WSHAITE CPU Wraith Cooler Prism Aluminum Heat Sink Copper vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU

Price Comparison

The CPU Wraith Cooler Prism is priced at $22.98, while the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB is slightly cheaper at $19.82. This makes the Assassin King about 17% less expensive than the Wraith Cooler. Price can be a significant factor when choosing a CPU cooler, and the Thermalright model offers a budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance.

Cooling Performance

Both coolers aim to deliver efficient cooling, but their designs and components suggest different cooling capabilities. The CPU Wraith Cooler features an aluminum heatsink with a copper core base and integrated copper heatpipes. It operates with a 95mm fan that can reach speeds between 3000 RPM and 3600 RPM, which is impressive for maintaining optimal temperatures. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King utilizes five heatpipes and a 120mm PWM fan that runs at 1550 RPM. While it may have a lower maximum fan speed, its larger size and multiple heatpipes enhance its ability to dissipate heat effectively.

Design and Aesthetics

The visual appeal of a CPU cooler can influence your choice, especially if you are building a showcase gaming rig. The CPU Wraith Cooler features RGB lighting effects, allowing for a customizable look compatible with various motherboards. It’s designed to fit seamlessly into modern builds with its sleek aluminum and copper construction. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin King also boasts ARGB lighting, which adds a vibrant touch to your setup. Its clean, white aesthetic complements many builds, particularly those with a light-themed color scheme.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial when selecting a CPU cooler, and both models cater to a wide range of socket types. The CPU Wraith Cooler is compatible with several AMD sockets, including AM5, AM4, and AM2, making it versatile for AMD users. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King supports both AMD and Intel sockets, including AM4, AM5, and various Intel LGA models like 1700 and 1150. This broader compatibility may appeal to users who might switch between different CPU brands in the future.

Installation Process

Ease of installation can greatly enhance the user experience. The CPU Wraith Cooler is designed to install using pre-existing bracket mounts typically found on most motherboards, making it relatively straightforward to set up. However, it should be noted that these mounts are not included with the cooler. The Thermalright Assassin King also emphasizes user-friendly installation, as it comes with metal fasteners suitable for both Intel and AMD platforms. This could provide a more secure fit and simplify the installation process for users.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for users prioritizing a quiet computing environment. The CPU Wraith Cooler operates within a variable speed range, potentially reaching higher RPMs, which may lead to increased noise under load. However, the Thermalright Assassin King’s PWM fan has a noise level capped at about 25.6 dB(A), delivering efficient cooling while maintaining a quieter operation. This makes the Thermalright a better choice for those sensitive to noise or for builds designed for silent operation.

Brand Reputation

Brand reputation can also influence buying decisions. The CPU Wraith Cooler is produced by WSHAITE, a brand known for its focus on performance at a reasonable price. While specific sales and bestseller ranks for these products were not provided, Thermalright has over 20 years of experience in developing computer accessories and has built a solid reputation in the market. This experience may lend more confidence to users looking for reliability and long-term performance.

Which should you buy?

In summary, if you're looking for a budget-friendly cooler with solid performance, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB stands out as the better choice at $19.82, being about 17% cheaper than the CPU Wraith Cooler. It offers excellent compatibility with both AMD and Intel sockets, quieter operation, and robust cooling efficiency due to its five heatpipes. However, if you prefer a cooler with variable fan speeds and RGB lighting, and you're focused solely on AMD socket compatibility, the CPU Wraith Cooler may still be a suitable option. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific needs, preferences, and system requirements.