Thermalright Introduces a Smart New Low Profile CPU Cooler for Compact PCs

Thermalright has introduced a new low profile CPU cooler aimed at users building compact PCs where cooler height is a major concern. The new AXP120-X77 keeps its total height down to just 77 mm while still using a full-size 120 mm fan.

The cooler is available in two versions. There is the standard AXP120-X77, while the AXP120-X77 BLACK comes with an all-black design for users who prefer a darker look inside their system.

AXP120-X77 Keeps the Design Compact

Thermalright has based the new cooler on its AXP120-X77R series, but the company has made some changes to create a shorter design.

The AXP120-X77 measures 133.5 x 122 x 77 mm, including the fan. This compact size should make it easier to use in small form factor cases and other builds with limited CPU cooler clearance.

There is one important difference from the X77R, though. The older design allowed the 120 mm fan to be installed either above or below the heatsink. The new AXP120-X77 only supports mounting the fan above the heatsink.

Six Heat Pipes Connect to a Copper Base

Thermalright has equipped this low profile CPU cooler with six 6 mm heat pipes to move heat away from the processor.

The heat pipes connect to a nickel-plated C1100 pure copper base, which is designed to transfer CPU heat into the heatsink more efficiently.

Instead of using a smaller fan to reduce the cooler’s size, Thermalright has chosen a slim 120 mm model. This helps the cooler maintain a larger fan diameter while keeping its overall height at 77 mm.

Slim 120 mm Fan Reaches 3,150 RPM

The included TL-B12015 EX fan is only 15 mm thick, making it an important part of the cooler’s compact design.

Despite its slim profile, the fan can reach speeds of up to 3,150 RPM. Thermalright rates it for up to 83.61 CFM of airflow and 3.4 mm H₂O of static pressure.

The fan has a maximum rated noise level of 37.07 dBA and uses dual bearings. It also features a standard 4-pin PWM connection, allowing its speed to be controlled by the motherboard.

Broad Intel and AMD Compatibility

The AXP120-X77 supports a wide range of desktop CPU sockets.

For Intel systems, compatibility includes LGA115X, LGA1200, LGA1700, LGA1851, LGA2011, and LGA2066. AMD users can install the cooler on AM4 and AM5 platforms.

This gives the cooler support for both current and older desktop processors, although actual compatibility will also depend on the case and available cooler clearance.

Six-Year Warranty Included

Thermalright is offering a six-year warranty with the AXP120-X77. That gives buyers some additional long-term coverage for the cooler.

The company has not announced pricing yet for either the standard AXP120-X77 or the AXP120-X77 BLACK. Availability details are also still limited.

For compact PC builders, however, the AXP120-X77 is an interesting new option. Its 77 mm height, six heat pipes, copper base, and slim 120 mm fan give it a useful combination of low clearance and full-size fan cooling potential. The final price will be the key factor in determining how competitive this new low profile CPU cooler will be.