Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler, 7 Heat vs Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA

Overview of Thermalright PS120SE ARGB and Thermaltake Gravity i2

When comparing the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB and the Thermaltake Gravity i2, the most significant difference lies in their design and pricing. The Thermalright PS120SE ARGB is priced at $34.94, while the Thermaltake Gravity i2 is considerably more budget-friendly at just $12.78, making it about 63% cheaper. The price difference reflects their targeted use cases, with the former designed for high-performance cooling and the latter optimized for low-power processors.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright PS120SE ARGB features a robust build with 7 heat pipes and a dual 120mm PWM fan setup, enhancing its cooling capacity significantly. Its dimensions are 125mm x 135mm x 154mm, providing ample surface area for efficient heat dissipation. In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 adopts a more compact, low-profile design, making it ideal for systems with limited space. It uses a 92mm fan that operates at a lower airflow of 31.343 CFM, which may not be sufficient for high-performance CPUs but is perfectly suited for low power CPUs.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is where the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB truly shines. It boasts the AGHP 4.0 technology and operates with a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, which is notably higher than the Gravity i2's. The PS120SE's design allows it to maintain lower temperatures under demanding workloads, thanks to its higher RPM capability of 1500 RPM. On the other hand, the Gravity i2, with its lower airflow and 7-bladed fan, offers decent cooling but is optimized for less demanding CPU tasks, making it less suitable for high-performance builds.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise levels, the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is reasonably quiet for its performance level. The Thermaltake Gravity i2, however, is designed to be even quieter, with a noise level of 21.3 dB, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize silent operation. If noise is a primary consideration, the Gravity i2 has a clear advantage, but it may compromise cooling efficiency for those using higher power CPUs.

Compatibility

The Thermalright PS120SE ARGB supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, AM4, and AM5. This broad compatibility ensures that it can be used in various builds and upgrades. Conversely, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 is more limited, only supporting Intel sockets LGA 1200, 1156, 1155, 1150, and 1151. This narrow compatibility might restrict users looking to upgrade their systems, especially those considering AMD processors.

Installation Process

When it comes to installation, both coolers are designed for ease of use, but the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB provides a more comprehensive installation experience. It comes with mounting plates and fasteners for various CPU slots, allowing for straightforward setup. The Gravity i2 also claims quick and easy installation, but its low-profile design simplifies the process further, making it a great option for users who may not be as experienced with building PCs.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetic appeal can be a crucial factor for many PC builders, and the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB stands out with its high-brightness LED lighting that offers up to 17 modes of light effects. This feature allows users to customize the cooler's appearance and synchronize it with other RGB components. In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 does not focus on aesthetics, presenting a simple and functional design without RGB features. If visual appeal is important to you, the PS120SE is the clear winner.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB and the Thermaltake Gravity i2 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require a high-performance cooler with superior cooling capabilities and aesthetic features, the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB is worth the investment at $34.94. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly, compact solution for low power processors, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 at $12.78 is a solid choice. Each cooler excels in its intended application, catering to different user preferences and system requirements.