Thermalright AXP90-X53 White Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler, vs Thermaltake Gravity i3 Intel LGA 1700 Cocket, 95W

Overview

In this comparison, we will look at two compact CPU coolers: the Thermalright AXP90-X53 White Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler and the Thermaltake Gravity i3 Intel LGA 1700 Cocket. Both coolers cater to users with limited space and are designed for efficient cooling performance. However, they differ in features, design, and pricing, which could influence your purchasing decision.

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 is priced at $19.39, while the Thermaltake Gravity i3 is slightly cheaper at $17.79, making it about 8% less expensive. This difference may appeal to budget-conscious buyers, but the choice between them goes beyond just price.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright AXP90-X53 boasts a TDP of up to 150W, making it capable of handling more powerful processors compared to the Thermaltake Gravity i3, which is optimized for 95W CPUs. This higher cooling capacity of the AXP90-X53 may be beneficial for users planning to run high-performance components in compact builds.

The AXP90-X53 also features a 92mm high-performance cooling fan that operates at a noise level of 22.4 dBA, while the Gravity i3 has a slightly lower fan speed range of 1200-3500 RPM, with a maximum airflow of 56.84 CFM but a noise level of 36.5 dBA. If silence is a priority, the AXP90-X53 may be the better option.

Installation Ease

Both the Thermalright AXP90-X53 and the Thermaltake Gravity i3 are designed for easy installation, but they cater to different socket types. The AXP90-X53 supports a wide range of Intel and AMD socket types, including LGA1700, LGA115x, and AM4/AM5, making it highly versatile for various setups.

On the other hand, the Gravity i3 is specifically designed for Intel LGA 1700 and 1851 sockets. While it offers a quick and easy installation process, the limited compatibility may restrict users planning to upgrade or change their CPU platform in the future. Therefore, if you are looking for a cooler that provides broader compatibility, the AXP90-X53 takes the lead.

Size and Design

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 has a height of just 53mm, which is ideal for small ITX cases and builds with space constraints. Its compact dimensions make it a strong contender for those who prioritize a low-profile design.

In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 has a slightly taller profile at 65.4mm. While still considered low profile, it may not fit as seamlessly into the tightest of spaces. The AXP90-X53's design caters more effectively to ultra-compact setups, making it a better choice for mini-ITX builders.

Noise Levels

When evaluating noise levels, the Thermalright AXP90-X53 operates at a quieter 22.4 dBA compared to the Thermaltake Gravity i3's noise level of 36.5 dBA. This significant difference may be decisive for users who prioritize a silent operation, especially in environments where noise can be distracting.

If maintaining a quiet workspace or gaming setup is important to you, the AXP90-X53 is the superior option. However, if you are not as sensitive to noise and are looking for a cost-effective solution, the Gravity i3 still presents a reasonable choice.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetics can play an important role in choosing a CPU cooler, especially for users who showcase their builds. The Thermalright AXP90-X53 features a sleek white design, which can complement modern setups, particularly those with lighter color schemes.

Conversely, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 comes in a black finish, making it versatile for darker-themed builds. While both coolers offer distinct looks, the choice here would depend heavily on personal preference and the overall theme of your PC build.

Brand Reputation

Thermalright and Thermaltake are both reputable brands in the cooling solutions market. Thermalright is often praised for its innovative designs and high-performance cooling solutions, while Thermaltake is known for its user-friendly products and stylish designs.

User reviews and feedback can further guide your choice, but both brands have established themselves as reliable options in the CPU cooling segment. Ultimately, either cooler should provide satisfactory performance, but you may want to consider brand loyalty or previous positive experiences when making your decision.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP90-X53 and the Thermaltake Gravity i3 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize superior cooling performance, quieter operation, and broader compatibility, the AXP90-X53 is the way to go, despite being slightly more expensive at $19.39.

However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that still delivers solid performance for lower-powered CPUs, the Gravity i3, priced at $17.79, is a worthy contender. Each cooler has its strengths, so consider your priorities carefully before making a choice.