Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE CPU Air Cooler, AK120 SE, 5 Heatpipes, AGHP Technology TL-C12C PWM Quiet Fan CPU Cooler with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4/Intel 1150/1151/1200/1700/1851
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AI Verdict
A 148mm tall air cooler with 5 heat pipes and a 235W TDP rating, suitable for budget builds needing quiet cooling for CPUs up to 150W.
This cooler is a strong fit for budget-conscious builders needing effective cooling for mainstream CPUs. Its 235W TDP rating and 148mm height make it compatible with a wide range of systems without compromising on performance or case clearance. The low noise output at typical loads also enhances its appeal for general use.
If you need to cool a higher-wattage CPU or desire even lower noise under heavy loads, look for coolers with dual towers or larger 140mm fans.
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Pros
- Cools CPUs up to 235W TDP, maintaining 69°C max on a Ryzen 5 3600 during Cinebench R23 testing.
- Operates with minimal noise, registering ≤25.6dB(A) at typical loads.
- Measures 148mm in height, fitting into most ATX and Micro-ATX cases.
- Features a dense fin stack and non-flimsy fins, indicating durable construction.
- Installation is straightforward for both Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM4/AM5 platforms.
- Includes Thermalright TF4 thermal paste for immediate installation.
Cons
- The fan can become loud at its maximum 1550 RPM speed.
- Included thermal paste is a small amount, sufficient for only one or two applications.
- Heat pipes are exposed at the base, a design choice some users consider less premium than a flat copper block.
Dimension Scores
The cooler is rated for a 235W TDP and keeps a Ryzen 5 3600 at 69°C max during Cinebench R23, which is effective for its price point.
The fan operates quietly at ≤25.6dB(A) during normal use, but can become loud when spinning at its maximum 1550 RPM.
It features a dense fin stack, non-flimsy fins, 5x6mm heat pipes with AGHP III technique, and an S-FDB bearing fan with 20,000 hours service life.
The single 4-pin PWM fan cable is standard, offering no specific features to aid in advanced cable routing beyond typical case management.
Best For
- Budget PC builds with CPUs up to 150W package power, like 65W or 95W models.
- Users prioritizing quiet operation for everyday tasks and light gaming.
- Compact ATX or Micro-ATX cases that require a cooler height of 148mm or less.
- First-time builders due to its simple installation process.
Not Recommended For
- High-end CPUs exceeding 150W package power, especially those prone to heavy overclocking.
- Users who demand absolute silence under all load conditions, as the fan can be audible at full speed.
- Small form factor (SFF) cases that require coolers shorter than 148mm.
Watch Out For
- The fan's noise level at full 1550 RPM can be distracting.
- The included Thermalright TF4 thermal paste tube provides only enough for one or two CPU applications.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 772467848357 |
| ASIN | B0BJYXLZLL |
| Brand | Thermalright |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 235 watts |
| Material | Aluminum,Metal,Silicone |
| Item Weight | 1.83 pounds |
| Noise Level | 15 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | Thermalright |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 66.17 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Item model number | AK120SE D2 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 5.83"L x 4.92"W x 2.87"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1500 RPM |
What Buyers Say
Users frequently point out that this cooler offers performance comparable to more expensive options, especially for its budget price. Many are surprised by its ability to keep CPU temperatures low, even under moderate loads, while maintaining a quiet profile for most tasks. The straightforward installation process is another recurring positive, making it accessible for new builders. However, some note the fan can get noisy when pushed to its highest RPMs, and the included thermal paste is minimal.
“Dude, this thing actually works! My CPU temps dropped like 15 degrees from the stock cooler and it's barely audible unless I'm really pushing it. For the price, I'm stoked!”
Common Praise
- Keeps CPU temperatures low, with a Ryzen 5 3600 reaching only 69°C max in Cinebench R23.
- Operates very quietly during normal use, producing a 'very very small amount of noise'.
- Installation is simple and quick on both Intel and AMD platforms.
- The 148mm height ensures compatibility with most ATX and Micro-ATX cases.
- Provides good RAM clearance due to its narrow design.
Common Complaints
- The fan becomes audibly loud when operating at its maximum 1550 RPM.
- The included thermal paste is a small amount, only enough for one or two CPU applications.
- The exposed heat pipes at the base are a less refined design compared to coolers with a flat copper block.
Ownership Tips
- The cooler maintains low idle temperatures, around 32-35°C for a Ryzen 5 3600.
- The fan's S-FDB bearings contribute to a long operational life, rated for 20,000 hours.
- The compact size means it doesn't interfere with RAM slots on most motherboards.
- The mounting hardware feels sturdy and secures the cooler firmly to the motherboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE compatible with AMD AM5 CPUs?
Yes, the cooler supports AMD AM5 sockets, along with AM4 and various Intel LGA platforms, including LGA 1700.
Does this cooler come with thermal paste?
Yes, it includes a small tube of Thermalright TF4 thermal paste, typically enough for one or two installations.
How tall is this CPU cooler?
The CPU cooler has a height of 148mm, making it suitable for most medium-sized computer cases.
What is the maximum noise level of the fan?
The TL-C12C PWM fan has a maximum noise level of ≤25.6dB(A), though some users report it can be loud at full 1550 RPM.
Can this cooler handle a 200W CPU?
The cooler is rated for a 235W TDP, suggesting it can handle CPUs up to that wattage, but user experiences indicate it's more consistently effective for CPUs around the 150W package area.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at CPU coolers, you need to think about how much heat your CPU generates and how much space you have in your computer case. A cooler's TDP (Thermal Design Power) rating tells you the maximum heat it's designed to dissipate. You want a cooler with a TDP rating at least equal to, or preferably higher than, your CPU's TDP to keep it from overheating. Also, check the cooler's height to make sure it fits under your case's side panel.
wattage (TDP)
This number, like 235 watts for this cooler, tells you how much heat the cooler can handle. Think of it like a car's horsepower – more watts means it can cool a more powerful, hotter CPU without it slowing down or crashing.
cooler dimensions (height)
The height, 148mm for this model, is crucial because it dictates if the cooler will actually fit inside your PC case. It's like checking if a new couch will fit through your front door; if it's too tall, your side panel won't close.
noise level (dB(A))
This measures how loud the fan gets, like 25.6dB(A) for this cooler. Lower numbers mean a quieter PC. It's the difference between a gentle hum and a jet engine taking off next to you, especially when your CPU is working hard.
Alternatives
If this cooler doesn't meet your needs, look for models with higher TDP ratings for more powerful CPUs, or dual-tower designs for improved cooling performance and potentially lower noise, even if they are taller.
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