ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit - Compatible with Liquid Freezer III and vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Price Comparison

The ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit is priced at C$26.70, while the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is more affordable at C$24.59. This notable price difference of C$2.11 might influence budget-conscious consumers looking for effective cooling solutions. Although both products serve distinct purposes in the realm of CPU cooling, the lower price of the Thermalright cooler could appeal to those seeking immediate value for money without sacrificing performance.

Brand Overview

ARCTIC and Thermalright are both reputable brands in the CPU cooling market, with distinct strengths. ARCTIC is known for its innovative cooling solutions, particularly in liquid cooling, while Thermalright has over 20 years of experience focusing on air cooling technology. The Thermalright brand has garnered a strong presence in the global market, indicating trust among users. The longevity and established reputation of both brands suggest that customers can expect quality products, though their approaches to cooling differ significantly.

Compatibility

The ARCTIC Mounting Kit expands compatibility for Intel LGA1200 and 115X sockets, making it a versatile choice for those using ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III or Freezer 36 coolers. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler supports a wider range of sockets, including Intel 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4/AM5. This broader compatibility makes the Thermalright cooler a more flexible option for users who may switch between different CPU brands or models in the future.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler boasts a heat dissipation capacity with a TDP range of 125 to 235W, making it suitable for a variety of CPU power requirements. It features a PWM fan delivering an airflow of up to 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A), ensuring efficient cooling without excessive noise. The ARCTIC Mounting Kit, however, does not specify cooling performance metrics, as it primarily serves as an installation kit rather than a cooling solution itself. This makes the Thermalright cooler a more appealing option for users prioritizing active cooling performance.

Installation Ease

ARCTIC’s Mounting Kit is designed for easy installation, featuring a user-friendly assembly process complemented by a multilingual and animated manual available online. This simplicity can be a significant advantage for less experienced users. The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE also includes metal fasteners for Intel and AMD platforms, indicating that installation is straightforward. However, specific details about the installation process for the Thermalright cooler are less emphasized than those for the ARCTIC kit.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler features colourful and vibrant ARGB light effects, which can enhance the visual appeal of a gaming rig or high-performance PC. The cooler's dimensions of 120mm in length and 148mm in height make it compact enough to fit into most medium-sized computer cases. On the other hand, the ARCTIC Mounting Kit does not incorporate any design features or aesthetic attributes, as it is solely functional. For users who value aesthetics alongside performance, the Thermalright cooler presents a more attractive option.

Noise Levels

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE operates at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet and ensures a more enjoyable computing experience, especially during intensive tasks or gaming sessions. The ARCTIC Mounting Kit does not produce noise on its own, as it is not a cooling device but rather a means to install compatible coolers. Therefore, for those concerned about noise levels, the Thermalright cooler stands out as a commendable choice due to its efficient operation and low noise profile.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are seeking a reliable and visually appealing air cooler with broader compatibility and better cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE at C$24.59 is the clear winner. Conversely, if your focus is solely on expanding compatibility for existing ARCTIC cooling solutions, the ARCTIC Mounting Kit at C$26.70 is necessary. However, for most users prioritizing performance and value, the Thermalright cooler is the more advantageous option.