Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 IR Black Hub vs Thermaltake Gravity i3 Intel LGA 1700 Cocket, 95W

Overview

The Thermalright ARGB and Fan Hub X12 IR Black and the Thermaltake Gravity i3 Intel LGA 1700 Cooler serve different purposes in a PC build, appealing to distinct user needs. The Thermalright product focuses on enhancing lighting and cooling management for multiple fans, while the Thermaltake Gravity i3 is designed as a compact, efficient CPU cooler for Intel processors.

Priced at $11.59, the Thermalright hub offers a budget-friendly option for users looking to manage up to 12 fans. In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i3, at $17.79, targets users needing reliable cooling for low-power processors but comes at a higher cost.

Design

The design of the Thermalright ARGB and Fan Hub X12 IR Black is compact and functional, featuring a sleek black casing with a linear ARGB light on its surface. It measures 108x50x21 mm, making it easy to integrate into various setups. The hub's design emphasizes cable management, allowing users to connect both ARGB lighting and PWM fans seamlessly.

On the other hand, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 is engineered with a low-profile design, standing at only 2.58 inches tall. This makes it ideal for cases with limited space. The cooler features a 92mm fan that is focused on providing effective airflow while maintaining a low noise level of 21.3 decibels.

Features

The Thermalright hub supports both ARGB and PWM fan interfaces, which allows for synchronization of lighting effects and fan speeds. This feature is especially beneficial for users who want to create a visually appealing setup without sacrificing performance. It also includes a remote control for easy color adjustments.

In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 is designed for compatibility with Intel LGA 1700 and 1851 sockets and boasts a maximum airflow of 56.84 CFM. Its 7-bladed low-noise fan ensures efficient cooling performance without producing excessive noise, which is crucial for a pleasant computing experience.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Thermalright hub excels in organizing multiple fans, allowing users to manage the cooling and lighting of up to 12 fans simultaneously. This capability is particularly useful for gamers and PC builders who demand high performance from their cooling systems.

The Thermaltake Gravity i3, with a cooling power of 95 watts, is optimized for low power processors. It operates at a fan speed between 1200 and 3500 RPM, ensuring effective heat dissipation. Its aluminum heatsink design contributes to its cooling efficiency, making it a reliable choice for users seeking to maintain optimal CPU temperatures.

Installation

The installation process for the Thermalright hub is straightforward, featuring plug-and-play functionality that simplifies setup for users. It allows for easy connections of both ARGB and PWM fans, enabling a hassle-free experience for those who may not be tech-savvy. The convenience of cable management adds to its appeal.

The Thermaltake Gravity i3 also emphasizes easy installation, with quick mounting options that do not require extensive technical knowledge. Users can quickly set it up on their Intel systems without any complicated procedures, making it accessible for a wider range of builders, including beginners.

Compatibility

The Thermalright ARGB and Fan Hub is versatile, supporting a range of ARGB fans and light strips. However, it does not support 12V 4PIN RGB interfaces, which may limit its compatibility with certain RGB products. This could be a consideration for users who have specific lighting setups.

Conversely, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 is compatible with Intel LGA 1700 and 1851 sockets, making it a suitable choice for modern Intel processors. This focused compatibility ensures that users can easily integrate it into their existing setups without worrying about fitment issues.

Price

The Thermalright hub is priced at $11.59, making it about 34% cheaper than the Thermaltake Gravity i3, which retails for $17.79. This price difference could be a significant factor for users on a budget or those who need multiple hubs for extensive fan setups. The lower price point of the Thermalright may attract users looking for cost-effective solutions without compromising on essential features.

On the other hand, the Thermaltake Gravity i3's higher price reflects its specific functionality as a CPU cooler. Those needing reliable cooling for their processors may find the investment worthwhile, especially considering its performance capabilities.

Which should you buy?

The choice between the Thermalright ARGB and Fan Hub X12 IR Black and the Thermaltake Gravity i3 boils down to your specific needs. If you are looking for an affordable solution to manage multiple fans with synchronized lighting effects, the Thermalright hub is an excellent choice. However, if you require a compact and efficient CPU cooler for an Intel processor, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 stands out as a superior option, providing effective cooling in a low-noise design. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your priorities in terms of performance, aesthetics, and budget.