Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology vs upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler 45mm Height - 6 Heat Pipes

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and upHere H45K6

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and upHere H45K6 cater to different cooling needs with distinct designs and features. The former is priced at C$25.90, while the latter is more expensive at C$49.99. Both coolers are designed to provide efficient thermal management, but they differ significantly in design and intended use.

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus boasts a robust design with four heat pipes and a height of 154mm, making it suitable for standard builds. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 offers a compact height of just 45mm, making it ideal for space-constrained Mini ITX cases. This fundamental difference in design reflects their targeted user bases, with the Thermalright catering to traditional setups and the upHere focusing on small-form-factor builds.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling efficiency, the upHere H45K6 features six heat pipes designed to handle a thermal design power (TDP) of 150W, ensuring stable temperatures during demanding tasks. This superior heat dissipation capability is particularly beneficial for mainstream CPUs under sustained workloads.

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus, equipped with four heat pipes and utilizing advanced AGHP technology, is also built for effective cooling. While it has fewer heat pipes, its design allows it to combat the inverse gravity effect, ensuring consistent cooling performance regardless of orientation. Both coolers are engineered for optimal thermal performance, but the upHere H45K6’s higher heat pipe count gives it an edge in high-load scenarios.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical factor when selecting a CPU cooler, especially for builders focused on quiet operation. The upHere H45K6 features a 90mm fan with a maximum noise level of just 27 dB(A), making it suitable for silent builds. With a lifespan of approximately 40,000 hours, it promises durability without sacrificing performance.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus, while also designed for low noise, does not specify its operational noise levels. However, its S-FDB bearings are engineered to minimize fan noise, ensuring that it runs quietly when needed. Although both coolers aim for quiet operation, the explicit noise specification of the upHere H45K6 provides a clearer expectation for users prioritizing silence.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a vital consideration for CPU coolers, and both products offer broad support for various CPU sockets. The upHere H45K6 supports Intel LGA 1851/1700/115x/1200/2011/2066 and AMD AM5/AM4/AM3 sockets, ensuring extensive versatility across different platforms.

Similarly, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus supports Intel sockets from 1150 to 1700 and AMD AM4/AM5, providing ample compatibility for most current CPU models. While both coolers are versatile, the upHere H45K6's design specifically aims to avoid interference with RAM and motherboard heatsinks, making it particularly advantageous for compact builds where space is a premium.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of a CPU cooler often influences a builder's choice, and here, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus presents a more traditional, robust appearance with its taller stature. Its 154mm height makes it suitable for standard cases, appealing to users who prefer a conventional setup.

Conversely, the upHere H45K6 features a low-profile design that allows it to fit seamlessly in Mini ITX cases, maintaining performance without sacrificing space. This unique design, coupled with its ultra-compact 45mm height, ensures that it will not obstruct components like RAM, making it highly suitable for builders focused on efficiency in tight spaces.

Installation Process

Ease of installation is an essential aspect for many builders, and both coolers offer user-friendly features. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus comes with metal fasteners compatible with both Intel and AMD platforms, making installation straightforward for a variety of setups.

The upHere H45K6 also promises a tool-free installation process, allowing users to complete setup in under five minutes. This quick installation aspect is especially appealing for users who may not have extensive experience with CPU cooler installations. While both coolers aim for ease of use, the upHere H45K6's tool-free approach may provide a more accessible experience for less experienced builders.

Price and Value

When considering price, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is priced at C$25.90, making it an affordable option for users looking for reliable cooling performance without breaking the bank. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 is priced at C$49.99, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

Despite the upHere H45K6's higher price, its advanced features, such as six heat pipes and a low-profile design, may justify the cost for users needing efficient cooling in compact setups. Ultimately, the value each product offers depends on the specific needs of the user, whether they prioritize budget or performance in constrained spaces.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus and the upHere H45K6 depends largely on your specific cooling needs and system configuration. If you are building a traditional PC and need a reliable cooler that balances performance and price, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is a solid choice at C$25.90.

However, if you require a compact solution for a Mini ITX build with superior cooling performance and minimal noise, the upHere H45K6 at C$49.99 offers distinct advantages with its low-profile design and higher heat dissipation capability. Ultimately, assess your specific requirements to make the most informed decision.