Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 13th & vs Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler, 7 Heat Pipes

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will look at the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame and the Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler. The Thermal Grizzly is priced at $19.99, while the Thermalright is more expensive at $35.90, making the Thermal Grizzly about 44% cheaper than its competitor. Each product serves a unique purpose in enhancing CPU cooling performance, targeting different aspects of the cooling process.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is crafted from anodized aluminum, ensuring durability and a high-quality finish. It features a special inner contour designed for optimal pressure distribution, which helps prevent the concave curvature of the Integrated Heatspreader (IHS). In contrast, the Thermalright PS120SE boasts a design that incorporates 7 heat pipes and an aluminum heat sink, combined with a finely carved pure copper base. This design allows for maximum heat dissipation and enhances the overall performance of the cooler. Both products reflect a commitment to quality, but they cater to different cooling requirements.

Installation Process

The installation process for the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is described as quick and hassle-free, allowing users to upgrade their CPU cooling performance in just a few steps. This ease of installation is particularly appealing for those who may not have extensive experience with hardware upgrades. On the other hand, the Thermalright PS120SE, while designed for compatibility with various CPU slots, may require more time and effort due to its more complex setup involving multiple components, including the dual 120mm PWM fans. Users looking for a straightforward installation may find the Thermal Grizzly more appealing.

Cooling Performance

The Thermal Grizzly focuses on improving contact pressure to enhance the cooling performance of CPU coolers, leading to lower CPU temperatures. This optimized contact area is essential for efficient heat dissipation. In comparison, the Thermalright PS120SE is designed to handle a Thermal Design Power (TDP) range from 105W to 280W, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. The combination of its 7 heat pipes and efficient fan system offers significant cooling capabilities, making it a strong contender for users with demanding cooling needs.

Compatibility

The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is specifically designed for Intel's 13th and 14th generation processors, ensuring a perfect fit and optimized performance for those models. Meanwhile, the Thermalright PS120SE is compatible with a broader range of CPU sockets, including Intel’s LGA1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, and 1200, as well as AMD’s AM4 and AM5. This versatility makes the Thermalright an excellent choice for users who may upgrade their systems in the future or use different CPU platforms.

Fan Performance

The Thermalright PS120SE comes equipped with dual 120mm TL-C12B V2 PWM fans, which are known for their high performance. With a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and a noise level under 25.6 dB(A), these fans provide effective cooling with minimal noise. The Thermal Grizzly, while not a cooling fan itself, enhances the performance of existing CPU coolers by improving contact pressure, which indirectly contributes to improved fan performance. However, it does not provide the direct airflow benefits that the Thermalright fans offer.

Brand Reputation

Thermal Grizzly is known for its specialized cooling products, particularly in the realm of CPU coolers and thermal interfaces, having collaborated with renowned overclocker Roman "der8auer" Hartung. This association lends credibility to its products, especially for enthusiasts. Thermalright, on the other hand, has over 20 years of experience in the cooler market, developing a wide range of computer accessories. Both brands have established themselves in the industry, but Thermalright's longevity may appeal to users looking for a trusted name.

Price Comparison

The Thermal Grizzly is priced at $19.99, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to improve their CPU cooling without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Thermalright PS120SE retails for $35.90, which is approximately 80% more expensive. While the Thermal Grizzly may lack some of the direct cooling performance features of the Thermalright, its lower price point makes it an attractive option for users seeking an economical upgrade.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame and the Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable way to enhance your existing cooling setup and you own an Intel 13th or 14th generation CPU, the Thermal Grizzly is a solid choice. However, if you require extensive cooling capabilities for high-performance CPUs and are willing to invest more, the Thermalright PS120SE offers superior cooling performance and versatility. Each product has its strengths, making them suitable for different types of users in the CPU cooling landscape.