ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 A-RGB - vs Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air

Overview of ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 A-RGB

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 A-RGB is a high-performance 240 mm AIO (All-In-One) CPU cooler designed for both AMD and Intel processors. Priced at $80.00, this cooler features a unique design with a 38 mm radiator, PWM pump, and an integrated VRM fan. The cooler aims to provide efficient cooling solutions while maintaining a low noise output. Its compatibility with various sockets, including Intel LGA1851 and LGA1700, as well as AMD AM5 and AM4, makes it versatile for most modern systems.

The cooler's standout feature is its optimized contact pressure distribution, which ensures better heat dissipation and prolongs CPU lifespan. With an emphasis on performance, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro also focuses on aesthetics, incorporating A-RGB lighting that appeals to gamers and PC builders alike.

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE is an air cooler designed for budget-conscious users, priced at just $17.90. This cooler features four heat pipes and a TL-C12C PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, capable of delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). It is compatible with a wide range of sockets, including Intel’s LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1200, 1700, and AMD’s AM4 and AM5.

Despite its lower price, the Assassin X120 Refined SE employs Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe (AGHP) technology, which helps mitigate the inverse gravity effect, enhancing cooling efficiency regardless of orientation. This design allows it to provide adequate cooling for mid-range systems without breaking the bank.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 A-RGB is designed for high efficiency under load, making it an excellent choice for overclocking enthusiasts. Its integrated VRM fan also helps in cooling voltage converters, which can be crucial for high-performance setups. The native offset mounting ensures that the cooler is positioned optimally over the CPU hotspot for maximum heat transfer.

In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE, while not as powerful as the AIO cooler, offers sufficient cooling for standard computing tasks and light gaming. Its 4 heat pipes utilize AGHP technology, allowing for effective heat dissipation, though it may not match the cooling capabilities of the ARCTIC model under heavy loads.

Noise Levels and Acoustic Performance

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 A-RGB is designed to operate quietly, particularly at low speeds, although specific decibel ratings are not provided. Its P12 Pro fan is engineered to deliver high performance without generating excessive noise, making it suitable for users who prioritize a quiet working environment.

Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE has a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for an air cooler. While it may produce more noise than the ARCTIC cooler under load, it remains an excellent choice for users seeking a balance of performance and low noise.

Installation and Compatibility

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 A-RGB features native offset mounting for both Intel and AMD sockets, simplifying the installation process. Its design allows for a straightforward setup, making it accessible even for those who may not have extensive experience with PC builds.

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE also prides itself on compatibility, supporting multiple sockets across both Intel and AMD platforms. Its dimensions make it suitable for medium-sized cases, and it comes equipped with metal fasteners that facilitate a secure installation. However, the installation may be slightly more complex than that of the ARCTIC cooler due to its air-cooling design.

Aesthetics and Design

Aesthetically, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 A-RGB stands out with its sleek black finish and customizable RGB lighting. This cooler is not just about performance; it also aims to enhance the visual appeal of any gaming rig or workstation. The design integrates cable management features, ensuring a tidy look within the case.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE has a more utilitarian design, focusing primarily on function over form. While it features an aluminum heatsink cover, it lacks the RGB aesthetics that many modern PC builders seek. Its straightforward design may appeal more to users who prioritize performance over looks.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two coolers is substantial. The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 A-RGB is priced at $80.00, making it a premium choice for those seeking advanced cooling capabilities and aesthetics. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE is priced at only $17.90, which is about 78% less than the ARCTIC model. This significant price gap makes the Thermalright cooler an attractive option for budget-conscious users or those who do not require extreme cooling performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 240 A-RGB and the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for high-performance cooling, especially for overclocking, and appreciate RGB aesthetics, the ARCTIC cooler is the way to go. However, if you are on a tight budget and need adequate cooling for everyday tasks or light gaming, the Thermalright cooler offers excellent value for its price. Consider what matters most to you—performance, noise levels, aesthetics, or cost—and make your choice accordingly.