Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 - AIO CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is a compact and efficient air cooling solution priced at £16.29. This cooler boasts a height of 148mm and is designed to fit in medium-sized computer cases, making it a versatile option for many builds. With its ARGB lighting effects and a fan speed of 1550rpm, it not only provides effective cooling but also adds a visual flair to your setup.

Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in the industry, focuses on developing high-quality computer accessories. The Assassin X120 SE features 4×6mm heat pipes employing AGHP technique to enhance heat dissipation. This ensures that your CPU remains cool during intensive tasks while maintaining a noise level of just 25.6dB(A). Its compatibility with both Intel and AMD sockets further increases its appeal for a wide range of users.

Overview of ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 AIO CPU Cooler

In contrast, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 AIO CPU Cooler is a more advanced liquid cooling solution priced significantly higher at £56.49. It features a dual 240mm radiator, which allows for superior heat dissipation compared to traditional air coolers. The design incorporates integrated cable management for a cleaner look and includes an additional PWM-controlled VRM fan that helps keep voltage converters cool, thus enhancing overall system reliability.

One of the standout features of the Liquid Freezer III Pro is its native offset mounting, which shifts the cold plate towards the CPU hotspot. This optimises heat transfer efficiency, making it a strong contender for high-performance systems. Additionally, the P12 PRO fan offers more power and operates quietly, particularly at lower speeds, making it suitable for users who prioritise silence alongside cooling performance.

Cooling Efficiency Comparison

When it comes to cooling efficiency, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro takes the lead with its dual-radiator setup. This design enables it to manage higher thermal loads, making it particularly effective for overclocked CPUs or demanding applications. The integrated VRM fan is an added benefit, reducing heat generated from voltage regulators, which can be crucial for maintaining system stability under heavy loads.

Conversely, while the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE is capable of providing adequate cooling with its 66.17CFM airflow, it may struggle to keep up with the demands of high-performance CPUs compared to the ARCTIC model. With a noise level of 25.6dB(A), the Assassin X120 SE provides quiet operation, but its single-fan design limits its overall cooling capacity, especially in high-stress scenarios.

Installation and Compatibility

Both the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE and the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro are designed for easy installation, but they cater to different preferences. The Assassin X120 SE is equipped with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, allowing for straightforward mounting without the need for complex tools. It supports a wide range of socket types, including Intel’s LGA1700 and AMD’s AM5.

On the other hand, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro also supports both Intel and AMD sockets, with optimised contact pressure distribution for better heat dissipation. However, the installation process may be slightly more involved due to the liquid cooling setup and the need to mount a radiator. This could be a consideration for users who prefer a simpler installation experience.

Aesthetics and Noise Levels

In terms of aesthetics, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE shines with its colourful ARGB lighting effects, which can enhance the visual appeal of any build. The 120mm PWM fan operates quietly, maintaining a noise level of 25.6dB(A), making it suitable for users who desire a serene computing environment.

In comparison, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro, while not featuring RGB lighting, has a sleek and professional appearance with integrated cable management that reduces clutter. Its P12 PRO fan is designed for optimal performance at various speeds, providing effective cooling without excessive noise, particularly at lower speeds. This makes it an attractive option for gamers and content creators who value both aesthetics and function.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE offers an exceptional price-to-performance ratio at just £16.29, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious users. Its performance, while respectable, may not rival more expensive models under extreme conditions, yet it serves well for standard gaming and everyday tasks.

In contrast, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro, priced at £56.49, positions itself as a premium product aimed at users who require top-tier cooling performance. While the upfront investment is higher, the enhanced cooling capabilities and integrated features justify the cost for enthusiasts and professionals who demand more from their cooling solutions.

User Recommendations

For users seeking a reliable and affordable air cooler that offers decent performance for everyday use, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE is an excellent choice. It is particularly suitable for gamers and casual users who do not push their systems to thermal limits.

Meanwhile, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro is recommended for users who require superior cooling performance, especially in high-load scenarios like gaming, content creation, or overclocking. Its advanced features and effective thermal management make it a worthy investment for serious PC builders.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE and the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro ultimately hinges on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an economical, visually appealing air cooler that provides reliable performance for standard workloads, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE is a solid choice. However, if you are an enthusiast or professional seeking exceptional cooling capabilities and are willing to invest more, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro offers advanced features and superior thermal performance that can significantly benefit high-demand applications.