Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler, vs Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler, 7 Heat

Overview of Thermalright AXP90 X47 and Thermalright PS120SE ARGB

The Thermalright AXP90 X47 is priced at $33.99, while the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB is slightly more expensive at $34.94, making it about 2.8% pricier. Both coolers are designed to cater to different needs, with the AXP90 X47 focusing on low-profile installations and the PS120SE ARGB offering advanced cooling features with an eye on aesthetics.

The AXP90 X47 is a compact cooler with a height of only 47mm, ideal for small computer cases and systems where space is at a premium. In contrast, the PS120SE ARGB, with its height of 154mm, is larger and offers more cooling power, making it suitable for users looking for higher performance in a standard-sized chassis.

Design and Build Quality

The AXP90 X47's ultra-compact design features a pure copper base and a slim 92mm PWM fan, ensuring that it can fit into tight spaces while providing effective cooling. Its plating anti-oxidation protective layer enhances durability and prevents corrosion. On the other hand, the PS120SE ARGB utilizes a more traditional design with seven heat pipes and dual 120mm fans, delivering superior airflow of up to 66.17 CFM.

The PS120SE ARGB also boasts a robust build with aluminum fins and a finely carved pure copper base, enhancing its thermal performance. This cooler’s design is optimized for maximum heat dissipation, making it a solid choice for users who prioritize cooling efficiency over compactness.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a critical factor for CPU coolers, and both the AXP90 X47 and PS120SE ARGB excel in their respective categories. The AXP90 X47 features four heat pipes paired with a 92mm PWM fan, which operates at a noise level of 22.4 dB(A) while delivering an airflow of 42.58 CFM. This makes it an excellent choice for quiet operations in small form-factor PCs.

In contrast, the PS120SE ARGB employs an advanced AGHP technique with seven heat pipes and dual 120mm fans. This combination allows it to achieve a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, while maintaining a noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A). For users seeking maximum cooling performance, especially in higher-demand scenarios, the PS120SE ARGB presents a significant advantage.

Compatibility and Installation

Both the AXP90 X47 and PS120SE ARGB are compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including popular models like AMD AM4 and Intel 1700. The AXP90 X47 is designed for compact builds, making it a perfect fit for ITX systems, while the PS120SE ARGB is compatible with larger cases due to its height and dimensions.

The installation process for the AXP90 X47 is straightforward, thanks to its push-down design, which is user-friendly for novice builders. The PS120SE ARGB also provides user-friendly installation with corresponding mounting plates and instructions, making it accessible for a broad audience.

Aesthetics and Additional Features

The AXP90 X47 is primarily functional, with a focus on efficient cooling without much emphasis on aesthetics. Its low-profile design and copper base provide a clean and professional look suitable for understated builds.

On the other hand, the PS120SE ARGB stands out with its vibrant RGB lighting, featuring up to 17 lighting modes that can sync with the motherboard. This cooler not only performs well but also enhances the visual appeal of your build, making it an attractive option for gamers and PC enthusiasts looking to showcase their setups.

Price Comparison

The AXP90 X47 is currently priced at $33.99, while the PS120SE ARGB comes in at $34.94. This makes the AXP90 X47 about $1.95 cheaper, or approximately 5.6%. While the price difference is not substantial, potential buyers might consider the additional features and cooling performance of the PS120SE ARGB worth the extra cost, especially for those who prioritize aesthetics and enhanced cooling.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the AXP90 X47 operates quietly at 22.4 dB(A), making it an excellent choice for users who are sensitive to sound or working in a quiet environment. The PS120SE ARGB, while slightly louder at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), still offers a quiet operation for most users, especially under load.

The difference in noise levels may influence buyers depending on their specific use cases. For silent builds, the AXP90 X47 may be preferable, while the PS120SE ARGB’s noise level remains acceptable for most gaming and high-performance scenarios.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP90 X47 and the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for a compact, quiet cooler for a small form-factor build, the AXP90 X47 is an excellent choice at $33.99. However, if you need a higher cooling performance with aesthetic features like RGB lighting for a standard-sized chassis, the PS120SE ARGB at $34.94 is worth considering. Each cooler has its strengths, catering to different user preferences and setups.