Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 92mm CPU Cooler CL vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Price Comparison

When looking at price, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 is more affordable at C$19.86 compared to the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB, which costs C$24.59. The difference of C$4.73 makes the Gravity i2 a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a capable CPU cooler without breaking the bank. This price point may appeal to users with lower power CPUs who do not require the advanced features of higher-end models.

Design and Size

The Thermaltake Gravity i2 features a low-profile design with a 92mm fan, making it suitable for compact builds. Its dimensions allow it to fit easily into smaller cases, appealing to users who prioritise space. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB has a larger footprint, measuring 120mm in length and 148mm in height. This size allows for enhanced cooling capabilities, but it may not fit in all cases, particularly smaller form factors.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin King stands out with an airflow of 66.17 CFM, significantly higher than the 31.343 CFM provided by the Thermaltake Gravity i2. This difference means that the Assassin King can dissipate heat more effectively, catering to users with higher TDP CPUs. While the Gravity i2 is optimised for CPUs with a lower power output, the Assassin King can handle CPUs with a TDP of 125 to 235W, making it a better option for gamers and power users.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many users. The Thermaltake Gravity i2 operates at a noise level of 21.3 decibels, making it a quiet option for those who prefer a silent computing experience. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 decibels. While both coolers are relatively quiet, the Gravity i2 has a slight edge for users who are particularly sensitive to noise, especially in home or office environments.

Installation Process

Both coolers are designed for easy installation, but the Thermaltake Gravity i2 boasts a "Quick and Easy Installation" feature, indicating a user-friendly setup. This aspect may appeal to novice builders or users who want to avoid complicated installations. The Thermalright Assassin King also includes metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, which suggests a straightforward installation process, but it may require a bit more effort compared to the Gravity i2 due to its larger size and additional components.

Aesthetic Features

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB includes colourful ARGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic appeal to builds that showcase their components. This feature can be particularly attractive for gamers and those who enjoy custom lighting setups in their PC rigs. In comparison, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 does not mention any aesthetic features, focusing instead on performance and functionality. For users who value RGB lighting, the Assassin King would be the clear choice.

Compatibility

Compatibility is an essential aspect of any CPU cooler. The Thermaltake Gravity i2 supports Intel sockets LGA 1200, 1156, 1155, 1150, and 1151, making it a versatile option for a range of Intel CPUs. Meanwhile, the Thermalright Assassin King supports a broader range of sockets, including Intel LGA 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4 and AM5. This wider compatibility ensures that the Assassin King can be used with a greater variety of systems, making it a more future-proof choice for users planning to upgrade their CPUs.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermaltake Gravity i2 and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for an affordable, quiet, and compact cooler primarily for low-power CPUs, the Gravity i2 is an excellent choice at C$19.86. However, if you need superior cooling performance, aesthetic features like ARGB lighting, and compatibility with a wider range of CPUs, the Thermalright Assassin King at C$24.59 is the better option. Consider your system requirements and budget to make the best decision for your build.