Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black, vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU

Design and Aesthetics

The Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black has a sleek all-black design that complements various build themes, while the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB offers a striking aesthetic with its vibrant ARGB lighting. The Noctua cooler stands out for its compact 92mm size, making it ideal for tight spaces and ensuring that it will not obstruct RAM slots or PCIe slots, even on ITX motherboards. In contrast, the Thermalright cooler measures 120mm in height, giving it a more substantial presence in any case, but it may require more space. Ultimately, the choice between these two coolers may come down to personal preference regarding color schemes and space availability.

Cooling Performance

The Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black is known for its premium heatsink design, having received over 100 awards from hardware review sites. Equipped with a renowned NF-A9 92mm fan, it provides whisper-quiet operation thanks to its Low-Noise Adaptor and PWM functionality, which adjusts the fan speed according to the CPU load. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE features a more robust setup with five heat pipes and a TL-C12CW-S PWM fan that delivers a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. While both coolers are designed to perform well under load, the Thermalright may edge out in raw cooling capacity due to its larger fan and enhanced heat dissipation features.

Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility, both coolers support a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. The Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black is compatible with Intel LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x, and AMD AM5 & AM4 sockets. Its SecuFirm2 mounting system simplifies installation across these platforms. The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE also offers broad compatibility, supporting Intel sockets including LGA1700, LGA1200, and AMD AM4. Both coolers provide the necessary mounting hardware, ensuring a hassle-free setup regardless of the CPU you choose.

Noise Levels

The Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black is engineered for near-silent operation, particularly at idle, making it an excellent choice for users prioritizing quiet computing. Its fan operates quietly even under load, providing effective cooling without the distraction of noise. Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE has a noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A), which is still relatively quiet but not as silent as the Noctua model. Thus, for those who value a quieter system, the Noctua may be the preferable option.

Warranty and Build Quality

Noctua is known for its high-quality manufacturing, and the NH-U9S chromax.Black is backed by a 6-year manufacturer’s warranty, reflecting the brand's confidence in its product durability. The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE, while also well-constructed, does not specify a warranty period, which may be a consideration for buyers concerned about long-term reliability. The longer warranty of the Noctua cooler can provide peace of mind to users who want assurance that their investment is protected.

Price Comparison

The Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black comes at a current price of $74.95, while the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is significantly cheaper, priced at just $19.82. This represents a price difference of about 73%, making the Thermalright a far more budget-friendly option for those looking to save on their cooling solution. However, the price difference also reflects the varying features and performance levels of the two coolers, which may justify the higher cost of the Noctua for users with specific needs.

User Experience and Reviews

While specific sales rankings and user reviews are not provided, both brands have established reputations in the cooling market. Noctua is often praised for its exceptional cooling performance and low noise levels, garnering many positive reviews from tech enthusiasts and professionals. On the other hand, Thermalright has been recognized for offering solid performance at a lower price point, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers. Users may want to consider their priorities—whether performance, noise, or cost is the most important factor—when selecting between these two coolers.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ultimately comes down to individual needs and budget. If you prioritize top-tier performance, compact design, and a nearly silent operation, the Noctua is the clear choice, albeit at a higher price of $74.95. However, if you are looking for an economical solution that still offers decent performance and aesthetics with ARGB lighting, the Thermalright at $19.82 is a compelling option. Each cooler has its strengths, so consider your specific requirements before making a final decision.