Looking Beyond the ID-COOLING SE-224-XTS Black CPU Air? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The id cooling se 224 xts black CPU air alternatives list helps you find options that match your specific build requirements. This cooler provides reliable single-tower cooling with zero RAM interference and wide socket compatibility. Its 70 CFM airflow and compact 5.94-inch height make it a balanced standard choice for modern builds. You might want something else if you need dual-tower capacity or specific socket support like LGA 1151. Some users prefer ARGB lighting or quieter operation at lower noise levels.
The alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. We compared heat pipe counts, fan sizes, and physical dimensions to ensure fair comparisons. You can see how single-tower designs from Montech or ARCTIC differ from the ID-COOLING model. Dual-tower options from upHere offer expanded thermal headroom through six heat pipes. This guide focuses on practical specifications rather than subjective opinions. You will find clear data on airflow, noise levels, and mounting compatibility to make an informed decision.
Our top pick: ID-COOLING 120mm Black CPU Air Cooler.
How each alternative compares
Montech NX400 120mm Single Tower Cooler
The Montech NX400 matches the ID-COOLING SE-224-XTS with four heat pipes and a 120mm fan, but it adds an ARGB lighting option for users who want visual customization. It stands slightly taller at 6.14 inches compared to the 5.94-inch ID-COOLING model. This extra height may affect clearance in very small cases, but the dedicated 28mm fan thickness offers solid static pressure for dense heatsink designs. If you prefer a blackout aesthetic without lighting, the non-ARGB version is available. It is a sensible choice for compact builds where clean looks matter as much as thermal performance.
ARCTIC Freezer i35 A-RGB CPU Cooler
The ARCTIC Freezer i35 A-RGB focuses specifically on Intel sockets, offering addressable RGB lighting and a six-year guarantee that exceeds the standard warranty periods of many competitors. It uses four heat pipes and a 120mm fan similar to the ID-COOLING SE-224-XTS. However, it is taller at 6.24 inches and narrower in width, which changes its footprint on the motherboard. This cooler is ideal for Intel systems needing reliable cooling with aesthetic flexibility. It does not include AMD mounting hardware, so it is strictly for Intel users who value long-term support and synchronized lighting effects over universal socket compatibility.
upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler
The upHere Dual Tower cooler doubles the heat pipe count to six and uses a twin heatsink design for significantly higher thermal capacity than the single-tower ID-COOLING SE-224-XTS. It operates at a very quiet 25.6 dB(A), which is lower than the 28.9 dB(A) max of the ID-COOLING fan. This model supports broad socket compatibility across modern AMD and Intel platforms. It is best for users who need extra cooling headroom for high-end processors. The dual-tower design requires more case depth, so it is not suitable for compact mini-ITX builds where the slimmer ID-COOLING profile excels.
upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler
This upHere dual-tower model also features six heat pipes and provides substantial heatsink coverage for setups requiring extensive socket compatibility, including LGA 1151. It delivers quiet operation capped at 25 dB, outperforming the ID-COOLING SE-224-XTS in noise levels. The dual-tower design expands thermal capacity significantly, making it suitable for more demanding workloads. It does not obstruct RAM modules, similar to the ID-COOLING model. However, its dual-tower structure takes up more space. It is the better choice for users prioritizing maximum cooling performance and quiet operation over the compact, single-tower form factor of the ID-COOLING cooler.
upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler
The upHere 120mm ARGB cooler offers reliable 68.2 CFM airflow, which is slightly lower than the 70 CFM of the ID-COOLING SE-224-XTS, but it includes addressable RGB lighting for aesthetic customization. It features four heat pipes and a 6.1-inch profile, which is marginally shorter than the 5.94-inch ID-COOLING model. It provides direct LGA 1700 mounting without crowding memory slots. This model is ideal for LGA 1700 builds needing memory clearance and visual appeal. It balances noise levels and cooling capacity effectively. If you prefer a slimmer profile with lighting, this is a strong alternative to the non-lighting ID-COOLING option.
Jonsbo CA40 Black 120mm ARGB CPU Cooler
The Jonsbo CA40 Black offers solid 225W TDP performance for LGA 1200 builds, making it suitable for high-power processors. It includes ARGB lighting and uses copper materials for efficient heat transfer. The 120mm fan ensures quiet operation, though specific noise levels are not listed. It supports multiple sockets including AM4, AM5, and LGA 1851. This cooler is best for users who prioritize aesthetic lighting and quiet operation over maximum thermal headroom. It is a good fit for LGA 1200 systems where visual customization is important. Compared to the ID-COOLING SE-224-XTS, it offers more lighting features but may lack the same level of specific airflow specifications.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
ID-COOLING 120mm Black CPU Air Cooler
Best for: unobstructed RAM clearance in compact desktop builds
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Color
- Black
- Features
- Fan
- Dimensions
- 4.72 × 4.72 × 5.94 inches
- Weight
- 1 pounds
View on Amazon: ID-COOLING 120mm Black CPU Air Cooler Affiliate link
This single-tower cooler uses four direct-contact heat pipes paired with a 120mm PWM fan to move up to 70 CFM of air. At 5.94 inches tall, its slanted heatsink design prevents clearance issues with memory modules on mini-ITX boards. Rated for noise levels up to 28.9 dB(A), it supports standard Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM5 sockets. It suits you if you need a compact, straightforward black cooler.
Pros
- Slanted heatsink layout eliminates memory module interference on mini-ITX motherboards
- Delivers up to 70 CFM airflow with a 28.9 dB(A) maximum noise level
- Four direct-contact heat pipes provide direct heat transfer from the processor
- Supports Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets
Cons
- Single-fan configuration rather than a dual-fan setup
- Four heat pipes offer less surface transfer than six-pipe designs
- No integrated RGB or LED lighting included
Good fit if
- You need clear RAM module clearance on compact or mini-ITX motherboards.
- You want a single-tower cooler with a total height under 6 inches.
- You run a modern Intel LGA1700 or AMD AM5 processor socket.
Skip if
- You prefer built-in ARGB lighting on the fan or heatsink.
- You need a dual-fan or dual-tower layout for higher heat output.
Verdict: ID-COOLING Black 120mm CPU Air Cooler provides reliable single-tower cooling with zero RAM interference and wide socket compatibility. Its 70 CFM airflow and compact 5.94-inch height make it a balanced standard choice for modern builds.
Montech NX400 120mm Single Tower Cooler
Best for: compact blackout builds needing high static pressure
- Socket Compatibility
- AM5/AM4, LGA1851/1700
- Cooler Height
- 156mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Tower Design
- Single-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Lighting
- Non-ARGB
View on Amazon: Montech NX400 120mm Single Tower Cooler Affiliate link
The Montech NX400 Single-Tower CPU Cooler is an air heatsink built around four vacuum-enhanced heat pipes and a 52-fin stack. It uses a 28mm-thick 120mm PWM fan instead of the common 25mm depth, pairing static-pressure blades with corner vibration footpads. With a height of 6.14 inches and zero lighting, this cooler fits your build if you want direct cooling without extra cables.
Pros
- Thicker 28mm PWM fan designed for focused static pressure
- Four vacuum-enhanced heat pipes paired with 52 heatsink fins
- Vibration-dampening corner footpads to mitigate operational noise
- Moderate 6.14-inch height fits standard mid-tower enclosures
Cons
- Non-ARGB design includes no illumination features
- Single-tower heatsink limited to four heat pipes
Good fit if
- You prefer a plain black cooler without ARGB lighting.
- You have at least 6.14 inches of cooler clearance in your chassis.
- You want a single-tower design equipped with a 28mm fan.
Skip if
- You want integrated lighting on your heatsink fan.
- You need a dual-tower setup for high-wattage processors.
Verdict: Montech NX400 Single-Tower CPU Cooler delivers reliable thermal dissipation through four heat pipes and a dedicated 28mm-thick fan. It is a sensible choice if you want clean aesthetics without lighting connections.
ARCTIC Freezer i35 A-RGB CPU Cooler
Best for: Intel systems needing addressable RGB cooling
- Socket Compatibility
- Intel 1700, 1200, 115X
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Tower Design
- Single-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- Fan Speed
- 1700 RPM
- Lighting
- A-RGB
View on Amazon: ARCTIC Freezer i35 A-RGB CPU Cooler Affiliate link
The ARCTIC Freezer i35 A-RGB is a single-tower air cooler designed for Intel sockets. It features four staggered heat pipes and a 120 mm fan reaching 1700 RPM. The fan hub houses 12 autonomous A-RGB LEDs for customizable lighting. ARCTIC includes 0.8 g of MX-5 thermal paste alongside a six-year guarantee. This cooler fits you if you want dedicated Intel mounting hardware without extra parts.
Pros
- Four staggered heat pipes for heat dissipation
- 12 autonomous digital A-RGB LEDs in the fan hub
- Pressure-optimized 120 mm fan running up to 1700 RPM
- Includes 0.8 g of non-conductive MX-5 thermal paste
- Six-year manufacturer guarantee
Cons
- Supports Intel LGA 1700, 1200, and 115X sockets only
- Standing height of 6.24 inches requires sufficient case width
Good fit if
- You run an Intel LGA 1700, 1200, or 115X processor.
- You want addressable RGB lighting integrated into your CPU cooler.
- You value long-term hardware protection through a six-year guarantee.
Skip if
- You build with an AMD CPU socket.
- You have a PC chassis with less than 6.24 inches of cooler clearance.
Verdict: ARCTIC Freezer i35 A-RGB Intel CPU Cooler delivers focused Intel socket compatibility with four heat pipes, addressable RGB, and a six-year guarantee. It provides a reliable single-tower setup if you do not need AMD mounting hardware.
upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler
Best for: dual-tower thermal capacity on a budget
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1600 RPM
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1150
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler Affiliate link
The upHere Dual-Tower 6-Heatpipe CPU Cooler gives you a twin-heatsink layout paired with two 120mm fans and six 6mm heat pipes. It pushes up to 68.2 CFM of airflow at 1600 RPM while maintaining a rated noise ceiling below 25.6 dB(A). At 6.06 inches tall, it fits standard enclosures and avoids RAM blockages. You will find it suits multi-core builds needing heavier thermal dissipation than standard single-tower designs.
Pros
- Six 6mm direct-contact heat pipes across a dual-tower array
- Airflow output rated up to 68.2 CFM
- Operating noise level rated below 25.6 dB(A)
- Wide socket support spanning Intel LGA 1700/1851 and AMD AM5/AM4
Cons
- Fan rotation speed maxes out at 1600 RPM
- Base black model includes no lighting
Good fit if
- You need dual-tower surface area and six heat pipes for higher heat loads.
- You want quiet operation rated below 25.6 dB(A).
- You require dedicated memory module clearance for tall RAM sticks.
Skip if
- You need a slim single-tower design for compact chassis space.
- You want higher fan speeds that exceed 1600 RPM.
Verdict: upHere Dual-Tower 6-Heatpipe CPU Cooler expands thermal headroom through a twin heatsink and six heat pipes. It delivers quiet 25.6 dB(A) operation with broad socket support across modern AMD and Intel motherboards.
upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler
Best for: LGA 1151 builds needing dual-tower cooling
- Socket Compatibility
- AM5, AM4, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1650 RPM
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler Affiliate link
This black dual-tower air cooler from upHere steps up from standard single-tower alternatives with six heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan. It spins up to 1650 RPM while maintaining a noise level of 25 dB or lower. If you need broad socket support, including legacy platforms like LGA 1151 alongside newer LGA 1851 and AM5 motherboards, this unit gives you expanded heat sink surface area without blocking RAM access.
Pros
- Dual-tower structure equipped with 6 heat pipes
- Extensive socket support covering Intel LGA 1151 through LGA 1851 and AMD AM5
- Maximum rated noise level of 25 dB at 1650 RPM
- Offset design prevents interference with motherboard RAM slots
Cons
- Does not include RGB or ARGB accent lighting
- No thermal paste is specified in the included materials
Good fit if
- You run an Intel LGA 1151 platform or older legacy socket.
- You want a 6-heatpipe dual-tower heatsink instead of a single-tower design.
- You require cooling rated at or below 25 dB under full fan speed.
Skip if
- You prefer built-in ARGB or RGB lighting for your build aesthetics.
- You have a slim chassis that cannot fit wide dual-tower heatsinks.
Verdict: upHere Dual Tower 6-Heatpipe CPU Air Cooler provides substantial heatsink coverage and six heat pipes for setups requiring extensive socket compatibility, including LGA 1151. It delivers quiet operation capped at 25 dB without obstructing your RAM modules.
upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler
Best for: LGA 1700 builds needing memory clearance
- Socket Compatibility
- AM5/AM4, LGA 1851/1700/1200/1155/1156
- Cooler Height
- 6.1 inches
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1650rpm ±10%
- Lighting
- ARGB
View on Amazon: upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler Affiliate link
This upHere unit is a single-tower cooler featuring four 6mm direct-contact heat pipes and a 120mm ARGB fan. It tops out at 1650 RPM, pushing up to 68.2 CFM of airflow while keeping noise ratings under 26 dB(A). At 6.1 inches tall with dedicated RAM clearance, it fits standard mid-tower setups easily. You will find it well suited for modern LGA 1700 and AM5 processors running everyday workloads.
Pros
- Delivers up to 68.2 CFM airflow at a maximum 1650 RPM
- Four 6mm direct-contact copper heat pipes
- Rated noise level remains below 26 dB(A)
- Broad socket support including LGA 1700, LGA 1851, and AM5
Cons
- Height of 6.1 inches may exceed compact mini-ITX cases
- Uses a single 120mm fan rather than a dual-fan setup
Good fit if
- You need out-of-the-box compatibility with Intel LGA 1700 or LGA 1851.
- You want addressable RGB lighting integrated into a 120mm fan.
- You use tall RAM modules and need unobstructed slot clearance.
Skip if
- You build in a low-profile case with less than 6.1 inches of vertical space.
- You prefer a non-LED fan or an entirely blacked-out aesthetic without lighting.
Verdict: upHere 120mm 4-Heatpipe ARGB CPU Cooler offers reliable 68.2 CFM airflow and direct LGA 1700 mounting without crowding your memory slots. Its 6.1-inch profile balances noise levels and cooling capacity for modern desktop builds.
Jonsbo CA40 Black 120mm ARGB CPU Cooler
Best for: LGA 1200 builds needing ARGB lighting
- Socket Compatibility
- AM5/AM4/Intel LGA115X/1200/1700/1851
- Cooler Height
- 157mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- TDP Rating
- 225W
- Lighting
- ARGB
View on Amazon: Jonsbo CA40 Black 120mm ARGB CPU Cooler Affiliate link
The Jonsbo CA40 Black is a single-tower air cooler designed for Intel LGA 1200 and AMD AM5 platforms. It features four nickel-plated copper heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan with ARGB lighting. The unit supports a 225W TDP rating and stands 157mm tall. It uses a through-hole metal fastener for mounting. This cooler suits users who want quiet operation and synchronized lighting effects for their build.
Pros
- Supports Intel LGA 1200 and AMD AM5 sockets
- 4 nickel-plated copper heat pipes for heat transfer
- 225W TDP rating for demanding tasks
- 120mm PWM fan with ARGB lighting synchronization
Cons
- 157mm height may not fit in smaller cases
- Single tower design with only 4 heat pipes
- ARGB requires direct 5V motherboard connection
Good fit if
- You need LGA 1200 compatibility with ARGB lighting
- You want a 225W TDP rated cooler
- You prefer quiet operation with mute series technology
Skip if
- You require a dual-tower design for maximum cooling
- Your case height is less than 157mm
- You need support for newer LGA 1700 sockets
Verdict: The Jonsbo CA40 Black 120mm ARGB CPU Cooler offers solid 225W TDP performance for LGA 1200 builds. It fits users who prioritize quiet operation and aesthetic lighting over maximum thermal headroom.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ID-COOLING 120mm Black CPU Air Cooler | Montech NX400 120mm Single Tower Cooler | ARCTIC Freezer i35 A-RGB CPU Cooler | upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler | upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler | upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler | Jonsbo CA40 Black 120mm ARGB CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | not stated | AM5/AM4, LGA1851/1700 | Intel 1700, 1200, 115X | not stated | AM5, AM4, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200 | AM5/AM4, LGA 1851/1700/1200/1155/1156 | AM5/AM4/Intel LGA115X/1200/1700/1851 |
| Cooler Height | not stated | 156mm | not stated | not stated | not stated | 6.1 inches | 157mm |
| Heat Pipes | 4 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 4 |
| Tower Design | not stated | Single-Tower | Single-Tower | Dual-Tower | Dual-Tower | not stated | not stated |
| Fan Size | 120mm | 120mm | 120 mm | 120mm | 120mm | 120mm | 120mm |
| TDP Rating | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 225W |
| Fan Speed | not stated | not stated | 1700 RPM | 1600 RPM | 1650 RPM | 1650rpm ±10% | not stated |
| Lighting | not stated | Non-ARGB | A-RGB | not stated | not stated | ARGB | ARGB |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Material | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Copper |
| Features | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan |
| Dimensions | 4.72 × 4.72 × 5.94 inches | 4.72 × 2.91 × 6.14 inches | 3.58 × 5.24 × 6.24 inches | not stated | not stated | 5.12 × 2.87 × 6.1 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 1 pounds | 1.64 pounds | 1.62 pounds | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | SE-224-XTS BLACK | NX400 Non-ARGB | Freezer i35 A-RGB | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Model | SE-224-XTS BLACK | NX400B | ACFRE00104A | D6SEK-US | UE2K6 US | not stated | CA40 Black |
If you also need room cooling specifications for your workspace, you can compare black decker portable air conditioner alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the best RAM clearance for compact builds?
The ID-COOLING 120mm Black CPU Air Cooler is designed for unobstructed RAM clearance in compact desktop builds. Its compact 5.94-inch height and 4.72-inch width ensure it fits well without interfering with memory modules. This makes it a balanced standard choice for modern builds where space is limited.
What is the quietest CPU air cooler on this list?
The upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler delivers quiet operation capped at 25 dB. It expands thermal headroom through a twin heatsink and six heat pipes while maintaining low noise levels. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize silent performance alongside broad socket support across modern motherboards.
Which cooler supports the LGA 1151 socket?
The upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler provides substantial heatsink coverage and six heat pipes for setups requiring extensive socket compatibility, including LGA 1151. It delivers quiet operation without obstructing your RAM modules, making it a practical choice for older Intel platforms needing reliable dual-tower cooling.
Is there a single-tower option with addressable RGB lighting?
The ARCTIC Freezer i35 A-RGB Intel CPU Cooler delivers focused Intel socket compatibility with addressable RGB lighting. It features four heat pipes and a six-year guarantee, providing a reliable single-tower setup. This option is suitable if you do not need AMD mounting hardware and want visual customization.
Which cooler is best for LGA 1700 motherboards?
The upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler offers reliable 68.2 CFM airflow and direct LGA 1700 mounting without crowding memory slots. Its 6.1-inch profile balances noise levels and cooling capacity for modern desktop builds. This makes it a strong choice for users needing specific socket support and aesthetic lighting.
Which option is best for LGA 1200 builds with ARGB?
The Jonsbo CA40 Black 120mm ARGB CPU Cooler offers solid 225W TDP performance for LGA 1200 builds. It fits users who prioritize quiet operation and aesthetic lighting over maximum thermal headroom. This cooler supports multiple sockets and provides a copper material construction for efficient heat dissipation.
What is the difference between the two upHere dual tower coolers?
Both upHere dual tower coolers feature six heat pipes and 120mm fans. The first model emphasizes quiet 25.6 dB(A) operation and broad socket support. The second model highlights LGA 1151 compatibility and a 25 dB cap while ensuring no RAM obstruction. Both provide substantial thermal capacity for demanding builds.