Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology

Cooling Performance and Technology

The Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler offers superior cooling technology compared to the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler, mainly due to its liquid cooling design and advanced pump head. The Aqua Elite 120 V3 features a fourth generation pump head paired with a 120mm black aluminium fin heat sink plate, delivering high heat dissipation with low vibration and evaporation. It uses dual TL-C12B-S V2 fans running at 1500RPM±10%, producing up to 66.17 CFM airflow, which automatically adjusts via PWM to match CPU temperature. This combination ensures efficient and consistent cooling performance.

In contrast, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus relies on a traditional air-cooling setup with four 6mm heat pipes implementing AGHP technology to mitigate inverse gravity effects and enhance heat transfer. It uses S-FDB bearings for durability and quiet operation but lacks the liquid cooling benefits of the Aqua Elite. While the Assassin X is effective for air cooling, the Aqua Elite’s integrated pump and dual-fan liquid system generally provide better thermal management, especially under heavier loads.

Noise Levels and Fan Operation

When it comes to noise, the Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 is designed for quieter operation, with its fans running at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dBA. Its 120mm fans incorporate PWM control, enabling automatic speed adjustments based on CPU temperature, which helps reduce noise during lighter use. The dual-fan setup also balances airflow and sound output efficiently.

The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus uses quality S-FDB bearings to minimise fan blade shaking and noise, focusing on quiet operation during high cooling demands. However, the product description does not specify an exact noise level, which makes direct comparison difficult. Given the Aqua Elite’s explicit noise rating and PWM-controlled fans, it likely offers a quieter experience during everyday use, especially considering its liquid cooling reduces the need for fans to run at full speed continuously.

Aesthetics and Lighting Features

A major differentiator in aesthetics is the Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3’s ARGB lighting system. It features both the fan and water-cooling header equipped with 5V 3-pin ARGB sync support, enabling rich, customizable lighting effects that can be synchronized with motherboard lighting systems. The product supports a 1600W colour soft light effect and offers both manual and motherboard-synced lighting control, adding significant visual appeal to a PC build.

The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus does not mention any LED or lighting features, focusing purely on functional cooling performance. For users prioritizing aesthetics and RGB customizability, the Aqua Elite 120 V3 is the clear choice, providing both effective cooling and enhanced visual flair in a system build.

Compatibility and Installation

Both coolers boast broad socket compatibility, supporting AMD AM4 and AM5 as well as multiple Intel sockets including 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and more. The Aqua Elite 120 V3 also explicitly supports Intel 2011, 2066, and 1700 sockets, while the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus notes compatibility with Intel 17XX and AMD AM4/AM5 platforms.

Installation for the Aqua Elite 120 V3 is streamlined with pre-installed fans on the cold plate and bundled accessories, along with a fan hub to manage cable clutter and power limitations, making the setup neat and straightforward. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus includes metal fasteners and mounting plates for both Intel and AMD sockets, with video instructions available, ensuring a reliable installation process. Both products cater well to standard desktop builds, but the Aqua Elite’s pre-installed fans and fan hub provide a slight convenience advantage.

Build Quality and Durability

The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus emphasises durability with its use of aluminium cooling fins and four 6mm heat pipes featuring AGHP technology designed to counteract inverse gravity effects, ensuring consistent operation regardless of cooler orientation. Its fans are equipped with S-FDB bearings rated for industrial service life up to 20,000 hours, promising long-lasting quiet performance. The cooler construction uses industrial-strength PBT + PC materials with UL Class A safety insulation, highlighting a focus on build quality and safety.

The Aqua Elite 120 V3’s build quality benefits from the one-piece water-cooled cooler design, featuring a protective mesh water pipe and black aluminium fins. It is engineered for low evaporation and high lifespan, although specific durability ratings like fan bearing lifespan are not detailed. Both coolers are designed for longevity, but the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus provides more explicit information about industrial-grade materials and fan bearing lifespan.

Price and Value

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is significantly more affordable at C$25.90, compared to the Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler priced at C$41.75. This makes the Assassin X attractive for budget-conscious users seeking reliable air cooling without the premium of liquid cooling systems.

Considering the features, the Aqua Elite 120 V3 offers advanced liquid cooling, dual PWM fans with ARGB lighting, and convenient installation accessories, which justify its higher price. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus, while lacking liquid cooling and lighting features, delivers solid air cooling performance with durable construction at a lower cost. Buyers should weigh the need for advanced cooling and aesthetics against budget constraints.

Use Case Suitability

The Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 suits users prioritizing efficient cooling, quieter operation, and visually appealing builds, especially those planning to overclock or run demanding workloads that benefit from liquid cooling. Its ARGB lighting and dual-fan setup also appeal to gamers and PC enthusiasts who value customisation and aesthetics.

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is more suitable for users seeking a reliable, budget-friendly air cooling solution with durable build quality. It fits well in systems where moderate cooling is adequate without the need for liquid cooling or lighting effects. Its compatibility and solid materials make it a practical choice for everyday computing and midrange gaming setups.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus hinges on your cooling needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. The Aqua Elite 120 V3, priced at C$41.75, offers superior cooling through its liquid cooling system, quieter dual PWM fans at 25.6 dBA max noise, and advanced ARGB lighting, making it ideal for high-performance and visually striking builds.

On the other hand, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus costs C$25.90 and provides effective air cooling with durable materials, a long-lasting fan bearing life, and solid compatibility, making it a cost-effective choice for users with moderate cooling demands who do not require lighting effects. If budget is tight and you prefer a straightforward air cooler, the Assassin X is the practical option. If you want better cooling performance, quieter operation, and integrated lighting, the Aqua Elite is the better investment.