DGZZI AM4 Backplane Back Durable CPU Heatsink vs Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black
Updated August 2026 — full head-to-head comparison.
Overview of Products
The DGZZI AM4 Backplane Back Durable CPU Heatsink Bracket is priced at $7.99, making it an economical choice for users seeking a basic cooling solution for AMD Socket AM4 CPUs. In comparison, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler is priced at $24.90, offering advanced features for a more robust cooling performance. While the DGZZI heatsink provides essential support, the Thermalright cooler enhances heat dissipation with its sophisticated design.
Design and Build Quality
The DGZZI AM4 Backplane is constructed from copper and plastic, which contributes to its good heat dissipation capabilities while ensuring durability. This design is specifically tailored for AMD Socket AM4 motherboards, featuring an installation hole distance of 90x54mm. Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R boasts a more complex build with aluminum and a digital screen top cover, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The combination of a single tower design with four heat pipes allows for superior heat management, making it a suitable choice for performance enthusiasts.
Cooling Performance
Cooling performance is a key differentiator between the two products. The DGZZI heatsink focuses on basic cooling, ensuring the CPU operates efficiently without overheating. While it is effective for standard usage, it may not suffice for high-performance systems. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R is designed for optimal heat dissipation, featuring a fan speed of 2000 RPM and an air volume of 70.84 CFM. This advanced cooling performance is particularly beneficial for users engaged in gaming or intensive tasks where CPU temperatures can rise significantly.
Compatibility
In terms of compatibility, the DGZZI heatsink is limited to AMD Socket AM4 motherboards, making it a niche product for specific users. It fits various AMD chipsets such as B350, X370, and A320, ensuring basic compatibility within its range. The Thermalright Assassin X 120R, however, supports a wider array of sockets, including both AMD (AM4/AM5) and Intel (LGA 1851/1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200) platforms. This versatility makes it a more appealing option for users who may switch platforms or upgrade their systems in the future.
Aesthetics and Features
When it comes to aesthetics, the DGZZI heatsink offers a simple black and white design that is functional but lacks flair. The Thermalright Assassin X 120R, however, stands out with its digital screen top cover that displays important system metrics such as CPU temperature and usage. Additionally, the ARGB fan adds a visual element that can synchronize with the motherboard, enhancing the overall look of a gaming rig. Thus, while the DGZZI heatsink is utilitarian, the Thermalright cooler provides both functionality and style.
Installation Process
The installation process for the DGZZI heatsink is straightforward, as it is designed to replace existing mounting hardware for AMD Socket AM4 motherboards. It includes one backplane, making setup easy for those familiar with PC building. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R provides a more involved installation process, requiring users to follow a manual or video for proper setup. While it may take more time, this process ensures that the cooler is installed correctly for optimal performance.
Price Comparison
The DGZZI AM4 Backplane is priced at $7.99, making it significantly cheaper than the Thermalright Assassin X 120R, which retails for $24.90. This represents a difference of about 68%, indicating that the DGZZI heatsink is a budget-friendly option for users who need basic cooling. However, the price of the Thermalright cooler reflects its advanced features, performance capabilities, and wider compatibility. Users must consider whether they want to invest more for enhanced performance or stick with a basic solution.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the DGZZI AM4 Backplane and the Thermalright Assassin X 120R boils down to personal needs and system requirements. If you are looking for a simple, cost-effective solution to keep your AMD Socket AM4 CPU cool, the DGZZI heatsink at $7.99 is a practical choice. However, for those who require better cooling performance, aesthetics, and compatibility with multiple platforms, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R at $24.90 is worth the investment. Ultimately, your decision should align with your budget and performance expectations.