Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black Low Profile CPU Air Cooler vs Noctua NF-A14 PWM

Design and Form Factor

The Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black is a low-profile CPU air cooler designed specifically to fit into compact builds, whereas the Noctua NF-A14 PWM is a versatile 140x140x25 mm fan suited for various cooling applications, including radiators and PC cases. The AXP90 X36 Black’s low-profile nature makes it ideal for small form factor systems where space constraints are critical. In contrast, the NF-A14 PWM’s square frame and larger 140 mm size lend themselves well to water cooling radiators or larger chassis airflow, rather than direct CPU cooling in tight spaces. This fundamental difference in design means the Thermalright cooler targets users prioritizing a compact footprint, while the Noctua fan offers flexibility as a case or radiator fan.

Cooling Performance and Noise Levels

The Noctua NF-A14 PWM features a maximum speed of 1500 RPM and a noise level up to 24.6 dB(A), highlighting its balance of airflow and quiet operation, aided by Flow Acceleration Channels and advanced acoustic optimisations. Although the Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black’s cooling performance details are not specified, the Noctua’s features indicate a premium quiet cooling experience with a broad speed range managed via PWM control. The Noctua’s maximum speed and acoustic rating provide a quantifiable benchmark for quiet yet effective airflow, ideal for users seeking silent operation alongside cooling efficiency.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black is tailored for low-profile CPU cooling needs, making it suitable for compact PCs where height restrictions limit cooler options. On the other hand, the Noctua NF-A14 PWM’s 140 mm square frame is ideal for use as a case fan or on water cooling radiators (AIO or DIY), offering broad compatibility with different chassis and ventilation setups. Its design supports intake and exhaust configurations, making it a versatile fan beyond just CPU cooling. This makes the Noctua a flexible choice for users building mid to full-sized systems or custom water cooling loops.

Control and Connectivity

The Noctua NF-A14 PWM includes a 4-pin PWM connector, allowing automatic speed control via motherboard fan headers with a speed range of 300 to 1500 RPM. This precise control helps balance cooling and noise based on system load. The Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black does not list specific control features or connectivity details, suggesting it may rely on standard fan connections without advanced PWM control. For users prioritizing dynamic fan speed adjustment and integration with motherboard monitoring software, the Noctua fan offers a clear advantage.

Included Accessories and Extras

The Noctua NF-A14 PWM comes with a comprehensive accessory package, including anti-vibration mounts, fan screws, a Low-Noise Adaptor, extension cable, and a y-cable to run two PWM fans from one header. These extras improve installation flexibility and noise reduction, providing value beyond the fan itself. The Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black does not specify included accessories, indicating a more straightforward package focused on the cooler alone. For those who appreciate bundled extras that simplify installation and enhance noise control, the Noctua fan is the more complete offering.

Durability and Reliability

The Noctua NF-A14 PWM boasts an exceptionally high mean time to failure (MTTF) of over 150,000 hours, reflecting premium build quality and long-term reliability. This metric is a strong indicator of the fan’s durability under continuous operation. The Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black does not provide MTTF or reliability data, so it is not possible to directly compare longevity. Users seeking proven endurance backed by quantified reliability metrics will find reassurance in Noctua’s specification.

Pricing and Value

The Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black is priced at C$26.90, making it notably more affordable than the Noctua NF-A14 PWM, which costs C$34.95. This price difference of approximately C$8 reflects the Noctua’s premium features, such as advanced acoustic optimisation, PWM control, and included accessories. Budget-conscious buyers looking for a basic low-profile cooler may prefer the Thermalright for its lower price point, while those valuing additional features and broader compatibility might justify the higher cost of the Noctua fan.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black if you need a compact, low-profile CPU air cooler suitable for small form factor systems and want to minimise upfront costs at C$26.90. It fits tightly constrained spaces where a larger fan would not be feasible. However, if you require a versatile, high-quality 140 mm fan with advanced noise optimisation, PWM speed control from 300 to 1500 RPM, and a long MTTF of over 150,000 hours, the Noctua NF-A14 PWM at C$34.95 offers greater flexibility and premium features. Its comprehensive accessory bundle and multi-application design make it ideal for users who want a quieter, more controllable fan for radiators, cases, or chassis ventilation. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you prioritise low-profile CPU cooling with affordability or premium fan performance and adaptability.