upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub with Controller vs TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will look at the upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub with Controller and the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler. The upHere fan hub is priced at £10.99, while the TR-Assassin cooler is slightly more expensive at £14.49. Both products serve distinct roles in PC cooling but cater to different user needs.

Purpose and Functionality

The upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub is designed primarily for optimising airflow and aesthetics within your PC case. It allows users to connect up to nine fans, supporting both PWM function and ARGB lighting. In contrast, the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler is a dedicated solution for cooling the CPU itself. With a heat sink made from aluminium and copper, it focuses on maintaining optimal temperatures during intensive tasks, which is crucial for system stability and performance.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design, the upHere fan hub features a compact size of 12x5.5x1.8 cm, making it easy to place within the confines of a PC case. Its magnetic back design allows for convenient placement without the need for double-sided tape. On the other hand, the TR-Assassin cooler has larger dimensions of 120mm in length and 148mm in height, which might require more careful consideration regarding case compatibility. The use of high-quality materials like aluminium and copper in the TR-Assassin adds to its durability and effectiveness.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance offered by these two products is inherently different. The upHere fan hub enhances the overall cooling capacity by allowing the connection of multiple fans, which can be particularly beneficial for airflow. It features a PWM function that synchronises fan speeds for optimal cooling. Conversely, the TR-Assassin cooler provides a more focused cooling solution with its fan delivering a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This makes it highly effective for cooling the CPU while keeping noise levels relatively low.

Compatibility and Installation

In terms of compatibility, the upHere fan hub supports a wide range of 5V 3-pin ARGB fans and light bars, making it versatile for various builds. It connects via SATA power input, ensuring no voltage loss and efficient operation. The TR-Assassin cooler is compatible with both Intel and AMD motherboards, supporting a wide range of sockets including LGA1700 and AM5. However, installation on AM4 and AM5 motherboards requires the original backplate, which is not included. This could complicate installation for some users.

Price Considerations

The pricing of both products reflects their functionalities and target markets. The upHere fan hub is priced at £10.99, making it an economical choice for users looking to add more fans and lighting effects without breaking the bank. The TR-Assassin cooler is priced at £14.49, which is reasonable considering its purpose as a dedicated CPU cooler. The slight price difference may influence a buyer's decision, especially if budget constraints are a significant factor.

User Experience

The upHere fan hub is designed with user convenience in mind, featuring a magnetic back for easy installation and a compact design that helps keep cable management tidy. Users can extend their fan setup easily without the hassle of complex installations. In contrast, the TR-Assassin cooler may require more careful planning during installation due to its size and compatibility requirements. However, once installed, users can expect efficient cooling performance that can handle demanding tasks.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub and the TR-Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler ultimately comes down to your specific cooling needs. If you're looking to enhance airflow and aesthetics in your case, the upHere fan hub is an excellent choice at £10.99. However, if your primary concern is effective CPU cooling during high-performance tasks, the TR-Assassin cooler is worth the extra investment at £14.49. Each product excels in its own right, catering to different aspects of PC cooling.