Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler - 4×6mm Heat Pipes vs Waveshare Active Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler is a high-performance cooling solution priced at C$25.59. It features a robust design with four 6mm heat pipes and dual PWM fans, delivering a balance of cooling efficiency and low noise levels. This cooler is ideal for gamers and PC builders seeking reliable thermal performance for their systems.

Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in developing computer accessories, ensures quality through its AGHP technique, which effectively addresses gravity effects in both vertical and horizontal orientations. With a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A) and a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, it promises an effective cooling solution while minimising sound disturbances.

Overview of Waveshare Active Cooler

The Waveshare Active Cooler is an economical choice at C$15.99, designed primarily for use with the Raspberry Pi 5. This cooler operates at a maximum speed of 8000 RPM, providing a modest airflow of 1.39 CFM. Its anodised aluminium construction offers decent durability while ensuring efficient heat dissipation.

What sets the Waveshare cooler apart is its 5V DC operation powered by a four-pin fan header. Additionally, it features pulse width modulation control with a tachometer, allowing for effective monitoring and adjustment of performance, making it an excellent option for basic cooling needs in compact setups.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus significantly outshines the Waveshare Active Cooler. With a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM compared to the Waveshare's 1.39 CFM, the Thermalright cooler is capable of dissipating heat much more effectively, making it suitable for higher-performance CPUs.

The Assassin X 120R SE Plus also features dual PWM fans that operate at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM and 1500 RPM respectively, allowing for optimal cooling under various loads. In contrast, the Waveshare operates at a higher RPM of 8000, but with much lower airflow, which limits its effectiveness for intensive tasks. Therefore, if cooling performance is your priority, the Thermalright option is clearly superior.

Noise Levels and Acoustic Performance

In terms of noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus operates at a maximum of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a CPU cooler of its class. This low noise level is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a silent working environment or are sensitive to sound.

On the other hand, while the Waveshare Active Cooler operates at a high RPM, it does not provide specific noise level specifications. Given its lower airflow and design focus on basic cooling, it is likely to be quieter than many high-performance fans but may still not match the acoustic performance of the Thermalright cooler. Thus, for users prioritising a quiet setup, the Thermalright cooler stands out.

Build Quality and Materials

The build quality of the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus is reinforced by its use of high-quality materials like industrial strength PBT + PC material and S-FDB bearings, ensuring durability and longevity. This cooler is designed for heavy use, with a service life of up to 20,000 hours, reflecting its robust construction.

In contrast, the Waveshare Active Cooler features anodised aluminium, which is a good choice for a lightweight and cost-effective cooler. However, it may not offer the same level of durability or performance under heavy loads as the Thermalright product. For users who place importance on build quality and longevity, the Thermalright cooler is the better option.

Compatibility and Installation

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus boasts a broad compatibility range, supporting multiple Intel and AMD CPU sockets, including the latest socket types like AM4 and AM5. This flexibility makes it a versatile choice for various builds.

Conversely, the Waveshare Active Cooler is specifically designed for use with the Raspberry Pi 5, limiting its application to this particular platform. For users looking to build or upgrade a PC with different CPU architectures, the Assassin X 120R SE Plus provides more options and ease of installation.

Price and Value Proposition

With a price of C$25.59, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus offers a significant value given its features, performance, and build quality. It provides an excellent cooling solution suitable for high-performance systems, making it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers and overclockers.

The Waveshare Active Cooler, priced at C$15.99, serves as a budget-friendly option for those with basic cooling requirements. While it may be suitable for entry-level projects or low-power systems, it lacks the performance capabilities of the Thermalright cooler. Thus, the value proposition of the Thermalright product is more compelling for users who need reliable cooling performance.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, if you're looking for a high-performance CPU cooler with superior cooling capabilities, quiet operation, and robust build quality, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus is the clear choice. Its extensive compatibility and efficient cooling make it an ideal option for serious PC builders and gamers.

On the other hand, if you need a simple and cost-effective cooling solution for a Raspberry Pi or a similar low-power application, the Waveshare Active Cooler is a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific cooling needs and system requirements.