Noctua NF-A14 PWM vs Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Design and Build Quality

The Noctua NF-A14 PWM offers a premium quiet fan built with an advanced acoustic optimisation frame, whereas the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is a full CPU air cooler with a sizable aluminum heatsink and metal fasteners. Noctua’s fan measures 140x140x25 mm and has a square frame design ideal for multiple cooling setups, including water cooling radiators and PC cases. It features anti-vibration mounts and accessories like a Low-Noise Adaptor and extension cables. Meanwhile, Thermalright’s cooler measures 125x71x148 mm with a weight of 0.645 kg, utilising four 6mm heat pipes and an aluminum heatsink to deliver effective heat dissipation. It offers compatibility with Intel and AMD platforms through included mounting hardware. Both products demonstrate solid build quality, but Noctua focuses on a fan-only design with premium materials, while Thermalright provides a comprehensive air cooler solution with robust mounting options.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling capabilities, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is designed to handle a TDP range of 125 to 225W, thanks to its 4×6mm heat pipes and aluminum heat sink. Its PWM fan runs at approximately 1550 RPM with a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, providing efficient cooling for medium-sized cases. On the other hand, the Noctua NF-A14 PWM is a fan-only product with a maximum speed of 1500 RPM and designed primarily for quiet, reliable airflow rather than direct CPU cooling. Noctua’s fan supports speeds from 300 to 1500 RPM with a max noise of 24.6 dB(A), making it well suited for water cooling radiators or general chassis ventilation but not a dedicated CPU heatsink. In summary, Thermalright offers a complete air cooler solution with strong heat dissipation suitable for CPUs up to 225W TDP, while Noctua provides a premium fan best integrated into existing cooling setups.

Noise Levels and Acoustic Performance

The Noctua NF-A14 PWM is engineered for quiet operation, with a maximum noise output rated at 24.6 dB(A) and a design focused on advanced acoustic optimisation including Flow Acceleration Channels. It also includes a Low-Noise Adaptor to reduce the maximum fan speed from 1500 RPM to 1200 RPM, lowering noise further. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler operates at a slightly higher noise ceiling of up to 25.6 dB(A) at 1550 RPM. Although both products aim for low noise, Noctua’s design places a premium on silent operation, supported by its anti-vibration mounts and acoustic frame. Thermalright balances noise and airflow, delivering efficient cooling with acceptable noise levels for an air cooler. Therefore, for users prioritizing near-silent fans, Noctua has a slight edge, while Thermalright remains competitively quiet given its performance.

Compatibility and Mounting

Thermalright’s Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler supports a wide range of CPU sockets including Intel 115X, 1200, 1700, 17XX, and AMD AM4, with all necessary mounting plates or fasteners included. The cooler is designed to fit medium-sized cases with its height of 148 mm. Noctua’s NF-A14 PWM is a versatile 140 mm fan compatible with any 4-pin PWM header, suited for use in various PC chassis, water cooling radiators, or cabinet ventilation, but it does not come with CPU mounting hardware as it is not a standalone CPU cooler. Hence, Thermalright offers a more direct solution for CPU compatibility and installation, whereas Noctua’s fan is intended as a component to be integrated with existing cooling hardware.

Accessories and Extras

Noctua excels in included accessories, providing anti-vibration mounts, fan screws, a Low-Noise Adaptor, an extension cable, and a y-cable for running two PWM fans on the same header. These extras support flexible installation and quieter operation. Thermalright’s Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler includes metal fasteners compatible with Intel and AMD platforms, but no additional accessory cables or noise reduction adaptors are mentioned. While Thermalright focuses on comprehensive mounting hardware for CPU installation, Noctua’s accessory bundle adds significant value for users who want to optimise noise levels and installation versatility.

Price and Value

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is priced at C$24.29, making it significantly more affordable than the Noctua NF-A14 PWM fan, which costs C$34.95. Considering Thermalright offers a full CPU air cooler with heat pipes, a heatsink, and mounting hardware, its lower price point represents strong value for users needing a complete cooling solution. Noctua’s fan, priced higher despite being a single component, targets users who prioritise premium build quality, quiet operation, and flexibility in cooling setups. Buyers looking for cost-efficiency paired with CPU cooling capability will find Thermalright offers better value, whereas Noctua caters to enthusiasts seeking top-tier fan technology.

Brand Reputation and Reliability

Noctua is widely regarded for its premium quiet fans with over 150,000 hours mean time to failure (MTTF), and its award-winning A-series fan design underlines a reputation for durability and performance. Thermalright, a Taiwanese company with more than 20 years of experience, holds a respected position in both domestic and international markets for computer accessories, especially CPU coolers and related products. Thermalright’s use of industrial-grade materials and safety standards such as UL class A insulation reflects a commitment to quality. Both brands enjoy loyal followings, but Noctua’s specific focus on fan technology and longevity sets it apart, while Thermalright’s broader product range and long-standing presence give it strong credibility in CPU cooling.

Which should you buy?

If you need a complete CPU air cooler capable of handling moderate to high TDP processors with solid cooling performance and mounting support, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler at C$24.29 is the better choice. It provides a full cooling solution with effective heat dissipation, compatibility with multiple CPU sockets, and a quieter fan operating at up to 25.6 dB(A). Conversely, if your priority is a premium, quiet 140 mm fan for integration into existing cooling systems—especially for water cooling radiators or chassis ventilation—the Noctua NF-A14 PWM at C$34.95 offers superior acoustic optimisation, a broad speed range, and extensive accessories to reduce noise and enhance installation versatility. Ultimately, choose Thermalright for an all-in-one CPU cooler with excellent value, or Noctua for a top-tier, quiet fan component to complement your custom cooling setup.