Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM vs TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM and TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler

The Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM and TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler both cater to different cooling needs within the computing space. The Noctua fan, priced at £18.40, is designed for small form-factor applications, while the TR-Assassin X offers a more robust cooling solution for CPUs at £14.49. Each product has unique features tailored to specific user requirements, making them suitable for different setups.

Design and Build Quality

The Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM boasts an award-winning A-series design, emphasising quiet performance and durability with a mean time to failure (MTTF) exceeding 150,000 hours. Its compact dimensions of 40x40x20 mm make it ideal for 1U servers and other space-constrained environments. In contrast, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 features a larger heatsink with dimensions of 120x71x148 mm, primarily composed of aluminium and copper. This larger size allows for enhanced cooling but limits its use to standard ATX cases. While both products are well-built, the choice depends on the user’s specific hardware compatibility and cooling needs.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM can reach a maximum speed of 5000 RPM, generating a sound level of only 14.9 dB(A), showcasing its ultra-quiet operation. This makes it a suitable choice for environments where noise minimisation is crucial. In comparison, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2, with a maximum fan speed of 1550 RPM, offers a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, yet operates at a rated noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A). While the TR-Assassin X provides superior cooling capacity due to its larger size, the Noctua excels in silent operation, catering to different priorities.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a significant factor when selecting a cooling solution. The Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM's compact size allows it to fit in various devices, including network equipment and DVRs, making it a versatile option. Conversely, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 is designed for compatibility with Intel and AMD CPU sockets, including LGA1150 through to LGA1700 for Intel and AM4/AM5 for AMD. However, users must utilise the original motherboard's backplate for AM4 and AM5 installations, which may add complexity. Thus, while the Noctua is versatile for diverse applications, the TR-Assassin X is specifically tailored for CPU cooling in gaming and high-performance builds.

Installation Process

The installation process for both products varies significantly due to their respective designs. The Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM comes with an inclusive set of anti-vibration mounts, fan screws, an extension cable, a y-cable, and an OmniJoin adaptor set for connecting to proprietary fan headers, simplifying the installation. On the other hand, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 employs a SS2 install system with a metal pressure plate, ensuring better contact with the CPU but requiring careful installation to ensure compatibility with specific motherboards. Therefore, users may find the Noctua easier to install, especially in tight spaces.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are essential for users sensitive to sound. The Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM operates at a maximum of 14.9 dB(A), making it one of the quietest options available, perfect for home theatres or quiet office environments. In contrast, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2, while still relatively quiet at 25.6 dB(A), produces almost double the noise compared to the Noctua. This variance will significantly influence the decision of users prioritising a low-noise cooling solution versus those needing higher performance cooling with tolerable noise levels.

Price Comparison

In terms of pricing, the Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM is available for £18.40, while the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 is more budget-friendly at £14.49. This difference of £3.91 may seem small, but it reflects the distinct target markets of both products. The Noctua justifies its higher price with superior build quality and quieter performance, while the TR-Assassin X offers solid performance at a lower cost, appealing to users who seek a balance between price and performance.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM and the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 boils down to your specific cooling needs and environment. If you require a compact, ultra-quiet solution for small devices or servers, the Noctua NF-A4x20 PWM is the clear choice. Conversely, if you are building a high-performance PC and need effective CPU cooling with decent noise levels, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 offers an excellent balance of performance and price. Each product serves its purpose well, making it essential to align your choice with your computing requirements.