Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology vs Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 cater to distinct needs within the CPU cooling market. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is a complete CPU cooler priced at C$25.90, while the NM-i17xx-MP78 serves as a mounting upgrade kit for Noctua coolers, available for C$12.95. This pricing indicates that the Thermalright product is designed for users seeking a comprehensive cooling solution, whereas the Noctua offering is for those who already own compatible coolers.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is robust, featuring 4 heat pipes and pure aluminium cooling fins for efficient heat dissipation. In contrast, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is a dedicated mounting kit, prioritising function over form, with a one-piece backplate designed to optimise installation on specific Intel sockets. The use of high-quality materials in the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus, such as industrial-strength PBT + PC, enhances its durability, making it suitable for prolonged use.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus boasts broad compatibility, supporting multiple Intel and AMD platforms, including Intel’s 1700 and AMD’s AM4/AM5 sockets. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for users building or upgrading their systems. On the other hand, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is specifically tailored for Intel's LGA1851 and LGA1700 sockets, which limits its application to users with specific Noctua CPU coolers. While both products offer compatibility, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus provides a wider range of options.

Installation Process

Installation is straightforward with the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus, as it comes equipped with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms and provides video instructions. This user-friendly approach is crucial for those who may not be experts in hardware installation. Conversely, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is designed for easy installation with its dedicated backplate and fixed struts, but it's only relevant for users who already possess compatible Noctua coolers. This makes the installation process for the NM-i17xx-MP78 dependent on prior hardware.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is engineered with AGHP technology, which uses four 6mm heat pipes to effectively manage heat, achieving up to 20,000 hours of service life. This impressive longevity and cooling capability make it a formidable option for high-performance computing. The performance of the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78, however, is contingent on the existing cooler it is paired with. While Noctua is known for its quality, the NM-i17xx-MP78 does not provide cooling performance on its own, making it less relevant in a direct cooling performance comparison.

Noise Levels

Thermalright's Assassin X 120 V2 Plus employs S-FDB bearings, which minimise fan noise while maximising cooling efficiency. This feature makes it suitable for users who value a quiet computing environment. The Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not specify noise levels, as it is a mounting kit rather than a cooling unit. Therefore, potential buyers should consider that the NM-i17xx-MP78's noise levels will depend entirely on the Noctua cooler it supports.

Brand Reputation

Thermalright has over 20 years of experience in developing computer accessories, establishing a solid reputation in the CPU cooling market. It is well-regarded for its innovation, particularly in products like the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus. Noctua, on the other hand, is renowned for its premium cooling solutions and is often considered one of the best brands for CPU coolers. However, the NM-i17xx-MP78's role is limited to enhancing existing products, which may affect its standalone reputation compared to the complete solution offered by Thermalright.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is priced at C$25.90, making it a budget-friendly option for users seeking a comprehensive cooling solution. In contrast, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78, priced at C$12.95, is more affordable but serves a different purpose as a mounting upgrade kit. While the price difference might seem significant, it's essential to note that the Thermalright product offers a full cooling solution, whereas the Noctua product requires an existing cooler to function.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require a complete cooling solution with broad compatibility and efficient cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is the clear winner. However, if you already own a compatible Noctua cooler and need a reliable mounting upgrade, the NM-i17xx-MP78 is a practical choice. Ultimately, users looking for an all-in-one cooling solution will find more value in the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus, while those with existing Noctua setups will benefit from the NM-i17xx-MP78.