Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm T vs ASUS Prime LC 360 ARGB All-in-one AIO CPU Liquid Cooler AMD: AM5 & AM4 Intel: LG

Overview of the Products

The Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler and the ASUS Prime LC 360 ARGB All-in-one AIO CPU Liquid Cooler are two distinct cooling solutions catering to different user needs. Priced at C$38.79, the Thermalright cooler is a budget-friendly air cooling option, while the ASUS liquid cooler comes at a premium price of C$159.99, aiming to provide superior performance and aesthetics.

Thermalright has established itself with over 20 years of experience in the cooling market, focusing on effective air cooling solutions. In contrast, ASUS has designed the Prime LC 360 to offer advanced cooling through liquid technology, promising enhanced performance for more demanding setups.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, both products have unique strengths. The Thermalright AXP120-X67 features a low-profile design with an aluminum fin on a copper base, allowing it to manage airflow efficiently with a maximum airflow of 59 CFM and a maximum noise level of 26.1 dB(A). This makes it suitable for small form factor builds where space is limited.

On the other hand, the ASUS Prime LC 360 is designed to provide powerful heat dissipation through its specially crafted CPU contact area and high-performance pre-installed ARGB fans. While specific airflow metrics are not provided, the liquid cooling design is generally more effective at dissipating heat compared to air coolers, especially under heavy loads.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the ASUS Prime LC 360 takes the lead with its futuristic aesthetics, featuring customizable infinity mirror lenses that can enhance the visual appeal of any build. It is specifically crafted to complement the aesthetics of ASUS Prime motherboards, making it an attractive choice for users focused on visual coherence.

Conversely, the Thermalright AXP120-X67 boasts a more utilitarian design. While it does feature ARGB lighting, its primary focus is on compactness and function rather than striking aesthetics. This makes it a great fit for users who prioritise performance over looks, particularly in smaller cases.

Installation and Compatibility

Installation requirements differ significantly between the two products. The Thermalright AXP120-X67 is designed for straightforward installation and comes with metal fasteners compatible with a variety of Intel and AMD platforms, including Intel's LGA 1700 and AMD's AM4. Its low-profile height of 67mm allows it to fit in tight spaces without major adjustments.

The ASUS Prime LC 360, while potentially more challenging to install due to its liquid cooling setup, is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including AMD's AM5 and AM4 and Intel's LGA 1200 and LGA 1700. The reinforced, sleeved tubing also adds to its durability, although it may require more careful handling during installation.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many PC builders. The Thermalright AXP120-X67 maintains a noise level of 26.1 dB(A) at maximum operation, making it a quiet option suitable for environments where noise is a concern, such as home offices or gaming setups.

In comparison, the ASUS Prime LC 360 does not specify noise levels, but liquid coolers are generally quieter under load compared to air coolers. However, the performance and noise balance will depend on the RPM of the pre-installed ARGB fans, which can vary.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant differentiator between the Thermalright AXP120-X67 and the ASUS Prime LC 360. The Thermalright cooler comes in at a budget-friendly C$38.79, making it an attractive option for users who seek effective cooling without breaking the bank.

In contrast, the ASUS Prime LC 360 is priced at C$159.99, reflecting its advanced technology and features. This higher price point may be justified for users seeking superior cooling performance, especially for high-end processors or overclocking scenarios.

Target Audience

The target audience for these products varies markedly. The Thermalright AXP120-X67 is ideal for budget-conscious users, casual gamers, or those building compact systems where space is a premium. Its efficient cooling and low noise levels are perfect for systems that don't require extreme cooling capabilities.

Conversely, the ASUS Prime LC 360 targets enthusiasts and gamers who demand high performance and aesthetics. Its advanced liquid cooling design is suited for high-end builds and overclocking, where maintaining lower temperatures is crucial for performance stability.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler and the ASUS Prime LC 360 ARGB All-in-one AIO CPU Liquid Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for an affordable, space-saving solution with adequate cooling performance, the Thermalright cooler at C$38.79 is a solid choice. However, if you're willing to invest C$159.99 for superior cooling capabilities and striking aesthetics, the ASUS Prime LC 360 is a compelling option for high-performance builds. Your decision should reflect your priorities in terms of budget, performance, installation complexity, and visual appeal.