Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler come from Thermalright, a reputable Taiwanese brand with over 20 years of experience in developing computer cooling solutions. The PS120SE is priced at C$44.90, while the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is more budget-friendly at C$25.90. This price difference reflects the varying specifications and technologies employed in each product, catering to different segments of the market.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright PS120SE boasts advanced AGHP technology with a 7x6mm heatpipe configuration, supporting a thermal design power (TDP) range of 105W to 280W. In contrast, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus features 4x6mm heat pipes that effectively manage cooling but are designed for lower TDP. Both coolers utilize S-FDB bearings, promising a long service life of up to 20,000 hours. However, the PS120SE's higher performance capacity may be more advantageous for users with demanding CPUs, while the Assassin X offers sufficient cooling for mainstream applications.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the PS120SE has a larger footprint, measuring 125mm x 135mm x 154mm compared to the Assassin X's 120mm x 96mm x 154mm dimensions. The PS120SE features an anodized black frosted top and finely carved pure copper base, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and heat dissipation capabilities. Meanwhile, the Assassin X's pure aluminium cooling fins, while effective, may not offer the same level of heat repulsion as the PS120SE's advanced materials. Both units maintain a height of 154mm, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of chassis.

Fan Performance

The PS120SE is equipped with a TL-C12B V2 fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1500 RPM, delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM while keeping noise levels below 25.6 dB(A). This combination ensures efficient cooling without excessive noise, making it suitable for gaming or high-performance tasks. On the other hand, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus prioritizes quieter operation with its quality S-FDB bearings but does not specify maximum RPM or airflow performance. Users seeking optimal cooling performance may lean towards the PS120SE, while those prioritizing quieter operation might prefer the Assassin X.

Compatibility

Both coolers are designed to be compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD CPU socket types. The PS120SE supports sockets including Intel LGA1700, LGA1200, and AMD AM4/AM5. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus also provides support for Intel sockets such as LGA1700 and LGA1200, as well as AMD AM4/AM5. This commonality ensures that both coolers can fit into most modern systems, making them versatile choices for a variety of builds.

Installation Process

Ease of installation is an essential factor for users. The Thermalright PS120SE comes with mounting plates and fasteners for various CPU socket platforms, simplifying the installation process. Similarly, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus includes metal fasteners and provides video and instruction support for easy setup. While both coolers are designed for straightforward installation, the additional resources provided with the Assassin X may appeal to novice builders seeking extra guidance.

Price to Performance Ratio

The Thermalright PS120SE is priced at C$44.90, reflecting its higher performance capabilities and advanced features. In contrast, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is considerably more affordable at C$25.90, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. While the PS120SE offers superior cooling performance and build quality, the Assassin X provides a solid performance for its price, catering to users with less demanding cooling needs.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require advanced cooling performance for high-end CPUs and don’t mind spending a bit more, the PS120SE is a strong candidate. However, if you're looking for a reliable and cost-effective solution for everyday computing tasks, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus offers excellent value for its price.