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

Overview of Product Offerings

When considering CPU cooling solutions, both the Waveshare Active Cooler and the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler present unique advantages. The Waveshare Active Cooler is priced at C$15.99, making it an economical choice for users requiring efficient cooling for compact systems, particularly the Raspberry Pi 5. On the other hand, the Thermalright Burst Assassin, retailing at C$29.90, offers a more robust cooling solution tailored for high-performance CPUs, boasting advanced features for serious gaming or intensive computing tasks.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Burst Assassin excels in cooling performance, delivering a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM compared to the Waveshare Active Cooler, which has a lower airflow of 1.39 CFM. This substantial difference in airflow indicates that the Thermalright can effectively dissipate heat from high-performance CPUs, ensuring optimal operating temperatures. The Burst Assassin's design incorporates six nickel-plated copper heat pipes, enhancing its heat dissipation capabilities, while the Waveshare relies on a simpler design suited for less demanding applications.

Fan Speed and Noise Levels

In terms of fan operation, the Waveshare Active Cooler operates at a speed of 8000±10% RPM, while the Thermalright Burst Assassin’s fan runs at a speed of 1550 RPM. Although the Waveshare's higher RPM may suggest more aggressive cooling, the Thermalright's fan design achieves a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This balance of efficiency and quiet operation makes the Burst Assassin a more appealing choice for users who want effective cooling without excessive noise, a critical factor in many gaming rigs or home office setups.

Build Quality and Materials

Both coolers exhibit solid build quality, but they cater to different markets. The Waveshare Active Cooler features anodised aluminium construction, providing durability in a compact form factor. In contrast, the Thermalright Burst Assassin employs industrial-strength PBT+PC materials, which are designed for long-lasting performance under heavy use. Furthermore, the use of six heat pipes in the Burst Assassin enhances its efficiency and lifespan compared to the simpler design of the Waveshare, making it a more reliable choice for demanding environments.

Installation and Compatibility

Ease of installation is a crucial factor when selecting a CPU cooler. The Waveshare Active Cooler is designed for the Raspberry Pi 5, making it straightforward for users of that system. In contrast, the Thermalright Burst Assassin offers broad compatibility with various Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 1700 and AM5, which provides flexibility for users with different setups. The Burst Assassin also includes features such as fin offset technology, preventing compatibility issues with high memory sticks, making it a versatile option for diverse builds.

Cooling Technology and Features

The Thermalright Burst Assassin incorporates advanced cooling technologies, such as AGHP (Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe) technology, which mitigates the inverse gravity effect, ensuring consistent cooling performance regardless of orientation. This is particularly beneficial for users who may install their coolers in various orientations. The Waveshare Active Cooler, while effective for its intended use, lacks such advanced features, limiting its cooling abilities to less demanding applications. The Burst Assassin’s sophisticated engineering makes it a more future-proof option for high-performance systems.

Price Comparison

Price is always a decisive factor in product selection. The Waveshare Active Cooler is priced at a very accessible C$15.99, appealing to budget-conscious consumers or those with minimal cooling needs. In contrast, the Thermalright Burst Assassin’s price of C$29.90 reflects its advanced features and superior cooling performance. While the Burst Assassin is more expensive, it offers a significant leap in capabilities, justifying the higher cost for users seeking reliable performance under heavy loads.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Waveshare Active Cooler and the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler hinges on your specific needs. If you are using a Raspberry Pi 5 and require a budget-friendly solution for basic cooling, the Waveshare Active Cooler is an excellent choice. However, for users with high-performance CPUs who demand superior cooling efficiency, noise reduction, and advanced features, the Thermalright Burst Assassin, despite its higher price, is the better investment.