TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler vs Noctua NT-H2 3.5g AM5 Edition

Overview of the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler

The TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 is a powerful CPU air cooler priced at £14.49. It features a combination of aluminium and copper materials, providing robust cooling capabilities. With dimensions of 120mm x 71mm x 148mm, it is designed to fit most ATX cases while ensuring compatibility with various motherboard types, including Intel and AMD. The cooling performance is enhanced by a high airflow fan that reaches a maximum of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A). This cooler promises efficient heat dissipation, making it ideal for gaming and high-performance tasks.

Overview of the Noctua NT-H2 3.5g AM5 Edition

The Noctua NT-H2 3.5g AM5 Edition is a premium thermal compound available for £12.11. It is specifically formulated for optimal heat transfer from CPUs and GPUs to heatsinks. The product includes a thermal paste guard, which prevents build-up in AMD Ryzen CPUs, ensuring cleanliness and efficiency. This 3.5g pack can cover around 3 to 20 applications depending on the CPU size, making it highly versatile for users with multiple devices. With a recommended usage time of up to 5 years, Noctua ensures the longevity and reliability of its thermal paste.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is critical for any CPU cooler, and the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 excels in this area with a maximum airflow rate of 66.17 CFM. This high airflow is complemented by a fan speed of 1550 RPM, providing effective heat dissipation even during intensive usage. In contrast, while the Noctua NT-H2 is not a cooler itself, it serves as a thermal interface to improve the efficiency of any CPU cooler, optimising heat transfer. The effectiveness of the NT-H2 can significantly enhance the overall cooling performance when paired with a capable cooler like the TR-Assassin X.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 operates at a maximum of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a high-performance cooler. This low noise output makes it suitable for users who prefer a quieter computing environment, such as gamers or professionals working in sound-sensitive settings. On the other hand, the Noctua NT-H2 does not produce noise as it is a thermal compound. However, when used in conjunction with a cooler like the TR-Assassin X, it contributes to overall system quietness by enabling better thermal performance and reducing the need for aggressive fan speeds.

Installation and Compatibility

The TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 features a thoughtful design that allows it to fit in most ATX cases due to its height of 148mm. It is compatible with a wide range of motherboards, including Intel's LGA1150 through LGA1700 and AMD's AM4/AM5, although installation on AM4 and AM5 requires the original motherboard's backplate. The installation system is user-friendly, ensuring that even those with minimal experience can set it up efficiently. In contrast, the Noctua NT-H2 is straightforward to apply, eliminating the need to spread the paste before installation, which simplifies the process for users.

Longevity and Stability

The longevity of cooling solutions is essential, particularly for high-performance builds. The TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 is designed to provide reliable cooling over time, though specific longevity data is not provided. The Noctua NT-H2, however, explicitly recommends a storage time of up to 3 years and a usage time of up to 5 years on the CPU, ensuring that users can count on its performance without frequent replacements. This makes the NT-H2 an excellent choice for those looking for a dependable thermal compound.

Price Point Comparison

In terms of pricing, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 is available for £14.49, while the Noctua NT-H2 is slightly cheaper at £12.11. Although the TR-Assassin X offers a complete cooling solution, the Noctua NT-H2 provides an essential component for optimising the thermal performance of any cooler. When considering value, both products are relatively affordable in their respective categories, but the choice depends on whether the user needs a complete cooler or a thermal compound to enhance an existing cooler's performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 and the Noctua NT-H2 depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for a complete CPU cooler with strong performance and compatibility, the TR-Assassin X is the better option. It provides effective cooling with quiet operation and is suitable for various setups. However, if you already have a cooler and need a high-quality thermal compound, the Noctua NT-H2 is an excellent choice, offering reliable heat transfer and easy application. Ultimately, both products serve different purposes, so your decision should be based on whether you need a cooler or a thermal paste for optimal performance.