Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 CPU Cooler

Overview of the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 is a high-performance water cooler priced at C$63.90. It features a water block with a full copper mirror plane base and a 240mm aluminum fin cold plate, designed for effective heat dissipation. The cooler's dual 120mm ARGB fans can reach speeds of 2000 RPM, providing strong airflow while maintaining a noise level of just 27.7 DBA. This cooler supports various Intel and AMD CPU sockets, making it a versatile choice for many builds.

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 is a budget-friendly air cooler available for C$24.90. It employs a 4x6mm heat pipe with AGHP upgraded technology for efficient heat transfer, ensuring a long service life of up to 20,000 hours. With a height of 118mm, it's compatible with a range of chassis models. The cooler's 92mm PWM fan can operate at speeds of up to 2200 RPM and produces a maximum noise level of 23.85 DBA, offering a balance of performance and quiet operation.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the Frozen Notte 240 is designed to provide superior heat dissipation compared to the Assassin X 90 SE V2. The Frozen Notte features a 240mm radiator and two 120mm fans that work together to generate a maximum airflow of 72.37 CFM. This is significantly higher than the Assassin X's 32.77 CFM airflow from its single 92mm fan. The effective cooling capabilities of the Frozen Notte, with its dual fans and larger radiator, make it ideal for high-performance CPUs or overclocking scenarios.

Noise Levels and Acoustic Performance

When it comes to noise levels, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 has a slight edge due to its lower maximum noise output of 23.85 DBA compared to the Frozen Notte's 27.7 DBA. While both coolers operate relatively quietly, the Assassin X may be preferable for users prioritizing a silent computing experience. However, the Frozen Notte's cooling capacity may justify its slightly higher noise level, especially in performance-intensive situations.

Design and Aesthetics

The Frozen Notte 240 boasts an eye-catching design with ARGB lighting that can synchronise with a motherboard's 5V 3pin connection, allowing for dazzling visual effects. This feature can enhance the aesthetics of a gaming rig. In contrast, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 is more utilitarian in design, focusing on performance without additional lighting features. The choice between these two designs may come down to personal preference regarding aesthetics versus functionality.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers offer extensive compatibility with various Intel and AMD CPU sockets. The Frozen Notte supports a wide range of Intel sockets, including LGA 1150 through 2066, as well as AMD AM2 to AM5. Meanwhile, the Assassin X caters to Intel 1150 through 1200 and AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets. Installation for both coolers is simplified with clear instructions and provided mounting hardware. However, the Frozen Notte requires a chassis width of at least 250mm, while the Assassin X's more compact design makes it suitable for smaller builds.

Price and Value

The price difference is significant, with the Frozen Notte priced at C$63.90 and the Assassin X at C$24.90. This pricing reflects the performance capabilities of each cooler, with the Frozen Notte offering advanced cooling technology and features that justify its higher cost. For users on a tight budget or those with less demanding cooling needs, the Assassin X presents a cost-effective solution without sacrificing basic performance.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 and the Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 largely depends on your specific cooling needs and budget. The Frozen Notte is ideal for high-performance setups requiring superior cooling, while its ARGB lighting adds an aesthetic advantage. On the other hand, the Assassin X is perfect for budget-conscious users looking for reliable cooling in a compact form factor. If performance and advanced features are your priorities, the Frozen Notte is worth the investment; however, if you're looking for value and basic functionality, the Assassin X is an excellent choice.