Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU vs Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA

Overview of the Products

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU Air Cooler is priced at $19.82, while the Thermaltake Gravity i2 CPU Cooler is available for $12.78. The price difference is approximately 55%, making the Thermaltake option significantly cheaper. However, the features and cooling capabilities of each cooler differ considerably, which may influence your decision based on your specific needs.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB is designed with five heat pipes and features a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, which allows for efficient cooling even under heavy loads. In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 has an airflow of 31.343 CFM, which indicates it may struggle to keep temperatures down in more demanding scenarios. Thus, if you are looking for superior cooling performance, the Thermalright cooler is clearly the better choice.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise, the Thermalright Assassin King operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), while the Thermaltake Gravity i2 is quieter, producing only 21.3 dB(A). This means that while the Gravity i2 is quieter, the slight increase in noise from the Thermalright cooler comes with a notable improvement in cooling capability. If silence is your primary concern, the Gravity i2 may be more appealing, but the Thermalright offers a better balance of performance and noise.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is compatible with a wider range of CPU sockets, supporting Intel LGA 1150, 1151, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4 platforms. On the other hand, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 supports a narrower range, including only Intel LGA 1200, 1156, 1155, 1150, and 1151. If you plan to use different CPU platforms or are considering future upgrades, the broader compatibility of the Thermalright may be advantageous.

Installation Ease

Both coolers are designed for straightforward installation, but the Thermaltake Gravity i2 emphasizes its low-profile design, making it particularly suited for compact builds. The Gravity i2 also boasts a quick and easy installation process, which can be appealing for users who may not be as experienced. While the Thermalright Assassin King is also designed for easy installation, its larger size may require more attention during setup.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of aesthetics, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE features an appealing ARGB lighting system, which can enhance the visual appeal of a build. This is particularly attractive to gamers or users who prioritize visual customization. The Thermaltake Gravity i2, however, has a more straightforward design and lacks RGB lighting, appealing to those looking for a more minimalist look.

Warranty and Support

The Thermaltake Gravity i2 comes with a two-year warranty, providing some assurance about its durability and support. In contrast, the warranty details for the Thermalright Assassin King are not mentioned, which may indicate less clarity regarding long-term support. A solid warranty can be a significant factor in your purchase decision, especially for those concerned about reliability.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB and the Thermaltake Gravity i2 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If superior cooling performance, broader compatibility, and aesthetic appeal are your main priorities, the Thermalright Assassin King is worth its higher price of $19.82. However, if you are seeking an economical solution with quieter operation and easier installation for lower power CPUs, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 at $12.78 might be the better fit. Consider your requirements carefully before making a decision.