Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler vs upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler 45mm Height - 6 Heat Pipes

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler is priced at C$65.37, while the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler comes in at a more budget-friendly C$49.99. This represents a difference of C$15.38, making the upHere cooler a more economical choice for those looking to save on CPU cooling solutions. While the Thermalright cooler offers advanced features such as ARGB lighting and a more substantial cooling capacity, the price difference may sway budget-conscious consumers towards the upHere model, especially if they're working within a tighter financial scope.

Design and Size

In terms of size, the upHere H45K6 boasts a compact 45mm height, making it an excellent fit for space-constrained Mini ITX cases. Its ultra-compact design allows for seamless installation without sacrificing performance, ensuring it does not interfere with RAM or motherboard heatsinks. Conversely, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 is designed for larger setups, featuring a standard 360mm radiator and full copper water block that enhances cooling efficiency. While the Thermalright model excels in larger builds, the low-profile nature of the upHere cooler makes it ideal for small-form-factor systems, catering to different user needs.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 is engineered for superior cooling, capable of handling high thermal loads with its three PWM fans that can reach speeds of up to 2000 RPM, delivering an impressive maximum airflow of 72.37 CFM. It is designed to handle demanding CPU workloads and maintain optimal temperatures. On the other hand, the upHere H45K6, with its six heat pipes and a 90mm fan, supports a thermal dissipation of 150W TDP. While it offers reliable cooling for mainstream CPUs, it may not match the high-performance cooling capabilities of the Thermalright model, which is better suited for overclocking scenarios.

Noise Level

Noise levels are a critical consideration for many users, especially in quiet environments. The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 operates at a maximum noise level of 27.7 dBA, ensuring that even under load, it remains relatively quiet. Meanwhile, the upHere H45K6 also maintains a low noise output, operating at ≤27 dBA thanks to its slim 15mm PWM fan. Both models offer quiet operation; however, the Thermalright's larger fan setup may contribute to slightly enhanced airflow at similar noise levels, making it a potentially better choice for users prioritising cooling performance alongside quiet operation.

Installation Ease

The upHere H45K6 is designed for quick and easy installation, promising tool-free setup that can be completed in under 5 minutes. Its universal hardware compatibility ensures it fits a variety of Intel and AMD sockets without interference, making it particularly user-friendly for first-time builders. In contrast, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360, while compatible with a broad range of CPU sockets, may require more effort in installation due to its size and complexity. Those who prefer a straightforward installation process may find the upHere cooler more appealing.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetically, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 stands out with its ARGB lighting features, allowing users to synchronise lighting effects with their motherboard for a visually stunning build. Its design incorporates a sleek black aluminium fin cold plate and a copper mirror plane base, contributing to both performance and style. While the upHere H45K6 does not feature ARGB, its clean, low-profile design allows it to blend seamlessly into any setup, particularly in compact cases where space and appearance are at a premium. For users who prioritise visual appeal, the Thermalright cooler is likely the more attractive option.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 offers extensive compatibility, supporting a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 1700 and AM5. This broad support makes it versatile across various builds, particularly for high-performance systems. In comparison, the upHere H45K6 also boasts universal compatibility but is specifically designed to avoid interference with RAM and other components in compact builds. While both products cater to diverse user needs, the choice between them may depend on the specific system requirements and user priorities regarding compatibility.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, choosing between the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler and the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for superior cooling performance, aesthetic appeal with ARGB lighting, and have a larger case to accommodate it, the Thermalright model is the clear winner. However, if you’re building a compact system, value a straightforward installation process, and prefer a more budget-friendly option, the upHere cooler is an excellent choice. Ultimately, both products serve their purpose well within their respective niches, offering quality cooling solutions tailored to different user requirements.