Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler Air with 4×6mm HeatPipes

Brand Overview

Both products hail from Thermalright, a Taiwanese brand with over 20 years of experience in the computer cooling market. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler Air demonstrate the company's commitment to performance and quality. While both coolers share a reputation for reliability, the Assassin X 120 SE offers a slightly lower price point at C$24.29 compared to the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark, priced at C$24.90. This minor price difference may influence budget-conscious consumers when choosing between the two.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE features dimensions of 125mm in length, 71mm in width, and 148mm in height, weighing 0.645 kg. Its aluminium construction includes metal fasteners compatible with both Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a solid build. In contrast, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark is slightly taller at 156mm but maintains a similar width of 73mm. Its all-aluminium fins maximize heat dissipation, providing an edge in thermal management. The unique anodic black brushed top cover of the Spirit 120 EVO also adds an aesthetic appeal that may attract users who value design alongside performance.

Cooling Efficiency

Cooling efficiency is a critical factor when comparing these products. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE employs four 6mm heat pipes and a PWM fan with a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM and a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This combination allows for effective cooling while maintaining a quiet operation. On the other hand, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark features a higher fan speed of 1850 RPM, which could potentially enhance cooling performance. This increase in speed may also lead to a slightly noisier operation. The efficiency of both coolers supports a thermal design power (TDP) of 125 to 225W for the X 120 SE and optimally improved performance for the Spirit 120 EVO.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers are designed for easy installation and broad compatibility with various CPU sockets. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE supports Intel sockets 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4, providing necessary mounting plates for installation. The Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark offers similar compatibility, supporting Intel LGA1150 through 1700 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets. However, users must note that installing on AM4/AM5 motherboards with the Spirit 120 EVO requires the original backplate that comes with the motherboard. This minor installation nuance may sway users toward the X 120 SE for an uncomplicated setup.

Noise Levels

Noise levels can significantly impact user experience, especially in quiet environments. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet, allowing users to enjoy a peaceful computing experience. In comparison, while the noise level of the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark is not explicitly stated, higher fan speeds typically correlate with increased noise. Therefore, users prioritizing a quiet operation may find the X 120 SE more appealing due to its established noise performance.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

When evaluating the price-to-performance ratio, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is priced at C$24.29 while the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark comes in at C$24.90. Despite the slight difference, both coolers offer competitive performance characteristics for their respective price points. The X 120 SE provides excellent value with its combination of effective cooling and quiet operation, while the Spirit 120 EVO Dark justifies its higher price with superior fan speed and design aesthetics. Consumers must consider whether the aesthetic enhancements of the Spirit 120 EVO warrant the additional cost.

User Experience

User experience is often dictated by performance, ease of installation, and noise levels. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE's combination of low noise output and effective cooling performance has garnered positive feedback from users who appreciate a quiet computing environment. Conversely, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark's design and higher fan speed have been well-received by those seeking maximum cooling efficiency, albeit with a potential trade-off in noise. Ultimately, personal preferences for aesthetics and specific use cases will shape the overall user experience for each product.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler Air ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. If you prioritise a quieter operation and slightly lower price, the Assassin X 120 SE is an excellent choice, providing effective cooling and compatibility for a range of platforms. However, if aesthetics and slightly superior cooling performance with a higher fan speed are more important to you, then the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark may be worth the extra C$0.61. Both coolers deliver solid performance, so consider your specific requirements before making a decision.