CORSAIR COMMANDER DUO iCUE LINK RGB Lighting and PWM ARGB Fan Controller vs TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will examine the CORSAIR COMMANDER DUO iCUE LINK RGB Lighting and PWM ARGB Fan Controller and the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler. Priced at £29.95 and £14.49 respectively, these products serve distinct purposes within the realm of PC cooling solutions. The COMMANDER DUO is primarily focused on fan and lighting control, while the TR-Assassin X is a dedicated CPU cooler.

Design and Build Quality

The CORSAIR COMMANDER DUO features a streamlined design that integrates two devices in one, allowing for seamless control over both ARGB PWM fans and iCUE LINK devices. Its intelligent fan control and synchronised RGB lighting provide an aesthetically pleasing experience. In contrast, the TR-Assassin X boasts a solid build with a heatsink made of aluminium and copper, measuring 120mm in length, 71mm in width, and 148mm in height. This design ensures effective heat dissipation while maintaining compatibility with most ATX cases.

Performance Capabilities

The COMMANDER DUO excels in controlling multiple fans, offering two ARGB and PWM channels, each capable of supporting up to six daisy-chained fans. This means you can manage up to twelve fans using one device, maximising airflow and cooling efficiency in larger builds. On the other hand, the TR-Assassin X features a high-performance lighting fan with a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and a fan speed of 1550 RPM. This impressive specification allows it to provide significant cooling performance for CPUs, especially in more compact builds.

Ease of Installation

Installation processes differ significantly between the two products. The COMMANDER DUO integrates easily with existing systems through its iCUE software, simplifying the setup for RGB lighting and fan control. However, the TR-Assassin X requires the original motherboard's built-in backplate for installation on AM4 and AM5 platforms, which may complicate its installation for some users. The overall height of 148mm is designed to fit in most ATX cases, ensuring that it does not obstruct RAM modules.

Compatibility with Motherboards

The compatibility of each product with various motherboards is crucial for users. The COMMANDER DUO is compatible with a wide range of ARGB PWM fans and iCUE LINK devices, making it versatile for users with different cooling needs. In contrast, the TR-Assassin X supports Intel sockets LGA1150 through LGA1700 and AMD sockets AM4 and AM5, making it suitable for a broad spectrum of modern CPUs. This ensures that users can choose the cooler that best fits their specific motherboard architecture.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the TR-Assassin X operates at a rated noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which makes it relatively quiet during operation. This is an important factor for users who prioritise a silent computing environment. The COMMANDER DUO does not specify noise levels, but as a fan controller, it aims to optimise fan speeds to balance performance and noise, offering users the capability to set custom fan curves through the iCUE software.

RGB Lighting Features

If RGB lighting is a priority, the COMMANDER DUO outshines the TR-Assassin X with its ability to synchronise RGB lighting across all connected devices. It supports up to 50 LEDs per ARGB channel, allowing for extensive customisation and integration into a broader lighting ecosystem. The TR-Assassin X features static RGB lighting but does not offer the same level of customisation or synchronisation capabilities as the COMMANDER DUO.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two products is notable. The COMMANDER DUO is significantly more expensive at £29.95 compared to the TR-Assassin X’s £14.49. This price difference reflects the additional functionality offered by the COMMANDER DUO, particularly in fan and lighting control. Users should consider whether the enhanced capabilities justify the higher price tag, depending on their specific cooling and aesthetic needs.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the CORSAIR COMMANDER DUO and the TR-Assassin X ultimately depends on your specific requirements. If you need a robust fan controller with extensive RGB lighting capabilities and the ability to manage multiple fans, the COMMANDER DUO is the superior choice. However, if you're looking for an effective CPU cooler at a lower price point with good performance and quieter operation, the TR-Assassin X is a commendable option. Evaluate your priorities—whether it's aesthetics, performance, or budget—to make the best decision for your PC build.