Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler vs Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler features a sophisticated design with a full copper mirror plane base and a black aluminium fin cold plate. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler has a compact size of 94.5×95×47mm, which is ideal for small form factor builds. The Frozen Notte's robust build ensures effective cooling performance under high loads, while the AXP90-X47’s low-profile design is designed to fit in tight spaces without compromising compatibility with memory modules.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling capability, the Frozen Notte boasts a high-performance cold head with a maximum pump speed of 5300 RPM, which significantly enhances cooling efficiency. This water cooler is particularly effective at dissipating heat from high-performance CPUs. Conversely, the AXP90-X47 utilises a 92mm PWM fan that reaches a maximum speed of 2700 RPM, providing adequate cooling for lower power CPUs. While both coolers offer solid performance, the Frozen Notte is more suited for higher-end systems requiring aggressive cooling solutions.

Compatibility

The compatibility of these coolers is noteworthy. The Frozen Notte supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets including LGA 1700, AM4, and AM5, making it a versatile choice for gamers and professionals alike. On the other hand, the AXP90-X47 also supports various Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 1700 and AM4. However, its low-profile nature makes it especially suitable for compact builds, which may not require the extensive compatibility range that the Frozen Notte offers.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the AXP90-X47 operates at a maximum noise level of 22.4 dB(A), which is relatively quiet and ideal for environments where silence is crucial, such as home theatres. In contrast, the Frozen Notte’s noise levels are not specified but can be expected to be higher due to its higher RPM of 5300, which typically correlates with increased noise. Users prioritising a quiet operation may lean towards the AXP90-X47.

Aesthetics and Lighting

The Frozen Notte is designed with aesthetics in mind, featuring ARGB lighting that synchronises with the motherboard for a dazzling visual experience. This cooler not only cools effectively but also enhances the visual appeal of a rig with its 1600W colour soft light effects. In contrast, the AXP90-X47 lacks such advanced lighting features, focusing instead on performance and compactness. Users who value aesthetics alongside functionality may find the Frozen Notte more appealing.

Price Point

The Thermalright Frozen Notte is priced at £44.99, while the AXP90-X47 is slightly cheaper at £41.90. The difference of £3.09 reflects the additional features and performance capabilities of the Frozen Notte, which may justify its higher price for users needing superior cooling. However, for those with budget constraints or less demanding cooling needs, the AXP90-X47 offers an attractive option without sacrificing essential performance.

Installation Process

Both coolers are designed for ease of installation, but they cater to different user needs. The Frozen Notte comes with a dual-platform full metal black buckle that simplifies installation across various CPU platforms. The AXP90-X47 also boasts an easy installation process, especially in compact cases. Users unfamiliar with cooler installation might find the straightforward design of the AXP90-X47 particularly beneficial due to its smaller size, which reduces the complexity of fitting it into tight spaces.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler and the Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require superior cooling performance, extensive compatibility, and aesthetic enhancements, the Frozen Notte is the better choice despite its higher price. Conversely, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that excels in small form factor builds and operates quietly, the AXP90-X47 is an excellent alternative.