Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is designed for users seeking efficient cooling in a compact form factor. This air cooler features dimensions of 125mm x 71mm x 148mm and weighs 0.645 kg, making it suitable for medium-sized computer cases. Priced at C$24.29, it offers an attractive entry point for budget-conscious consumers looking to enhance their CPU cooling without breaking the bank.

With an effective airflow of 66.17 CFM and a noise level capped at 25.6 dB(A), the Assassin X 120 SE balances performance and quiet operation. It employs a four-heat pipe design that utilises the AGHP technique, ensuring optimal heat dissipation. The cooler supports a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, making it versatile for different builds.

Overview of Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler is a high-performance liquid cooling solution priced at C$71.90. This cooler features a full copper mirror plane base and a 360mm aluminum fin cold plate, aimed at achieving superior cooling efficiency. With a maximum fan speed of 5300 RPM and an airflow capacity of 72.37 CFM, it can effectively manage the thermal output of high-performance CPUs.

In addition to its cooling prowess, the Frozen Notte includes three PWM fans that operate at sound levels of up to 27.7 dB(A). The ARGB lighting features provide aesthetic appeal, allowing users to synchronise lighting effects with their motherboard. This model supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring extensive compatibility across various setups.

Cooling Performance

When comparing cooling performance, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 outshines the Assassin X 120 SE. The Frozen Notte features a maximum airflow of 72.37 CFM, compared to the Assassin X's 66.17 CFM. Additionally, the water cooling system can dissipate heat more effectively, particularly for high-TDP CPUs, thanks to its larger surface area and higher fan speeds.

The Frozen Notte’s cooling efficiency is further enhanced by its 360mm radiator, which offers more contact area for heat dissipation. In contrast, the Assassin X relies on air cooling, which can struggle to maintain optimal temperatures under heavy loads. Therefore, for users requiring robust cooling for overclocking or performance-intensive tasks, the Frozen Notte is the clear winner.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE operates at a quieter maximum of 25.6 dB(A), making it an appealing choice for users who prioritise silence. Conversely, the Frozen Notte can reach up to 27.7 dB(A) at full load, which is slightly noisier yet still relatively quiet for a water cooling solution.

While both coolers are designed to minimise noise, the Assassin X provides a more tranquil environment, particularly suitable for quiet builds or environments where noise is a concern. Users with high-performance systems that generate more heat may find the slightly higher noise levels of the Frozen Notte acceptable given its superior cooling capabilities.

Installation Process

The installation process differs significantly between the two coolers. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE comes with metal fasteners compatible with various Intel and AMD platforms, simplifying the installation process. Its compact size allows for easier manoeuvrability within tighter cases.

On the other hand, the Frozen Notte, while compatible with a broad range of sockets, requires more space due to its larger radiator and pump assembly. The recommended chassis width for the Frozen Notte is over 250mm, which may limit compatibility with smaller cases. Therefore, for users with space constraints, the Assassin X may be the more manageable option.

Aesthetic Appeal

When considering aesthetic appeal, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 wins with its ARGB lighting features. The ability to synchronise the LED lighting with the motherboard allows for a visually striking build, which can be a unique selling point for gamers and PC enthusiasts.

In contrast, while the Assassin X features some ARGB elements, it does not offer the same level of lighting customisation or visual impact as the Frozen Notte. Users looking to create a visually stunning rig may prefer the latter for its vibrant and dynamic lighting effects.

Price Consideration

Price is a significant factor when comparing the two products. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is priced at C$24.29, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers or those building entry-level systems. Its affordability does not compromise its performance for medium workloads.

In contrast, the Frozen Notte 360 is priced higher at C$71.90. While it offers superior cooling performance and additional features, the price increase may not be justifiable for users who do not require such capabilities. Therefore, for those with tighter budgets or less demanding needs, the Assassin X presents a compelling option.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific requirements. If you're looking for an economical air cooler that provides adequate performance in a compact design, the Assassin X is an excellent choice. However, for users with high-performance CPUs or who engage in overclocking, the superior cooling capabilities and aesthetic features of the Frozen Notte make it worth the investment. Therefore, assess your cooling needs, noise tolerance, installation space, and budget to make the best decision for your build.