Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black vs Thermalright AXP90-X53 Full Cooper Low Profile CPU

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler is a high-performance cooling solution tailored for users seeking efficient thermal management. Priced at $22.90, it combines an elegant design with powerful functionality, boasting a fan speed of up to 2000 RPM and a height of 151mm. This cooler is equipped with four heat pipes and features a digital screen on the top cover, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and operational effectiveness.

With its advanced AGHP heat pipe technology, this cooler is designed to mitigate the impact of gravity on cooling performance, ensuring optimal heat dissipation in various mounting orientations. The inclusion of a PWM fan allows for automatic speed adjustments based on motherboard temperature, enhancing both cooling efficiency and noise reduction.

Overview of the Thermalright AXP90-X53 Full Cooper

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 Full Cooper Low Profile CPU Cooler ITX stands out with its compact design and robust performance, priced at $35.90. This cooler is particularly suited for small form factor builds, with a total height of just 53mm, making it ideal for ITX and HTPC setups. The AXP90-X53 features a 92mm PWM fan capable of reaching speeds of up to 2700 RPM, ensuring efficient cooling even in tight spaces.

The cooler utilizes full copper construction alongside AGHP technology, which enhances heat transfer efficiency. With a fan noise level of only 22.4 dBA, it promises to deliver a quiet operating experience while effectively managing CPU temperatures. This model supports a wide range of CPU sockets, ensuring compatibility with various builds.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black offers a higher fan speed of 2000 RPM compared to the AXP90-X53's 2700 RPM. While the AXP90-X53 can reach a higher maximum fan speed, its overall height of 53mm allows it to fit into smaller cases, where it can still deliver effective cooling.

The Assassin X 120R features four heat pipes, which enhance its ability to dissipate heat across a larger surface area. This configuration is particularly advantageous for users with demanding applications. The AXP90-X53, while lower in height, is optimized for small builds, making it an excellent choice for compact systems without compromising on cooling capabilities.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R showcases a modern design with its digital ARGB lighting, providing customizable lighting effects that can sync with motherboard software. This feature not only adds a visual appeal to the cooler but also enhances the overall aesthetics of the build.

Conversely, the AXP90-X53 emphasizes functionality over flamboyance with its minimalist design. While it lacks the ARGB features, its full copper construction and fine fin design contribute to a sleek and professional look. The compact size makes it less intrusive in small cases, allowing for a clean build appearance.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the Thermalright AXP90-X53 operates at a maximum noise level of 22.4 dBA, which is quite low, making it suitable for quiet environments. The Assassin X 120R, while designed for quieter operation with its silicone corner pads, does not specify a noise level but benefits from its PWM fan that adjusts speed according to temperature, potentially keeping noise to a minimum during lighter loads.

For users prioritizing a near-silent operation, the AXP90-X53 may have the edge, especially in compact builds where every decibel counts. However, the Assassin X 120R's ability to dynamically adjust fan speed can effectively manage noise levels during use.

Compatibility and Installation

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA1700/1851/1150/1151/1200, making it versatile for various builds. Its installation is straightforward, aided by clear instructions and a well-designed mounting system.

On the other hand, the AXP90-X53 also supports multiple CPU sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1700/1150/1151/1200/1851. Its low-profile design simplifies installation, particularly in cramped spaces where larger coolers may struggle. However, users need to be cautious of backplane conflicts, which may require adjustments during installation.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R is priced at $22.90, making it about 36% cheaper than the AXP90-X53, which is priced at $35.90. This price difference could be a significant factor for budget-conscious consumers or those building systems where cost-effectiveness is essential.

While the AXP90-X53 offers high-quality materials and a compact profile, the Assassin X 120R provides excellent value for its performance and features. For users who may not require the low-profile design, the Assassin X 120R presents a compelling option without compromising on cooling capabilities.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black and the AXP90-X53 Full Cooper, your choice should largely depend on your specific needs. If you require a high-performance cooler with customizable aesthetics and are building a standard-sized case, the Assassin X 120R is a strong contender. Its effective cooling capabilities and lower price make it an excellent choice for many users.

However, if you're working with a compact build where space is a premium, the AXP90-X53’s low-profile design and efficient cooling performance will serve you better. It is particularly suited for HTPCs or ITX setups. Ultimately, both coolers have their strengths, making them suitable for different types of builds and user preferences.