Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black and Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB

The Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black and Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB are two distinct CPU coolers designed for different types of builds and user needs. The Noctua cooler is engineered for compact setups, while the Thermalright option offers a more traditional tower design. Understanding their unique attributes can help you determine which cooler best suits your requirements.

Noctua's offering stands out with its low-profile design, measuring only 65mm in height, making it ideal for HTPCs and compact builds. In contrast, the Thermalright cooler has a larger form factor, with dimensions of 120mm x 73mm x 148mm, designed to provide substantial cooling for a variety of setups. These differences directly influence their performance capabilities and suitability for various applications.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is crucial for maintaining optimal CPU temperatures, and both the Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black and Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB have their strengths. The Noctua cooler features a highly optimised NF-A9x14 slim 92mm fan, which, combined with its low-profile design, ensures quiet operation and effective cooling for CPUs with low to moderate heat dissipation.

On the other hand, the Thermalright cooler is equipped with a larger 120mm PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, delivering an impressive airflow of 66.17 CFM. This makes it ideal for CPUs with higher thermal design power (TDP) ratings, ranging from 125W to 235W. The difference in fan size and cooling capacity implies that while the Noctua is well-suited for compact builds, the Thermalright is better for users requiring more robust cooling solutions.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an essential consideration when selecting a CPU cooler, especially for users prioritizing a quiet environment. The Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black is known for its ultra-quiet operation, aided by its low-noise adaptor and PWM support. This cooler operates quietly, making it an excellent choice for users building silent systems.

Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB boasts a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler of its size and performance capabilities. While it may not be as silent as the Noctua, it still provides a good balance between cooling efficiency and noise output. Users should assess their noise tolerance levels based on their specific use cases.

Design and Aesthetics

Design and aesthetics can play a significant role in a user's choice of CPU cooler, particularly for those who want their builds to look appealing. The Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black comes in a sleek all-black design, providing a modern look that fits seamlessly into various builds, especially those with dark colour schemes.

In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB features colourful and gorgeous ARGB lighting effects, appealing to users looking to enhance the visual aesthetics of their systems. The combination of a tower cooler design with RGB lighting makes it a more attractive choice for gamers and enthusiasts who enjoy showcasing their builds.

Installation Process

The installation process can vary significantly between different CPU coolers, impacting user experience. The Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black includes the SecuFirm2 mounting system, which allows for easy installation on a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1851, LGA1700, and AM4. Its compact design also ensures that installation won't interfere with RAM or PCIe slots, making it user-friendly for small builds.

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB also offers compatibility with various Intel and AMD platforms, providing the necessary mounting plates and fasteners for straightforward installation. However, its larger size may require more space in the case, potentially complicating installation in tighter setups. Overall, both coolers are designed with user convenience in mind, though the Noctua may edge out in compact environments.

Build Quality and Durability

Build quality and durability are vital factors for long-term use. The Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black is backed by the brand's reputation for high-quality products, featuring premium materials and finishes that enhance its longevity. The included NT-H1 thermal paste is also a commendable inclusion, ensuring efficient thermal transfer and reliability.

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB is constructed from aluminum, with S-FDB bearings ensuring a long service life of up to 20,000 hours. While it may not have the same premium feel as the Noctua, its solid construction and effective cooling capabilities make it a reliable option for users seeking performance without breaking the bank.

Price Comparison

Price is a crucial determinant when choosing between the Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black and Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB. The Noctua cooler is priced at C$101.95, positioning it as a premium option in the market, reflecting its high-quality design and performance capabilities.

In sharp contrast, the Thermalright cooler is significantly more affordable at C$24.59, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for effective cooling without a hefty investment. This considerable price difference may influence the decision for users with varying budgets and performance needs.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, deciding between the Noctua NH-L9x65 chromax.Black and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you are building a compact system and prioritise quiet operation, the Noctua cooler is an excellent choice due to its low-profile design and efficient cooling for CPUs with low to moderate heat output. However, if you require more robust cooling capabilities, especially for higher TDP CPUs, the Thermalright cooler offers greater airflow and performance at a budget-friendly price. Consider your build type, thermal demands, aesthetics, and budget to make the best choice for your system.