Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU vs Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air

Overview of Thermalright CPU Coolers

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler are two notable options in the CPU cooler market. Both products come from the reputable Thermalright brand, known for over 20 years of experience in computer accessories. While they share some similarities, each cooler has distinct features that cater to different user needs.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is priced at $19.82, while the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE is slightly cheaper at $17.90, making it about 10% less expensive. This price difference may influence budget-conscious consumers looking for efficient cooling solutions without breaking the bank. Ultimately, if price is your primary factor, the Assassin X120 Refined SE presents a more appealing option.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Assassin King 120 SE features a white finish with ARGB lighting, giving it a modern aesthetic that many enthusiasts appreciate. Its dimensions are 120(L)x73(W)x148(H)mm and it weighs 0.64kg. On the other hand, the Assassin X120 Refined SE has a slightly larger footprint at 125(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm, weighing 0.645kg. Both coolers utilize aluminum for their heatsinks, ensuring effective heat dissipation. The choice between these two designs may ultimately come down to personal preference regarding color and style.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance of both products is quite comparable, with each capable of delivering a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. They both utilize PWM fans that operate at a speed of 1550 RPM ±10% and maintain a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). The Assassin King 120 SE employs five heat pipes, while the Assassin X120 Refined SE has four, which may suggest a slight edge in cooling efficiency for the former. However, actual performance may vary based on specific user setups and conditions.

Compatibility with CPU Sockets

Both coolers offer extensive compatibility with various CPU sockets. The Assassin King 120 SE supports Intel sockets 115X/1200/1700/17XX/1851 and AMD AM4, while the Assassin X120 Refined SE is compatible with Intel 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/17XX/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5. This broad compatibility ensures that users can install either cooler on a wide range of systems, making them suitable for different builds.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be user-friendly. Each cooler comes with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, simplifying the mounting process. The Assassin King 120 SE features a height of 148mm, making it appropriate for medium-sized cases, while the Assassin X120 Refined SE shares the same height, ensuring compatibility with similar case sizes. Buyers can expect an easy setup with either option.

Noise Levels

Both the Assassin King 120 SE and the Assassin X120 Refined SE are engineered for quiet operation, with a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This feature is particularly appealing to users who prioritize a silent computing environment. Thanks to their S-FDB bearings, both coolers promise longevity and quiet performance, which should meet the needs of most users seeking a balance between cooling efficiency and noise levels.

Brand Reputation

Thermalright has established a strong reputation in the CPU cooler market, with a history of developing reliable and effective cooling solutions. Both the Assassin King 120 SE and the Assassin X120 Refined SE reflect the brand's commitment to quality and performance. As both products come from the same manufacturer, users can trust that they are investing in a well-regarded brand with a track record of customer satisfaction.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE and the Assassin X120 Refined SE ultimately depends on your priorities. If aesthetics and slightly better cooling performance are essential to you, the Assassin King 120 SE may be the right choice, despite its higher price of $19.82. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that still offers solid performance and compatibility, the Assassin X120 Refined SE at $17.90 stands out as the better choice. Both products deliver excellent cooling capabilities, but the final decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences.