Noctua NH-U12S Redux vs Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm T

Overview of the Noctua NH-U12S Redux and Thermalright AXP120-X67

The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a high-performance CPU cooler priced at C$62.95, while the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB is a budget-friendly option available for C$38.79. Each cooler targets different user needs and preferences, making them suitable for a range of builds.

Noctua's offering is known for its streamlined design and excellent compatibility, making it a popular choice among gamers and PC builders alike. In contrast, Thermalright’s AXP120-X67 focuses on providing a low-profile cooling solution that maintains a balance between performance and aesthetics, particularly with its ARGB features.

Design and Aesthetics

The Noctua NH-U12S Redux boasts a slim 120mm design that ensures compatibility with most tower cases and does not obstruct RAM slots or PCIe slots on many motherboards. This thoughtful engineering is complemented by a height of 158mm, offering a balance of performance and space efficiency.

On the other hand, the Thermalright AXP120-X67’s low-profile design, with a total height of just 67mm, is ideal for compact builds where space is a premium. Its sleek black finish and ARGB lighting add a modern touch, appealing to users looking to enhance the visual aspect of their rigs.

Performance Capabilities

When it comes to cooling performance, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux employs a quiet NF-P12 redux-1700 fan that adapts its speed through PWM control, allowing it to perform efficiently under load while maintaining near-silent operation at idle. This feature is crucial for users who prioritize a quiet computing experience.

Conversely, the Thermalright AXP120-X67 features a 120mm PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1800 RPM, delivering an airflow of 59 CFM and maintaining a noise level below 26.1 dB(A). While not as renowned as Noctua's fan, it still provides adequate cooling performance, especially for lower-power CPUs in compact setups.

Compatibility

The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is versatile, compatible with a variety of Intel sockets, including LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, and LGA115x, as well as AMD sockets like AM5 and AM4. This extensive compatibility makes it a smart choice for builders using either Intel or AMD systems.

The Thermalright AXP120-X67 also supports a wide range of sockets, accommodating Intel's 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, and 2066, along with AMD's AM4. This ensures that users looking to install the AXP120-X67 won't face issues regardless of their platform choice.

Installation Process

The installation of the Noctua NH-U12S Redux is facilitated by its SecuFirm2 mounting system, which simplifies the process across various socket types. This user-friendly approach is beneficial for both novice builders and seasoned enthusiasts.

In comparison, the Thermalright AXP120-X67 includes metal fasteners designed for easy installation on both Intel and AMD platforms. While it may not have the same level of acclaim as Noctua’s mounting system, it still provides a straightforward setup experience for users focusing on a low-profile cooler.

Cooling Efficiency

The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is celebrated for its cooling efficiency, which is attributed to its high-quality fans and optimized heatsink design. This cooler is particularly effective for high-performance CPUs, ensuring that even under heavy loads, temperatures remain manageable.

The Thermalright AXP120-X67 employs advanced AGHP technique with its six heat pipes, designed to enhance thermal conductivity and cooling performance. Although it may not reach the same cooling efficiency levels as the NH-U12S Redux, it is still a competent option for users with moderate performance needs.

Noise Levels

The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is known for its near-silent operation, especially at idle, making it an ideal choice for users who value a quiet environment. The PWM fan technology ensures that noise levels remain low during less demanding tasks, while still ramping up when cooling is needed.

The Thermalright AXP120-X67 operates with a maximum noise level of 26.1 dB(A), which is relatively quiet but may be noticeable during intensive tasks. While it’s designed for ultra-silent airflow, users seeking absolute silence might prefer the Noctua cooler.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Noctua NH-U12S Redux and the Thermalright AXP120-X67 depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize premium performance, quiet operation, and exceptional compatibility, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux at C$62.95 is a solid investment. However, if you are working with a compact build on a tighter budget, the Thermalright AXP120-X67, priced at C$38.79, offers a good balance of performance and aesthetics, making it an attractive option for everyday users.