The ID-Cooling SE 914 XT ARGB and SE 914X XT Basic are both solid entry-level coolers for systems that may be a bit lacking in space. Maybe your system doesn't have the ability to mount an expensive all-in-one liquid cooler, or you may prefer air coolers but are limited in regards to height. In both situations, the SE 914 XT series could be a solid option. The ARGB version tops out at 131 mm in height, while the Basic model is just 126 mm in height. Compare that to the typical 120 mm tower coolers, which usually come in at around 155–160 mm in height, and it becomes clear that these 92 mm offerings can easily fit where a typical fan favorite like Cooler Master's Hyper 212 series cannot.

It is worth keeping in mind that these coolers are not going to keep temperatures in check on overclocked systems. While both did manage to keep the test system from thermal throttling, it was by the slimmest of margins. In a situation with higher ambient temperatures, they would not have passed the AIDA64 FPU OC test. Still, they did beat out numerous ITX and ultra-affordable options, which is a testament to the performance they do offer, making these coolers quite attractive in regards to performance per dollar. While the worst-case scenario is a bit too much for these coolers to handle, they will perform quite well on most mainstream processors at stock setting or with more conservative overclocks.

As for build quality, both heatsinks are solid. They also use the same universal mounting system, so you will not run into issues regarding their installation regardless of which one you pick. My only gripe in regards to quality would be the ARGB lighting on that specific model. It does the job and looks fairly good, but the lack of uniformity in terms of lighting still leaves a bit to be desired.

The only other potential issue is noise output. The coolers can get loud, but with the CPU at stock settings, there is plenty of temperature headroom, so noise won't be an issue. As such, a cooler like this would be good for entry-level to mainstream processors. Obviously, if you're buying a $300+ CPU, you are likely going to want to get a beefier cooler. However, for first-time builders or if looking to upgrade a stock box cooler, the SE 914 XT Basic and SE 914 XT ARGB are more than adequate. Add in perfect memory and graphics card clearance along with their easy installation and you have a great choice for those not well versed in building a PC.

That said, if you are looking at these coolers, it is likely because you are limited in terms of space or want something better than stock, and in that regard, I have no problems recommending either ID-Cooling offerings.