Noctua NH-U12S Redux vs Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of CPU Coolers

When it comes to cooling solutions for CPUs, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux and the Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB CPU Air Cooler present two distinct options at different price points. The Noctua is priced at C$62.95, while the Thermalright is significantly more affordable at C$35.90. Despite the price difference, both products offer unique features that cater to various user needs, making them strong contenders in the CPU cooler market.

Design and Compatibility

The Noctua NH-U12S Redux features a slim 120mm design that ensures compatibility with most tower cases, boasting a height of 158mm. This design does not overhang RAM slots or block PCIe slots on most ATX and Micro-ATX motherboards, making it a versatile option for various builds. In contrast, the Thermalright SI-100 has a more compact height of 100mm, which is suitable for small to medium-sized computer cases. Its dimensions of 120(L)x108(W)x100(H)mm also allow for easy installation, while still providing sufficient cooling performance.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling efficiency, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux utilises a quiet NF-P12 redux-1700 120mm fan with PWM for automatic speed control, ensuring that the cooler performs optimally under load while remaining near silent during idle. This fan can provide excellent cooling performance, especially for demanding CPUs. The Thermalright SI-100, on the other hand, employs a PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 2000 RPM, delivering an airflow of 72.37 CFM. While it excels in airflow, it has a slightly higher noise level of up to 27.7 dB(A), which may be a consideration for users prioritising a quieter environment.

Installation Process

Installation ease is a key factor for many users. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux includes the high-end NT-H1 thermal paste and a SecuFirm2 mounting system that ensures a straightforward installation process compatible with various Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1700 and AM4. Meanwhile, the Thermalright SI-100 also provides a user-friendly installation experience, thanks to its metal fasteners and compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. However, it does not specify the inclusion of thermal paste, which could be a minor drawback for some users.

Brand Reputation

Noctua is renowned for its high-quality cooling solutions and has built a strong reputation over the years. The NH-U12S Redux is a more affordable version of their award-winning NH-U12S heatsink, maintaining Noctua's standard of quality at a lower price point. Conversely, Thermalright, with over 20 years of experience in the industry, has established itself as a reliable brand in the CPU cooling market. They focus on innovative product development, but their reputation may not be as universally recognised as Noctua's.

Target Audience

The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is ideal for users who prioritise performance and quality, particularly gamers and professionals using high-end CPUs like the Intel Core and Ryzen series. Its compatibility with a range of sockets and renowned cooling efficiency make it suitable for users looking to build or upgrade powerful systems. In contrast, the Thermalright SI-100 is better suited for budget-conscious consumers or those building compact systems who need effective cooling without compromising space or spending too much.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant factor when choosing between these two CPU coolers. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux retails at C$62.95, reflecting its premium build quality and performance capabilities. In comparison, the Thermalright SI-100 is priced at C$35.90, making it an attractive option for those on a tighter budget. However, potential buyers should consider whether the price difference correlates with the performance and features they require for their specific use case.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Noctua NH-U12S Redux and the Thermalright SI-100 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a high-performance cooler with a proven track record and excellent compatibility for demanding systems, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux is the way to go. However, if you are on a budget or need a compact solution for a smaller build, the Thermalright SI-100 offers solid performance at a lower price point. Each cooler has its strengths, making them suitable for different types of users.