Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile vs Thermalright AXP90-X53 Full Cooper Low Profile CPU

Overview of the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB

The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB is priced at $32.59, making it a competitive option in the low-profile CPU cooler market. It features a low height of 67mm, which is designed for compatibility with various Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 1700 and AM4. This cooler incorporates six heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan, ensuring effective heat dissipation while maintaining a noise level of just 26.1 dB(A).

The cooler’s design includes an aluminum fin structure on a copper base, which enhances its thermal conductivity. The PWM fan operates at a maximum speed of 1800 RPM and can generate an airflow of 59 CFM. With its ARGB capabilities, it not only cools efficiently but also adds an aesthetic element to your build.

Overview of the Thermalright AXP90-X53 Full Cooper

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 Full Cooper is priced at $35.90, which is approximately 10% more expensive than the AXP-120-X67. This cooler is designed for compact ITX builds, featuring a height of just 53mm, making it suitable for smaller motherboards. It utilizes a 92mm PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 2700 RPM, producing an airflow of 42.58 CFM.

The AXP90-X53 is built with a full copper radiator, which contributes to its effective heat dissipation. The cooler is compatible with both Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets. Notably, it employs the AGHP technique, which enhances heat transfer efficiency by addressing the inverse gravity effect that can occur with vertical orientations.

Performance Comparison

In terms of performance, the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 outshines the AXP90-X53 due to its larger 120mm fan and higher airflow capacity of 59 CFM compared to 42.58 CFM from the AXP90-X53. The 120mm fan operates at a lower maximum speed of 1800 RPM, which not only helps in maintaining quieter operation but also allows for better heat dissipation across a larger surface area.

While both coolers utilize advanced AGHP technology for efficient heat transfer, the AXP-120-X67's six heat pipes contribute to a superior cooling performance. This makes it a better choice for users looking to push their CPUs to higher performance levels without overheating.

Noise Levels

The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 operates at a maximum noise level of 26.1 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler of its size and capabilities. In contrast, the AXP90-X53 operates slightly quieter at 22.4 dB(A) due to its smaller fan, which can be advantageous for users building silent PC setups.

However, the noise difference may not be significantly noticeable during regular operation, as both coolers are designed to maintain low noise levels while offering solid cooling performance. The choice between them may come down more to size and performance requirements than to noise levels.

Size and Compatibility

The AXP-120-X67, with its height of 67mm, offers broader compatibility with various cases and motherboards, while the AXP90-X53’s 53mm height is ideal for compact builds. The AXP-120-X67 can accommodate a wider range of CPUs, including many Intel and AMD platforms, making it a versatile option for users with larger cases.

On the other hand, the AXP90-X53’s compact design makes it particularly appealing for users looking to build small form factor (SFF) PCs or Home Theater PCs (HTPCs). Its reduced height ensures that it can fit comfortably in tighter spaces without interfering with RAM clearance.

Installation Process

Both coolers are designed for straightforward installation, but the AXP90-X53 includes specific installation details to address potential conflicts with motherboard components. For instance, users may need to use longer screws to accommodate certain backplates. The AXP-120-X67 offers a more traditional installation process, making it user-friendly for those familiar with installing CPU coolers.

Both products include necessary mounting hardware for a range of CPU sockets, ensuring that users can easily set them up on their systems. The installation videos provided by Thermalright can further assist users in achieving a successful installation.

Design and Aesthetics

The AXP-120-X67 features an ARGB lighting system that enhances the visual appeal of any build, allowing users to customize the look of their PC. This can be a significant deciding factor for gamers and PC builders focused on aesthetics. The overall design is sleek and modern, appealing to those who prioritize both performance and style.

In contrast, while the AXP90-X53 has a clean and professional design, it lacks RGB lighting. This makes it a more subdued option, which may appeal to users who prefer a minimalist look. Nevertheless, its full copper construction gives it a premium feel that stands out in its own right.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB and the AXP90-X53 Full Cooper ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. The AXP-120-X67 is the better option if you seek superior cooling performance, higher airflow, and customizable aesthetics, making it suitable for high-performance builds. Priced at $32.59, it offers excellent value for those wanting effective cooling solutions.

On the other hand, the AXP90-X53 is ideal for compact builds and users focusing on quieter operation. Its price of $35.90 reflects its specialized design for smaller setups, and its efficient cooling capacity makes it a worthy contender. Therefore, assess your system requirements, case size, and personal style preferences to make the best choice for your build.