Psyqtsuary 2 PCS vs Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air

Overview of the Products

The first product, 2 PCS 12 CM CPU Heatsink Fan Buckle, is priced at $4.49, while the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler comes in at $17.90. This price difference of approximately 300% indicates that the Thermalright cooler is a significantly larger investment. The two products serve different purposes in the realm of CPU cooling, where the fan clips focus on secure attachment and basic heat dissipation, while the Thermalright model aims for comprehensive cooling performance.

Build Quality and Materials

The 2 PCS 12 CM CPU Heatsink Fan Buckle is made of high-quality stainless steel, providing durability and resistance to high temperatures. Its lightweight design, weighing only 2 grams, ensures easy installation and portability. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X120 features an aluminum heatsink cover and is equipped with four heat pipes designed using AGHP technology. This technology enhances the cooler's performance by solving the inverse gravity effect, making it suitable for vertical and horizontal orientations. The robust construction of the Thermalright model suggests a lasting performance under demanding conditions.

Installation Process

Installation is straightforward for both products, yet they cater to different user experiences. The 2 PCS 12 CM CPU Heatsink Fan Buckle allows for easy attachment to existing fans with no complicated processes, making it user-friendly for beginners. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X120 requires a bit more effort, as it comes with specific mounting plates for compatibility with various Intel and AMD sockets. While the fan clips are ready to use right out of the package, the cooler may involve a more detailed installation process, which might be a consideration for users less experienced in PC building.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin X120 excels with its four heat pipes and a PWM fan capable of spinning at 1550 RPM. This fan can generate an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level at or below 25.6 dB(A). In contrast, the 2 PCS 12 CM CPU Heatsink Fan Buckle is designed primarily to secure fans in place, facilitating basic cooling. While it aids in heat dissipation, it does not provide the active cooling performance that the Thermalright cooler offers, making it less suitable for high-performance gaming or demanding applications.

Compatibility

The 2 PCS 12 CM CPU Heatsink Fan Buckle is specifically designed for 12 cm fans, such as models like hyun bing 400 and donghai x4, x5 radiators. This makes it a versatile accessory for various setups. In comparison, the Thermalright Assassin X120 supports a wider range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4/AM5. This broad compatibility ensures that the Thermalright cooler can fit into more builds, making it a more versatile choice for users looking to upgrade their CPU cooling solutions.

Noise Levels

The Thermalright Assassin X120 has been designed for low noise operation, with a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A) while delivering effective cooling. This is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize a quiet computing environment. In contrast, the 2 PCS 12 CM CPU Heatsink Fan Buckle does not specify noise levels, as it is not a cooling unit but rather a fixing clip. Therefore, while it may not contribute to noise directly, it is essential to consider that the fans it supports may vary in noise output. Users seeking a silent operation would likely find the Thermalright to be the better option.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetically, the 2 PCS 12 CM CPU Heatsink Fan Buckle features a simple silver design that is functional yet unobtrusive. Its lightweight and compact form allow it to blend seamlessly into most builds. Meanwhile, the Thermalright Assassin X120 boasts a more robust and engineered look, with an aluminum heatsink that adds a modern touch to any PC setup. For users who value the visual aspect of their components, the Thermalright cooler may stand out more prominently.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 2 PCS 12 CM CPU Heatsink Fan Buckle and the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your cooling needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable solution for securing your existing fans, the 2 PCS clips at $4.49 provide excellent value. However, if you require a high-performance cooling solution that supports a variety of CPU sockets and provides superior cooling efficiency, the Thermalright at $17.90 is worth the investment. Its advanced features and compatibility make it a more suitable option for serious gamers and PC builders.