Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX 240mm

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is a competitive option in the CPU cooling market, priced at C$24.29. This air cooler is designed for efficiency and quiet performance, making it suitable for a range of builds. With dimensions of 125mm x 71mm x 148mm and a weight of 0.645kg, it fits well in medium-sized computer cases. It features a PWM fan capable of rotating at 1550 RPM, delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). The cooler also supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, providing versatility for different systems.

Overview of be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX 240mm

The be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX 240mm is a liquid cooling solution priced significantly higher at C$118.12. This cooler boasts a dual 120mm PWM fan system that not only provides high air pressure but also features vibrant ARGB illumination. It is designed for quiet operation thanks to its doubly decoupled PWM pump, minimising vibration. The unit is compatible with a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, including modern platforms like AM5 and LGA 1700. Additionally, it includes an easy-to-access refill port, enhancing its longevity and usability.

Cooling Efficiency

In terms of cooling efficiency, the be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX 240mm is likely to outperform the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE. The liquid cooling design of the be quiet! unit allows for greater thermal management, especially under heavy loads. While the Thermalright cooler can handle a thermal design power (TDP) of 125 to 225W, the be quiet! cooler's design generally excels in maintaining lower temperatures during extended usage. This could be particularly beneficial for users who engage in overclocking or run resource-intensive applications.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is rated at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), making it a quiet option for air cooling. The be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX is designed specifically for minimal noise with its decoupled PWM pump, though specific dB ratings are not provided. In environments where silence is paramount, users might find the Thermalright cooler slightly more appealing due to its stated noise level, particularly for builds focused on silence rather than maximum cooling.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers offer solid compatibility with various Intel and AMD socket types, making installation straightforward. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE supports Intel sockets 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4, while the be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX supports a wider range of sockets including Intel 1700, 1200, and AMD AM5. The provided metal fasteners for the Thermalright cooler ensure a secure fit, while the easy-access refill port on the be quiet! cooler adds convenience for maintenance. The broader socket compatibility of the be quiet! unit might make it a more future-proof choice for those planning to upgrade their systems.

Aesthetics and Design

In terms of aesthetics, the be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX clearly stands out with its ARGB illumination and sleek all-black design, which can enhance the visual appeal of any build. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE, while functional, does not offer the same level of visual flair, focusing instead on performance. Users who prioritise a visually striking build may favour the be quiet! cooler for its modern and stylish appearance, while those more concerned with raw performance might opt for the simpler design of the Thermalright unit.

Price Consideration

Price is a significant factor when comparing these two coolers. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is priced at C$24.29, making it an affordable choice for budget-conscious builders. In contrast, the be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX comes in at C$118.12, which represents a substantial investment in cooling technology. The price difference reflects the distinct cooling technologies employed; however, users must weigh whether the additional performance and features of the be quiet! cooler justify the higher cost.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX 240mm hinges on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable, effective air cooler that operates quietly, the Thermalright Assassin X is a solid choice. However, if you require superior cooling performance, especially for demanding applications, and are willing to invest more, the be quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX offers advanced features and aesthetics that may better suit your build. Ultimately, both products cater to different user preferences and requirements in the realm of CPU cooling.