Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler 45mm Height - 6 Heat Pipes

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is priced at C$24.59, while the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler is notably more expensive at C$49.99. This price difference of C$25.40 could be significant for budget-conscious consumers. Although the upHere cooler offers a compact design suitable for tight spaces, potential buyers should weigh whether the extra cost aligns with their cooling needs and system requirements.

Design and Size

The design of the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB is larger, measuring 120(L)x73(W)x148(H)mm. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 boasts a low-profile design at just 45mm in height, making it ideal for mini ITX cases. This compactness allows the upHere cooler to fit seamlessly in smaller builds without sacrificing performance. If space is a critical factor for your setup, the upHere model's reduced height may be a decisive advantage.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is where the two products diverge significantly. The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB can handle a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 125 to 235W, indicating its capability to manage high-performance CPUs. On the other hand, the upHere H45K6 is designed for a maximum TDP of 150W. While both coolers can maintain stable temperatures under load, the broader TDP range of the Thermalright model offers more versatility for high-end processors.

Fan Specifications

The fan specifications further highlight the differences between the two products. The Thermalright Assassin King features a 120mm PWM fan capable of reaching a speed of 1550 RPM and an airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). In contrast, the upHere H45K6 comes with a slimmer 90mm PWM fan that operates between 800 to 2800 RPM, generating a maximum airflow of 35.34 CFM at a noise level of ≤27 dB(A). While the upHere fan provides a quieter operation, the Thermalright's larger fan delivers superior airflow, making it more effective for cooling in demanding scenarios.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers offer broad compatibility with various CPU sockets, but their installation processes differ slightly. The Thermalright Assassin King includes mounting options for Intel and AMD platforms, supporting sockets like 115X, 1200, 1700, and AM4/AM5. Similarly, the upHere H45K6 also supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring versatility. However, the upHere cooler's low-profile design guarantees 100% memory clearance, making installation in tight spaces simpler and preventing potential interference with RAM and other components.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics can play a significant role in a user's choice of CPU cooler, and here, the Thermalright Assassin King has the edge with its colourful ARGB lighting effects. This feature not only enhances the visual appeal of a build but also allows users to customize lighting to match their setups. The upHere H45K6 does not mention any RGB features, which may be a consideration for those looking to create a visually cohesive system.

Durability and Lifespan

Durability is another important aspect when selecting a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Assassin King is designed with S-FDB bearings, ensuring a long service life that can reach up to 20,000 hours. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 claims a lifespan of 40,000 hours for its fan, suggesting a potentially longer operational duration. While both products are built for longevity, the upHere cooler's extended lifespan may provide additional peace of mind for users seeking reliability over time.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB and the upHere H45K6 ultimately depends on your specific needs and system constraints. If you're working with limited space and require a low-profile cooling solution, the upHere model is an excellent option, albeit at a higher price of C$49.99. However, for those looking for greater cooling performance and versatility, especially with high-TDP processors, the Thermalright Assassin King at C$24.59 offers a compelling value with its superior airflow and ARGB lighting. When making your decision, consider your budget, the physical space available in your build, and the level of cooling performance required for your CPU.