Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs Fleshy Leaf New CPU + GPU Cooling Fan Replacement for Acer Predator AN515-55 AN5

Brand Overview

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is manufactured by Thermalright, a company with over 20 years of experience in the cooling solutions market. This brand is known for its focus on research and development of computer accessories, especially CPU coolers, which have garnered a strong reputation both domestically and internationally. In contrast, the Fleshy Leaf New CPU + GPU Cooling Fan Replacement is produced by Fleshy Leaf, a brand that appears to focus on specific replacement parts for laptops, particularly the Acer Predator series. While Thermalright has a broader market presence, Fleshy Leaf targets a niche audience looking for specific components, making the brand recognition and trust in Thermalright generally higher in the wider PC gaming community.

Product Compatibility

The compatibility of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is quite impressive, as it supports Intel sockets 115X, 1200, 1700, and 17XX, along with AMD's AM4. This versatility allows it to fit a wide range of CPU models, making it a solid choice for users upgrading or building new systems. On the other hand, the Fleshy Leaf replacement fans are specifically designed for Acer Predator models, including the AN515-55, AN515-44, and several others in the AN5 series. This means that while the Fleshy Leaf can effectively replace fans in specific Acer laptops, it lacks the broader compatibility that the Thermalright offers for different CPU platforms.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE boasts an impressive airflow of 66.17 CFM (cubic feet per minute) at a fan speed of 1550 RPM, delivering powerful cooling performance while maintaining a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This performance is particularly valuable for gaming or high-performance PCs, where heat management is critical. In contrast, the cooling performance of the Fleshy Leaf fan replacement is not explicitly detailed in terms of airflow or RPM, which makes it difficult to assess its efficiency compared to the Thermalright. However, it does serve its purpose in cooling both the CPU and GPU within the specified Acer Predator models, which may be sufficient for typical gaming tasks.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE features a robust design with a heatsink made of aluminum, which aids in efficient heat dissipation. It is equipped with four 6mm heat pipes that apply advanced AGHP technique to optimize cooling performance regardless of the orientation of the CPU cooler. The cooler's S-FDB bearings are designed to ensure long service life, enhancing overall reliability. In contrast, the Fleshy Leaf fans focus on being a direct replacement part, which may not emphasize high-end materials or advanced design features. While both products serve their respective purposes well, the Thermalright's higher-end construction may lead to better long-term performance.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is priced at C$25.59, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to enhance their CPU cooling capabilities without breaking the bank. The Fleshy Leaf fan replacement, however, is priced higher at C$31.55. This price difference of C$5.96 may be attributed to the dual-fan setup included in the Fleshy Leaf package, which offers both CPU and GPU cooling solutions. Nevertheless, when considering price-to-performance ratios, the Thermalright provides excellent value for its advanced cooling technology and compatibility.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a crucial factor in cooling solutions, especially for those who prioritize a quiet computing environment. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE operates at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is impressively low for a CPU cooler providing such airflow. This makes it suitable for gaming setups where noise can be distracting. The Fleshy Leaf fan replacement does not specify its noise levels, which leaves a gap in information. Users of the Acer Predator series may find the replacement fans adequate, but without specific noise ratings, it’s challenging to determine their performance in this regard compared to the Thermalright.

Installation Process

The installation of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is designed to be user-friendly, with included metal fasteners compatible with both Intel and AMD platforms. This thoughtful design supports seamless integration into various systems, making it a preferred choice for DIY enthusiasts. Conversely, the Fleshy Leaf cooling fans are intended for replacement in specified Acer models, which may simplify the installation process if the user is familiar with their laptop's internals. However, the limited scope of compatibility may also mean that those unfamiliar with laptop repairs could face challenges in installation.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler and the Fleshy Leaf New CPU + GPU Cooling Fan Replacement, the choice largely depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for a versatile CPU cooler that provides excellent airflow, low noise, and broad compatibility across various CPU platforms, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is the better option at C$25.59. However, if you own an Acer Predator laptop and require a replacement for both CPU and GPU fans, the Fleshy Leaf replacement at C$31.55 may be more suitable, despite its higher price and less documented performance. Ultimately, for general PC builds or upgrades, the Thermalright's performance and quality make it the standout choice.