Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black, vs Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black
Updated August 2026 — Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black, wins on warranty and cooling performa, Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black wins on compatibility.
The Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black excels in performance and noise levels, while the Thermalright Assassin X 120R offers great value for budget-conscious users.
Why Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black, is better
Cooling Performance
Award-winning design with superior cooling efficiency
Noise Levels
Quieter operation at idle compared to Thermalright
Brand Reputation
Noctua is well-regarded for reliability and performance
Why Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black is better
Price
Significantly cheaper at $24.90
Digital Display
Features a digital screen for real-time monitoring
Aesthetics
ARGB lighting adds visual appeal
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black, | Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Support | LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x, AM5, AM4 | LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, AM4, AM5 |
| Fan Speed | max 2000 RPM | max 2000 RPM |
| Noise Level | ≤ 25 dB(A) | ≤ 29.8 dB(A) |
| Warranty | 6 years | 3 years |
| Thermal Paste | NT-H1 included | not included |
Dimension comparison
Introduction
Choosing the right CPU cooler can significantly impact your system's performance and aesthetics. In this article, we will compare two popular CPU coolers: the Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black and the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black. The Noctua cooler is priced at $74.95, while the Thermalright option is considerably cheaper at $24.90, making it about 67% less expensive. Let’s delve into their features, compatibility, and other factors to determine which cooler might be the best fit for your needs.
Design and Aesthetics
The design of a CPU cooler not only affects its performance but also its visual appeal. The Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black showcases a premium black finish, making it a versatile choice that complements various build aesthetics. Its compact 92mm size ensures that it fits well in most cases without blocking RAM slots or PCIe slots, which is particularly beneficial for smaller form-factor builds.
In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R features a digital screen top cover that displays real-time CPU and GPU temperatures, enhancing its visual functionality. Its sleek design is further complemented by ARGB lighting, which can synchronize with the motherboard’s RGB system. With a height of 151mm, it is slightly taller than the Noctua but remains compatible with most cases.
Cooling Performance
Cooling performance is a critical factor when selecting a cooler. The Noctua NH-U9S is renowned for its proven premium heatsink design, which has received over 100 awards and recommendations. It features the award-winning NF-A9 92mm fan, which utilizes a Low-Noise Adaptor for whisper-quiet operation at idle and full cooling performance under load. This makes it a solid choice for users prioritizing silent operation.
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R, equipped with a high-speed 2000RPM fan, offers robust cooling potential as well. It’s designed with a combination of an LCD top cover and a single tower with four heat pipes, purportedly maximizing heat dissipation. However, while it may excel in raw cooling power, its maximum noise level of 29.8 dB(A) may not be as quiet as the Noctua under certain conditions.
Compatibility
Compatibility is essential for ensuring your CPU cooler works seamlessly with your system. The Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x, and AMD’s AM5 and AM4. Its compact design makes it particularly adept at fitting into smaller cases without interfering with other components.
On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R also offers broad compatibility, supporting Intel's LGA 1851, 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, and 1200, as well as AMD's AM4 and AM5 sockets. Its installation process requires the original backplate for AMD platforms, which may complicate the setup for some users. Overall, both coolers provide strong compatibility options, but the Noctua may have a slight edge due to its compact size.
Ease of Installation
The installation process can often be a deciding factor for many users. The Noctua NH-U9S comes with a SecuFirm2 mounting system that is designed for easy installation across various platforms. It also includes high-end NT-H1 thermal paste, which simplifies the application process for users.
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R is designed to be user-friendly as well, with installation accessories provided and guidance available through installation videos or manuals. However, users must keep in mind the requirement of the original backplate for AMD installations, which could introduce some complexity for those unfamiliar with the process. Both coolers aim to make installation straightforward, but Noctua's system might be more accommodating for a broader range of users.
Noise Levels
Noise levels are an important consideration, especially for those who build quiet PCs. The Noctua NH-U9S is celebrated for its whisper-quiet operation, particularly at idle, thanks to its advanced fan design and Low-Noise Adaptor. This cooler is ideal for users who want to maintain a peaceful computing environment.
Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R operates at a maximum noise level of 29.8 dB(A). While this is still relatively quiet for a high-performance cooler, it may not suit users who prioritize an ultra-silent setup. Therefore, if noise is a critical factor, the Noctua cooler may emerge as the superior choice.
Price Comparison
Price is often a decisive factor when choosing between products. The Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black is priced at $74.95, which reflects its premium build quality and performance reputation. On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R is significantly more budget-friendly at $24.90, making it about 67% cheaper than its competitor. This price difference makes the Thermalright an attractive option for budget-conscious users who still want decent cooling performance.
However, while the Thermalright offers substantial savings, it may not match the cooling efficiency and noise performance of the Noctua. Therefore, buyers must weigh the importance of price against the potential performance benefits of the more expensive option.
User Reviews and Reputation
User reviews and brand reputation can provide insight into the overall satisfaction with each product. Noctua has built a solid reputation over the years, with many users praising the NH-U9S for its reliability, cooling performance, and quiet operation. The extensive awards and recommendations it has received further solidify its standing as a premium choice in the CPU cooler market.
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R, while also positively received, may not have the same level of brand recognition as Noctua. However, it appeals to a segment of users looking for an economical cooler with decent performance and unique features like the digital display. Users often appreciate the value it provides for the price, making it a popular choice among budget builders.
Which should you buy?
In conclusion, the decision between the Noctua NH-U9S chromax.Black and the Thermalright Assassin X 120R largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a high-performance, quiet cooler with a strong reputation and extensive compatibility, the Noctua is a compelling choice, albeit at a higher price of $74.95. However, if budget constraints are a primary concern and you are willing to compromise slightly on noise levels and brand prestige, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R at $24.90 offers excellent value for money. Ultimately, both coolers have their merits, and the best choice will align with your individual preferences and requirements.