Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB and Thermalright Royal Pretor 130

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB and Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 are both exceptional CPU coolers from the same brand, catering to different performance needs and budgets. The Assassin X 120 SE ARGB is priced at C$24.29, making it an affordable option for gamers and PC builders, while the Royal Pretor 130 comes in at C$66.90, targeting users seeking enhanced cooling efficiency and premium features.

Both coolers leverage advanced technology to manage CPU temperatures, but they differ in their construction and capabilities, which may influence your purchasing decision based on your specific requirements and budget.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB is compact and practical, measuring 125mm in length, 71mm in width, and 148mm in height. It features an aluminum heat sink with metal fasteners compatible with Intel and AMD platforms. The cooler weighs 0.645 kg, ensuring a sturdy build while remaining lightweight for easy installation.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 boasts a more substantial build, with dimensions of 130mm by 140mm by 158mm. It incorporates a combination of aluminum and copper for optimal heat dissipation, and the additional height accommodates a dual-tower radiator design. This cooler is also equipped with S-FDB V2.0 bearings, promising a long service life. The sturdier construction of the Royal Pretor 130 may attract users looking for enhanced durability and performance.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 stands out with its 6x6mm pure copper heat pipes, designed to efficiently manage CPU heat dissipation. This model is engineered to handle demanding workloads with superior thermal conductivity, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs.

Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB utilises 4x6mm heat pipes and is rated for a TDP of 125 to 225W, which is sufficient for moderate gaming and general use. Its 120mm PWM fan operates at a speed of 1550 RPM, delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). For users with mid-range CPUs, the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB offers efficient cooling at a more accessible price point.

Noise Levels

Noise levels play a crucial role in selecting a CPU cooler, especially for users prioritising a quiet computing experience. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB operates at a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), making it a great choice for those who wish to keep their system quiet during operation.

In contrast, while the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 does not specify its noise levels, its design incorporates soft silicone corner pads that reduce vibration and noise. This feature is indicative of a focus on maintaining a quiet environment, but without concrete noise specifications, it’s harder to make a direct comparison. Users sensitive to noise may prefer the documented performance of the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB.

Compatibility

Compatibility is an essential factor when choosing a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB supports a variety of CPU socket types, including Intel’s LGA 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD’s AM4. This broad compatibility ensures that it can be used with many mainstream processors.

The Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 offers even wider compatibility, supporting Intel sockets from LGA 1150 to LGA 2066 and AMD’s AM4 and AM5. This extensive compatibility makes the Royal Pretor 130 a versatile option for users with a wide range of CPU architectures, especially those looking to future-proof their builds.

Installation Process

Both coolers are designed with ease of installation in mind, but the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 includes specific mounting grommets that simplify the process for various CPU sockets. For AMD installations, it requires the original motherboard backplane, which is a common practice for many coolers.

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB also provides corresponding mounting plates or fasteners for different CPU platforms, allowing for a straightforward installation. While both coolers are user-friendly, the Royal Pretor 130’s additional features may be more appealing to users seeking a more seamless setup experience.

Aesthetics

In terms of aesthetics, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB features addressable RGB lighting, which allows for a customizable lighting experience, appealing to gamers and PC enthusiasts who want to enhance the visual aspect of their builds.

The Royal Pretor 130, while not specifically mentioned to have RGB features, boasts an elegant design with a twin-tower radiator that enhances its premium look. Its build quality and materials lend it a professional appearance, making it suitable for both gaming rigs and workstations.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable, compact cooler with decent performance for a mid-range setup, the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB at C$24.29 is a solid choice. However, if you require superior cooling capabilities for high-performance CPUs and are willing to invest more, the Royal Pretor 130 at C$66.90 offers advanced features and better heat dissipation.

Both products deliver excellent quality, but your decision should align with your performance requirements and budget constraints.