ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse – 3 Pack – vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU

Overview of the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse and Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB

The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is priced at $18.49, while the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB costs $19.82, making the ARCTIC fan about 7% cheaper. Both products cater to users looking for effective cooling solutions, but they target slightly different needs and preferences. The P12 Pro Reverse emphasizes a unique airflow design, while the Assassin King 120 SE combines efficient cooling with aesthetic ARGB lighting.

Design and Aesthetics

The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse features a design that draws air in from the back side, making it particularly suitable for glass-fronted PC cases where the appearance matters. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE boasts an elegant white finish complemented by ARGB lighting, appealing to users who prefer a visually striking setup. The choice between these two products largely comes down to personal aesthetic preferences, as both are well-crafted for their respective designs.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is engineered to provide high static pressure, making it effective at penetrating dense radiators and mesh structures. Its PWM control allows speeds of up to 3000 RPM, which is notably higher than the Assassin King's maximum fan speed of 1550 RPM. This means the ARCTIC fan can potentially offer superior cooling performance under load, particularly in high-demand gaming or workstation scenarios.

Noise Levels

The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is designed for quiet operation, with its smooth-running fluid dynamic bearing minimizing noise during use. While the specific decibel level is not provided for the P12 Pro, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE claims a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). Given the ARCTIC fan's focus on reducing vibrations and noise, it's likely that users will find it to be comparable or possibly quieter than the Thermalright option, especially at higher RPMs.

Compatibility and Installation

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is compatible with a wide array of CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA1700 and AMD's AM4. This versatility makes it a great choice for users with diverse system builds. The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse, as a fan, may be somewhat less flexible in terms of direct CPU compatibility since it is primarily a cooling fan rather than a complete cooler. This factor should be considered by users looking for a straightforward installation without additional components.

Build Quality and Durability

Both products emphasize build quality, but they do so in different ways. The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse features a hydrodynamic bearing designed for longevity and quiet performance, while the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE incorporates S-FDB bearings, which also promise a long service life. The ARCTIC fan's precision manufacturing reduces vibrations, likely contributing to a quieter operation and longer lifespan, but the overall durability will depend on the usage context and environment.

Price Comparison

At $18.49, the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is more budget-friendly than the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE, which retails for $19.82. This price difference of about $1.33 may seem minor, but for users on a tight budget or those building multiple systems, it can add up. The savings from choosing the ARCTIC fan could be used for other components, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious builders without sacrificing quality.

User Experience and Feedback

While user reviews are not provided here, brand reputation can give insight into expected performance. ARCTIC is known for its high-quality fans that deliver on performance and noise reduction, while Thermalright has a solid reputation in the CPU cooler market. Users of the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse may appreciate its effective cooling and quieter operation, while those opting for the Thermalright Assassin King will likely enjoy the combination of cooling and aesthetic lighting.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB ultimately depends on your specific cooling needs and aesthetic preferences. If you prioritize high RPM performance and quiet operation, the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse may be the better option at $18.49. Alternatively, if you prefer an aesthetically pleasing cooler with solid compatibility across various CPU sockets, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE at $19.82 could be worth the extra investment.