Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 CPU Cooler

Price Comparison

When comparing prices, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler is significantly more affordable than the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 CPU Cooler. The Assassin X is priced at C$23.59, while the Royal Pretor is priced at C$66.90. This makes the Assassin X roughly 65% cheaper, which may appeal to budget-conscious consumers. However, it is important to consider whether the additional features and performance of the Royal Pretor justify its higher price.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 CPU Cooler are notably superior due to its twin-tower radiator structure and the use of aluminum and copper materials. The Royal Pretor measures 130x140x158mm and utilises six heat pipes to enhance heat dissipation efficiency. In contrast, the Assassin X features a more compact design at 120x120x148mm with four heat pipes. Although the Assassin X is well-built, the Royal Pretor’s advanced design is intended to provide superior cooling performance, making it more suitable for high-performance systems.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a critical factor in CPU coolers, and the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 excels in this area with its upgraded 6x6mm pure copper heat pipes and twin-tower design. This setup maximises heat dissipation area, ensuring that the CPU stays cool even under heavy loads. The Royal Pretor’s dual fans and S-FDB V2.0 bearings also contribute to its efficiency. Meanwhile, the Assassin X operates with a single PWM fan that delivers a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, which is respectable but may not match the cooling power of the Royal Pretor in high-performance scenarios.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 has an advantage with a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This low noise output is a significant benefit for users seeking a quieter computing environment. On the other hand, while the Royal Pretor 130 includes soft silicone corner pads to reduce vibration and noise, specific noise level measurements are not provided. Therefore, if a silent operation is a priority, the Assassin X may be the better choice.

Compatibility

Both the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 and Royal Pretor 130 offer wide compatibility with various CPU sockets. The Assassin X supports Intel sockets LGA1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and AMD sockets AM4 and AM5. Similarly, the Royal Pretor is compatible with AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets as well as Intel LGA1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1851, 2011, and 2066. This broad compatibility ensures that both coolers can be used with a wide range of modern CPUs, making either a good choice for diverse builds.

Installation Process

In terms of installation, both coolers provide user-friendly experiences. The Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 includes corresponding mounting grommets for easy setup, along with an instruction manual and installation video. The Assassin X offers similar support, with the necessary parts included for various CPU sockets and clear installation instructions. Therefore, users can expect a straightforward installation process with either cooler, although the Royal Pretor’s comprehensive mounting options might give it a slight edge in versatility.

Thermalright Brand Overview

Thermalright has established itself as a prominent brand in the CPU cooler market, boasting over 20 years of experience in developing high-performance cooling solutions. With a strong focus on research and development, their products are known for their performance and reliability. Both the Assassin X and Royal Pretor embody the brand's commitment to quality, but the advanced features of the Royal Pretor reflect the brand's evolution and dedication to pushing the boundaries of CPU cooling technology.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 and the Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable, quiet, and compact cooling solution, the Assassin X at C$23.59 is an excellent option. However, if you are willing to invest in superior cooling performance and build quality, the Royal Pretor 130, priced at C$66.90, offers advanced features that can enhance your system’s efficiency, particularly for high-performance applications.