Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology vs Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler offers an affordable option for those looking to enhance their CPU cooling with a price of C$25.90. Its compact design, measuring 120(L)x96(W)x154(H)mm, makes it suitable for various builds without taking up too much space. This cooler employs four heat pipes featuring AGHP technology, allowing for efficient heat dissipation by overcoming the inverse gravity effect in both vertical and horizontal orientations. This model promises a service life of up to 20,000 hours, which is backed by S-FDB bearings that minimise noise during operation.

Overview of Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler

In contrast, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler comes at a higher price point of C$65.37 and offers a more advanced cooling solution. This cooler features a 360mm radiator equipped with three PWM fans, each capable of reaching a maximum speed of 2000 RPM, and delivering an impressive airflow of 72.37 CFM. The water block is designed with a full copper mirror plane base, enhancing thermal conductivity and ensuring optimal cooling performance. With a lifespan of up to 40,000 hours, it’s engineered for long-term reliability.

Cooling Performance

When considering cooling performance, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 clearly takes the lead. Its water cooling design allows for greater heat dissipation compared to traditional air coolers. The 360mm radiator, coupled with three 120mm fans, enables it to achieve strong airflow and lower noise levels, with a maximum noise level of just 27.7 DBA. In comparison, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus, while effective for its size, may not match the cooling efficiency of a liquid cooler, particularly under heavy loads or overclocking scenarios.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical factor for many PC builders, and both products are designed to operate quietly. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus utilises quality S-FDB bearings to minimise noise, ensuring a quiet computing experience. However, the Frozen Notte 360 goes a step further with its PWM fans that automatically adjust speed according to CPU temperature, allowing it to maintain optimal cooling with minimal noise. With a maximum noise level of 27.7 DBA, it is designed to be quieter than many air coolers while still providing excellent airflow.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers boast compatibility with a range of Intel and AMD sockets, making them versatile options for most builds. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus supports a variety of Intel sockets, including LGA 1700 and AM4/AM5 for AMD, making it a practical choice for many users. The Frozen Notte 360 also supports an extensive range of sockets, covering even more CPU types. Installation is straightforward for both units, with the Frozen Notte 360 providing dual platform full metal black buckles for easy mounting, while the Assassin X comes with dedicated mounting plates for different CPU socket platforms.

Aesthetic Features

In terms of aesthetics, the Frozen Notte 360 has a significant advantage. Its ARGB lighting not only enhances its visual appeal with vibrant colour options but also synchronises with motherboard lighting for a cohesive look. With the capability to create dazzling light effects, it adds a level of customisation that the more basic design of the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus lacks. The latter focuses primarily on performance rather than visual flair, making it less appealing for users who prioritise aesthetics in their builds.

Price Point

Price is an essential consideration when choosing between these two coolers. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is positioned as a budget-friendly option at C$25.90, making it accessible for users who need decent cooling without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Frozen Notte 360 is priced at C$65.37, reflecting its advanced technology and greater cooling capacity. While the latter offers more features and better performance, the price difference may be a deciding factor for those on a tighter budget.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable, space-saving air cooler with reliable performance, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is a solid choice. However, for users seeking superior cooling performance, aesthetic appeal, and advanced features, the Frozen Notte 360 is worth the investment. Ultimately, your decision should align with your performance requirements, budget, and personal preferences regarding aesthetics and noise levels.