Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermal Paste

Overview of the Products

When comparing the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermal Paste, it's clear that these two products serve distinct purposes in computer cooling. The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB is a dedicated CPU cooler priced at £16.29, while the Thermal Paste is a thermal conductive compound available for £6.99. Both products aim to enhance thermal management but do so in fundamentally different ways.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler boasts a robust design, with dimensions of 120(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm and a weight of 0.63kg. Its aluminium heat sink and metal fasteners ensure durability and effective heat dissipation. In contrast, the Thermal Paste focuses on providing effective thermal conductivity through a specially formulated compound, without any physical design elements since it is a paste. While the air cooler has a visual appeal with its ARGB lighting, the thermal paste is more utilitarian, prioritising functionality.

Cooling Efficiency

In terms of cooling efficiency, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB is engineered for optimal performance, featuring a PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, producing a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. Its noise level is designed to stay below 25.6 dB(A), ensuring a quiet operation. On the other hand, the Thermal Paste enhances heat dissipation by reducing device temperatures, thus prolonging component life during heavy loads. While the air cooler provides immediate cooling, the paste complements this by ensuring effective thermal transfer between the CPU and cooler.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB is compatible with various CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851 and AMD's AM4/AM5 platforms, making it versatile for a range of builds. The thermal paste, however, is universally compatible with all types of computer systems, including desktops, laptops, and servers, thus catering to a broader audience. This wide compatibility ensures that users can apply the paste to multiple components, such as CPUs, GPUs, and memory, enhancing its utility.

Installation Process

Installation of the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB requires mounting via its provided metal fasteners, which are designed for both Intel and AMD platforms. This may involve a more complex setup, especially for novice builders. In comparison, applying the Thermal Paste is a straightforward process. Users need to ensure the CPU surface is clean, apply the paste in the centre, and then mount the cooler. This simplicity makes the Thermal Paste an attractive option for quick fixes or upgrades.

Performance under Load

Under heavy load conditions, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU cooler excels with its efficient airflow and quiet operation. The fan is designed to maintain cooling efficiency even at high RPMs, ensuring that temperatures are kept in check. Meanwhile, the Thermal Paste significantly contributes to performance by ensuring optimal thermal contact between the CPU and cooler, which is crucial during intensive computing tasks. Although the air cooler manages active cooling, the paste plays a vital role in passive heat management.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is available for £16.29, reflecting its advanced features and cooling capabilities. In contrast, the Thermal Paste is priced at a more budget-friendly £6.99, making it an economical choice for those looking to improve thermal management without a substantial investment. While the air cooler offers more in terms of cooling technology, the price difference highlights the distinct roles each product plays in a cooling setup.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermal Paste ultimately depends on your cooling needs and system requirements. If you seek an effective air-cooling solution with added aesthetics and compatibility across multiple CPU sockets, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB is the better investment. However, if you're looking for a cost-effective way to enhance thermal conductivity and maintain optimal temperatures across various components, the Thermal Paste is a solid choice. Both products have their strengths and can complement each other in a well-rounded cooling solution.