Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler 45mm Height - 6 Heat Pipes

Price Comparison

The Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is priced at C$63.68, while the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler is more budget-friendly at C$49.99. The price difference of C$13.69 may influence your decision, especially if you're looking to save on your build. Although the Thermalright model offers advanced features, the upHere cooler presents a compelling option for those prioritising cost without sacrificing essential cooling performance.

Design and Size

The Thermalright PS120SE features a height of 154mm, making it suitable for a variety of chassis models, while the upHere H45K6 boasts a remarkably compact design at only 45mm in height. This ultra-low profile design allows the upHere cooler to fit effortlessly in space-constrained Mini ITX cases, making it a prime choice for small-form-factor builds. Those who are building compact systems may find the upHere model to be significantly advantageous due to its space-saving capabilities.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright PS120SE employs a 7x6mm heatpipe system with advanced AGHP technology, providing efficient heat dissipation. This cooler can handle a workload efficiently, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 utilises six Φ6mm heat pipes and is designed for a TDP of 150W, ensuring reliable cooling performance under sustained workloads. While both coolers excel in this area, the PS120SE may have an edge for users needing to cool more demanding processors.

Fan Technology

The Thermalright PS120SE is equipped with double PWM fans, capable of delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM with a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This high-performance fan setup ensures effective heat dissipation while maintaining a relatively quiet operation. On the other hand, the upHere H45K6 features a slim 90mm fan that operates at 800-2800 RPM, producing an airflow of 35.34 CFM at a noise level of ≤27 dB(A). While the PS120SE offers superior airflow, the upHere cooler’s fan is engineered for quiet performance, making it suitable for silent builds.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial for any CPU cooler. The Thermalright PS120SE supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM4/AM5, making it versatile for various builds. However, the upHere H45K6 also supports numerous sockets, including Intel LGA 1851 and AMD AM4, ensuring broad compatibility. Both coolers are designed to avoid interference with RAM and motherboard heatsinks, though the upHere's low-profile design guarantees 100% memory clearance, making it ideal for compact systems.

Durability and Lifespan

The Thermalright PS120SE boasts a lifespan of up to 20,000 hours, thanks to its S-FDB bearings, which ensure long service life. This durability is a vital consideration for users looking for reliability over extended periods. In comparison, the upHere H45K6 features a fan lifespan of 40,000 hours, indicating that it may outlast the Thermalright cooler in terms of lifespan. This distinction could be significant for users who plan on keeping their systems for a longer duration and want to avoid replacements.

Aesthetic Appeal

The Thermalright PS120SE includes an excellent LED lighting system with up to 17 modes of light effects, providing a visually appealing element that can enhance the look of any build. Its high-brightness LED atomizing ARGB fan blades ensure a soft yet effective lighting effect. On the other hand, the upHere H45K6 does not mention any RGB features, focusing more on its compact design and performance. For users who value aesthetics alongside performance, the Thermalright PS120SE has a clear advantage in this category.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require high performance and aesthetic appeal with advanced cooling technology, the Thermalright PS120SE at C$63.68 is an excellent choice. However, if you're prioritising a compact design for a small-form-factor build at a lower price of C$49.99, the upHere H45K6 is a solid option that doesn't compromise on essential cooling capabilities. Your decision should align with your build requirements and budget considerations.