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

Overview of the Noctua NH-U12S and Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB

The Noctua NH-U12S is priced at C$79.95, while the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB is much more budget-friendly at C$29.90. This significant price difference sets the stage for a comparison of their features and performance as CPU coolers.

Design and Build Quality

The Noctua NH-U12S features a classic 120mm slim-tower design, which not only provides excellent cooling performance but also ensures compatibility with a wide range of cases, RAM, and PCIe slots. In contrast, the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB employs a single tower design complemented by six nickel-plated pure copper heat pipes, enhancing heat dissipation. Both coolers are designed to avoid overhanging RAM slots, but the Noctua's build quality is often regarded as superior due to its renowned manufacturing standards.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Noctua NH-U12S utilises the highly optimised NF-F12 120mm Focused Flow fan, which supports PWM for automatic speed control, ensuring ultra-quiet operation. The Thermalright Burst Assassin boasts a fan speed of 1550 RPM and an air flow rate of 66.17 CFM, which is impressive for its price point. However, Noctua has a longstanding reputation for delivering exceptional cooling efficiency, making it a preferred choice for high-performance systems.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are crucial for users who desire a quiet computing experience. The Noctua NH-U12S is designed with a low-noise adaptor that maximises quiet operation. While the Thermalright Burst Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6dB(A), which is relatively quiet, it cannot quite compete with Noctua’s optimised design aimed specifically at reducing noise. Thus, for silent enthusiasts, the NH-U12S could be the better option.

Installation Ease

Both CPU coolers are engineered for easy installation, but they cater to different user experiences. The Noctua NH-U12S includes the SecuFirm2 mounting system, which simplifies the installation process across various Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x, and AM5 & AM4. The Thermalright Burst Assassin also supports a wide range of sockets, including newer AMD and Intel models, and features a design that doesn’t limit memory height, adding flexibility during installation. However, Noctua's reputation for straightforward installation might give it an edge here.

Compatibility

In terms of compatibility, both the Noctua NH-U12S and Thermalright Burst Assassin support a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, making them versatile options for many builds. The NH-U12S is compatible with Intel's LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x, and AMD's AM5 & AM4. Similarly, the Thermalright Burst Assassin supports Intel's LGA1150 through LGA1700, and AMD’s AM4 and AM5. While both coolers are broadly compatible, the NH-U12S provides slightly more extensive support for Intel’s older sockets.

Aesthetics

Aesthetically, the Noctua NH-U12S carries a classic, minimalist look that many users appreciate, often featuring a brown and beige colour scheme that is unique to Noctua. The Thermalright Burst Assassin, on the other hand, sports an ARGB lighting feature that allows users to customise the cooler's appearance to match their system’s theme. For those who prioritize aesthetics in their builds, the added RGB features of the Thermalright cooler may be a deciding factor.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

The Thermalright Burst Assassin shines in terms of price-to-performance ratio, retailing at C$29.90, which is significantly lower than the Noctua NH-U12S at C$79.95. Despite its lower price, the Burst Assassin offers commendable cooling performance and quiet operation, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers. However, the Noctua NH-U12S, while more expensive, provides a level of performance, build quality, and noise management that many enthusiasts find worth the investment.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Noctua NH-U12S and the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB ultimately depends on your priorities. If you value superior cooling performance, minimal noise, and a well-regarded build quality, the Noctua NH-U12S is the better option, despite its higher price of C$79.95. Conversely, if you are budget-conscious and looking for a cooler that still delivers solid performance while incorporating RGB aesthetics, the Thermalright Burst Assassin at C$29.90 is an excellent choice.