Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology vs Thermalright Aqua Elite 240 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler is priced at C$25.90, while the Thermalright Aqua Elite 240 V3 Liquid CPU Cooler costs significantly more at C$71.90. This substantial price difference highlights the varying cooling technologies employed by both products. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is an air cooler featuring four heat pipes and AGHP technology, aimed at providing effective cooling at a more budget-friendly price point. In contrast, the Aqua Elite 240 V3, being a liquid cooler, offers advanced features such as a fourth-generation pump head and dual 120mm ARGB fans, justifying its higher price tag.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a crucial factor when selecting a CPU cooler, and both the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and Aqua Elite 240 V3 excel in their respective domains. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus utilises four 6mm heat pipes that incorporate AGHP technology, designed to tackle the inverse gravity effect, providing reliable cooling regardless of orientation. On the other hand, the Aqua Elite 240 V3 is equipped with a 240mm aluminium fin heat sink and a unique octagonal pump head that achieves a rotation speed of up to 3,300 RPM. This advanced design allows the Aqua Elite to offer superior heat dissipation, making it ideal for high-performance setups.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is designed to minimise fan noise while maximizing cooling performance. It features S-FDB bearings that ensure quiet operation, though specific decibel levels are not provided. The Aqua Elite 240 V3, with its TL-C12B-S V2 fans, operates at a maximum noise level of 23 dBA, which is relatively quiet for a liquid cooler. Therefore, while both products aim for low noise operation, the Aqua Elite offers quantifiable sound levels, making it a better choice for users prioritizing a silent computing experience.

Installation Process

The installation process is straightforward for both coolers, but they have different approaches due to their designs. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus comes with mounting hardware compatible with various Intel and AMD sockets, including Intel 1700 and AMD AM5. It also provides video instructions for ease of installation. In contrast, the Aqua Elite 240 V3 features a convenient AIO (All-In-One) design that supports a broader range of Intel and AMD socket configurations, including LGA 2011 and LGA 2066. Its installation is also simplified with included accessories and instructional materials, making both options accessible for users of varying skill levels.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetic appeal can be a deciding factor for many PC builders, and here, the Aqua Elite 240 V3 takes the lead. It features ARGB lighting that can sync with a motherboard's 5V 3-pin connector, offering a vibrant lighting experience with 1600W colour soft light effects. This adds a visually striking element to any build. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus does not mention any lighting features, focusing instead on a sleek design typical of air coolers. Therefore, if visual aesthetics and RGB lighting are important to you, the Aqua Elite 240 V3 is the clear winner.

Compatibility

Both coolers boast excellent compatibility with various CPU sockets, making them versatile options for different builds. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus supports Intel sockets 1150 through 1700 and AMD AM4/AM5, ensuring wide compatibility across modern platforms. Similarly, the Aqua Elite 240 V3 also supports a range of sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, and 2066. Given this extensive compatibility, users can confidently choose either product without worrying about fitting issues.

Brand Reliability

Thermalright has a solid reputation in the cooling industry, with over 20 years of experience in R&D for computer accessories. Both the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and Aqua Elite 240 V3 are products of this reliable brand, ensuring high-quality manufacturing and performance. Users can trust Thermalright’s commitment to creating effective cooling solutions, regardless of whether they opt for an air or liquid cooler. This brand reliability adds an additional layer of assurance when making a purchasing decision.

Which should you buy?

In deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Aqua Elite 240 V3, consider your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable yet effective air cooler with solid performance, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus at C$25.90 is a great choice. However, if you require superior cooling performance, aesthetic appeal, and are willing to invest more at C$71.90, the Aqua Elite 240 V3 liquid cooler is the better option. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priorities in terms of cooling efficiency, noise levels, and visual preferences.