Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler Air with 4×6mm HeatPipes

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

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler is designed for those seeking superior cooling performance with an aesthetic appeal. Priced at C$62.90, this liquid cooling solution features a full copper mirror plane base and a 240mm black aluminum fin cold plate. It includes dual PWM fans that can reach speeds of 2000 RPM, providing efficient airflow while maintaining noise levels as low as 27.7 DBA. This cooler supports a wide range of Intel and AMD CPU sockets, making it a versatile choice for various builds.

Overview of Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler

On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler is an air cooler that offers a cost-effective solution at just C$24.90. It boasts a compact design with dimensions of 120mm x 73mm x 156mm, making it suitable for smaller cases. The cooler features four 6mm heat pipes and a high-speed PWM fan that can rotate up to 1850 RPM, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. With its compatibility across Intel and AMD platforms, it provides a practical option for budget-conscious builders.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 stands out with its liquid cooling capabilities. The combination of its high-performance cold head, which can reach speeds up to 5300 RPM, and dual 120mm fans allows for superior heat management, making it ideal for overclocking scenarios. In contrast, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO, while effective, relies on air cooling with a maximum fan speed of 1850 RPM. This means that the Frozen Notte 240 is likely to deliver better thermal performance during demanding tasks.

Noise Levels Analysis

Noise levels are an important consideration for many users. The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 operates at a maximum noise level of 27.7 DBA, which is relatively quiet for a liquid cooler, especially given its high performance. The dual fans are designed to adjust their speed based on CPU temperature, which aids in reducing noise during low-load scenarios. Conversely, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO, while also equipped with a PWM fan that adjusts speed, has a fan that runs at a maximum speed of 1850 RPM. This makes it slightly noisier compared to the Frozen Notte 240 under load, though it is still considered manageable.

Aesthetic and Lighting Features

Aesthetic appeal is another area where the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 excels. It features ARGB lighting that synchronizes with the motherboard to create vibrant light effects. This can enhance the visual experience of a gaming rig or a showcase build. In comparison, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO lacks advanced lighting features, focusing instead on a more understated appearance with its anodic black brushed top cover. For users who prioritise aesthetics alongside performance, the Frozen Notte 240 provides a significant advantage.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers offer impressive compatibility across Intel and AMD platforms, supporting a wide range of CPU sockets. The Frozen Notte 240 is compatible with Intel sockets including LGA 1150 through LGA 2066 and AMD sockets from AM2 to AM5. Its installation is straightforward, though it’s recommended for cases that are wider than 250mm. The Assassin Spirit 120 EVO also supports a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, but its installation may require the original backplate for AM4/AM5 motherboards. This makes both coolers user-friendly, but the Frozen Notte 240’s broader compatibility is a slight edge.

Price and Value Proposition

Price is a significant factor when choosing between these two coolers. The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 is priced at C$62.90, reflecting its advanced technology and cooling performance. In contrast, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is much more budget-friendly at C$24.90. While the Frozen Notte 240 provides better thermal performance and aesthetic features, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO offers excellent value for those on a tighter budget. Thus, the right choice depends on the individual’s cooling needs and budget constraints.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler ultimately boils down to your specific needs. If you are seeking superior cooling performance, advanced aesthetics, and have the budget to accommodate it, the Frozen Notte 240 is the clear winner. However, if you are looking for a cost-effective solution that still offers decent cooling capabilities, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is a commendable choice. Both products have their strengths, making them suitable for different types of users.