upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub with Controller vs Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Products

The upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub with Controller and the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler cater to different aspects of PC cooling. The fan hub is priced at £10.99, while the CPU cooler is available for £16.29, making the fan hub the more budget-friendly option. While both products enhance cooling, they serve distinct purposes in a computer build.

Design and Build Quality

The upHere fan hub features a compact design with dimensions of 12x5.5x1.8cm, making it easy to integrate into various cases without cluttering internal space. Its magnetic back allows for convenient placement on metal surfaces within the PC case. In contrast, the Thermalright CPU cooler stands taller at 148mm, reflecting its role as a more substantial component for cooling processors. The cooler is designed with a combination of aluminium heat sinks and metal fasteners, ensuring durability and compatibility across AMD and Intel platforms.

Cooling Performance

The upHere fan hub supports up to nine fans, allowing for extensive cooling potential by synchronising fan speeds through its PWM function. This can optimise airflow throughout the case, which can be critical during high-performance tasks. The Thermalright CPU cooler, on the other hand, uses a 120mm PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, producing an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This combination provides efficient cooling with a focus on low noise, ideal for users prioritising a quiet computing experience.

Compatibility

The upHere fan hub is designed to support a wide range of ARGB fans and LED strips, making it a versatile addition to any PC setup that includes RGB lighting. It operates with both 4-pin PWM and 3-pin ARGB components. Conversely, the Thermalright CPU cooler is compatible with multiple CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA 1700 and AMD's AM5, showcasing its adaptability for different systems. This compatibility ensures that users can install the cooler on various motherboards without hassle.

Installation Process

Both products are designed with user-friendliness in mind, but they cater to different installation experiences. The upHere fan hub's magnetic back simplifies installation by allowing users to attach it directly to the case without needing adhesives or screws. It also offers straightforward connectivity with its SATA power input. The Thermalright CPU cooler comes with metal fasteners designed for Intel and AMD platforms, which may require a bit more effort during installation but ensures a secure attachment to the CPU for optimal performance.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetically, the upHere fan hub is designed to enhance the visual appeal of a gaming rig with its ARGB lighting capabilities, allowing for custom lighting effects that can synchronise with other components. The Thermalright CPU cooler also features ARGB lighting effects on its fan, providing a vibrant and attractive look. Both products can significantly contribute to the overall aesthetic of a gaming or high-performance PC, but the fan hub offers more extensive customisation due to its ability to control multiple fans and light strips.

Pricing and Value

With the upHere fan hub priced at £10.99 and the Thermalright CPU cooler at £16.29, the fan hub presents a more economical option for those looking to expand their cooling setup without breaking the bank. However, the additional cost of the CPU cooler may be justified for users seeking effective cooling solutions specifically for their processors. Each product delivers value in its own right, depending on the user's cooling needs and budget constraints.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub with Controller and the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific requirements. If you are looking to enhance overall airflow and aesthetics in your PC case, the upHere fan hub is an excellent choice due to its affordability and multiple fan support. However, if your priority is to effectively cool your CPU with a reliable and quiet solution, the Thermalright CPU cooler stands out with its robust design and efficient performance. Both products are commendable, but your choice should align with whether you need a comprehensive fan system or focused CPU cooling.