Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black - 6.4" Height Black Dual-Tower Air CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB and ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB is a compact yet effective CPU air cooler, while the ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black offers a larger dual-tower design for enhanced cooling capabilities. The price difference is notable, with the Thermalright priced at C$24.29 and the ID-COOLING at C$110.92. This significant price gap suggests that the ID-COOLING may offer additional features or performance enhancements that could justify the cost.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB features a compact design with dimensions of 125(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm, making it suitable for medium-sized computer cases. Its sleek aluminium construction is complemented by efficient heat dissipation capabilities. In contrast, the ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black boasts a dual-tower design with a height of 6.4 inches (approximately 162.56mm), allowing for more extensive cooling potential. Its all-black aesthetic is designed to blend seamlessly into dark-themed builds. The build quality of both coolers appears robust, but the dual-tower configuration of the ID-COOLING might provide better overall performance.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB features a single 120mm PWM fan that delivers an airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). Conversely, the ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black is equipped with two 140mm FDB fans, capable of producing a maximum airflow of 98.6 CFM, albeit with a slightly higher noise level of 33.5 dB(A). The increased airflow from the ID-COOLING suggests more effective heat dissipation under load, making it potentially more suitable for high-performance CPUs.

Installation Process

Both coolers promise a hassle-free installation process for Intel and AMD sockets, making them accessible for users of varying skill levels. However, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB provides specific compatibility for Intel sockets 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4, while the ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black supports a broader range of Intel sockets, including LGA2011, 1700, and AM5, alongside AMD AM4. This wider compatibility may be advantageous for users looking to upgrade systems without worrying about cooler compatibility.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an essential consideration for many users. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet and ideal for quiet computing environments. In contrast, the ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black, while still capable of delivering excellent cooling, reaches a maximum noise level of 33.5 dB(A). This indicates that, while it may perform better cooling-wise, it could be less suitable for users prioritizing a silent operation.

Heat Dissipation Technology

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB utilises four 6mm heat pipes that leverage the AGHP technique, effectively managing the inverse gravity effect for optimal thermal transfer. It supports a TDP ranging from 125W to 225W. Meanwhile, the ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black features seven Ф6mm copper heat pipes, designed for efficient heat absorption and transfer. The combination of more heat pipes and a dual-tower design in the ID-COOLING cooler likely results in superior heat dissipation, making it more effective for overclocked or high-TDP CPUs.

Aesthetic and Additional Features

Aesthetically, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB boasts RGB lighting, making it an appealing choice for users seeking a visually striking build. On the other hand, the ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black's all-black design is understated yet elegant, fitting seamlessly into many setups. The ID-COOLING also highlights its FDB fans, which enhance operational stability and reduce noise, although it does not offer RGB features. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards one aesthetic over the other.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB and the ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you're looking for an affordable, compact cooler that delivers reliable performance with lower noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB at C$24.29 is an excellent choice. However, if you require superior cooling performance, especially for high-TDP CPUs, and are willing to invest more for features like dual fans and enhanced heat dissipation, then the ID-COOLING FROZN A720 Black at C$110.92 stands out as the better option.