Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 IR Black Hub vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU

Overview of Thermalright Products

In this comparison, we will take a closer look at two notable products from Thermalright: the Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 IR Black Hub Controller and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU Air Cooler. The former is priced at $11.59, while the latter costs $19.82, making it about 71% more expensive than the fan hub. Each product serves a distinct purpose in the realm of PC cooling and lighting, appealing to different user needs.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 IR features a sleek, compact design with a linear ARGB light strip on its top surface, designed to complement the aesthetics of any gaming setup. Its black color and small dimensions (108x50x21mm) allow for easy integration into various builds. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE boasts a more traditional CPU cooler design with a height of 148mm, constructed from aluminum, and equipped with a PWM fan that also showcases colorful ARGB lighting effects. While both products emphasize aesthetics through RGB lighting, the fan hub is tailored for cable management and compactness, whereas the CPU cooler balances performance and visual appeal.

Functionality and Features

The Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 serves as a hub for connecting up to 12 fans, providing both ARGB and PWM functionalities. It allows for synchronization of lighting effects and fan speeds through a straightforward plug-and-play system. This makes it particularly beneficial for users looking to manage multiple fans and lighting strips efficiently. Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE specializes in cooling performance, featuring five heat pipes and a quiet fan designed to maintain optimal temperatures while minimizing noise levels (≤25.6dB). Each product excels in its intended functionality, with the hub focusing on lighting and fan management, while the CPU cooler prioritizes thermal efficiency.

Compatibility and Installation

When it comes to compatibility, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is versatile, supporting various Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1700 and AM4. This makes it suitable for a wide range of builds and easy to install with the provided metal fasteners. On the other hand, the Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 does not require a complex installation, as it connects directly to the power supply and motherboard, making it a user-friendly option for managing fan and lighting connections. The ease of installation of the hub is a strong selling point, especially for those who might not have extensive experience with PC builds.

Performance Metrics

In terms of performance, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is designed to handle high thermal loads, with a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and a fan speed of 1550 RPM, making it an effective solution for cooling demanding CPUs. The product's engineering, including its S-FDB bearings, contributes to its long service life and low noise levels. The ARGB and Fan HUB X12, while not designed for cooling, optimizes the performance of connected fans by allowing for PWM control and synchronized lighting, which can enhance the overall cooling efficiency of a system when paired with high-performance fans.

Brand Reputation

Thermalright has been a reputable brand in the PC cooling market for over 20 years, known for its reliable and innovative products. The brand's focus on research and development of computer accessories has positioned it as a trusted choice among gamers and PC enthusiasts alike. Both products reflect this commitment to quality, with the fan hub offering essential management features and the CPU cooler delivering robust performance. This established reputation adds value to both purchases, ensuring customers receive dependable products.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 is priced at $11.59, making it an attractive addition for budget-conscious users looking to enhance their PC's aesthetics and functionality without a significant investment. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is priced at $19.82, which is about 71% higher than the fan hub. This price difference reflects the additional cooling capabilities and engineering involved in the CPU cooler. For users focused solely on fan management and RGB lighting, the fan hub presents a more economical choice, while those seeking effective CPU cooling will find the investment in the Assassin King worthwhile.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking to enhance your PC's aesthetics and streamline fan management, the ARGB and Fan HUB X12 is a cost-effective solution at $11.59. However, if your priority is to ensure optimal cooling for your CPU, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE, while more expensive at $19.82, offers superior performance and reliability. Each product has its strengths, making them suitable for different aspects of PC building and maintenance.