Thermalright SI-100 Low Profile ITX Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look
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This thermalright si 100 low profile itx review examines a compact air cooler designed for small form factor builds. The unit features a 100mm height, making it suitable for tight cases. It includes six 6mm heat pipes using AGHP 3.0 technology to manage heat transfer effectively. The cooler pairs this base with a 120x120x25mm PWM fan. This fan delivers up to 72.37 CFM of airflow at a maximum noise level of 27.7 dB. The aluminum heatsink and metal fasteners for Intel and AMD platforms complete the package. You get a straightforward cooling solution for ITX systems.
What stands out
- 100mm height fits small computer cases
- Six 6mm heat pipes with AGHP 3.0 technology
- 120x120x25mm PWM fan with 72.37 CFM airflow
- Noise level capped at 27.7 dB(A)
- Supports Intel LGA 1700/1851 and AMD AM5 sockets
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should choose this cooler if you are building an ITX system with limited CPU cooler clearance. The 100mm height allows installation in cases that cannot accommodate taller towers. It suits users who need silent operation, as the fan stays under 28 dB. The included metal fasteners make mounting easy on both Intel and AMD platforms. This is a practical choice for compact PCs where space is at a premium but decent cooling performance is still required.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you have a high-TDP processor that requires significant cooling capacity. This low profile design is not intended for extreme overclocking or heavy workloads. If you need a larger heatsink for better thermal headroom, a tower cooler is a better fit. The single 120mm fan may struggle with sustained high loads. Users who prioritize maximum cooling performance over case compatibility will find this option insufficient.
Verdict: The Thermalright SI-100 is a spec-driven low profile cooler for tight ITX cases. It offers adequate cooling for standard builds without demanding excessive height.
Key specs explained
Dimensions: 120x108x100mm
This cooler measures 100mm in height. You need to check your case specifications to ensure it fits without blocking RAM slots. Many ITX cases have strict height limits. If your case supports 100mm, this unit fits. Compare this height against other low-profile coolers to find the best balance for your specific build constraints.
Heat Pipes: 6x6mm
The unit uses six heat pipes with a 6mm diameter. AGHP 3.0 technology helps move heat away from the CPU base. This design reduces the impact of gravity on heat transfer. You get more surface area for cooling compared to smaller pipes. This is useful for maintaining stability in compact builds where airflow is limited.
Fan Speed: 2000rpm
The included fan spins at up to 2000 RPM. This speed provides strong airflow for heat dissipation. You may notice more noise at maximum speed. The PWM control allows you to lower the speed for quieter operation. Compare this RPM with other fans to gauge the noise-to-performance ratio for your workspace.
Airflow: 72.37CFM
The fan moves 72.37 cubic feet of air per minute. Higher CFM values generally mean better cooling potential. You benefit from this airflow by keeping your CPU temperatures lower under load. Compare this figure with other 120mm fans to understand the cooling capacity relative to noise levels and static pressure.
Socket Support: Intel 1150-1851, AMD AM4/AM5
This cooler fits most modern Intel and AMD platforms. You can use it with recent processors like LGA 1700 or AM5. The package includes mounting hardware for these sockets. Check your specific motherboard socket before buying. This wide compatibility makes it a flexible choice for various system builds without needing separate mounting kits.
Design and Build Quality
According to the listing, the heatsink core is constructed from aluminum. This material choice keeps the overall weight low, which is critical for small form factor builds where motherboard stress is a concern. The cooler stands 100mm tall with a footprint of 120 by 108mm. This compact layout ensures it fits into tight ITX cases without blocking adjacent RAM slots. The six 6mm heat pipes utilize AGHP 3.0 technology. This design helps manage heat transfer regardless of whether the cooler is mounted vertically or horizontally, addressing potential gravity-related efficiency drops.
The unit includes a 120x120x25mm PWM fan. You control the speed via a 4-pin connector that adjusts airflow up to 72.37 CFM. The listing notes a maximum noise level of 27.7 dB(A), suggesting quiet operation under load. The fan uses S-FDB v2.0 bearings, which are rated for up to 20,000 hours of service life. This longevity reduces the need for frequent replacements. The housing materials include industrial strength PBT and PC for durability. Intel and AMD mounting fasteners are provided. You do not need to source separate hardware for installation. The design prioritizes space efficiency and long-term reliability for compact systems.
Setup and Everyday Use Guide
Installation relies on the included metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. You will need to match the correct mounting plate to your specific socket type. The listing confirms support for Intel sockets 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, 1851, 2066, and 2011. AMD users can install it on AM4 and AM5 motherboards. The package provides the necessary hardware for these different CPU socket platforms to ensure a secure fit. This standardized mounting system simplifies the process for standard builds.
For daily operation, you connect the included TL-E12 fan to a 4-pin PWM header on your motherboard. This allows the system to automatically adjust the fan speed based on thermal demands. The fan operates at 12V and can reach up to 2000 RPM, delivering a maximum airflow of 72.37 CFM. At peak speed, the noise level is capped at 27.7 dB(A). This specification suggests a quiet operation profile suitable for small enclosures where noise can easily become noticeable. The S-FDB v2.0 bearing is rated for 20,000 hours of service life, indicating long-term reliability without frequent maintenance. The AGHP 3.0 heat pipes help maintain consistent heat transfer regardless of whether the cooler is mounted vertically or horizontally. This orientation flexibility is useful for tight ITX cases where airflow direction varies. You simply ensure the fan is connected and the mounting screws are tight for stable everyday performance.
Before You Buy This Cooler
You are buying a compact air cooler for small form factor builds. The listing confirms it supports Intel sockets 1150 through 2066 and AMD AM4 and AM5. You must verify your motherboard socket matches these options before purchasing. The unit includes metal fasteners for installation. However, you should ensure your RAM clearance allows for the 108mm width. The included TL-E12 fan is a standard 120mm PWM model. You may need to purchase additional thermal paste if you prefer a specific compound, though many users rely on pre-applied options. This cooler sits alongside other low-profile options like the AXP90 series. It offers a slightly larger footprint but provides six heat pipes for better heat dissipation in tight spaces. Regular upkeep involves dusting the aluminum fins. This maintains airflow efficiency without requiring complex maintenance. The AGHP 3.0 technology helps manage heat transfer in various orientations. You benefit from a reliable cooling solution that fits within strict height constraints. Check your case dimensions carefully to ensure compatibility.
Check before you buy
- Verify your CPU socket is supported by the included fasteners
- Check your RAM clearance against the 108mm cooler width
- Confirm your case supports a 100mm cooler height
- Ensure you have thermal paste for installation
The product at a glance
Thermalright SI-100 Low Profile CPU Cooler
Best for: compact ITX builds under 100mm height
- Material
- aluminum
- Compatible Device
- CPU
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Dimensions
- 120(L)x108(W)x100(H)mm
- Mounting Type
- metal fasteners
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
View on Amazon: Thermalright SI-100 Low Profile CPU Cooler Affiliate link
This is a low-profile air cooler designed for ITX builds. It stands 100mm tall with a 120mm fan. The heatsink uses aluminum fins and six 6mm heat pipes. It includes a 120mm PWM fan that moves 72.37 CFM of air. The unit supports Intel and AMD sockets. It fits small cases where height is limited.
Pros
- 100mm height fits tight ITX cases
- Six 6mm heat pipes for heat transfer
- 120mm PWM fan provides 72.37 CFM airflow
- Supports Intel 1700/1851 and AMD AM5 sockets
Cons
- Aluminum heatsink material limits peak cooling capacity
- Single fan design restricts total airflow compared to dual-fan towers
- No RGB lighting or ARGB headers included in specs
Good fit if
- You need a cooler under 100mm tall
- You are building a compact ITX PC
- You want silent operation under 28 dB
Skip if
- You require liquid cooling for high TDP CPUs
- You need RGB lighting on the cooler
- Your case requires a cooler taller than 100mm
Verdict: Thermalright SI-100 100mm Low Profile Cooler is a practical option for ITX builders who need a compact 100mm tall air cooler. It fits small cases and supports modern sockets without bulk.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright SI-100 Low Profile CPU Cooler |
|---|---|
| Material | aluminum |
| Compatible Device | CPU |
| Fan Size | 120mm |
| Dimensions | 120(L)x108(W)x100(H)mm |
| Mounting Type | metal fasteners |
| Socket Compatibility | AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151 |
| System Type | ITX |
| Features | Fan |
| Size | 100mm |
| Color | SI-100 |
| Model | SI-100-D1 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Thermalright SI-100 fit in small ITX cases?
Yes, it is designed for compact builds. The unit stands 100mm tall. This height allows it to fit in many small form factor cases. You must verify your specific case supports this height limit. It avoids blocking RAM slots in many configurations.
What are the exact dimensions of this cooler?
The dimensions are 120x108x100mm. The listing lists the width as 3.9 inches, height as 4.72 inches, and length as 4.3 inches. These measurements define the space it occupies. Check your case specifications to ensure these dimensions fit without interference.
Which CPU sockets does the SI-100 support?
It supports a wide range of modern platforms. The listing confirms compatibility with Intel sockets 1150 through 2066. It also supports AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets. You need to match the included mounting hardware to your specific socket type for proper installation.
Is this cooler suitable for low-profile builds?
Yes, it is a practical option for low-profile needs. Its 100mm height is ideal for tight spaces. The aluminum core keeps the weight low. This reduces stress on the motherboard. It fits small cases where bulkier air coolers cannot be used.
How is the SI-100 ranked among low profile coolers?
It holds the top position on this list. The ranking is based on its suitability for compact ITX builds. It offers a balance of height and socket support. This makes it a primary choice for builders needing a 100mm tall air cooler.
What mounting hardware is included for installation?
The package includes metal fasteners for installation. You must select the correct mounting plate for your CPU socket. The hardware supports both Intel and AMD platforms. Ensure your motherboard socket matches the supported list before beginning the setup process.
Can I use this cooler with an AMD AM5 motherboard?
Yes, it supports the AM5 socket. The listing explicitly includes AMD AM5 in its compatibility range. You will need to use the appropriate mounting plate for this socket. This ensures secure attachment and proper contact with the CPU heat spreader.