Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology vs be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX 240mm

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is a compact air cooler, while the be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX stands out as a larger AIO liquid cooler. The price difference is also significant, with the Thermalright costing C$25.90 compared to the be Quiet! at C$118.12. This initial comparison highlights the thermal solutions available for users looking to enhance their CPU performance.

Thermalright has established itself with over 20 years in the market, focusing on various computer cooling solutions. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus features four heat pipes designed using AGHP technology, which ensures efficient cooling regardless of orientation. On the other hand, be Quiet! is known for its effective cooling solutions, and the Pure Loop 2 FX features a 240mm radiator paired with two high-speed PWM fans, providing high air pressure and vibrant ARGB illumination.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX has a distinct advantage due to its liquid cooling design and larger radiator size. With a dual-fan setup, it delivers superior airflow, essential for high-performance CPUs, especially during demanding tasks.

In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus, while effective for its compact size, may not match the cooling capacity of a 240mm liquid cooler. It utilises four heat pipes and high-quality S-FDB bearings, allowing for adequate cooling while keeping noise levels low. However, for users with high TDP CPUs or those planning to overclock, the be Quiet! will likely provide a more robust thermal solution.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a significant factor for many users, especially when building a quiet PC. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus features S-FDB bearings designed to minimise noise production while providing maximum cooling performance. This design enables the cooler to operate quietly, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments.

The be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX is also designed for quiet operation, featuring a doubly decoupled PWM pump that reduces vibration and noise. Although both coolers are engineered for low noise, the operational environment and specific build configurations may affect overall noise levels. Users seeking silent performance will appreciate the emphasis both brands place on minimizing sound.

Installation and Compatibility

Installation and compatibility are crucial for ensuring a hassle-free setup. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including Intel 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4/AM5. This extensive compatibility ensures that users can easily integrate it into most systems.

Conversely, the be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX also supports a variety of sockets for both Intel and AMD, including the latest AM5 and Intel 1700. Additionally, it features an easy-to-access refill port for coolant, which simplifies maintenance over time. While both coolers offer good compatibility, the ease of installation and maintenance features of the Pure Loop may appeal more to users looking for long-term usability.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics play a significant role in many PC builds, and both coolers offer distinct visual appeal. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus showcases a more traditional air cooler design with a focus on performance and functionality. Its solid construction is complemented by a sleek appearance that can fit well in various builds.

On the other hand, the be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX takes aesthetics a step further with its ARGB illumination and an all-black design enhanced by aluminum accents. This cooler not only performs well but adds a stylish touch to any build, making it an attractive option for users who prefer a visually striking setup. The combination of performance and visual appeal in the be Quiet! may sway those who prioritise aesthetics alongside functionality.

Maintenance and Lifespan

In terms of maintenance, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is relatively straightforward, requiring little upkeep beyond dusting off the heatsink. Its quality S-FDB bearings are designed for a long service life, rated for up to 20,000 hours, making it a reliable option for many users.

The be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX, however, includes a refill port and comes with a coolant bottle, allowing for easy maintenance and extending the lifespan of the cooler. This design consideration is particularly beneficial for users who may want to sustain optimal performance over time. The ability to refill coolant adds a layer of long-term usability that is not present in the Thermalright cooler.

Price and Value

Price is a critical factor when comparing these two coolers. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is priced at a budget-friendly C$25.90, making it an excellent choice for users looking for an affordable cooling solution without compromising much on performance.

In contrast, the be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX is significantly more expensive at C$118.12. However, this price reflects its advanced technology, larger cooling capacity, and premium features such as ARGB lighting and a refillable cooling system. For users willing to invest more for enhanced cooling performance and aesthetics, the be Quiet! offers better long-term value, especially for high-performance builds.

Which should you buy?

The choice between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX ultimately comes down to individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a budget-friendly, efficient air cooler that operates quietly and fits a variety of systems, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is an excellent choice.

However, if you require superior cooling performance, advanced features like ARGB illumination, and long-term maintenance capabilities, the be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 FX is worth the higher investment. For high-performance users, the additional cost may justify the benefits offered by the liquid cooling solution.