Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM vs Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM and Thermalright AXP90-X47

The Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM and the Thermalright AXP90-X47 are two distinct cooling solutions catering to different needs. The Noctua fan is a compact, high-performance fan, while the Thermalright cooler is a full low-profile CPU cooler designed for efficient heat dissipation. Both products appeal to users looking for reliable cooling solutions, but their applications and features set them apart significantly.

The Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM is priced at £18.98, making it a budget-friendly option for those needing a quiet fan for small devices. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90-X47, at £41.90, offers a more comprehensive cooling solution suitable for low-profile builds, justifying its higher cost with advanced cooling technology and compatibility with a wider range of CPUs.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM is a compact 40x40x10 mm fan, ideal for space-constrained environments like 1U servers and network equipment. Its award-winning A-series design features Flow Acceleration Channels for improved airflow and sound quality. The build quality is emphasised by a projected lifespan of over 150,000 hours under typical conditions.

Conversely, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 measures 94.5x95x47 mm, substantially larger than the Noctua, and is constructed with pure copper for enhanced heat transfer and oxidation resistance. This cooler incorporates four 6mm heat pipes using Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe (AGHP) technology, ensuring the cooling efficiency is maintained regardless of orientation. The robust build of the AXP90-X47 enhances its durability and effectiveness in managing CPU temperatures.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a crucial aspect where both products excel in different ways. The Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM operates at a maximum speed of 5000 RPM and maintains a noise level of only 19.6 dB(A), making it exceptionally quiet while delivering effective cooling for low-power devices. Its broad speed range of 1000 to 5000 RPM allows for flexibility depending on cooling requirements.

On the other hand, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 features a maximum fan speed of 2700 RPM with a noise level of 22.4 dB(A). While it operates at a lower maximum speed compared to the Noctua fan, it compensates with a higher air volume rating of 42.58 CFM and an air pressure of 1.33 mmH2O. This makes it particularly effective for CPU cooling, as it can handle higher thermal loads than a standard fan.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are essential for users concerned about quiet operation. The Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM stands out with a maximum noise level of just 19.6 dB(A), which is very quiet and ideal for environments where noise minimisation is critical. Its design is tailored for silent operation, making it suitable for applications like home theatres or quiet office environments.

The Thermalright AXP90-X47, while slightly noisier at 22.4 dB(A), still operates relatively quietly for a CPU cooler. Its design predominantly focuses on cooling efficiency, which may result in a marginally higher noise level. For users prioritising cooling over silence, the AXP90-X47 strikes a good balance between performance and acceptable noise levels.

Compatibility

Compatibility is an essential consideration when choosing cooling solutions. The Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM is versatile, designed for various applications including servers and small form factor builds. Its 4-pin PWM connector allows for easy integration into existing systems with automatic speed control.

In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 is specifically designed for CPUs and is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 1700 and AM5. This broad compatibility makes it an excellent choice for users building compact gaming or workstation PCs that require efficient cooling solutions without the risk of memory clearance issues.

Installation and Accessories

Installation can significantly influence the user experience. The Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM includes a variety of accessories such as anti-vibration mounts, fan screws, a Low-Noise Adaptor, and an OmniJoin adaptor set for connecting to proprietary fan headers. These accessories make installation straightforward, especially for users unfamiliar with fan setups.

On the other hand, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 comes with its own set of mounting hardware, but it’s designed primarily for CPU installation, which may require more effort depending on the existing setup. The inclusion of high-quality heat transfer paste is a noteworthy benefit, as it ensures optimal thermal conductivity right out of the box.

Price Consideration

Price is a noteworthy factor that differentiates these two products. The Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM is priced at £18.98, making it an affordable option for those seeking a premium fan without breaking the bank. This price point is attractive for users who need reliable cooling for smaller devices or server applications.

Conversely, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 is available for £41.90, reflecting its advanced design and capabilities as a CPU cooler. While the higher price may deter budget-conscious buyers, the investment could be justified for those needing a robust cooling solution for high-performance CPUs in compact cases.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM and the Thermalright AXP90-X47 ultimately depends on your specific cooling needs. If you're looking for a compact, quiet fan for smaller devices or servers, the Noctua NF-A4x10 PWM is an excellent choice, offering superior noise performance at a lower price. However, if you require a more comprehensive cooling solution for a CPU in a compact build, the Thermalright AXP90-X47, despite its higher price, provides exceptional cooling performance and compatibility with a range of CPUs. Consider your needs carefully to make the best choice for your system.