Compare: Frost Commander 140 vs Mugen 6

Design and Aesthetics:

Frost Commander 140

The Frost Commander is a sleek CPU cooler with a design reminiscent of the Peerless Assassin 120. This cooler features a dual-tower heatsink with 5 heat pipes for efficient heat dissipation, and uniquely, the heat pipe ends are hidden from view. Sporting gray and silver tones, the Thermalright logo adorns the top of the heatsink. Despite its larger radiator, the Frost Commander uses a single 120mm fan in front and a 140mm fan between the heatsinks, giving it a distinct, asymmetrical look.

Mugen 6

This cooler features a sleek, monolithic design with an exposed metal heatsink and a polished top that conceals the heat-pipe ends, giving it a clean, refined appearance. It comes with a single 120mm black fan, with the option to add a second for enhanced cooling performance. While other design variations exist, this model emphasizes simplicity and modern aesthetics.

Install Notes:

Frost Commander 140

The cooler installation is quite similar to other mainstream cooler setups. However, during installation, securing the fans to the heatsink requires more effort (relative to other Thermalright offerings), which is due to the metal securing the fans requiring much more effort to place. For this reason, it's also a lot easier to slightly bend the heatsink fins, but this can be fixed by bending it back with a credit card.

Additionally, like other mainstream coolers, the Frost Frost Commander faces challenges in uninstalling when trying to break the thermal paste seal between the cooler and CPU, as it doesn't easily slide or twist off. This can be an issue if the thermal paste forms a strong bond.

Mugen 6

The Scythe Mugen 6 features a standard installation process, where brackets are first attached to the motherboard, followed by the cooler. It includes a single fan, with the option to install a second for enhanced cooling performance. Its design ensures compatibility with most motherboards, without interfering with RAM placement.

Cooling Performance:

Frost Commander 140

The Frost Commander delivers impressive performance for its size, rivaling premium cooler offerings. Capable of cooling some of the more powerful CPUs without being overly bulky, this cooler can also manage overclocking for specific CPUs. As a result, the Frost Commander is a strong contender for a wide variety of computer setups.

Mugen 6

This cooler delivers above-average performance and its performance is in line given its size and single fan configuration. With the option to add a second fan, it allows for improved cooling and a better noise-to-performance ratio at minimal cost, offering upgrade flexibility. However, in its default configuration, it may not be sufficient for high-end CPUs that generate significant heat.

Noise Performance:

Frost Commander 140

Featuring two differently sized fans, this cooler generates above-average noise levels relative to the cooling it provides, unlike quieter options such as the NH-D15 or the Peerless Assassin 120. If you're seeking a quieter setup, you might want to explore alternative options that better suit your needs.

Mugen 6

This cooler boasts an excellent noise profile, thanks to its single 120mm fan. While adding a second fan can enhance overall cooling and improve the sound-to-performance ratio, it may also lead to increased noise levels at higher speeds. Overall, the cooler maintains a good balance between noise and performance, especially considering its size and fan configuration.

Summary:

Frost Commander 140

The Frost Commander is a sleek, dual-tower CPU cooler with an asymmetrical design, featuring 5 heat pipes for efficient heat dissipation and a unique hidden heat pipe end design. It offers impressive performance, capable of cooling powerful CPUs and handling overclocking, making it a strong contender for various computer setups. However, with two differently sized fans, it generates above-average noise levels compared to quieter alternatives, so those seeking a quieter setup may want to consider other options.

Mugen 6

The Scythe Mugen 6 features a straightforward installation process, with brackets attached to the motherboard before securing the cooler. Its monolithic design includes an exposed metal heatsink and polished top, hiding the heat-pipe ends for a clean, modern look. It comes with a single 120mm black fan, with the option to add a second for enhanced cooling performance. The cooler is compatible with most motherboards, avoiding interference with RAM placement. Offering above-average performance, the option for a second fan allows for improved cooling and a better noise-to-performance ratio, though overall noise levels may increase at higher speeds. In its default configuration, the cooler performs well but may not be sufficient for high-end CPUs that produce significant heat. Overall, it strikes an impressive balance between noise and performance.