Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler is priced at C$41.75, while the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler comes in at a more budget-friendly C$29.90. This difference of C$11.85 could be significant for users looking to save on their cooling solutions. While both coolers offer advanced cooling technologies, the Aqua Elite's liquid cooling mechanism typically provides better thermal performance, justifying its higher price point for users who prioritise maximum cooling efficiency. On the other hand, the Burst Assassin’s lower cost makes it an appealing option for those on a tighter budget or for users who may not require the extreme cooling capabilities of liquid cooling.

Cooling Performance

The Aqua Elite boasts a superior cooling design with a fourth-generation pump head and a dual-fan setup that can deliver airflow of up to 66.17 CFM. This should, in theory, provide better heat dissipation compared to the Burst Assassin, which also features a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM but uses a single tower design with a single TL-C12C-S fan. Although both coolers are rated for similar airflow, the Aqua Elite’s liquid cooling system typically results in lower temperatures under load, making it more suitable for high-performance CPUs or overclocking scenarios. Thus, while both products perform admirably, the Aqua Elite is likely to maintain cooler temperatures more effectively.

Noise Levels

Both coolers are designed with noise reduction in mind, operating at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dBA. This means that users can expect a quiet operation from both the Aqua Elite and the Burst Assassin. However, the Aqua Elite’s dual fan setup with PWM functionality may allow it to adjust its fan speeds dynamically based on CPU temperature, potentially resulting in quieter performance under lower loads. The Burst Assassin, while also employing PWM technology, may not provide the same level of adaptability due to its single fan design. Therefore, for users sensitive to noise, both options are quiet, but the Aqua Elite may have a slight edge in versatility.

Installation Process

The Aqua Elite is praised for its convenient installation, coming pre-assembled with the fan already attached to the cold row and including a fan hub for cable management. It supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including both AMD and Intel platforms. The Burst Assassin also offers easy installation, featuring a design that avoids memory height limitations and includes compatible mounting plates for various CPU sockets. While both coolers promise simplicity, the Aqua Elite’s more comprehensive installation features might appeal more to users who prefer a hassle-free setup process.

Aesthetics and Lighting

Both coolers feature ARGB lighting, but the Aqua Elite excels with its ability to sync the fan and water-cooling header with a motherboard’s ARGB settings. This allows for vibrant lighting effects and colour customisation, which can add an aesthetic appeal to a gaming rig. The Burst Assassin also offers ARGB lighting; however, it lacks the same level of synchronisation and customisation options. For users who value the visual aspect of their builds, the Aqua Elite is likely the preferable choice due to its advanced lighting capabilities.

Durability and Materials

The Aqua Elite features a protective mesh water pipe and a robust design aimed at enhancing longevity, which is typical for liquid coolers. In contrast, the Burst Assassin utilises six nickel-plated anti-oxidation pure copper heat pipes for durability. Both products are built with quality materials that aim to ensure a long service life, but the Aqua Elite's design elements suggest it has a focus on preventing wear from liquid evaporation over time. Therefore, users prioritising durability may find the Aqua Elite to be a more reliable long-term investment, especially in high-performance scenarios.

Compatibility

The Aqua Elite supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/2011/2066/1700, making it highly versatile. Similarly, the Burst Assassin is compatible with both AMD and Intel sockets, but it specifically notes that AMD installations require the use of the original motherboard backplane. While both coolers are compatible with a wide variety of systems, the Aqua Elite's additional socket support and straightforward installation process may provide a slight edge for users with diverse or high-end builds.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Aqua Elite 120 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your cooling needs and budget. If you require superior cooling performance, advanced lighting options, and a more comprehensive installation experience, the Aqua Elite at C$41.75 is likely the better investment. However, if you are looking for a cost-effective solution that still delivers solid performance and quiet operation, the Burst Assassin priced at C$29.90 offers great value. Each cooler has its strengths, so consider your specific requirements before making a decision.