Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler Air with 4×6mm HeatPipes

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler are products from Thermalright, a Taiwanese brand with over 20 years of experience in developing computer cooling solutions. The brand has garnered a solid reputation in both domestic and international markets, particularly for its focus on quality and innovation in CPU cooling technology. With a commitment to research and development, Thermalright's coolers are designed to deliver efficient thermal performance while maintaining low noise levels.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of both coolers reflect Thermalright's expertise in thermal management. The Assassin X 120R SE V2 features a height of 148mm and utilises 4×6mm heat pipes, showcasing its effective heat dissipation capabilities. In contrast, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark stands at 156mm tall, slightly taller than its counterpart, and is constructed from aluminium, providing excellent heat dissipation with its all-aluminium fins. The unique anodic black brushed top cover of the Spirit 120 EVO Dark enhances its aesthetic appeal while also serving a functional purpose, further improving heat dissipation.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, both coolers utilise PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) fan technology to adjust fan speeds according to temperature. The Assassin X 120R SE V2 operates at a maximum fan speed of 1550 RPM, delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). Meanwhile, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark boasts a slightly higher maximum fan speed of 1850 RPM, which can enhance its cooling efficiency. This difference in fan speed indicates that the Spirit 120 EVO Dark may provide better cooling performance under load, making it a strong contender for high-performance builds.

Noise Levels

Both coolers are designed to operate quietly, with the Assassin X 120R SE V2 achieving a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This ensures a relatively quiet operation, suitable for users who value a serene computing environment. On the other hand, while no specific noise level is mentioned for the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark, its higher maximum fan speed of 1850 RPM could potentially lead to increased noise during peak operation. However, the PWM temperature control feature in both models aims to mitigate excessive noise by adjusting fan speeds according to the CPU temperature.

Compatibility

Compatibility is an essential factor when choosing a CPU cooler, and both the Assassin X 120R SE V2 and the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark support a wide range of CPU sockets. They are compatible with Intel sockets LGA1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and AMD sockets AM4 and AM5. Both coolers provide necessary mounting plates and fasteners for easy installation. This broad compatibility makes either cooler an excellent choice for various builds, ensuring that users can find a suitable option regardless of their CPU platform.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be user-friendly, with Thermalright providing installation videos and instructions for guidance. The Assassin X 120R SE V2 features a self-luminous fan power supply and lighting interface, which simplifies setup and adds a visual element to the build. The Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark, similarly, comes with all necessary mounting components and instructions. However, it is noteworthy that the Spirit 120 EVO Dark requires the use of the original backplate that comes with AM4/AM5 motherboards, which could add an extra step for AMD users.

Price Comparison

The pricing for both coolers reflects their features and performance capabilities. The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 is priced at C$23.59, making it a budget-friendly option for users seeking reliable cooling without breaking the bank. In comparison, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark is slightly more expensive at C$24.90. This price difference of C$1.31 may be justified by the Spirit's higher RPM and enhanced design elements, which could translate into better cooling performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 and the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritise a budget-friendly option with solid performance and low noise levels, the Assassin X 120R SE V2 is an excellent choice. However, if you seek enhanced cooling capabilities with higher fan speeds and a more visually striking design, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark may be worth the extra cost. Both coolers provide excellent compatibility and ease of installation, making either a viable option for your cooling needs.