Noctua NH-U12S Redux vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Price Comparison

When it comes to price, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB is significantly more affordable than the Noctua NH-U12S Redux. The Thermalright model is priced at C$24.59, while the Noctua option costs C$62.95. This makes the Thermalright cooler over 60% cheaper than its competitor, which could be a decisive factor for budget-conscious consumers. Given the substantial price difference, the Thermalright may appeal to those looking to save money without compromising too much on performance.

Build Quality

In terms of build quality, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux stands out with its renowned reputation for quality. Noctua has built a strong name for itself in cooling solutions, and the NH-U12S Redux reflects that heritage with its streamlined design and high-quality materials. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB, while constructed with metal fasteners and aluminum heat sink material, does not carry the same level of prestige as Noctua. If long-lasting durability and established brand reputation are priorities for you, the Noctua model may be the better choice.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a crucial aspect of any CPU cooler, and the Noctua NH-U12S Redux excels in this area. Its NF-P12 redux-1700 120mm fan is designed for automatic speed control, delivering full cooling performance under load while remaining nearly silent at idle. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB features a PWM fan with a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, which provides a good airflow of 66.17 CFM. However, it operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is slightly noisier than the Noctua. Therefore, for those prioritising quiet operation alongside effective cooling, the Noctua may have the edge.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer broad compatibility with Intel and AMD platforms. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux supports a variety of Intel sockets including LGA1851, LGA1700, and LGA115x, as well as AMD's AM4 and AM5 sockets. The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB also covers similar ground, supporting Intel sockets 115X, 1200, and 1700, along with AMD’s AM4 and AM5. While both coolers will fit a wide range of systems, the Noctua's SecuFirm2 mounting system is noted for its ease of installation, potentially making it a more user-friendly option for those less experienced in building PCs.

Size and Design

In terms of size, both coolers are designed to fit within standard tower cases, but the Noctua NH-U12S Redux has a slim profile at a height of 158mm. This ensures that it does not overhang RAM slots or obstruct PCIe slots on most ATX and Micro-ATX motherboards, making it a versatile choice for various builds. The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB, while slightly shorter at 148mm, is also designed for medium-sized cases. However, the Noctua offers better overall clearance and compatibility, which is a vital consideration for those with constrained internal spaces.

Aesthetics

When it comes to aesthetics, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB features vibrant ARGB lighting, which can be an attractive addition for those wanting to enhance the visual appeal of their PC builds. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux, however, does not focus on RGB elements, opting instead for a more traditional look that emphasizes performance over flashy designs. Your choice here will likely depend on personal preference; if aesthetics are crucial, the Thermalright’s ARGB lighting might be more appealing, whereas the Noctua’s understated design may resonate with those who prefer a more classic appearance.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical factor for many users, especially in quiet environments. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is designed to operate quietly, with its fan achieving near-silent performance during idle operation. Comparatively, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB has a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). While this is still relatively quiet, the Noctua is engineered for even quieter operation under similar workloads. If a low-noise environment is paramount to your computing experience, the Noctua cooler may be the more suitable option.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Noctua NH-U12S Redux and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a high-quality, reliable cooler with excellent performance and low noise levels, and budget is not a primary concern, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux is the clear winner. However, if you need a more budget-friendly option that still offers decent performance and appealing aesthetics, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB is a great choice. Consider your priorities regarding price, performance, and design to make the best decision for your build.