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

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White CPU Cooler are products from Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in computer accessory development. This brand has established a solid reputation in both domestic and international markets, particularly among gaming enthusiasts. While both products bear the same brand, they cater to different user needs and price points, with the Assassin X priced at C$24.29 and the Royal Pretor at C$95.14, reflecting their respective features and cooling capabilities.

Cooling Performance

The Royal Pretor boasts a superior cooling performance, featuring a 7x6mm pure copper heat pipe design that efficiently manages CPU heat dissipation. The advanced technology allows it to handle extreme thermal loads, making it ideal for high-performance setups. In comparison, the Assassin X utilises a 4x6mm heat pipe configuration and is suitable for CPUs with a thermal design power (TDP) of 125 to 225W. While both coolers are designed to manage significant heat, the Royal Pretor's advanced materials and design give it an edge in high-demand scenarios, with its fans achieving a maximum air flow of 81.88 CFM compared to the Assassin X’s 66.17 CFM.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical consideration for many users, and both coolers strive to maintain quiet operation. The Assassin X has a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), providing a relatively quiet cooling solution for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. On the other hand, the Royal Pretor can reach noise levels of up to 28.3 dB(A) under maximum load. Although both options include features designed to minimise noise, the Assassin X is slightly quieter, which may appeal to users prioritising silence in their builds.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of dimensions, the Assassin X measures 125x71x148mm and weighs 0.645kg, while the Royal Pretor is larger at 130x140x158mm. The Royal Pretor’s dual-tower design, combined with aluminum and copper materials, provides a more extensive heat dissipation area, enhancing its cooling efficiency. The overall white aesthetic of the Royal Pretor may also attract users looking to match their cooler with colourful case designs. Both products feature high-quality materials, but the Royal Pretor’s design may offer a more premium look and feel.

Fan Specifications

The fans included with each cooler differ significantly in terms of specifications. The Assassin X features a standard PWM fan with a speed of 1550 RPM and a maximum air flow of 66.17 CFM. Conversely, the Royal Pretor comes with dual fans that operate at higher speeds, up to 2150 RPM and 1750 RPM, achieving a combined air flow of 69 CFM and 81.88 CFM. This means that the Royal Pretor not only has a higher maximum fan speed but also provides better air flow, making it more suited for users who push their systems to the limit.

Compatibility

Compatibility is essential when choosing a CPU cooler. The Assassin X supports a range of Intel sockets including 115X, 1200, 1700, and 17XX, as well as AMD’s AM4 platform. The Royal Pretor offers even broader compatibility with support for AMD’s AM4 and AM5 sockets, alongside a wider array of Intel sockets, including LGA 1851, 1700, and older 115x series sockets. This makes the Royal Pretor a more versatile option for users considering a future upgrade or multiple builds.

Installation Ease

Both coolers come with mounting kits designed for easy installation. The Assassin X is equipped with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a straightforward setup process. The Royal Pretor also includes a comprehensive mounting kit and instructions, making it accessible for users, regardless of their experience level. However, the Royal Pretor's instructions and additional mounting grommets offer an advantage, especially for those unfamiliar with cooler installations.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB and the Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White CPU Cooler hinges on your specific needs and budget. The Assassin X is a solid choice for budget-conscious users seeking efficient cooling at C$24.29, ideal for standard gaming and day-to-day tasks. In contrast, the Royal Pretor offers superior performance, advanced technology, and a more premium design for C$95.14, making it better suited for high-performance setups. If you are after maximum cooling efficiency and plan to push your CPU hard, the Royal Pretor is the clear winner. However, for those looking to save money while still enjoying reliable cooling, the Assassin X remains a commendable option.