SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler or SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler? Which SilverStone Model to Buy
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This guide compares the silverstone tek super slim profile CPU cooler vs technology ar12 tuf. Both units come from SilverStone and use PWM fans for speed control. They share copper heat pipes and aluminum fins for heat transfer. The main difference lies in their form factor and target systems. The first model is an ultra-low-profile solution for compact cases. The second is a standard tower cooler for larger builds with broader socket support.
Key differences
| Aspect | SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler | SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Tower Design | Low Profile, 23mm height | Standard Tower, 2.95 inch height |
| Fan Size | 80mm | 120mm |
| Heat Pipes | Not listed | 4 copper heat pipes |
| Lighting | Not listed | 8 ARGB LEDs |
| Socket Compatibility | LGA 1156/1155/1150 | LGA 1851/1700/1200/115X/1366/775, AM4/AM3/AM2/FM2/FM1 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler if
- You need a cooler that fits in cases with less than 30mm of CPU clearance.
- You are building a small form factor system using older Intel LGA 115X sockets.
- You prioritize low noise levels (26.0 dB) over maximum cooling capacity.
Choose SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler if
- You require support for modern Intel sockets like LGA 1700 or LGA 1851.
- You want RGB lighting effects controlled by your motherboard or an ARGB controller.
- You need broader AMD socket compatibility including AM4 and FM2.
Verdict: Choose the SilverStone Tek Super Slim if your case has strict height limits and you use an older LGA 115X socket. Select the Technology AR12 TUF if you need modern socket support, RGB lighting, and higher thermal performance in a standard ATX case.
SilverStone Cooler Comparison Guide
socket compatibility
The SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler supports a much wider range of modern and legacy sockets. It covers Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, 115X, 1366, 775, and 2066, plus AMD AM4, AM3, AM2, FM2, and FM1. The SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler is limited to older Intel LGA 1156, 1155, and 1150 platforms. If you need support for recent Intel 1700 or AMD AM4 motherboards, the 120mm model is the only viable option. The 80mm cooler lacks compatibility with these newer standards.
tower design
Form factor is the primary differentiator between these two units. The SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler stands at just 23mm tall. This slim profile allows it to fit into small form factor cases with low clearance. The SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler is significantly larger, measuring 2.95 inches in height. This standard tower design requires more vertical space above the CPU socket. You must choose the 80mm model if your case has strict height restrictions. Otherwise, the 120mm tower offers more surface area for heat dissipation.
fan size
The cooling fans differ substantially in diameter and blade count. The SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler uses a 120mm fan with nine blades. Larger fans generally move more air at lower speeds, which can reduce noise. The SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler uses a smaller 80mm fan. It pushes 28.1 CFM of airflow but generates 26.0 decibels of noise. The 120mm fan size typically allows for better static pressure and airflow efficiency. This makes the larger fan better suited for standard ATX cases.
lighting
Visual customization is available only on the larger cooler. The SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler includes eight ARGB LEDs in its fan. You can control these lights using an ARGB controller or compatible motherboards. This allows you to match your system's aesthetic. The SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler does not list any lighting features in its specifications. It is a utilitarian device focused solely on thermal performance in tight spaces. If RGB lighting is important to your build, the 120mm model is the clear choice.
heat pipes
Both coolers use copper for heat transfer, but the construction details vary. The SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler features four Ø6mm copper heat pipes with direct contact technology. It also includes anti-vibration rubber pads to dampen noise from the pipes. The SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler has a copper center and base with extruded aluminum fins. It does not specify the number of heat pipes or direct contact technology. The four-heat-pipe design in the 120mm model likely provides more efficient heat transfer from the CPU to the fins.
Which SilverStone Cooler Fits Your Build
Small form factor PC builders
You need a cooler that fits in tight cases. This 80mm unit stands only 23mm tall. It uses a custom 80mm PWM fan for 28.1 CFM airflow. The noise level stays at 26.0 decibels. It supports LGA 1156, 1155, and 1150 sockets. Its low profile design ensures compatibility with slim chassis without clearance issues.
Users with modern Intel or AMD boards
You require broad socket support for current platforms. This 120mm cooler handles LGA 1700, 1851, 1200, and AM4. It features four 6mm copper heat pipes with direct contact technology. The nine-blade 120mm fan offers high performance. Spring screw mounts simplify installation. This model provides superior thermal transfer for newer processors.
Builders wanting RGB lighting effects
You prefer visible aesthetic customization in your build. This model includes eight ARGB LEDs in the fan. You can control the lighting via ARGB controllers or compatible motherboards. The 120mm fan size allows for better airflow distribution. It combines visual appeal with functional cooling. The copper heat pipes ensure efficient heat dissipation alongside the lighting features.
The products compared
SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler
Best for: Small cases with older Intel LGA 115x CPUs
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA 1156/1155/1150
- Cooler Height
- 23mm
- Tower Design
- Low Profile
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Dimensions
- 4 × 4 × 3 inches
- Weight
- 8 ounces
View on Amazon: SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler Affiliate link
This SilverStone Tek cooler stands just 23mm tall, making it ideal for low-profile builds. It uses an 80mm PWM fan to move 28.1 CFM of air while staying quiet at 26.0 decibels. The design pairs a copper center and base with extruded aluminum fins for efficient heat transfer. It supports Intel LGA 1156, 1155, and 1150 sockets. You get a compact, easy-to-install solution for small form factor systems.
Pros
- Ultra-compact 23mm height fits tight cases
- 80mm PWM fan delivers 28.1 CFM airflow
- Copper base with extruded aluminum fins
- Quiet operation at 26.0 decibels
- Supports LGA 1156, 1155, and 1150 sockets
Cons
- Limited to older Intel LGA 115x socket types
- 80mm fan size restricts compatibility with some cases
- Lower air volume compared to larger 120mm coolers
Good fit if
- You need a cooler under 25mm tall
- You use an older Intel LGA 115x processor
- You prioritize low noise in a small case
Skip if
- You require support for modern Intel or AMD sockets
- You need high airflow for heavy overclocking
- Your case cannot accommodate an 80mm fan
Verdict: SilverStone Tek Super Slim 80mm CPU Cooler is a specialized low-profile option for older Intel systems. It fits users who need minimal height and quiet operation for light workloads.
SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler
Best for: modern socket compatibility and efficient copper heat transfer
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115X, AM4
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Lighting
- ARGB
- Material
- Copper
- Dimensions
- 6.06 × 5 × 2.95 inches
View on Amazon: SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler Affiliate link
The SilverStone AR12-TUF is a 120mm air cooler designed for broad compatibility. It features four 6mm copper heat pipes with direct contact technology and a 9-blade PWM fan. The unit includes ARGB lighting and supports major Intel and AMD sockets. It suits users needing efficient heat transfer and modern socket support without the bulk of larger towers.
Pros
- Four 6mm copper heat pipes with direct contact technology
- 120mm PWM fan with 9 blades for balanced cooling
- Supports Intel LGA 1851, 1700 and AMD AM4 sockets
- Includes ARGB lighting with controller or motherboard control
Cons
- 5-inch width may not fit in all compact cases
- ARGB lighting requires compatible motherboard or external controller
- No mention of included thermal paste or mounting hardware details
Good fit if
- You need support for the latest Intel LGA 1851 or LGA 1700 sockets
- You want copper heat pipes for efficient heat conduction
- You prefer a 120mm fan for a balance of noise and cooling
Skip if
- You require a low-profile cooler for small form factor cases
- You need a cooler that includes thermal paste in the box
- You want a cooler with a built-in display or sensor
Verdict: SilverStone AR12-TUF 120mm CPU Cooler is a solid mid-range option for users building on modern Intel or AMD platforms who need reliable heat pipe contact and fan control.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler | SilverStone 120mm Copper Heat-Pipe CPU Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA 1156/1155/1150 | LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115X, AM4 |
| Cooler Height | 23mm | not stated |
| Heat Pipes | not stated | 4 |
| Tower Design | Low Profile | not stated |
| Fan Size | 80mm | 120mm |
| Lighting | not stated | ARGB |
| Material | not stated | Copper |
| Dimensions | 4 × 4 × 3 inches | 6.06 × 5 × 2.95 inches |
| Weight | 8 ounces | not stated |
| Color | NT07-115X | not stated |
| Model | NT07-115X | SST-AR12-TUF |
Frequently asked questions
Does the SilverStone 80mm cooler fit modern Intel sockets?
No. The SilverStone Tek Super Slim supports only LGA 1150 and LGA 1156. It is designed for older Intel systems. You cannot install it on newer platforms like LGA 1700 or LGA 1851. Check your motherboard socket before buying this low-profile unit.
Is the SilverStone AR12-TUF compatible with AMD processors?
The provided data does not list AMD socket compatibility for this model. It explicitly supports Intel LGA 1851 and LGA 1700. You should verify AMD support with the manufacturer. Do not assume it fits AMD AM4 or AM5 without confirmation.
What are the physical dimensions of the 80mm cooler?
The SilverStone 80mm unit measures 4 inches in width, 4 inches in length, and 3 inches in height. It weighs 8 ounces. These compact dimensions make it suitable for small cases with strict height restrictions. It is significantly smaller than the 120mm alternative.
What is the height of the 120mm SilverStone cooler?
The SilverStone AR12-TUF stands 2.95 inches tall. It is 5 inches wide and 6.06 inches long. This height allows it to fit most standard ATX cases. It is taller than the 80mm low-profile option but offers a larger cooling surface area.
Which cooler is better for a small form factor case?
The SilverStone 80mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler is the better choice for tight spaces. Its 3-inch height fits cases with lower clearance limits. The 120mm model is 2.95 inches tall but has a larger footprint. Choose the 80mm unit if space is your primary constraint.
Does the 120mm cooler use copper heat pipes?
Yes. The SilverStone AR12-TUF uses copper for its heat pipes. This material provides efficient heat transfer from the CPU to the fins. Copper is a standard material for effective cooling performance in air coolers of this class.
Can I use the 80mm cooler on a modern motherboard?
Likely not. This cooler supports only LGA 1150 and LGA 1156 sockets. Most modern motherboards use LGA 1700 or LGA 1851. You need a cooler with broader socket compatibility for current hardware. This model is specialized for older Intel platforms.
What is the model number for the 80mm SilverStone cooler?
The model number is NT07-115X. This identifier helps you find the correct mounting hardware and specifications. It distinguishes this low-profile unit from other SilverStone products. Use this number when searching for replacement parts or installation guides.