TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Products

The TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler are two powerful cooling solutions designed for performance enthusiasts. Priced at £14.49 and £16.29 respectively, both coolers aim to provide efficient thermal management for modern CPUs. While they share some similarities in design and capabilities, their unique features set them apart.

Design and Build Quality

Both coolers boast dimensions of 120(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm, making them suitable for most ATX cases. The TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 incorporates a combination of aluminium and copper materials, enhancing its thermal conductivity. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB also uses aluminium but adds a touch of flair with its ARGB lighting. This aesthetic enhancement can appeal to users looking to customise their builds with vibrant lighting effects.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, both coolers are equipped with a standard 120mm fan measuring 120x120x25mm. They share the same fan speed of 1550 RPM ±10%, providing a rated airflow of 66.17 CFM (maximum) and a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This specification ensures that both coolers deliver effective cooling while maintaining a relatively quiet operation, making them ideal for various computing environments.

Compatibility with Motherboards

Compatibility is crucial for CPU coolers, and both the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 and Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB support a wide range of motherboard sockets. The TR cooler supports Intel sockets LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700 and AMD AM4/AM5. Similarly, the Thermalright cooler accommodates Intel sockets up to LGA1851 and AMD AM4/AM5, offering a slightly broader compatibility range. This ensures that both coolers can fit into a variety of systems, catering to a wide audience of PC builders.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers appears straightforward, but there are slight differences. The TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 features an SS2 install system and a metal pressure plate for better contact with the CPU. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB comes with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, which may simplify the installation process further. The TR cooler requires the original motherboard backplate for AM4 and AM5 installations, which could affect ease of use for some users.

Noise Levels

Both coolers maintain a low operational noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), making them suitable for quiet computing environments. This low noise performance is particularly beneficial for users who prioritise silence in their builds, such as gamers and content creators. The similar noise specifications indicate that users can expect a quiet operation from both coolers, irrespective of which option they choose.

Lighting Features

The TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 features static RGB lighting, which can add a subtle glow to your build. Meanwhile, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB takes this a step further with its colourful and dynamic ARGB light effects, allowing for more customisation options and synchronisation with other RGB components in your system. This difference may influence users who place a high value on aesthetic appeal and lighting effects in their builds.

Price Comparison

In terms of pricing, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 is more economical at £14.49 compared to the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB at £16.29. While the price difference of £1.80 may not seem substantial, it could influence budget-conscious consumers looking for value without sacrificing performance. Both options, however, present competitive pricing within the CPU cooler market, offering solid performance at a reasonable cost.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 and the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritise a lower price point and effective cooling without the need for flashy aesthetics, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 is an excellent choice. However, if you desire enhanced RGB lighting and slightly broader compatibility, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB might be worth the extra investment. Both coolers deliver solid performance, making either a worthy addition to your PC build.