THERMALRLGHT Thermalright TR Assassin X Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This thermalrlght thermalright tr assassin x review focuses on the Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black. It is a 120mm single-tower air cooler designed for modern desktop builds. The unit stands out with two key specifications: a 151mm heatsink height and a 2000 RPM PWM fan. These specs define its physical footprint and airflow potential. The cooler also features a digital screen powered by a 9-pin USB header. This combination of dimensions and fan speed targets users who need reliable cooling without excessive bulk. The aluminum fin stack and S-FDB bearing fan work together to manage heat efficiently.
What stands out
- 151mm cooler height fits most mid-tower cases
- 2000 RPM PWM fan with 70.84 CFM airflow
- Digital ARGB screen via 9-pin USB interface
- S-FDB bearing reduces fan vibration noise
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this cooler if you are building with Intel LGA 1700/1851 or AMD AM4/AM5 sockets. The 151mm height makes it suitable for standard cases where tall coolers might block RAM. Users who want a digital display on their CPU cooler will appreciate the 9-pin USB connectivity. The 2000 RPM fan provides strong airflow for stock or lightly overclocked processors. It suits those who prefer a black aesthetic with functional ARGB lighting.
Who should skip it
You should skip this option if you need a dual-tower cooler for high-TDP CPUs. The single 120mm fan limits maximum heat dissipation compared to larger units. If your case cannot accommodate a 151mm height, this cooler will not fit. Users without a motherboard 9-pin USB header cannot use the digital screen feature. It is also not ideal for silent builds, as the 2000 RPM fan may produce noticeable noise under load.
Verdict: The Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black offers solid 120mm cooling performance with unique digital display support. It is a practical choice for standard builds using modern Intel or AMD platforms.
Key specs explained for this cooler
Fan Size: 120mm
This is the standard diameter for single-tower air coolers. A 120mm fan fits most mid-tower and full-tower cases without blocking RAM or side panels. It offers a balance of airflow and noise. You will find this size in many budget and mid-range coolers. It is smaller than 140mm fans, which move more air but require larger cases. Choose this size if you have limited case width.
Fan Speed: 2000 RPM
This is the maximum rotation speed of the fan. Higher RPMs push more air through the fins for better cooling. This speed is on the higher end for a 120mm fan. You should expect more noise at this speed. It is faster than typical 1500-1800 RPM fans. This spec suits users who prioritize cooling performance over silence. It allows the cooler to handle higher CPU loads effectively.
Cooler Height: 151mm
This is the total vertical space the cooler occupies. A 151mm height is common for single-tower designs. You must check your case specifications to ensure it fits. Some compact cases only support coolers up to 150mm. This height allows for decent fin surface area. It is taller than low-profile coolers but shorter than large dual-tower units. Measure your case clearance before buying to avoid installation issues.
Socket Compatibility: LGA1700/1851/1200/1150/1151, AM4/AM5
This list shows which motherboards the cooler supports. It covers most recent Intel and AMD platforms. You can use it with older LGA115x sockets and newer LGA1851. It also supports AMD AM4 and AM5. This wide range makes it a versatile choice. You do not need a specific model for each socket. Check your motherboard manual to confirm the socket type. This compatibility ensures you can use the cooler for years.
Design and Build Details
The heatsink uses symmetrical all-aluminum fins. This material choice keeps the unit lightweight while providing a large surface area for heat transfer. The cooler measures 151mm in height. This dimension allows it to fit inside most standard cases without blocking RAM modules or side panels. You can install it in tight spaces without sacrificing cooling potential.
The fan is a 120mm PWM unit with a maximum speed of 2000 RPM. It features an S-FDB bearing and UL Class A insulation. These specs suggest stable operation and reduced vibration. Silicone corner pads are included to further dampen noise during rotation. The fan interface is a standard 4-pin PWM connector, allowing your motherboard to adjust speed based on temperature automatically.
The top cover includes a digital screen. According to the listing, this screen connects via a 9-pin USB header on the motherboard. You will need to install specific software from the official website to control it. The finish is black. This design combines functional heat dissipation with a modern aesthetic. The overall layout is straightforward, making it a practical choice for users who want visible tech features without complex wiring.
Setup and Everyday Use
Installing this cooler requires careful attention to your motherboard’s mounting points. The heatsink supports Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, 1150, and 1151 sockets. It also fits AMD AM4 and AM5 platforms. For AMD systems, you must use the motherboard’s original backplate for installation. The unit stands 151mm tall. You should verify that this height clears your RAM modules and fits within your case dimensions before purchase. The fan connects via a 4-pin PWM interface. This allows the motherboard to adjust the 2000 RPM speed based on temperature. You do not need to manually change fan curves for basic operation. The digital ARGB screen adds a setup step. It draws power and data from a 9-pin USB header on the motherboard. You must connect this cable for the display to function. After wiring, install the TRCC software from the official website. The program runs in the background at startup. This software manages the digital screen’s output. You should keep the application running to maintain display functionality. The fan uses an S-FDB bearing and silicone corner pads. These features aim to reduce vibration noise during rotation. The cooler operates quietly at up to 29.8 dB. Daily use involves letting the PWM fan handle speed adjustments automatically. The digital screen provides visual feedback if configured correctly. This setup process is straightforward for users familiar with standard air cooler installations.
Before You Buy This Cooler
Before you buy this unit, check your case clearance first. The heatsink stands 151mm tall. This fits most mid-towers, but measure your RAM height to ensure no interference. The fan runs at 2000 RPM with PWM control. You must connect the 4-pin PWM header for speed adjustment. The digital ARGB display requires a 9-pin USB header on your motherboard. Verify your board has this specific port before ordering. If not, you will need a separate controller or the screen will remain dark. You also need the TRCC software for the display. Download it from the official site. The cooler supports Intel LGA 1851, 1700, and AMD AM4/AM5. For AMD, use the original backplate. This model sits among other 120mm options. It offers a digital display where others use static lights. It suits users who want visible telemetry data without buying a separate monitor.
Check before you buy
- Measure case height to ensure 151mm clearance for the heatsink.
- Check motherboard for a 9-pin USB header for the digital display.
- Verify RAM height does not block the 120mm fan.
- Confirm socket compatibility with your specific Intel or AMD CPU.
- Download TRCC software from the official site for display control.
The product at a glance
Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black
Best for: quiet mainstream builds with aesthetic focus
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA1700/1851/1200/1150/1151, AM4/AM5
- Cooler Height
- 151mm
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Lighting
- ARGB
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black Affiliate link
This 120mm air cooler features a 151mm height and a PWM fan reaching 2000 RPM. It includes a digital screen powered by a motherboard USB header, allowing for custom displays via software. The unit supports modern Intel and AMD sockets. It suits users who want aesthetic customization and quiet operation under 30 dB without sacrificing basic cooling performance for mainstream processors.
Pros
- 120mm PWM fan with 2000 RPM speed
- Digital screen powered by 9-pin USB
- Supports LGA 1851, 1700, AM4, and AM5
- Operating noise stays at or below 29.8 dB
Cons
- Single 120mm fan limits peak cooling capacity
- Digital screen requires software installation and USB connection
- 151mm height may block tall RAM modules
Good fit if
- You want a low-noise cooler for everyday tasks
- You prefer visual customization via the digital display
- You have a mid-tower case with standard RAM clearance
Skip if
- You need maximum cooling for high-end overclocking
- You have tall RAM that exceeds 151mm clearance
- You prefer a silent fanless or dual-fan design
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB fits users who value quiet operation and unique aesthetics over raw thermal performance. It is a solid option for mainstream builds where case clearance and visual appeal matter.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black |
|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA1700/1851/1200/1150/1151, AM4/AM5 |
| Cooler Height | 151mm |
| Fan Size | 120mm |
| Fan Speed | 2000 RPM |
| Lighting | ARGB |
| Color | Black |
| Features | Fan |
| Dimensions | 5.94 × 4.72 × 5.94 inches |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Thermalright Assassin X 120R support AM5 sockets?
Yes, this cooler is compatible with AMD AM5 platforms. It also supports AM4, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, and LGA 1151. This wide socket compatibility ensures it fits most modern Intel and AMD desktop motherboards without needing special adapters.
What lighting features does the Assassin X 120R Digital have?
The unit features ARGB lighting. This allows you to synchronize the LED effects with compatible motherboard software for a unified aesthetic. The black color scheme complements the lighting, making it suitable for builds where visual appeal is a priority alongside cooling performance.
How tall is the Thermalright Assassin X 120R heatsink?
The heatsink stands 5.94 inches tall. This dimension is critical for checking case clearance. You must ensure your computer case can accommodate this height to avoid interference with side panels or other components during installation and operation.
Is the fan on the Assassin X 120R PWM controlled?
Yes, the fan supports PWM control. This allows your motherboard to adjust the fan speed based on CPU temperature automatically. The maximum speed reaches 2000 RPM, providing a balance between airflow and noise levels for quiet mainstream builds.
What is the width of the Thermalright Assassin X cooler?
The cooler has a width of 4.72 inches. This standard 120mm form factor ensures it fits in most mid-tower and full-tower cases. The width also helps prevent interference with adjacent RAM modules or PCIe slots when installed on the motherboard.
Is this cooler good for quiet builds?
It is a solid option for users who value quiet operation. The design prioritizes noise reduction over raw thermal performance. With a 2000 RPM PWM fan, it offers sufficient airflow for mainstream processors while maintaining a lower noise profile compared to higher-speed alternatives.
Does the Assassin X 120R require a backplate for AMD?
For AMD AM4 and AM5 systems, you must use the motherboard’s original backplate. This ensures proper mounting pressure and stability. The cooler is designed to work with standard mounting hardware provided for these specific socket types.