Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 13th & vs Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile

Overview of the Products

The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame for Intel 13th & 14th Generation is priced at $19.99, making it significantly cheaper than the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB CPU Cooler, which costs $32.59. While both products aim to enhance CPU cooling performance, they serve different purposes in the realm of CPU cooling solutions. The Thermal Grizzly product is designed to optimize contact pressure between the CPU and cooler, while the Thermalright cooler is a full air cooling solution featuring multiple heat pipes and an integrated fan.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is made from anodized aluminum, which ensures durability and high quality. This design choice emphasizes the frame's primary role in improving contact pressure, thereby indirectly enhancing cooling efficiency. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 incorporates a low-profile design with a height of just 67mm, making it suitable for compact builds. It features aluminum fins on a copper base, and its construction includes six heat pipes, promising excellent heat dissipation. Each product's design reflects its intended use, with the Thermal Grizzly focusing on structural integrity and the Thermalright emphasizing cooling performance.

Cooling Performance

The Thermal Grizzly product is designed explicitly to enhance the cooling performance of existing CPU coolers by improving contact pressure. This leads to lower CPU temperatures, which is critical for overclocking or sustained heavy use. The Thermalright AXP-120-X67, however, comes equipped with a PWM fan capable of reaching speeds of 1800 RPM, delivering an airflow of 59 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 26.1 dB(A). This indicates that while the Thermal Grizzly enhances existing setups, the Thermalright provides a complete cooling solution with active airflow, making it potentially more effective in outright cooling performance.

Installation Process

The installation of the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is highlighted as quick and hassle-free, allowing users to upgrade their cooling performance easily. This is particularly beneficial for those who might not be comfortable with more complex installations. Conversely, the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 offers a comprehensive installation process as well, with compatible mounting hardware for both Intel and AMD platforms. While the Thermal Grizzly focuses on enhancing existing systems, the Thermalright cooler gives users a complete package that includes a fan and a low-profile design suited for various builds.

Compatibility

In terms of compatibility, the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is specifically designed for Intel's 13th and 14th generation CPUs, ensuring an optimized fit for these models. On the other hand, the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 supports a broader range of socket types, including Intel's LGA 1700, 1150, 1151, and several others, as well as AMD's AM4. This wider compatibility makes the Thermalright cooler a versatile choice for users who may switch processors in the future, while the Thermal Grizzly product targets a specific market segment.

Brand Reputation

Thermal Grizzly is well-regarded for its high-quality thermal interface materials and cooling solutions, developed in collaboration with renowned overclocker Roman "der8auer" Hartung. This partnership adds credibility to the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame, especially among enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Thermalright has over 20 years of experience in the market, focusing on a wide range of cooling solutions. Their long history in the industry positions the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 as a reliable option for both casual and serious PC builders.

Price Comparison

The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is priced at $19.99, making it approximately 39% cheaper than the Thermalright AXP-120-X67, which retails for $32.59. This price difference reflects the distinct functions of the two products: the Thermal Grizzly is an accessory designed to optimize existing cooling solutions, while the Thermalright is a standalone CPU cooler with integrated features. For users on a budget or those who already have a cooling solution in place, the Thermal Grizzly offers a cost-effective enhancement, while the Thermalright provides a robust cooling solution at a higher price point.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame and the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're looking to enhance the performance of your existing CPU cooler, the Thermal Grizzly, priced at $19.99, offers a specialized solution for Intel's latest CPUs. However, if you need a complete cooling solution with versatile compatibility and active cooling features, the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 at $32.59 is a compelling choice. For those who value performance and are willing to invest a bit more, the Thermalright cooler offers comprehensive cooling capabilities.