Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology vs Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm T

Overview of the Brands

Both the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Thermalright AXP120-X67 are products from Thermalright, a company with over 20 years of experience in the development of cooling solutions. Thermalright has built a reputation for quality and performance in the CPU cooler market, focusing on innovative technologies and durable designs. Each cooler reflects this brand ethos, but they cater to different user needs and preferences.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus features a robust design with dimensions of 120(L)x96(W)x154(H)mm, incorporating four heat pipes and pure aluminium cooling fins to enhance heat dissipation. In contrast, the AXP120-X67 is a low-profile cooler, measuring 123.5(L)x120(W)x67(H)mm, designed for compact cases with limited space. While both coolers use aluminum, the AXP120-X67 pairs aluminum fins with a copper base, potentially offering better heat transfer. The build quality of both products is reinforced by the inclusion of metal fasteners compatible with Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring secure installation.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus utilises four 6mm heat pipes, enhancing its heat dissipation capabilities. It employs S-FDB bearings, which are designed to reduce noise while maintaining high cooling efficiency. On the other hand, the AXP120-X67 is equipped with six 6mm heat pipes and a PWM fan that can reach speeds of up to 1800 RPM, offering an air flow of 59 CFM at a noise level of just 26.1 dB(A). This suggests that while both coolers offer effective cooling, the AXP120-X67 may provide a slight edge in airflow and quiet operation due to its design and fan specifications.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical consideration for many users, and here, both coolers have their advantages. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is engineered to keep fan noise to a minimum, thanks to its quality S-FDB bearings. However, the AXP120-X67 takes this a step further with its PWM fan, which operates at a maximum noise level of 26.1 dB(A). This makes the AXP120-X67 potentially quieter under load, appealing to users seeking a silent operation during intense gaming or workstation tasks.

Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility, both the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and AXP120-X67 support a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, making them versatile choices for many system builds. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus supports Intel sockets 1150 through 1700 and AMD AM4/AM5. Similarly, the AXP120-X67 supports a broad range of Intel sockets from 1150 to 2066 and AMD AM4. This extensive compatibility ensures that both products can fit into a variety of setups, enhancing their appeal to a wider audience.

Pricing and Value

In terms of pricing, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is currently priced at C$25.90, while the AXP120-X67 is listed at C$38.79. While the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is more affordable, the AXP120-X67 justifies its higher price point with its low-profile design and enhanced cooling capabilities. For users with specific needs, such as space constraints or a desire for quieter operation, the additional cost of the AXP120-X67 may be well worth it.

Customer Support and Warranty

Thermalright has established a reputation for good customer support, which is essential when purchasing cooling solutions. Both the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and AXP120-X67 come with installation instructions and the necessary mounting hardware for Intel and AMD platforms, making setup straightforward. The brand’s commitment to quality ensures that users can expect a reliable product, backed by their experience in the industry.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Thermalright AXP120-X67 largely depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for an affordable, high-performance cooler with solid cooling capabilities and compatibility across a range of sockets, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is an excellent choice. However, if you require a low-profile solution that operates quietly while maintaining effective cooling performance, the AXP120-X67 offers advanced features that may justify its higher price. Ultimately, both coolers deliver on Thermalright's promise of quality, making either a strong addition to your PC build.