Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler are products from Thermalright, a reputable Taiwanese brand with over 20 years of experience in the cooling solutions market. They both exemplify the brand's commitment to quality and performance in CPU air cooling technology. While both coolers share a similar heritage, their specifications and targeted use cases differ significantly, particularly in design and intended performance.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 features a compact design with dimensions of 94mm x 77mm x 118mm, making it suitable for a variety of chassis models. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB boasts a larger footprint at 120mm x 73mm x 148mm. This size difference not only impacts compatibility with certain cases but also influences cooling performance. The Assassin King includes ARGB lighting, adding a visual flair that may appeal to users looking for aesthetic enhancements in their build, while the Assassin X 90 SE V2 focuses more on practicality than on looks.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling capabilities, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB has a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM compared to the Assassin X 90 SE V2's 32.77 CFM. This significant difference in airflow indicates that the King model is particularly suited for handling higher thermal loads, supporting TDP ratings from 125W to 235W. Meanwhile, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 is designed for a lower thermal dissipation requirement, making it ideal for more modest systems or compact builds without heavy overclocking needs.

Fan Specifications

The fans used in these coolers differ in size and performance characteristics. The fan in the Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 measures 92mm and operates at a maximum speed of 2200 RPM, generating a noise level of ≤23.85 dB(A). On the other hand, the Assassin King’s fan is larger at 120mm, with a maximum speed of 1550 RPM and a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). Although the King’s fan is quieter at lower speeds, the faster RPM of the X 90 SE V2 allows it to achieve better cooling performance at the expense of slightly more noise.

Heat Pipe Technology

Both coolers utilize advanced AGHP technology to enhance their thermal performance. The Assassin X 90 SE V2 employs a 4x6mm heat pipe layout, while the Assassin King 120 SE ARGB features 5x6mm heat pipes. This difference suggests that the King cooler may have a slight advantage in heat transfer efficiency, particularly under high load conditions. Both models are designed to mitigate the inverse gravity effect, ensuring consistent cooling performance regardless of orientation, but the King’s superior heat pipe configuration may give it an edge in thermal dissipation.

Compatibility and Installation

Compatibility is crucial when selecting a CPU cooler, and both models support a range of Intel and AMD sockets. The Assassin X 90 SE V2 is compatible with Intel sockets 1150 through 1200 and AMD sockets AM4 and AM5. In comparison, the Assassin King 120 SE ARGB supports newer Intel sockets 115X, 1200, and even 1700 series, alongside AMD AM4 and AM5. This broader compatibility for the King may make it a more future-proof option for users planning to upgrade their systems. Additionally, both coolers come with the necessary mounting plates and fasteners for installation, ensuring a straightforward setup process.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 is currently priced at C$24.90, while the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB is slightly cheaper at C$24.59. The price difference is minimal, which may not significantly influence a buyer's decision unless budget constraints are a primary concern. However, considering the features and performance each cooler offers, potential buyers may find that the extra cost of the King model could be justified by its superior cooling capabilities and aesthetic appeal.

User Experience and Longevity

Both coolers are engineered for prolonged use, with a claimed lifespan of up to 20,000 hours thanks to the S-FDB bearings used in their fans. This longevity means that users can expect reliable performance over time without frequent replacements. The Assassin King, however, might appeal more to users who prioritize quiet operation and aesthetics due to its ARGB lighting and lower operational noise levels, despite its slightly higher noise output compared to the Assassin X 90 SE V2 at peak performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a compact, efficient cooler for a smaller build or a less demanding setup, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 is a solid choice. However, if you desire enhanced cooling performance, aesthetics with ARGB lighting, and broader compatibility with newer CPU sockets, the Assassin King 120 SE ARGB stands out as the better option. Ultimately, both coolers represent excellent choices within their respective niches, but the slight edge in performance and features leans in favour of the Assassin King.