Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology vs Noctua NH-L12S

Brand Overview

When comparing the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Noctua NH-L12S, it's essential to consider the brands behind these products. Thermalright is a well-established Taiwanese brand with over 20 years of experience in the computer accessories market, focusing on CPU coolers and other components. In contrast, Noctua is renowned for its high-performance cooling solutions and is particularly favoured in the enthusiast community. Each brand brings its unique strengths to the table, making them both reputable choices in the CPU cooler market.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is designed with a size of 120mm x 96mm x 154mm, featuring four 6mm heat pipes and pure aluminium cooling fins for effective heat dissipation. On the other hand, the Noctua NH-L12S is a low-profile cooler with a compact height of only 70mm, making it an excellent choice for space-constrained builds like ITX and HTPC systems. The materials used in both products, including Thermalright's industrial-strength PBT + PC and Noctua's premium construction, ensure durability and long-term performance.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a critical factor when choosing a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus utilizes its AGHP technology, which effectively mitigates the inverse gravity effect in various orientations. This cooler promises a service life of up to 20,000 hours with its S-FDB bearings, allowing for efficient cooling even under heavy loads. In contrast, the Noctua NH-L12S features the NF-A12x15 120mm fan, specifically designed for PWM support, enabling automatic speed control for ultra-quiet operation. This makes the NH-L12S particularly appealing for users who value a silent computing experience alongside reliable cooling.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer excellent compatibility across various CPU sockets. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus supports Intel sockets from 1150 to 1700 and AMD AM4 and AM5 platforms, making it versatile for a wide range of builds. Conversely, the Noctua NH-L12S is compatible with Intel LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, and LGA115x, as well as AMD AM5 and AM4. This broad compatibility ensures that regardless of your CPU choice, both coolers can cater to your needs effectively.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a significant consideration for many PC enthusiasts. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus aims for minimal noise due to its quality S-FDB bearings, which reduce fan blade shaking. This design allows for maximum cooling performance while keeping noise levels low. In comparison, the Noctua NH-L12S is designed with ultra-quiet operation in mind, further enhanced by its Low-Noise Adaptor, which allows for automatic speed control. Users can expect a serene computing environment with both coolers, though Noctua has established a strong reputation for quiet operation over the years.

Price Comparison

Price can often sway the decision-making process when purchasing a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is priced at C$25.90, making it an affordable option for users looking for performance without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, the Noctua NH-L12S is significantly more expensive, retailing at C$87.95. This price difference reflects the Noctua's premium build quality and reputation in the high-performance cooling segment, but the Thermalright model offers a compelling performance-to-price ratio.

Installation Process

The installation process can greatly impact user experience. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus comes with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, along with installation videos and instructions to facilitate the setup process. Similarly, the Noctua NH-L12S includes the SecuFirm2 mounting system, which simplifies installation across various sockets. Both products emphasize ease of installation, but users may find the detailed instructions and video support from Thermalright particularly beneficial for first-time builders.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Noctua NH-L12S ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. The Thermalright cooler offers excellent performance and compatibility at a budget-friendly price of C$25.90, making it an attractive choice for users seeking solid cooling without a hefty investment. Conversely, if you prioritise ultra-quiet operation and compact design for smaller builds, the Noctua NH-L12S, despite its higher price of C$87.95, may be worth the extra cost. Both options are excellent, but your choice will depend on whether you value affordability or premium performance features.