Thermalright

Thermalright AXP90-X36

Ranked #12 in CPU Coolers

409 LP on the category ladder what's LP?

The ultra-low-profile value default, matching Noctua's 37mm class thermals for far less. Niche, but unbeatable in its bracket.

Consolidated from 8 independent outlets

Where the cited sources landed, as we read them

4 positive sources
3 mixed sources
1 unconvinced source

See the sources

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Pros & cons

✓ Superior fin orientation gives much better chipset and SSD temps in some builds
✓ Sits in the same 36-37mm thermal class as Noctua's 37mm low-profile units
✓ Listed among the current best ultra-low-profile coolers
✓ Lead pick in Hardware Canucks' low-profile roundup
✓ Benefits from Thermalright's strong reputation among builders

✗ Noctua's fan is better in direct comparison
✗ Sits just below its larger AXP90-X47 sibling in listing order

The sources behind this ranking

We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.

Evidence 5 articles, 2 video reviews and 1 community source

4 positive sources

Propelrc Article

For ultra-compact builds where every millimeter counts, the **Thermalright AXP90 X36 Black** at $21.90 offers incredible value, fitting in cases as small as 38mm clearance while keeping modern processors cool enough for daily use.

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iBuildPC nawfsideg530 · owner · Apr 2024

Haven't had that problem but love the cooler have it on a velka 3 with a 5700X, undervolted I get about 72° C max

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ITG Gear ITG Gear · channel

This all-copper air cooler is a blast from the past, combining classic design with modern performance.

Watch N

NAS Compares Step Guide For · reviewer

The cooling would be just fine using a thermalright axp90-x36 and a 8700g or a 9600x with 0 issue.

Read

3 mixed sources

Bandit Fishing Bandit Fishing Editor · reviewer · Sept 2026

If you’re on a strict budget and need an ultra-slim cooler for a low-TDP CPU, the AXP90 X36 gets the job done, but don’t expect Noctua-grade refinement.

Read S r/sffpc Reddit thread Read thread P

Propel RC John · reviewer

The 95W TDP rating appears optimistic – I’d recommend staying below 75W for safe, stable operation.

Read

1 unconvinced source

Z ZeroToLab Article · Apr 2026

The X36 is perfect for truly low-TDP chips: Intel N100, Celeron/Pentium processors, or Ryzen APUs that genuinely stay under 35-45W. For a 6-core i5 on Alder Lake, it’s asking too much of too little heatsink.

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Frequently asked questions

It ranks #12 of 24 on our CPU coolers tier list, in C tier. That placement draws on 8 independent outlets.

1 of the 8 sources with a clear view is critical of it: ZeroToLab. Noctua's fan is better in direct comparison. Sits just below its larger AXP90-X47 sibling in listing order.