SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 Low Profile CPU Cooler, 4.7" vs Thermalright AXP90-X53 White Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler,

Overview of the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 and Thermalright AXP90-X53

The SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 and the Thermalright AXP90-X53 are two low-profile CPU coolers that cater to users with space-constrained builds. The SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is priced at $32.99, while the Thermalright AXP90-X53 is significantly cheaper at $19.39, making it about 41% less expensive. Both products promise efficient cooling, but their designs and features cater to different needs and preferences.

Design and Build Quality

The SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 boasts a compact design measuring 4.7" x 4.8" x 2.6", making it an excellent fit for Mini-ITX cases. It features a robust construction with six heat pipes, which enhance its cooling performance compared to its predecessor, the Shuriken 3. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90-X53 has a height of just 53mm, allowing it to fit in even tighter spaces. With a 92mm fan and a pure copper base, it ensures efficient heat dissipation while maintaining a low profile. Both coolers are designed for compatibility with various CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1851 and AMD AM5, catering to a broad range of users.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling capabilities, the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is rated for a TDP of up to 200W, making it suitable for more demanding builds. The inclusion of six heat pipes allows for superior heat transfer, ensuring your CPU maintains optimal temperatures even under heavy loads. The Thermalright AXP90-X53, on the other hand, has a lower TDP rating of 150W. It employs four heat pipes and is designed to provide effective cooling for smaller, less demanding systems. While both coolers perform well, the SCYTHE model has a clear edge in handling higher thermal loads.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an essential consideration for many PC builders, especially those seeking a quiet computing experience. The SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 operates at a noise level of 31.78dB, which some users might find slightly audible in quiet environments. Conversely, the Thermalright AXP90-X53 features a quieter operation at just 22.4dB, thanks to its slim PWM fan that optimizes fan speed based on temperature, providing a silent operation. If noise is a critical factor for your build, the Thermalright cooler may be the better choice.

Compatibility and Installation

Both the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 and Thermalright AXP90-X53 are designed with broad compatibility in mind. The SCYTHE cooler supports Intel LGA 1851 and AMD AM5 sockets, making it versatile for various modern builds. The Thermalright AXP90-X53 also supports a wide array of sockets, including Intel’s LGA 1700 and AMD’s AM4/AM5. However, the installation process can differ; the Thermalright model requires the original motherboard backplate for AMD installations, which may complicate setup for some users.

Price and Value

Price is a significant factor when choosing between these two coolers. The SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is priced at $32.99, while the Thermalright AXP90-X53 comes in at $19.39. This pricing difference of approximately $13.60 makes the Thermalright cooler about 41% cheaper. While the SCYTHE offers higher cooling performance and more heat pipes, the Thermalright provides excellent value for those with less demanding cooling needs and a lower budget.

User Feedback and Market Presence

User feedback and market presence can provide insights into a product's reliability and performance. The SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 has garnered positive reviews for its effective cooling and noise levels, although specific sales rankings were not provided. The Thermalright AXP90-X53 has also received favorable assessments, particularly for its quiet operation and compact design suitable for small form factor systems. Both products appear to have carved out a niche in the CPU cooler market, appealing to different segments of users.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 and the Thermalright AXP90-X53 largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require high cooling performance for demanding CPUs and are willing to spend a bit more, the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that excels in quiet operation and fits into ultra-compact builds, the Thermalright AXP90-X53 is the way to go. Ultimately, both coolers offer solid performance, but your decision should reflect your priorities in price, noise, and cooling demands.