DORHEA 2Pcs 3007 Fan for Raspberry Pi 5 30x30x7mm Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air

Overview of the Products

The 2Pcs 3007 Fan for Raspberry Pi is a compact cooling solution priced at $5.99, while the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler is a robust option for $17.90. The price difference is notable, with the Raspberry Pi fan being about 67% cheaper than the CPU cooler. Both products cater to different needs: one focuses on cooling for small electronics, particularly the Raspberry Pi, while the other is designed for more powerful CPU cooling in desktop computers.

Design and Build Quality

The 2Pcs 3007 Fan features a compact 30x30x7mm design, making it easy to install in Raspberry Pi cases and other small devices. It operates quietly at a noise level of 15.92 dBA, which is impressive for such a small fan. Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE has a larger footprint with dimensions of 125x71x148mm and a weight of 0.645kg. Its aluminum heatsink cover and four heat pipes suggest a robust build quality designed to handle higher thermal loads. The difference in design reflects their intended applications: one for compact electronics and the other for high-performance CPU cooling.

Cooling Performance

The 2Pcs 3007 Fan provides effective cooling for Raspberry Pi models with a lifespan of approximately 30,000 hours. It connects to the motherboard via a two-pin interface that allows it to operate at two speeds (3.3V and 5V). In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE boasts a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This indicates that while the Raspberry Pi fan is suitable for low-power devices, the Thermalright cooler is engineered for higher performance, making it a better choice for demanding CPU tasks.

Compatibility

The 2Pcs 3007 Fan is compatible with multiple Raspberry Pi models, including the latest Raspberry Pi 5, as well as various robotic projects and development boards. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for hobbyists and educators. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X120 supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1150 through 1700 and AMD AM4/AM5. This extensive compatibility makes it suitable for a variety of builds, particularly for gamers and professionals who require reliable cooling for their systems.

Installation Process

Installing the 2Pcs 3007 Fan is straightforward, as it comes with nuts and screws for easy mounting. Its small size means it can fit in most standard Raspberry Pi cases without any hassle. Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin X120 requires a bit more effort due to its larger size and the need to accommodate various mounting plates for Intel and AMD platforms. Users may need to ensure that their cases can accommodate the cooler’s height of 148mm, which is something to consider during installation.

Noise Levels

The 2Pcs 3007 Fan operates very quietly, with a noise level of just 15.92 dBA, making it ideal for environments where silence is essential. This low noise output is particularly beneficial when using the Raspberry Pi for projects that require minimal distraction. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X120, while still relatively quiet, operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This is acceptable for most users but may be noticeable in ultra-quiet setups. The difference in noise levels highlights the distinct use cases for each cooler.

Price Comparison

At $5.99, the 2Pcs 3007 Fan is significantly cheaper than the Thermalright Assassin X120, which retails at $17.90. This price disparity of about $11.91 makes the Raspberry Pi fan a more cost-effective option for users who need basic cooling solutions. However, for those building high-performance systems, the investment in the Thermalright cooler may be justified given its advanced features and cooling capabilities. The choice between the two should consider not only the initial price but also the cooling needs of the system.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 2Pcs 3007 Fan and the Thermalright Assassin X120 boils down to your specific cooling needs and system requirements. If you are working with a Raspberry Pi or a small project that requires minimal cooling, the 2Pcs 3007 Fan is an excellent, budget-friendly option. However, if you are building a high-performance PC that demands efficient cooling, the Thermalright Assassin X120 is worth the investment for its superior cooling performance and compatibility with a wider range of CPUs.