Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78

Product Overview

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is designed to deliver efficient cooling for high TDP CPUs, while the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 serves as a mounting upgrade kit for Noctua coolers. The Assassin X 120 SE is priced at C$24.29, while the NM-i17xx-MP78 is significantly cheaper at C$12.95. Each product targets different user needs, with the former focusing on cooling performance and the latter on compatibility and installation ease for specific CPU coolers.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is built to cool CPUs with a thermal design power (TDP) between 125W to 225W, making it suitable for higher-performance processors. It features a PWM fan that operates at 1550 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). In contrast, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not provide cooling on its own but instead enhances the usability of existing Noctua coolers for Intel's LGA1851 and LGA1700 sockets. Therefore, if cooling power is a priority, the Assassin X 120 SE stands out as the better choice.

Compatibility

The compatibility of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is broad, supporting both Intel and AMD platforms, specifically sockets 115X, 1200, 1700, and AM4. The cooler comes with necessary mounting hardware to accommodate these sockets, adding to its versatility. The Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is specifically designed to allow compatible Noctua coolers to be installed on Intel's LGA1851 and LGA1700 sockets. While the NM-i17xx-MP78 is effective for owners of Noctua coolers looking to upgrade, it is limited to specific Intel sockets, making the Assassin X 120 SE a more versatile option for users with different CPU brands.

Build Quality and Design

Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in computer accessories, ensures that the Assassin X 120 SE is made from high-quality materials, including aluminum for the heat sink and industrial-grade PBT + PC for the construction. The cooler boasts a height of 148mm, making it suitable for medium-sized computer cases. The Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 features a dedicated one-piece backplate with fixed struts for reliable installation. While both products exhibit attention to detail, the build quality of the Thermalright cooler is focused on delivering long-lasting performance under load, whereas the Noctua product is geared more towards enhancing compatibility.

Noise Levels

One of the standout features of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is its low noise operation, with a maximum level of ≤25.6 dB(A) at full fan speed. This makes it a suitable option for users who prioritise a quiet computing environment. The Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not have a noise rating since it is not a cooling unit itself, but it is designed to work with Noctua coolers, which are known for their quiet operation. If noise levels are crucial to your setup, the Assassin X 120 SE offers explicit specifications, whereas the NM-i17xx-MP78's noise performance will depend on the cooler it is paired with.

Price Point

At C$24.29, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is positioned as an affordable yet capable air cooler. In contrast, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is priced at a significantly lower C$12.95, which may appeal to budget-conscious consumers. However, it is essential to note that the NM-i17xx-MP78 is not a standalone cooling solution and requires a compatible Noctua cooler. Therefore, while the NM-i17xx-MP78 presents a lower price point, it might not offer the same value when considering the total cost of upgrading your cooling solution.

User Experience

Users of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE often cite its effective cooling performance and ease of installation as significant advantages. Its comprehensive support for various CPU sockets makes it a user-friendly option for different builds. The Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 has garnered positive feedback for its straightforward installation process, especially for those upgrading existing Noctua coolers. However, its limited compatibility means that it may not be the best choice for users looking to switch brands or those who do not already own a Noctua cooler.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require a standalone cooling solution with robust performance and compatibility across multiple platforms, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is the clear winner with its extensive support for both Intel and AMD sockets, as well as its efficient cooling capabilities. However, if you already own a compatible Noctua cooler and are looking for an upgrade to enhance its installation on newer Intel sockets, the NM-i17xx-MP78 is an economical choice that provides excellent value for its intended purpose.