Waveshare Active Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the Waveshare Active Cooler is more affordable at C$15.99 compared to the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler, which costs C$24.59. This represents a difference of C$8.60, making the Waveshare option a budget-friendly choice for those looking to enhance their cooling systems without breaking the bank. In terms of value, if you’re primarily concerned about cost, the Waveshare Active Cooler offers a significant advantage.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler provides superior cooling performance with a maximum air flow of 66.17 CFM and a fan speed of 1550 RPM. In comparison, the Waveshare Active Cooler has a lower air flow at 1.39 CFM and operates at 8000 RPM. While the high RPM of the Waveshare cooler suggests a rapid operation, its significantly lower air flow indicates that it may not be as effective in dissipating heat as the Thermalright model. Therefore, for those prioritising cooling efficiency, the Thermalright cooler is the clear frontrunner.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin King operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler with such high performance capabilities. On the other hand, the Waveshare Active Cooler does not specify its noise output, making it difficult to assess its operating sound. Given the Thermalright's known noise level, it is likely to provide a quieter experience, which is crucial for users who prefer a more serene computing environment.

Build Quality and Design

The Thermalright Assassin King is constructed with high-quality materials, including aluminium for the heat sink and features S-FDB bearings that ensure long service life. Additionally, the cooler is equipped with ARGB lighting that adds an aesthetic appeal to any build. In contrast, the Waveshare Active Cooler is made from anodised aluminium but lacks additional features such as fancy lighting or advanced bearings. For users who value durability and design in their cooling solutions, the Thermalright model stands out as the more robust choice.

Brand Reputation

Thermalright has over 20 years of experience in the development of computer accessories, which contributes to its established reputation in the market. This brand is particularly well-regarded among gaming and performance PC enthusiasts. Waveshare, while known for its innovative products, does not have the same level of recognition in the CPU cooling market. Therefore, if brand trust and experience matter to you, Thermalright offers a more credible option.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Assassin King provides extensive compatibility with various CPU sockets, including Intel's 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD's AM4 and AM5 platforms. This versatility allows it to be a suitable choice for a wide range of builds. In contrast, the Waveshare Active Cooler is specifically designed for the Raspberry Pi 5, limiting its use primarily to that platform. If you are looking for a cooler that can fit into multiple systems, the Thermalright Assassin King is undoubtedly the better option.

Installation Ease

The Thermalright Assassin King comes with metal fasteners that facilitate easy installation on both Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a straightforward setup process. While the Waveshare Active Cooler is designed to connect via a four-pin fan header on the Raspberry Pi, it doesn’t provide detailed information on the installation process. Thus, for those who value hassle-free installation, the Thermalright model offers a more user-friendly experience.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Waveshare Active Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are on a tight budget and require a cooling solution specifically for a Raspberry Pi, the Waveshare Active Cooler is a reasonable option. However, if you are looking for superior performance, lower noise levels, enhanced durability, and wider compatibility, the Thermalright Assassin King is the clear winner. Its higher price is justified by its advanced features and quality, making it a worthwhile investment for serious PC builders and gamers.