Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler vs Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm TL-12015 PWM

Overview of Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler offers advanced cooling technology, featuring a 360mm radiator and ARGB lighting. Priced at C$65.37, it is designed for users seeking high performance and aesthetic appeal in their PC builds. This cooler utilises a full copper mirror plane base and a 360 specification black aluminum fin cold plate, which together create low resistance and high cooling efficiency. The integrated water-cooled system promises long life and effective heat dissipation, making it suitable for overclocking and high-performance CPUs.

Overview of Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler

In contrast, the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler is an affordable option at C$36.90, catering to users with space constraints. With a total height of only 67mm, this cooler is ideal for compact builds where vertical space is limited. It employs an aluminum fin on a copper base, ensuring decent thermal performance in a small form factor. Additionally, it features a PWM fan capable of reaching a speed of 1800 RPM, generating an airflow of 59 CFM, which is adequate for most average gaming and productivity setups.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 stands out with its 360mm radiator and three PWM fans that can reach speeds of up to 2000 RPM, providing maximum airflow of 72.37 CFM. This level of performance is particularly beneficial for high-end CPUs and overclocking scenarios, where heat generation is significant. Conversely, the AXP120-X67, while effective for its size, has a maximum airflow of 59 CFM and a lower fan speed of 1800 RPM. Thus, for users prioritising extreme cooling performance, the Frozen Notte 360 is the clear winner.

Noise Levels and Fan Design

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 operates at a maximum noise level of 27.7 DBA, which is reasonably quiet considering its powerful cooling capabilities. Its three fans are designed to automatically adjust speeds based on CPU temperature, resulting in a balance between cooling performance and noise management. On the other hand, the AXP120-X67 boasts a slightly quieter noise level of up to 26.1 DBA due to its low-profile design and single fan setup. While both coolers are designed for efficiency, the Frozen Notte 360 may produce more noise under heavy loads compared to the AXP120-X67.

Aesthetics and Build Quality

Aesthetically, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 excels with its ARGB lighting, allowing users to synchronise the lighting effects with the motherboard, enhancing the visual appeal of any build. This cooler not only focuses on performance but also on creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. In contrast, the AXP120-X67 has a more utilitarian design, prioritising function over form. Its build quality, while solid, does not offer the same level of visual flair as the Frozen Notte 360, which may be a drawback for users looking to showcase their components.

Compatibility and Ease of Installation

Both coolers offer extensive compatibility with various Intel and AMD platforms, making them versatile choices for different builds. The Frozen Notte 360 supports a wide range of sockets, including LGA 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700 and AM4/AM5, ensuring it can fit most modern CPUs. Installation is straightforward with the dual platform full metal black buckle system. The AXP120-X67 also supports multiple sockets, including Intel's LGA 1700 and AMD's AM4, and is designed for easy mounting given its compact dimensions. However, the AXP120-X67's low-profile nature may make it easier to install in tighter cases.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 is priced at C$65.37, which some may perceive as steep for a cooler. However, considering its advanced features, including high cooling capacity and ARGB lighting, it provides excellent value for enthusiasts looking for top-tier performance. In contrast, the AXP120-X67, at C$36.90, offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential cooling capabilities, making it an attractive choice for casual users or those on a budget. The lower price point means it has a better price-to-performance ratio for users with moderate cooling needs.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler and the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require maximum cooling performance for high-demand tasks and appreciate aesthetic features like ARGB lighting, the Frozen Notte 360 is the superior option. However, if you're working with a compact build and are looking for an efficient, budget-friendly cooler, the AXP120-X67 stands out as an excellent choice that delivers solid performance without breaking the bank.