Thermalright LGA1700-BCF Black V2 CPU Retainer vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Products

When it comes to CPU cooling solutions, Thermalright has established a strong reputation in the market. In this comparison, we will explore two distinct products from their lineup: the Thermalright LGA1700-BCF Black V2 CPU Retainer and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler. The former is priced at C$8.99, while the latter is significantly higher at C$24.59. Both products cater to specific needs, making it essential to understand their features and applications.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright LGA1700-BCF Black V2 CPU Retainer is meticulously designed to prevent CPU bending, a common issue when using heavy coolers. Constructed from all aluminium alloy, it weighs a mere 55 grams, making it lightweight yet durable. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler boasts a larger footprint with dimensions of 120x73x148mm and a weight of 0.52kg. The cooler features an impressive ARGB lighting system, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any build. While both products showcase quality materials, the choice between them heavily depends on whether you need a retainer or a full air cooler.

Installation Ease

Installation is crucial for any PC component, and both products offer user-friendly experiences. The Thermalright LGA1700-BCF Black V2 comes with an L-shaped screwdriver, simplifying the installation process for Intel's LGA1700 socket. Additionally, Thermalright provides installation instructions and customer service support for troubleshooting. In contrast, the Assassin King 120 SE features a straightforward installation process with metal fasteners compatible with both Intel and AMD platforms. Despite the complexity of a full cooler, the installation remains manageable, catering to users with varying levels of expertise.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler shines with a TDP (Thermal Design Power) rating ranging from 125 to 235W. This impressive range indicates its capability to handle a wide variety of CPUs, ensuring optimal performance under load. The cooler also utilises AGHP III technology and features five heat pipes for enhanced thermal management. Conversely, the LGA1700-BCF Black V2 is more of a support accessory rather than a cooling solution, focusing on stabilising the CPU rather than directly influencing thermal performance. If cooling efficiency is your priority, the Assassin King is the clear winner.

Noise Levels

Noise levels can significantly impact the user experience, especially during intensive tasks or gaming sessions. The Assassin King 120 SE operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler of its capability. This low noise output is achieved through its PWM fan design, ensuring that users can enjoy efficient cooling without excessive sound. In contrast, the Thermalright LGA1700-BCF does not produce noise since it is not a cooling device. Therefore, if noise reduction is a critical factor for you, the Assassin King stands out as a more suitable choice.

Compatibility

Compatibility is an essential factor when selecting PC components. The Thermalright LGA1700-BCF Black V2 is specifically designed for Intel's 12th to 14th generation CPUs, supporting various motherboards with the LGA1700 chipset, such as H610, B660, and Z790. Meanwhile, the Assassin King 120 SE offers broader compatibility, supporting Intel sockets 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4 and AM5. This flexibility makes the Assassin King a more versatile option for users with mixed setups or those who may upgrade their systems in the future.

Aesthetic Appeal

In addition to performance, the aesthetic quality of PC components is increasingly important to users. The Assassin King 120 SE features vibrant ARGB lighting that enhances the visual appeal of any build. This can be particularly attractive for users who enjoy custom lighting setups. In contrast, the LGA1700-BCF Black V2 has a more utilitarian design focused on functionality rather than aesthetics. If visual presentation is a key consideration in your build, the Assassin King will likely be the more appealing choice.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright LGA1700-BCF Black V2 CPU Retainer and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for a budget-friendly solution to support your CPU and prevent bending, the LGA1700-BCF at C$8.99 is an excellent choice. However, for those seeking robust cooling performance, aesthetic appeal, and compatibility with a range of CPUs, the Assassin King at C$24.59 is the superior option.