Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is priced at C$24.29, while the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is available for C$29.90. This means that the Burst Assassin comes with a higher price tag of C$5.61 more than the Assassin X. When considering budget constraints, the Assassin X presents a more attractive option for users looking to maximize performance without breaking the bank. However, the additional cost of the Burst Assassin may be justified by its enhanced features.

Cooling Performance

Both the Thermalright Assassin X and the Burst Assassin promise effective cooling performance, featuring PWM fans that operate at a speed of 1550 RPM. Each cooler is rated for a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and maintains a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), ensuring a quiet computing experience. However, the Burst Assassin incorporates six nickel-plated copper heat pipes compared to the four heat pipes in the Assassin X, suggesting improved heat dissipation capabilities. This may make the Burst Assassin a better choice for users with high-performance CPUs that generate significant heat.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Thermalright Assassin X is compact, with dimensions of 125(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm and a weight of 0.645 kg. It is built with aluminum and features a metal fastener system for easy installation on both Intel and AMD platforms. In contrast, the Burst Assassin has a similar size but employs fin offset technology to avoid memory height limitations during installation. This design consideration could make the Burst Assassin more versatile in various setups, allowing users to incorporate taller RAM modules without compatibility issues.

Noise Levels

Both coolers are designed to operate quietly, with a noise level capped at ≤25.6 dB(A). This ensures that users can enjoy a peaceful computing environment while maintaining effective cooling. The Thermalright Burst Assassin goes a step further by incorporating soft silicone pads around its PWM fan for additional noise reduction. This focus on quiet operation may appeal to users who prioritise a silent build, making the Burst Assassin a potentially superior option in noise-sensitive environments.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Assassin X supports a wide range of Intel sockets (115X, 1200, 1700, 17XX) and AMD's AM4. It provides the necessary mounting tools for these platforms, making it a flexible choice for many users. The Burst Assassin enhances compatibility by supporting a broader range of Intel sockets, including LGA1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and 1851, as well as AMD's AM4 and AM5 sockets. This increased compatibility ensures that users with newer or more diverse hardware can easily install the Burst Assassin, potentially making it the better choice for future-proofing.

Installation Ease

Both the Thermalright Assassin X and Burst Assassin come with user-friendly installation processes, featuring metal fasteners for secure mounting. However, the Burst Assassin's detailed optimisation includes SS2 grommets that allow for easier installation and maintenance. This design consideration could save users time and hassle during setup or upgrades, making the Burst Assassin a more convenient option for those who frequently modify their systems.

Brand Reputation

Thermalright has established a solid reputation over its 20-plus years in the industry, recognised for its commitment to quality and innovation in computer cooling solutions. Both the Assassin X and Burst Assassin reflect the brand’s dedication to performance and reliability. Users can feel confident that either cooler will deliver dependable service, but the Burst Assassin's additional features may appeal more to enthusiasts and gamers who demand the utmost from their hardware.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler boils down to individual needs and budget. The Assassin X offers a cost-effective solution for those who prioritise price and basic cooling efficiency. In contrast, the Burst Assassin justifies its higher price with superior cooling capabilities, enhanced compatibility, and quieter operation, making it a more suitable choice for high-performance systems or users who frequently upgrade their setups. If budget is less of a concern and you seek optimal performance, the Burst Assassin is likely the better investment.