Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm TL-12015 PWM vs Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler are products from the reputable Taiwanese brand Thermalright, which has over 20 years of experience in the computer cooling market. The brand is known for its commitment to research and development, offering a wide range of cooling solutions suitable for gamers and PC enthusiasts alike. While both coolers are developed under the same brand, their specifications and intended use cases differ significantly, making them suited for various types of builds.

Design and Dimensions

The Thermalright AXP120-X67 features a low-profile design with dimensions of 123.5mm in length, 120mm in width, and a height of just 67mm, making it ideal for compact cases where space is a premium. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is larger, measuring 125mm in length, 71mm in width, and 148mm in height. This allows for potentially better cooling performance, but it may restrict compatibility with smaller cases. The AXP120-X67’s design caters to users looking for a balance between performance and compactness, while the Assassin X 120 SE targets users who have more room for larger coolers.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance of both products is impressive, but they cater to different needs. The AXP120-X67 has a maximum airflow of 59 CFM, with a fan speed of 1800 RPM and a noise level of 26.1 dB(A). This makes it an excellent option for those who want powerful cooling in a quieter environment. The Assassin X 120 SE, meanwhile, boasts a higher airflow of 66.17 CFM with a slightly lower fan speed of 1550 RPM and a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This indicates that while both coolers are efficient, the Assassin X 120 SE may provide superior cooling capabilities, particularly for higher TDP CPUs, albeit with a marginally lower noise level.

Fan Technology

Both coolers employ Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology, which allows for efficient fan speed control based on CPU temperature. The AXP120-X67 features the TL-C12015 PWM fan, while the Assassin X 120 SE uses the TL-C12C PWM fan. The AXP120-X67's fan is slimmer at 15mm, which contributes to its low profile, whereas the Assassin X 120 SE has a standard fan thickness of 25mm. Despite the difference in thickness, both fans maintain low noise levels while providing excellent airflow, ensuring that users can enjoy a quiet computing experience without sacrificing performance.

Heat Dissipation

Heat dissipation is a critical factor when choosing a CPU cooler. The AXP120-X67 employs six 6mm heat pipes using AGHP technology, designed to counteract the inverse gravity effect, ensuring effective thermal transfer regardless of orientation. In contrast, the Assassin X 120 SE features four 6mm heat pipes, also utilising AGHP technology, but it is rated for a thermal design power (TDP) range of 125 to 225 watts. This means that the Assassin X 120 SE can handle heavier workloads, making it more suitable for overclocking or high-performance builds, while the AXP120-X67 is better suited for mid-range systems.

Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility, both coolers support a wide range of CPU sockets, making them versatile options for various builds. The AXP120-X67 is compatible with Intel sockets 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, 2066, and AMD AM4. The Assassin X 120 SE also supports a wide range of sockets, including Intel 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4. Both products come with the necessary mounting hardware, ensuring a hassle-free installation process. However, users should verify that their cases can accommodate the larger height of the Assassin X 120 SE before making a purchase.

Pricing

The price difference between the two coolers is notable, with the Thermalright AXP120-X67 priced at C$36.90, while the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is more budget-friendly at C$25.59. This makes the Assassin X 120 SE an attractive option for those looking for a solid cooler without breaking the bank. However, the additional cost of the AXP120-X67 may be justified for users seeking a low-profile solution with competitive performance, particularly in compact builds where space is a constraint.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler depends largely on your specific needs and system configuration. If you're looking for a compact cooling solution that fits in a smaller case while still delivering solid performance, the AXP120-X67 is the way to go. However, if you have the space and require a cooler that can handle higher thermal loads, the Assassin X 120 SE offers superior cooling capabilities and is priced more affordably. Ultimately, your choice should be guided by your system's requirements and your budget.