Thermalright AXP90 X53 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Cooler with 92mm Slim PWM Fan fo vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright AXP90 X53 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler come from the reputable Taiwanese brand Thermalright, which has over 20 years of experience in the development of computer accessories. The brand has established a strong presence in both domestic and foreign markets, making its products a popular choice among PC enthusiasts. While both coolers are manufactured by the same company, they cater to different needs and preferences in the CPU cooling market.

Cooling Performance

The AXP90 X53 features a high-performance 92mm slim PWM fan that can reach speeds of up to 2700 RPM, offering robust cooling capabilities for compact builds. In contrast, the Assassin King 120 SE employs a standard 120mm PWM fan with a maximum speed of 1550 RPM. Although the AXP90 X53 is designed for low-profile applications, it excels in delivering efficient cooling, especially in smaller cases. The Assassin King, while not as powerful in terms of RPM, benefits from a larger fan size, which can enhance airflow and cooling efficiency for medium-sized cases, making it suitable for a wider range of setups.

Design and Build Quality

The AXP90 X53 has a height of only 53mm, allowing it to fit into compact ITX cases without compromising on cooling performance. Its innovative AGHP technique with 4x6mm heat pipes significantly improves heat transfer efficiency. In contrast, the Assassin King 120 SE stands at 148mm tall, making it more suited for mid-tower cases. With its larger heatsink and five heat pipes, the Assassin King is designed for higher thermal dissipation. Both coolers are constructed from high-quality materials, but their design philosophies cater to different types of computer builds.

Noise Levels

The AXP90 X53 features a fan capable of delivering significant cooling power, but the noise level is a crucial factor for many users. Unfortunately, the specific noise levels for the AXP90 X53 are not provided, making it challenging to gauge its acoustic performance. In comparison, the Assassin King 120 SE boasts a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a CPU cooler. Users looking for a quieter operation may prefer the Assassin King, especially in environments where noise levels are a concern.

Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility, both coolers support a range of CPU sockets from Intel and AMD. The AXP90 X53 is compatible with Intel sockets including LGA1700, LGA1150 through LGA1156, and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets, making it versatile for various platforms. The Assassin King 120 SE supports Intel sockets 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4/AM5 as well. However, the AXP90 X53's low-profile design makes it particularly suitable for smaller cases, while the larger Assassin King may require more space, potentially limiting its compatibility with compact builds.

Installation Process

Both products come with installation instructions and necessary mounting hardware for ease of setup. The AXP90 X53 has specific instructions for installation in cases where the backplane conflicts with motherboard components, requiring the use of longer screws. The Assassin King 120 SE is equipped with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, streamlining the installation process. Users may find the installation of the AXP90 X53 slightly more complex due to its low-profile design, while the Assassin King is generally more straightforward.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright AXP90 X53 is priced at C$45.99, reflecting its advanced cooling technology and low-profile design. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is more budget-friendly at C$24.59. This price difference of C$21.40 indicates that consumers must weigh the cooling performance and design benefits of the AXP90 X53 against the more economical option provided by the Assassin King.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP90 X53 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and build requirements. If you're aiming for a compact ITX setup and require a powerful cooling solution in a small form factor, the AXP90 X53 is an excellent choice. However, if you're looking for a quieter operation, broader compatibility with mid-sized cases, and a more budget-friendly option, the Assassin King 120 SE is likely the better fit. Both coolers showcase Thermalright's commitment to quality, so your decision should align with your cooling demands and case specifications.