ARCTIC P12 Pro PST - Powerful Premium Fan, vs Thermalright AXP90 X36 Low Profile ITX CPU Cooler,

Overview of the ARCTIC P12 Pro PST and Thermalright AXP90 X36

The ARCTIC P12 Pro PST is priced at $9.49, while the Thermalright AXP90 X36 has a higher price tag of $20.39, making the latter about 115% more expensive. Both products serve distinct cooling purposes, with the ARCTIC fan focusing on airflow efficiency, while the Thermalright cooler is designed for compact CPU cooling in small form-factor builds. Understanding the unique features of each will help you decide which one suits your needs better.

Design and Build Quality

The ARCTIC P12 Pro PST features a sleek black design with a 120 mm fan size, optimized for high static pressure. It employs a fluid dynamic bearing for quiet operation and longevity. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90 X36 boasts a low-profile design with a height of just 36 mm, making it ideal for ITX builds. Its all-metal platform and nickel plating provide robustness and corrosion resistance. While the ARCTIC fan is designed primarily for airflow, the Thermalright cooler is built to efficiently manage CPU temperatures in tight spaces.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the ARCTIC P12 Pro PST operates at a speed range from 600 to 3000 RPM, allowing for significant airflow even under high resistance conditions. It is particularly effective for cooling dense radiators or mesh panels, ensuring reliable system temperatures. The Thermalright AXP90 X36, with its integrated 4×6mm AGHP heat pipes, is designed to maintain low thermal resistance while producing noise levels of only 22.4 DBA. While the ARCTIC fan excels in airflow, the Thermalright cooler provides effective CPU cooling in a compact form factor.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the ARCTIC P12 Pro PST is designed for quiet operation due to its fluid dynamic bearing, which minimizes vibrations. The fan stops at less than 5% PWM, ensuring silence during low loads. Conversely, the Thermalright AXP90 X36 operates at a maximum noise level of 22.4 DBA. Although this is relatively quiet for a CPU cooler, it still may not match the near-silent operation of the ARCTIC fan during low-speed scenarios. For users sensitive to noise, the choice may hinge on whether the priority is CPU cooling or general case airflow.

Compatibility

The ARCTIC P12 Pro PST is compatible with any standard 120 mm fan mount, making it versatile for various builds. It can be paired with multiple cooling setups, including radiators. On the other hand, the Thermalright AXP90 X36 is specifically designed for low-profile compatibility, supporting a range of Intel and AMD sockets, including 115X/1200 for Intel and AM4/AM5 for AMD. This specialized compatibility makes it an excellent choice for compact builds, while the ARCTIC fan's broader compatibility serves general cooling needs.

Price Comparison

The ARCTIC P12 Pro PST is currently available for $9.49, making it a wallet-friendly option for users looking for effective cooling without a high financial commitment. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90 X36 is priced at $20.39, which is about $10.90 more expensive. This price difference of approximately 115% reflects the specialized design of the Thermalright cooler for CPU applications, while the ARCTIC fan offers general cooling solutions at a lower cost.

Sales and Popularity

The ARCTIC P12 Pro PST has a sales rank of 12134, indicating a decent level of popularity among consumers. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90 X36 does not have a listed sales rank, suggesting it may not be as widely purchased or recognized in the market. This difference in sales could influence your decision, particularly if you value community feedback and popularity in product choices.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC P12 Pro PST and the Thermalright AXP90 X36 ultimately depends on your specific cooling needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable and versatile fan that excels in airflow and quiet operation, the ARCTIC P12 Pro PST is an excellent choice at $9.49. However, if you need a compact CPU cooler designed for effective thermal management in small builds, the Thermalright AXP90 X36, while pricier at $20.39, offers specialized features suitable for that purpose. Consider your setup and cooling requirements to make the best decision.