Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low vs Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile

Design and build quality

The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low and the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile both represent Thermalright's commitment to compact cooling solutions, yet they target slightly different segments of the low-profile market. The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low features an aluminum fin stack mounted on a copper bottom, utilizing metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms to ensure secure installation. Its construction focuses on balancing height with surface area for heat dissipation. In contrast, the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile emphasizes a premium-quality compact design with a total height of just 47mm. It employs a black nickel plating process which provides corrosion resistance as well as acid and alkali resistance, contributing to low thermal resistance and long-term durability in various environmental conditions.

Cooling performance and heatpipes

When evaluating thermal capacity, the structural differences become apparent. The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low relies on its aluminum fin and copper bottom combination to transfer heat away from the CPU efficiently. While specific heatpipe counts are not explicitly detailed in the provided specification sheet for this model, the larger surface area afforded by its 67mm height suggests a robust passive cooling capacity before the fan engages. The Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile explicitly utilizes 4×6mm heatpipes to move heat from the base to the fins. This configuration is typical for high-efficiency low-profile coolers, ensuring that even with a smaller footprint, heat is distributed effectively across the sink. The secondary reflow soldering process mentioned for the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile further enhances thermal conductivity between the pipes and fins.

Fan specifications and airflow

Air movement is critical for low-profile coolers where space restricts natural convection. The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low is equipped with the TL-C12015B-S fan, a standard size PWM fan measuring 120x120x15mm. This larger diameter allows it to move a substantial volume of air, rated at 59CFM(MAX). The 4pin power port and 12V voltage ensure compatibility with standard motherboard headers. The Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile does not specify fan dimensions in the provided data, but its compact nature implies a smaller fan profile suited for its 47mm height. The focus here is on maintaining adequate airflow within a much tighter vertical constraint, which often requires higher static pressure rather than raw volume.

Compatibility and socket support

Platform support is a key consideration for upgraders. The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low lists support for Intel 1700 and AMD platforms generally, indicating readiness for newer Intel generations. The inclusion of metal fasteners for both brands simplifies the mounting process across different system builds. The Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile provides specific socket listings, supporting Intel 115X/1200 and AMD AM4/AM5. This explicit mention of AM5 support makes the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile a strong candidate for builders working with the latest AMD Ryzen 7000 series processors in small form factor cases. Both coolers utilize all-metal platforms with backplate fasteners to ensure stability during transport and operation.

Noise levels and acoustics

Acoustic performance is often a priority in small builds where the user sits closer to the chassis. The Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile specifies a noise level of ≤22.4DBA, indicating a focus on quiet operation suitable for office or living room PCs. The current is rated at 0.2A (MAX) at 12V, suggesting efficient power usage relative to noise output. For the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low, the provided text cuts off at "Noise Leve", leaving the specific decibel rating unconfirmed in this dataset. However, the 1800rpm±10% speed suggests that while it can move more air, it may generate more acoustic output at maximum speed compared to the quieter-tuned Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile.

Dimensions and case clearance

Physical fitment is the primary differentiator between these two units. The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low measures 123.5(L)x120(W)x67(H)mm, translating to 4.86x4.72x2.64 inches. The 67mm total height allows it to fit in many slim cases that cannot accommodate standard tower coolers but still have some vertical room. The Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile is significantly shorter at 47mm total height. This 20mm difference is substantial in the world of Small Form Factor (SFF) computing, potentially allowing the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile to fit in cases where the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low would interfere with side panels or expansion slots.

Price and value

Cost efficiency varies between the two models based on their feature sets. The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low is priced at $32.59, reflecting its larger fan size and ARGB lighting capabilities which add to the aesthetic appeal of a build. The Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile is listed at $22.39, making it a more budget-friendly option. Considering the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile includes premium features like black nickel plating and specific AM5 support at a lower price point, it offers strong value for users strictly constrained by budget or case height. The Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low justifies its higher cost through increased airflow potential and lighting features.

Which one should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low and the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile depends on your specific case constraints and performance goals. If your chassis can accommodate a 67mm cooler, the Thermalright AXP-120-X67 Black ARGB Low is the superior choice for cooling performance due to its 120mm fan and 59CFM airflow. It is ideal for users who want ARGB lighting and maximum thermal headroom in a low-profile format. However, if you are building in an ultra-slim case requiring 47mm clearance or need AM5 support on a tighter budget, the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Black Low Profile is the recommended option. Its lower noise specification and affordable price make it a practical choice for quiet, compact workstations.