Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 IR Black Hub vs Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air

Overview of Thermalright Products

In this comparison, we will examine the Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 IR Black Hub Controller and the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler. The former is priced at $11.59, while the latter costs $17.90, making the fan hub about 35% cheaper than the CPU cooler. Although both products cater to different needs in the PC building and cooling realm, understanding their distinct functionalities will help you make an informed decision.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 IR boasts a compact and sleek design, featuring a small footprint of 108x50x21mm and an appealing black exterior with a linear ARGB accent. This design not only enhances the visual appeal of your setup but also ensures efficient cable management for up to 12 fans. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE has a more robust design with dimensions of 125(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm. Its aluminum heatsink cover and a refined aesthetic make it a striking addition to any build. While both products offer visual enhancements, the fan hub leans towards a more minimalist design, perfect for those prioritizing clean cable management.

Functionality and Features

The ARGB and Fan HUB X12 is designed to support both ARGB and PWM fans, facilitating simultaneous connections for lighting and cooling. It features four 4PIN and three 3PIN ARGB interfaces, allowing for extensive customization. Additionally, the hub comes with a remote control for easy lighting adjustments. On the other hand, the Assassin X120 Refined SE excels in cooling performance with its four heat pipes and a TL-C12C PWM fan that operates at a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and a noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A). While the fan hub focuses on lighting and cable management, the CPU cooler is engineered for optimal thermal management.

Compatibility and Installation

The Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 is compatible with a wide variety of ARGB and PWM fans, making it an excellent choice for users looking to expand their cooling and lighting setup. It also features a user-friendly plug-and-play installation to simplify setup. Conversely, the Assassin X120 Refined SE is compatible with multiple CPU socket types, including Intel’s LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700 and AMD’s AM4/AM5. The cooler comes with specific mounting hardware tailored for different CPU platforms, allowing users to install it with relative ease. While the fan hub focuses on fan and lighting integration, the CPU cooler shines in its compatibility with a broad range of CPUs.

Performance Metrics

In terms of performance, the Assassin X120 Refined SE stands out due to its specialized design aimed at efficient heat dissipation. Its four heat pipes incorporate AGHP technology, which helps mitigate the inverse gravity effect in various orientations. This cooler has a rated lifespan of up to 20,000 hours, underscoring its durability and reliability. In comparison, the ARGB and Fan HUB X12 primarily enhances user experience through visual appeal and neatness rather than direct cooling performance. Therefore, if your priority is cooling efficiency, the Assassin X120 is the superior choice.

Brand Reputation and Trustworthiness

Thermalright has established itself as a reputable brand in the PC accessory market over more than two decades. Known for its focus on high-quality computer components, Thermalright's products, including the ARGB and Fan HUB X12 and the Assassin X120, reflect a commitment to performance and innovation. Both products showcase the brand's dedication to quality, though they serve different purposes within a PC build. The longstanding reputation of Thermalright adds a layer of trustworthiness to both items, ensuring that users receive reliable performance.

Pricing and Value

The Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 is priced at $11.59, making it an affordable choice for enthusiasts looking to enhance their PC’s aesthetics and cooling system. In contrast, the Assassin X120 Refined SE is priced at $17.90. This price difference of about $6.31 reflects the differing functionalities of the two products, with the CPU cooler offering more in terms of performance and compatibility. While the fan hub provides excellent value for those looking to manage multiple fans and ARGB lighting, the CPU cooler's features justify its higher price tag for users primarily focused on thermal performance.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright ARGB and Fan HUB X12 and the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ultimately depends on your specific needs. If your focus is on enhancing fan and lighting control while maintaining a tidy setup, the ARGB and Fan HUB X12 is an excellent choice at $11.59. However, if your primary concern is effective CPU cooling and performance, the Assassin X120 Refined SE is worth the extra investment at $17.90. Each product excels in its domain, so your decision should align with whether you prioritize aesthetics or cooling efficiency in your PC build.