. The Thermalright AXP120-X67, while also designed to operate quietly, has a maximum noise level of 26.1 dB(A). While this is relatively low, the Noctua's reputation for silent operation could make it the preferred choice for users who are particularly sensitive to noise, such as gamers or content creators working in quiet environments.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Noctua NH-L9i-17xx and the Thermalright AXP120-X67 boils down to specific user needs and budget. If you require a compact cooler for a high-performance Intel system and value brand reputation and silent operation, the Noctua is the way to go, albeit at a higher price of C$59.95. However, if you're looking for a cost-effective solution with good performance and broader compatibility, the Thermalright AXP120-X67 at C$38.79 is an excellent choice. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on your specific system requirements, budget constraints, and performance expectations.