Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview

When it comes to choosing a CPU cooler, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB offer two compelling options. Both products are designed to provide efficient cooling while maintaining low noise levels. However, they differ in construction and features.

The Assassin King is priced at C$24.59, while the Burst Assassin is slightly more expensive at C$29.90. This price difference reflects their unique specifications and performance capabilities. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of both coolers play a crucial role in their overall performance. The Assassin King features a traditional single tower design with a height of 148mm, making it suitable for medium-sized cases. It is built with aluminum materials and comes equipped with metal fasteners for Intel and AMD platforms.

On the other hand, the Burst Assassin also employs a single tower design but is enhanced with six nickel-plated anti-oxidation pure copper heat pipes, which improve heat dissipation. This cooler's innovative fin offset technology allows it to avoid interference with RAM height, making it a versatile choice for various setups.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is key when evaluating CPU coolers. The Assassin King supports a thermal design power (TDP) range of 125 to 235W, effectively managing heat generated by high-performance CPUs. Its PWM fan operates at a speed of 1550 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a low noise level of 25.6 dB(A).

In comparison, the Burst Assassin also features a PWM fan with the same specs, including a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). However, its upgraded AGHP 4th generation technology with larger 6x6mm heat pipes allows it to handle heat more efficiently than the Assassin King, making it a potentially better option for overclocking enthusiasts.

Noise Levels

Both the Assassin King and the Burst Assassin are designed for quiet operation, with noise levels capped at 25.6 dB(A). This rating ensures that users can enjoy a low-noise environment even under heavy loads.

The Assassin King achieves this through its efficient cooling design, while the Burst Assassin employs soft silicone pads around its PWM fan for additional noise reduction. Thus, while both coolers are quiet, the Burst Assassin may have the edge in minimising operational sound.

Compatibility

Compatibility is essential to ensure a smooth installation process. The Assassin King supports a wide range of CPU socket types, including Intel 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4/AM5. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile choice for many users.

The Burst Assassin also supports a variety of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5. It comes with the added note that AMD installations require the use of the original motherboard backplane. This slight variation in installation requirements may influence your decision depending on your specific setup.

Aesthetics and RGB Lighting

Aesthetics can greatly influence the choice of a CPU cooler, especially for gamers and PC builders who value visual appeal. Both the Assassin King and Burst Assassin feature ARGB lighting that enhances the overall look of your build.

The Assassin King's ARGB effects are described as "colorful and gorgeous," adding a vibrant touch to any setup. Meanwhile, the Burst Assassin includes a 5V 3PIN ARGB light interface, allowing for integration with other RGB components. This feature may appeal more to users who want synchronisation across their build for a unified aesthetic.

Price and Value

Price is a significant factor when choosing between the two coolers. The Assassin King is priced at C$24.59, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking for solid performance without breaking the bank.

In contrast, the Burst Assassin comes in at C$29.90. This higher price reflects its advanced features, such as better heat dissipation and noise reduction technologies. If you are willing to invest a little more for enhanced performance and aesthetics, the Burst Assassin may provide better overall value.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, both the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB offer excellent cooling solutions with distinct advantages. The Assassin King is ideal for budget-conscious users who still want dependable performance. However, if you seek better heat dissipation, compatibility with taller RAM, and enhanced aesthetics, the Burst Assassin is worth the extra investment. Ultimately, your choice should be guided by your specific cooling needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.