Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air vs Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler, 7 Heat Pipes

Overview of the Products

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler is priced at $17.90, while the Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler comes in at $35.90, making the Assassin X120 about 50% cheaper than the PS120SE. Both products are designed for effective CPU cooling, but they cater to different needs and preferences in terms of performance and design.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE features an aluminum heatsink cover and measures 125mm x 71mm x 148mm, weighing 0.645 kg. In contrast, the Thermalright PS120SE is slightly larger at 125mm x 135mm x 154mm and weighs 0.9 kg, featuring an anodized black frosted top and a finely carved pure copper base. This indicates that while both coolers have a robust build, the PS120SE’s larger size and additional materials may contribute to better heat dissipation.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Assassin X120 employs four 6mm heat pipes and a TL-C12C PWM fan that can reach a speed of 1550 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM. The PS120SE, on the other hand, enhances this with seven 6mm heat pipes and dual TL-C12B V2 PWM fans operating at 1500 RPM, also achieving the same airflow of 66.17 CFM. The additional heat pipe in the PS120SE suggests a potentially superior cooling performance, especially under heavier loads.

Noise Levels

Both coolers boast a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which indicates they are designed for quiet operation. The Thermalright Assassin X120 may be slightly quieter under certain conditions due to its single fan configuration compared to the dual fan setup in the PS120SE. However, given that both models maintain the same maximum noise level, users can expect a similar acoustic experience with both products.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Assassin X120 is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5. The PS120SE shares similar compatibility, supporting Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200 and AMD AM4/AM5 as well. This broad compatibility makes both coolers suitable for various setups, but users should verify specific motherboard compatibility to ensure a perfect fit.

Installation and Ease of Use

The Assassin X120 comes with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, facilitating straightforward installation. The PS120SE also provides corresponding mounting plates and fasteners for different CPU slots, ensuring a user-friendly setup experience. Both models are designed to fit in medium-sized computer cases, with the slightly taller PS120SE being compatible with a wider range of chassis models.

Brand Reputation

Thermalright, the brand behind both coolers, has over 20 years of experience in the industry and is well-regarded for its reliable cooling solutions. The brand's commitment to research and development is evident in both products, which incorporate advanced technologies like AGHP. This shared brand heritage assures consumers of quality and performance across both models.

Which should you buy?

When choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE and the Thermalright PS120SE, consider your cooling needs and budget. The Assassin X120 is significantly more affordable at $17.90, making it an excellent choice for users seeking effective cooling on a budget. However, if you require enhanced cooling performance for high-TDP CPUs, the PS120SE’s advanced features and additional heat pipes may justify its $35.90 price tag. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prefer a cost-effective solution or are willing to invest in superior cooling capabilities.