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

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is priced at C$25.59, making it a budget-friendly option within the CPU cooling market. This cooler is designed to fit medium-sized computer cases and boasts dimensions of 125(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm. Weighing 0.645 kg, it’s relatively lightweight, which can be an advantage for those concerned about heavy components. The cooler features a PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, achieving an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This combination of efficiency and quiet operation makes it suitable for users looking for effective cooling without excessive noise.

Overview of the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White CPU Cooler is significantly more expensive, priced at C$95.14. It features a larger footprint, measuring 130x140x158mm, and weighs more due to its design, which includes a combination of aluminum and copper materials. This cooler utilizes advanced 7x6mm pure copper heat pipes that provide enhanced heat dissipation compared to the Assassin X 120 SE. The Royal Pretor's dual fans operate at a higher maximum speed of 2150 RPM, resulting in a greater airflow of 69 CFM and a slightly higher noise level of ≤28.3 dB(A). This cooler is designed for users demanding high-performance cooling solutions.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White clearly outperforms the Assassin X 120 SE. The Royal Pretor’s advanced 7 heat pipe technology enhances its heat dissipation capabilities, making it suitable for high-TDP CPUs. The maximum airflow of 69 CFM is higher than the Assassin X 120 SE's 66.17 CFM, providing more effective cooling under load. Additionally, the Royal Pretor’s construction with pure copper heat pipes allows for better heat transfer from the CPU, further enhancing its cooling efficiency. For users who push their systems hard, the Royal Pretor is likely the better choice for maintaining lower temperatures.

Noise Levels and Operation

When it comes to noise levels, both coolers are designed with quiet operation in mind, but there are differences. The Assassin X 120 SE operates at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), making it an excellent choice for users who prioritise a quiet environment. In contrast, the Royal Pretor has a slightly higher noise level of ≤28.3 dB(A) due to its more powerful fans. While both coolers are relatively quiet, those who are sensitive to noise might prefer the Assassin X 120 SE for its lower operational sound. However, the trade-off is that the Royal Pretor may provide superior cooling at slightly higher noise levels.

Installation and Compatibility

Both the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE and the Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White are compatible with a range of Intel and AMD sockets, offering flexibility for various builds. The Assassin X 120 SE supports Intel sockets 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4, while the Royal Pretor accommodates a wider range of sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1851/1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/2011/2066. This means that the Royal Pretor is likely to fit into more systems, making it a more versatile option for users who may change their CPU platforms in the future. Installation for both coolers is facilitated by provided mounting hardware, but the Royal Pretor's additional features may require a bit more space and care during setup.

Aesthetic Appeal

In terms of aesthetics, the Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White stands out with its sleek and modern design, complemented by a white finish that can enhance the visual appeal of a build. The dual fans and the overall design contribute to a more refined look compared to the more utilitarian design of the Assassin X 120 SE. While the Assassin X 120 SE is practical and functional, it does not have the same level of visual flair as the Royal Pretor. For users who value aesthetics alongside performance, the Royal Pretor may provide a more appealing option for their build.

Price Consideration

The price difference between the two coolers is significant, with the Assassin X 120 SE retailing for C$25.59, while the Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White is priced at C$95.14. This difference of C$69.55 is substantial, especially for budget-conscious consumers. Users must weigh the performance benefits of the Royal Pretor against their budget constraints. If you’re building a system with high-performance requirements, the investment in the Royal Pretor may be justified. However, for those with lower cooling needs or tighter budgets, the Assassin X 120 SE offers excellent value for the price.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE and the Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you seek a cost-effective solution for moderate cooling needs, the Assassin X 120 SE is an excellent choice due to its lower price point and quiet operation. However, if you require superior cooling performance for high-TDP CPUs and are willing to invest more, the Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White is the better option, offering advanced technology and greater airflow. Consider your current and future cooling requirements to make the best decision for your build.