Noctua NH-U12S Redux vs Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Noctua NH-U12S Redux and Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2

When it comes to CPU air coolers, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux and the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 present two distinct options for consumers. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is priced at C$62.95, while the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 is significantly more affordable at C$23.59. This substantial price difference indicates that potential buyers will need to evaluate what features and performance they prioritize in a cooler.

The Noctua model is known for its streamlined design and renowned quality, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 aims to offer an economical alternative without skimping on features. Both coolers cater to a variety of CPU sockets, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of systems.

Design and Compatibility

The design and compatibility of a CPU cooler are crucial for ensuring it fits comfortably within a case and works with other components. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux boasts a slim 120mm size, which allows it to fit in most tower cases without blocking RAM slots or PCIe slots on most ATX and Micro-ATX motherboards. This thoughtful design is particularly beneficial for users with space constraints.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 also features a height of 148mm, making it suitable for medium-sized computer cases. It supports a variety of CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700 and AMD's AM4/AM5. Despite being slightly bulkier than the Noctua, it is designed to avoid blocking memory installations, ensuring compatibility with most systems.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a critical aspect to consider when selecting a CPU cooler. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is equipped with a quiet NF-P12 redux-1700 120mm fan, offering automatic speed control through PWM technology. This allows for excellent cooling performance under load while maintaining near-silent operation at idle, making it ideal for users who value a quiet computing environment.

Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 features a TL-C12C-L V2 PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM. This fan can provide an airflow of up to 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). Although it is designed to be efficient and quiet, the overall cooling performance may not match the Noctua's renowned capabilities, particularly under heavy workloads.

Installation Process

The ease of installation can significantly impact the overall user experience with a CPU cooler. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux comes with a SecuFirm2 mounting system, ensuring a straightforward installation process on various Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1851, LGA1200, LGA115x, and AM4. Additionally, high-end NT-H1 thermal paste is included, further simplifying setup.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 also provides a user-friendly installation experience, with mounting plates and fastener parts included for different CPU socket platforms. It even offers an installation video or instructions for added guidance. While both coolers are relatively easy to install, the inclusion of thermal paste in the Noctua package gives it a slight edge in convenience.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a significant concern for many PC builders, especially for those who prefer a quieter working or gaming environment. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux excels in this area with its PWM fan, which operates quietly at idle. Users can expect minimal noise during normal operations, making it an excellent choice for quiet PC builds.

In comparison, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 has a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A) when operating at full speed. While this is relatively quiet for a cooling fan, it may not be as silent as the Noctua under similar conditions. Users who prioritize noise levels may lean towards the Noctua as the more favourable option.

Build Quality and Durability

Build quality and durability can significantly affect the longevity and performance of a CPU cooler. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is built to the high standards that Noctua is known for, promising longevity and reliable performance. Its design reflects a commitment to quality, making it a smart choice for users looking for a long-term solution.

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 has been developed by a brand with over 20 years of experience in the cooling market, which suggests a solid commitment to quality. Its S-FDB bearings are designed to ensure a long service life for the cooler, potentially matching the durability offered by Noctua. However, the perception of quality may vary, as Noctua's reputation is particularly strong among enthusiasts.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

When examining the price-to-performance ratio, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 stands out as a budget-friendly option at C$23.59. This makes it an attractive choice for those who are conscious of spending and still want a capable cooler. However, its lower price may come at the cost of some performance and features compared to higher-end models.

In contrast, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux, priced at C$62.95, offers premium features and performance that justify its higher price point. For users who are willing to invest more for quality and reliability, the Noctua provides excellent value in the long run, especially for those who demand optimal cooling performance.

Which should you buy?

In deciding between the Noctua NH-U12S Redux and the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize quiet operation, superior cooling performance, and high build quality, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux is the clear winner, albeit at a higher price of C$62.95. On the other hand, if you are looking for a cost-effective solution and are willing to compromise slightly on performance and noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2, priced at C$23.59, is a solid choice. Each cooler has its strengths, catering to different types of users in the market.