Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB

Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB Review & Specifications

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB by Thermalright is a Air CPU cooler designed for compatibility with LGA 1700, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA 1200, LGA 1851, AM4, AM5 sockets.

This air cooler features a heatsink with a CPU contact base made of Copper, which is typically nickel-plated to prevent oxidation and ensure long-term durability while maintaining the superior thermal conductivity of the underlying copper. While some coolers use a solid nickel-plated copper base for maximum surface area and durability, others, usally lower to midrange coolers, utilize direct-touch heatpipes to transfer heat immediately from the CPU into the cooling system. It includes 1 fan(s), each sized at 120 mm. These fan(s) can reach up to 1550.0 RPM and operate at a noise level of 25.6 dBA, delivering a combined airflow of 66.0 CFM. The total height of the cooler is 148 mm . Please ensure your PC case supports this cooler’s height. You can verify compatibility using our PC Builder, which filters compatible cases based on CPU cooler dimensions. Aesthetically, this CPU cooler includes RGB lighting for customizable illumination, adding visual flair to your system build. The cooler is backed by a 5-year warranty, providing long-term reliability and manufacturer support.

Performance

Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB is a mid-range performance air CPU cooler designed for CPUs with TDPs up to 150 W, reaching a relative cooling performance score of 64.00%. Ideal for entry-level to mid-range gaming systems and lower-power workstation builds, it offers excellent reliability thanks to its simple construction. Compared to liquid cooling systems, air coolers in this class are strongly recommended due to the absence of pumps, fluid, or risk of leaks. At this TDP level, air coolers generally outperform similarly priced liquid coolers in both reliability and long-term value.

Cost-Effectiveness

In terms of performance per dollar, the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB offers exceptional value for an air cooler, achieving 149.0% efficiency relative to the best-performing CPU cooler in the performance-per-price category. It stands out as an excellent choice for budget-conscious users seeking strong thermal performance.