6 Best Alternatives to the Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black Low (2026)

How the alternatives compare

Thermalright 47mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler

The Thermalright AXP90 X47 offers 47mm of height compared to the X36’s 36mm. This extra space allows for better heat dissipation while still fitting in most compact ITX cases. It supports the newer LGA 1851 socket, which the X36 does not list. You gain clearance for taller RAM modules if your case permits. The trade-off is a slight increase in overall cooler height. If your case allows up to 47mm, this model provides more thermal headroom. It remains a low-profile solution but sacrifices some of the extreme compactness of the X36. The included fan and heat pipe technology remain consistent with the brand’s standard design.

Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler

This model shares the same 36mm height as the original X36 Black Low. It also supports the newer LGA 1851 socket, offering broader compatibility for modern Intel platforms. The physical dimensions and weight are nearly identical, ensuring it fits in the same small form factor cases. The primary difference lies in the socket bracket support. If you are building on an LGA 1851 motherboard, this version is the necessary choice. For older sockets like LGA 1200, the performance is comparable. It does not offer significantly higher cooling capacity due to the identical size. It is a direct alternative for users needing updated mounting hardware for the same compact profile.

Thermalright AXP90-X47 Black Low-Profile Cooler

The AXP90-X47 Black Low-Profile Cooler stands at 47mm, providing more surface area than the 36mm X36. This additional height can improve thermal performance for slightly more powerful CPUs in small cases. It includes specific mounting hardware for LGA 1700, which the X36 also supports. The trade-off is the increased height requirement. You must ensure your case can accommodate 47mm clearance. The fan size and heat pipe configuration remain similar to other low-profile models. This option is best for builders who need a bit more cooling power but still want to maintain a low-profile aesthetic. It sacrifices the extreme compactness of the X36 for potential thermal gains.

Thermalright AXP90 53mm Low Profile Cooler

The AXP90 X53 measures 53mm in height, significantly taller than the 36mm X36. This extra height allows for a larger heatsink surface area, improving cooling capacity. It uses a 92mm fan, similar to the X36, ensuring familiar airflow characteristics. The increased size means it will not fit in cases with strict 36mm or 47mm limits. You gain thermal headroom for higher TDP CPUs. The trade-off is reduced compatibility with very small ITX cases. This model is ideal for users who have slightly more vertical space available. It offers a balance between low-profile design and enhanced cooling performance. It is not suitable for ultra-compact builds requiring the smallest possible cooler height.

Thermalright 47mm Low Profile Black ITX Cooler

This 47mm low-profile cooler offers more height than the 36mm X36, providing additional cooling potential. It supports LGA 1700 and AM5 sockets, making it suitable for modern platforms. The 47mm height allows for better heat dissipation compared to the 36mm model. You gain compatibility with newer sockets that the X36 may not explicitly support. The trade-off is the increased height, which requires more case clearance. It remains a single-tower low-profile design. This option is best for users who need slightly more cooling power but still want a compact solution. It does not offer the extreme compactness of the X36 but provides better thermal performance for the same fan size.

Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler

The FC140 is a dual-tower cooler measuring 140mm in height, vastly different from the 36mm X36. It features five heat pipes and a much larger surface area. This design is intended for standard ATX cases, not compact ITX builds. You gain significant cooling performance for high-TDP CPUs. The trade-off is the inability to fit in small cases. It is not a direct alternative for low-profile needs. This model is for users who prioritize raw cooling capacity over size. It requires a large case and may obstruct RAM. It is suitable for desktop builds where space is not a constraint. The X36 is for compactness; this is for maximum cooling power.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black Low Profile Cooler

Best for: ITX builds with low TDP CPUs

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA1700, 1150, 1151, 1200

Cooler Height

36mm

Heat Pipes

4

Tower Design

Low-Profile

Fan Size

92mm

TDP Rating

95W

View on Amazon: Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black Low Profile Cooler

This 36mm low-profile cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology to manage heat in tight spaces. It includes a 92mm TL-9015B PWM fan that runs up to 2700 RPM. The unit supports AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA sockets. It fits ITX builds where RAM clearance is limited. The aluminum heatsink handles up to 95W TDP.

Pros

• 36mm height fits small cases
• 4x6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
• 92mm PWM fan included
• Supports AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA1700

Cons

• 36mm height limits TDP to 95W
• Aluminum heatsink has lower thermal mass
• 92mm fan may be louder than larger fans

Good fit if

• You need a cooler under 40mm height
• You use an ITX case with RAM clearance issues
• Your CPU TDP is 95W or lower

Skip if

• You need to cool a CPU over 95W TDP
• You require a dual-tower design for maximum cooling
• You need a cooler taller than 36mm

Verdict: Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black Low Profile Cooler is a compact solution for ITX builds with low TDP CPUs. It fits users who prioritize case compatibility over maximum cooling headroom.

2 Also great

Thermalright 47mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler

Best for: Small ITX cases with limited height

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA115x/1200/1700/1851

Cooler Height

47mm

Heat Pipes

4

Tower Design

Low-Profile

Fan Size

92mm

System Type

ITX

View on Amazon: Thermalright 47mm Low-Profile CPU Cooler

This is a low-profile CPU air cooler with a 47mm height. It uses four 6mm heat pipes and a 92mm fan. The design supports AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA sockets. You get a slim 12V fan with noise levels at or below 22.4 dBA. It fits well in small ITX cases where space is tight. The black nickel plating adds corrosion resistance. This model includes the fan in the box.

Pros

• 47mm total height for compact builds
• Four 6mm heat pipes for heat transfer
• Includes 92mm TL-9015B Slim PWM fan
• Supports AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA sockets

Cons

• 47mm height may not fit in very tight cases
• Single fan configuration limits peak cooling
• No mention of RGB lighting support

Good fit if

• You need a cooler under 50mm tall
• You are building an ITX PC
• You want a complete package with fan included

Skip if

• You require a dual-tower design for high heat loads
• You need RGB lighting effects
• Your case has less than 47mm clearance

Verdict: Thermalright AXP90 X47 Low Profile is a solid choice for small form factor builds. It offers reliable cooling for ITX cases with tight height restrictions. You get a complete solution with the fan included.

3 Best premium

Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler

Best for: ITX cases with strict height limits

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA1700, 115X, 1200, 1851

Cooler Height

36mm

Heat Pipes

4

Tower Design

Low-Profile

Fan Size

92mm

System Type

ITX

View on Amazon: Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler

This low-profile air cooler stands 36mm tall with a 92mm fan. It uses four 6mm heat pipes and AGHP technology for efficient heat transfer. The unit supports AM4, AM5, LGA1700, and older Intel sockets. It is designed for ITX builds where case height is limited. The cooler operates at a maximum noise level of 22.4 dBA.

Pros

• 36mm total height fits tight cases
• Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP tech
• 92mm PWM fan for airflow control
• Supports AM5 and LGA1700 sockets

Cons

• Single fan limits cooling headroom
• 36mm height is restrictive for large RAM
• No RGB lighting included

Good fit if

• You need a cooler under 40mm tall
• You are building a small form factor PC
• You want quiet operation under 23 dBA

Skip if

• You have tall RAM modules that block the fan
• You need high-end cooling for overclocking
• You prefer dual-tower designs for better thermals

Verdict: Thermalright AXP90 X36 36mm Low-Profile Cooler is a solid choice for ITX builders who need a compact cooler that fits under 36mm. It offers reliable performance for standard CPUs in small cases.

4 Best budget

Thermalright AXP90-X47 Black Low-Profile Cooler

Best for: ITX builds with LGA 1700 or AM4 CPUs

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200

Cooler Height

47mm

Heat Pipes

4

Tower Design

Low-Profile

Fan Size

92mm

Fan Speed

2700rpm±10%

View on Amazon: Thermalright AXP90-X47 Black Low-Profile Cooler

This is a 47mm low-profile CPU air cooler designed for small form factor builds. It includes a 92mm PWM fan that reaches 2700 RPM for up to 42.58 CFM of airflow. The cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology and a pure copper base. It supports Intel LGA 1700, 115x, and 1200 sockets, as well as AMD AM4. You get a compact solution that fits in tight cases while maintaining efficient heat transfer.

Pros

• 47mm total height for compact ITX cases
• Includes a 92mm PWM fan with 2700 RPM max speed
• Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
• Pure copper base for direct heat contact
• Supports Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM4 sockets

Cons

• 47mm height is taller than the 36mm AXP90 X36
• Only supports AMD AM4, not AM5
• Single fan limits airflow compared to dual-tower designs

Good fit if

• You need a cooler under 50mm for an ITX case
• You are building with an Intel LGA 1700 or AMD AM4 CPU
• You want a budget-friendly low-profile option with a fan included

Skip if

• You require support for the AMD AM5 socket
• You need a cooler under 40mm in height
• You want to maximize airflow with a larger dual-tower design

Verdict: Thermalright AXP90 X47 47mm Low Profile Cooler fits users who need a compact cooler under 50mm for ITX builds on LGA 1700 or AM4. It offers solid heat pipe technology and a included fan, but its height and socket limits keep it from being a universal pick.

5 Best 92mm fan

Thermalright AXP90 53mm Low Profile Cooler

Best for: ITX builds needing 92mm fan airflow

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, Intel 1150/1151/1200/1700

Cooler Height

53mm

Heat Pipes

4

Tower Design

Low-Profile

Fan Size

92mm

Fan Speed

2700 RPM ± 10%

View on Amazon: Thermalright AXP90 53mm Low Profile Cooler

This low-profile air cooler stands 53mm tall and uses four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology to manage heat effectively in vertical or horizontal orientations. It includes a 92mm PWM fan that spins up to 2700 RPM, delivering 42.58 CFM of airflow. The aluminum radiator and 4-pin PWM connection allow for automatic speed control. It fits AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA sockets, making it a solid option for small ITX cases.

Pros

• 53mm height fits tight cases
• 4x6mm heat pipes with AGHP tech
• 92mm PWM fan up to 2700 RPM
• 42.58 CFM max airflow
• Compatible with AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA

Cons

• 53mm height is taller than 36mm or 47mm alternatives
• Single tower design limits peak cooling capacity
• Aluminum radiator is lighter but less dense than copper

Good fit if

• You need a cooler under 55mm for an ITX build
• You prefer a 92mm fan for quieter operation
• You use AM5 or Intel LGA 1700 sockets

Skip if

• You require a cooler under 40mm height
• You need dual-tower performance for high-end CPUs
• You want a copper-heavy radiator for maximum heat transfer

Verdict: Thermalright AXP90 X53 Low Profile Cooler offers a balanced mix of height and cooling power for ITX builders. It suits users who need more surface area than a 36mm model provides but still need to stay under 60mm.

6 Best lga 1700

Thermalright 47mm Low Profile Black ITX Cooler

Best for: LGA1700 ITX builds needing 47mm clearance

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1150

Cooler Height

47 mm

Heat Pipes

4

Tower Design

Low-Profile

Fan Size

92 mm

Fan Speed

2700 RPM

View on Amazon: Thermalright 47mm Low Profile Black ITX Cooler

The Thermalright AXP90 X47 is a 47mm low-profile air cooler designed for ITX and HTPC builds. It features four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology to manage heat in vertical or horizontal orientations. The unit includes a 92mm TL-9015B PWM fan that delivers up to 42.58 CFM of airflow at 2700 RPM. It supports LGA1700, AM4, and AM5 sockets, offering a compact solution for small cases with memory clearance concerns.

Pros

• 47mm total height fits tight cases
• 4 heat pipes with AGHP technology
• Supports LGA1700, AM4, and AM5
• Includes 92mm PWM fan with 42.58 CFM airflow

Cons

• 47mm height is taller than the 36mm AXP90 X36
• Single tower design limits cooling headroom
• Fan noise reaches 22.4 dB at max speed

Good fit if

• You need LGA1700 support in a low-profile cooler
• You are building an ITX system with limited CPU cooler height
• You want AGHP heat pipe technology for better heat transfer

Skip if

• You require a cooler under 40mm in height
• You need a dual-tower design for maximum cooling
• You are using a socket older than LGA1150 or AM4

Verdict: Thermalright AXP90 X47 47mm Low Profile provides solid low-profile cooling for LGA1700 and AM5 platforms. It suits users who need slightly more height than the X36 offers but still require a compact, single-tower solution for small form factor cases.

7 Best 5 heat pipes

Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler

Best for: Standard cases needing high cooling performance

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA1150, LGA1200, LGA1700

Cooler Height

160 mm

Heat Pipes

5

Tower Design

Dual-Tower

Fan Size

120 mm, 140 mm

TDP Rating

275 W

View on Amazon: Thermalright Dual Tower 5-Heatpipe CPU Cooler

This dual-tower cooler uses five heat pipes to handle up to 275W of thermal design power. It includes a 140mm fan and a 120mm fan, providing high airflow for efficient heat dissipation. The 160mm height requires a case width over 210mm. It supports Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM4 sockets. You get a robust solution for high-performance builds.

Pros

• Dual-tower design with five heat pipes
• Includes 140mm and 120mm PWM fans
• 275W TDP rating for high performance
• Supports Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM4

Cons

• 160mm height exceeds low-profile limits
• Dual-tower design blocks first GPU slot
• Requires case width greater than 210mm

Good fit if

• You need high cooling capacity for a powerful CPU
• You have a standard ATX case with ample width
• You want a dual-fan setup for better airflow

Skip if

• You are building a small form factor PC
• You need a low-profile cooler under 50mm
• Your case width is less than 210mm

Verdict: Thermalright FC140 Dual Tower Air Cooler is a high-capacity option for standard cases. It fits users who prioritize raw cooling performance over compact dimensions.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions