Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 CPU Cooler vs CPU Cooler Wraith Prism RGB LED Lighting Aluminum Heatsink Copper Core Base 4-Pi

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 CPU Cooler offers a compact design with dimensions of 94(L) x 77(W) x 118(H) mm, while the CPU Cooler Wraith Prism features a slightly larger 95mm RGB fan and an aluminum heatsink with a copper core base. The Assassin X 90 SE V2 uses an HDT direct touch process combined with pure copper surface treatment for its heat pipes, enhancing thermal conductivity. It also boasts a full aluminum fin stack to maximise cooling area, demonstrating a focus on efficient heat dissipation in a compact form. Meanwhile, the Wraith Prism incorporates copper heat pipes and a copper core within its aluminum heatsink, balancing heat transfer efficiency with structural durability. Notably, the Wraith Prism includes a pre-applied thermal paste, which simplifies installation. Overall, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 provides a refined build with advanced materials in a smaller footprint, whereas the Wraith Prism offers a slightly larger cooler with copper heat pipes and an integrated thermal paste feature.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance hinges largely on heatpipe technology, fan specifications, and airflow. The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 features four 6mm heatpipes using the 4th generation AGHP (Advanced Gravity Heatpipe) technology, which optimises heat transfer regardless of cooler orientation and promises up to 20,000 hours of service life. Its heat sink is aluminium with direct copper contact, supported by a 92mm PWM fan spinning up to 2200 RPM and delivering a maximum airflow of 32.77 CFM with a noise level of ≤23.85 dB(A). The Wraith Prism’s cooling core consists of copper heat pipes and a copper core base paired with an aluminum heatsink, which typically offers effective heat dissipation. Its 95mm fan runs faster, with speeds from 3000 RPM to a maximum of 3600 RPM, but the airflow data is not specified. The higher fan speed in the Wraith Prism suggests potentially stronger airflow, though this may come with greater noise. Consequently, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 emphasises longevity and quieter operation with advanced heatpipe tech, while the Wraith Prism targets high-speed cooling with its faster fan and copper core design.

Noise Levels

Noise output is a critical factor for many users, especially in quiet office or gaming setups. The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 operates at a maximum noise level of 23.85 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for an air cooler running at up to 2200 RPM. This low noise level is supported by its industrial-grade PWM fan with S-FDB bearings designed for long service life and smooth operation. In contrast, the CPU Cooler Wraith Prism’s fan speed ranges from 3000 RPM to 3600 RPM, but specific noise levels are not provided. Fans running at these higher speeds generally produce more noise, potentially making the Wraith Prism louder under load. Therefore, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 is likely the better choice for users prioritising a quiet cooling solution, while the Wraith Prism may produce more audible fan noise due to its faster fan speeds.

Compatibility and Installation

Both CPU coolers offer broad compatibility with current CPU sockets, but with some distinctions. The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 supports Intel sockets 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, and 1200, as well as AMD sockets AM4 and AM5. It provides mounting plates or fasteners tailored for these platforms, complemented by detailed installation instructions or tutorials, making it versatile for various builds. The Wraith Prism supports a wider range of AMD sockets, including AM5, AM4, AM3, AM2, FM2, FM1, and older socket types like 1207, 940, 939, and 754. However, it utilises the standard bracket pre-installed on most motherboards and does not include a mounting bracket itself, which could complicate installation for some users. The Assassin X 90 SE V2’s dedicated mounting hardware and clear guidance may offer a smoother installation experience, while the Wraith Prism’s reliance on motherboard brackets limits its ease of use to compatible AMD systems.

RGB Lighting and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 does not feature RGB lighting, focusing instead on solid performance and quiet operation. In contrast, the CPU Cooler Wraith Prism is equipped with a 95mm RGB fan that includes a USB header cable for programmable RGB LED effects. This feature allows synchronisation with compatible motherboards, adding customizable lighting effects to enhance gaming rigs or aesthetic builds. The Wraith Prism’s RGB functionality is paired with a 4-pin PWM connector for fan control and a standard RGB LED connector, with a total cable length of approximately 9 inches, providing flexibility for cable management. For users who value visual flair and dynamic lighting, the Wraith Prism offers a clear advantage, whereas the Assassin X 90 SE V2 targets users prioritising performance and quiet operation over aesthetics.

Price and Value

Price-wise, the Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 is significantly more affordable at C$24.90 compared to the CPU Cooler Wraith Prism’s C$40.99. Considering this price difference of roughly C$16, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 delivers advanced heatpipe technology, a quiet PWM fan, and broad compatibility at a budget-friendly level. The Wraith Prism’s higher price includes RGB lighting, a faster fan speed, and copper core design, which may justify the cost for users seeking these specific features. However, for those focused primarily on cooling efficiency and noise level without RGB, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 offers strong value for less than two-thirds the price of the Wraith Prism.

Overall Features and Technology

The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 incorporates the 4th generation AGHP heatpipe technology with an inverse gravity effect, industrial-grade S-FDB bearings for longevity, and UL Class A safety insulation materials, reflecting a focus on durability and reliability. It also utilises a direct HDT copper contact surface combined with full aluminium fins to maximise cooling area. The Wraith Prism’s standout features include its pre-applied thermal paste for convenience, aluminium heatsink with copper core and heat pipes for heat conduction, and a high-speed RGB fan with programmable lighting. While the Assassin X 90 SE V2 focuses on refined, efficient cooling technology and quiet operation, the Wraith Prism adds aesthetic and speed features but lacks detailed noise and airflow specifications, making it less clear how its performance compares beyond fan speed and RGB capability.

Which should you buy?

If your priority is effective cooling with quiet operation at a budget-friendly price, the Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 CPU Cooler is the better choice. It offers advanced heatpipe technology, a well-balanced fan speed of 2200 RPM with low noise of ≤23.85 dB(A), and compatibility with both Intel and AMD sockets for just C$24.90. Conversely, the CPU Cooler Wraith Prism RGB LED, priced at C$40.99, appeals to users who want faster fan speeds (up to 3600 RPM), integrated RGB lighting for visual customization, and a copper core heatsink design. However, it may be noisier and relies on motherboard brackets for installation, limiting its ease of use. Ultimately, choose the Assassin X 90 SE V2 for quiet, reliable cooling at an excellent price, or the Wraith Prism if RGB lighting and higher fan speeds are priorities in your build.