Corsair XTM70 Extreme Performance Thermal Paste vs Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler

Overview of Products

In this comparison, we will look at the Corsair XTM70 Extreme Performance Thermal Paste and the Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler. While both products aim to enhance CPU performance and cooling, they serve different purposes. The Corsair XTM70 is designed specifically for thermal transfer, whereas the Thermalright AXP90-X47 focuses on active cooling through air circulation.

Thermal paste is essential for optimal heat transfer between a CPU and its cooler, which directly impacts performance, especially in high-end systems. The Corsair XTM70 is priced at £14.99, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to improve thermal conductivity. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90-X47, priced at £41.90, offers a comprehensive cooling solution, making it suitable for compact builds and enhancing airflow.

Thermal Performance

The Corsair XTM70 excels in thermal transfer, advertised to keep high-performance CPUs cool, with a capability of handling processors up to 250W TDP. This makes it an ideal choice for users with demanding workloads, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. Its low viscosity formula allows the paste to spread evenly, maximising contact and heat transfer efficiency.

On the other hand, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 uses a combination of a copper radiator and advanced heat pipe technology to improve cooling performance. With a maximum air volume of 42.58CFM and a fan speed reaching 2700RPM, it is designed to manage heat effectively in compact spaces. The dual focus on heat pipes and a high-speed fan provides a robust cooling solution for small form-factor builds.

Application and Installation

When it comes to application, the Corsair XTM70 makes the process straightforward with its included applicator kit. This user-friendly feature allows for a clean and even spread of thermal paste, reducing the risk of messy application. Furthermore, the product comes with three cleaning wipes to help remove old paste, ensuring a clean surface for optimum performance.

In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90-X47's installation involves mounting a full low-profile air cooler, which may require more effort and time than simply applying thermal paste. The cooler's compact design, however, ensures that it fits easily into tight spaces, making it a suitable option for ITX builds. Its 47mm height is specifically tailored for users concerned about memory clearance and overall spatial efficiency.

Noise Levels

The Corsair XTM70 is silent in operation as it is merely a thermal paste, with no moving parts involved. This means that users can achieve optimal thermal performance without any associated noise, making it ideal for quiet computer builds or environments where silence is essential.

Conversely, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 produces a noise level of 22.4db(A) during operation. While this is relatively quiet for a CPU cooler, it is still a consideration for users who prioritise silence. The cooler’s PWM fan is designed for automatic temperature control, which helps to minimise noise when the system is under light load, but it will ramp up under heavy use.

Compatibility

The Corsair XTM70 is compatible with both Intel and AMD processors, ensuring versatility across various systems. This broad compatibility makes it a great choice for users who may upgrade their hardware in the future, as it can be used with different CPU models without concern.

The Thermalright AXP90-X47 also boasts extensive compatibility, supporting Intel LGA 1700, 1851, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets. This ensures that it can cater to a wide range of computer builds, from gaming rigs to home theatre PCs. Its design specifically targets compact cases, making it an excellent choice for niche builds without sacrificing performance.

Material Quality

In terms of material quality, the Corsair XTM70 uses premium thermal paste, focusing on efficient heat transfer without compromising on ease of application. The inclusion of an applicator kit enhances user experience, highlighting Corsair’s attention to detail in product design.

The Thermalright AXP90-X47 is made from pure copper, known for its excellent thermal conductivity and oxidation resistance. This choice of material enhances the cooler's longevity and performance. Additionally, the cooler features a plating anti-oxidation protective layer, which helps prevent corrosion and prolongs its operational efficiency.

Price and Value

When considering price, the Corsair XTM70 is priced at £14.99, making it an affordable option for users looking to enhance their CPU cooling capabilities without breaking the bank. Its effectiveness in transferring heat makes it a worthy investment for maintaining optimal performance.

On the other hand, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 is priced at £41.90. While it is significantly more expensive than the thermal paste, it provides a comprehensive cooling solution that goes beyond just thermal conductivity. For users focused on building compact systems with high cooling demands, the investment may be justified due to its overall performance and build quality.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Corsair XTM70 Extreme Performance Thermal Paste and the Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking to improve thermal conductivity in an existing setup or during a CPU upgrade, the Corsair XTM70 is an excellent choice that offers great value for money. However, if you are building a compact ITX system and require an efficient cooling solution, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 provides superior cooling performance and compatibility at a higher price point.