Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler are products from Thermalright, a well-established Taiwanese brand with over 20 years of experience in developing computer cooling solutions. The brand is known for its commitment to research and development in the field of computer accessories, which includes a variety of products aimed at gamers and PC enthusiasts.

The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is priced at C$25.90, while the Assassin King 120 SE is slightly more affordable at C$24.59. This pricing difference reflects their unique features and specifications, making it essential to understand what each cooler offers before making a decision.

Design and Dimensions

When comparing the design and dimensions of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Assassin King 120 SE, both coolers exhibit a compact form factor suitable for most builds. The Assassin X measures 120mm in length, 96mm in width, and 154mm in height, while the Assassin King is slightly shorter, with dimensions of 120mm by 73mm by 148mm.

The size difference may affect compatibility with certain cases, particularly smaller ones. The Assassin King’s lower height of 148mm makes it a better option for medium-sized computer cases, whereas the Assassin X may provide better cooling performance due to its larger design. Both coolers utilize aluminum for their heat sinks, ensuring efficient heat dissipation.

Cooling Technology

Both coolers incorporate Thermalright's Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe (AGHP) technology, which is designed to mitigate the inverse gravity effect that can occur in various orientations. The Assassin X features four 6mm heat pipes, while the Assassin King boasts five 6mm heat pipes. This difference may provide the Assassin King with slightly enhanced thermal performance under high loads, as it can potentially manage more heat.

The cooling efficiency is crucial for maintaining optimal CPU performance, especially during demanding tasks. Both coolers are rated for long service life, with an impressive lifespan of up to 20,000 hours, ensuring reliability over extended periods of use.

Fan Performance

Fan performance is critical in CPU coolers, and both the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Assassin King 120 SE have been designed with this in mind. The Assassin X employs S-FDB bearings, which help reduce noise levels while maximizing cooling efficiency. However, specific RPM rates for the Assassin X are not provided.

In contrast, the Assassin King features a PWM fan with a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This makes the Assassin King a compelling option for users who prioritize both performance and a quiet computing experience. The ability to adjust fan speeds dynamically through PWM technology allows for better thermal management based on system demands.

Aesthetics and Lighting

Aesthetics can play a significant role in a user’s decision, especially for those who value visual appeal in their build. The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE has an advantage with its ARGB lighting, which offers customizable and vibrant lighting effects. This feature can enhance the overall look of a gaming setup, making it more visually engaging.

On the other hand, the Assassin X does not mention any lighting features, suggesting it is designed with a more utilitarian approach. For users who appreciate RGB lighting and its customizability, the Assassin King might be the preferable choice, while those who prefer a straightforward design may lean toward the Assassin X.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another crucial factor when choosing a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus supports a wide range of Intel sockets, including 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and 17XX, as well as AMD sockets AM4 and AM5. This extensive compatibility ensures that it can be used with most modern CPUs.

Similarly, the Assassin King supports Intel sockets 115X, 1200, 1700, and 17XX, along with AMD AM4 and AM5. While both coolers cover the major socket types, the Assassin X offers a broader range for older Intel CPUs. This may be a deciding factor for users with legacy hardware.

Price Point

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is priced at C$25.90, while the Assassin King 120 SE comes in at a slightly lower price of C$24.59. The small price difference could make the Assassin King more appealing, especially considering its additional features like ARGB lighting and PWM fan capabilities.

Price can often be a decisive factor, and for users on a tighter budget, the Assassin King provides excellent value without sacrificing performance. However, those who prioritize specific features like larger heat dissipation may find the slightly higher price of the Assassin X justifiable.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Assassin King 120 SE comes down to personal preference and specific requirements. If you are looking for a cooler with extensive compatibility and potentially better cooling performance due to its larger design, the Assassin X may be the right choice. However, if you prefer a cooler with attractive ARGB lighting and excellent fan performance at a slightly lower price, the Assassin King stands out as an excellent option.

Consider your specific needs, case compatibility, and aesthetic preferences when making your choice. Both coolers provide reliable performance and quality from a reputable brand, ensuring that either option will serve you well in maintaining optimal CPU temperatures.