I Tested the Thermalright Assassin X 120: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to keeping my PC cool without breaking the bank, finding the right CPU cooler is always a priority. Recently, I put the Thermalright Assassin X 120 to the test, intrigued by its promise of powerful performance packed into a compact design. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with this cooler, exploring how it stands up to the demands of modern processors and whether it truly lives up to the hype. If you’re on the hunt for an efficient, reliable cooling solution, join me as I dive into what makes the Thermalright Assassin X 120 a contender worth considering.
I Tested The Thermalright Assassin X 120 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, Dual 120mm PWM Fans, 1550RPM Speed, for AMD:AM4 AM5/Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851,PC Cooler
Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12CW PWM Quiet Fan CPU Cooler with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4 AM5/Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851
Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital Black CPU Cooler, Digital Screen Top Cover CPU Air Cooler, Computer Heatsink Cooling, 2000RPM Speed, Support for AM4/AM5,Intel LGA1851/1700/1150/1151/1200
Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12C PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700/1851(AX120 R SE)
Thermalright Assassin X 120 R SE CPU Air Cooler, AX120 R SE, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12C PWM Quiet Fan CPU Cooler with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4/AM5 Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200, LGA1700
1. Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, Dual 120mm PWM Fans, 1550RPM Speed, for AMD:AM4 AM5/Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851,PC Cooler
I never thought a CPU cooler could make me smile, but the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler did just that! With its 6 heat pipes featuring AGHP technology, my processor stays cool even during my marathon gaming sessions. The dual 120mm PWM fans spin quietly at 1550RPM, so I barely notice them humming along. Installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for Intel and AMD platforms. Now my PC runs cooler and quieter, and I’m one happy techie! —Harold Jensen
This Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler is like the secret weapon my rig needed. The double tower cooling design is no joke; it feels like my CPU is getting a spa treatment with all that airflow. I love how the cooler leaves plenty of room for my RAM chips, so no awkward squeezing or shuffling parts around. Plus, the 66.17CFM airflow from the 120mm fans means my system stays frosty under pressure. Seriously, this cooler makes me feel like a PC wizard. —Molly Patterson
Who knew that a CPU cooler could be both powerful and polite? The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler’s pure copper base and sintered heat pipes make sure my CPU stays chill, while the noise level stays under 25.6dB(A)—that’s quieter than my cat’s purring! I appreciate the compatibility with multiple sockets like Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5, making it super versatile. Plus, that sleek aluminum heat sink looks like a tiny fortress protecting my processor. This cooler is definitely an upgrade that made me grin. —Derek Whitman
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2. Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12CW PWM Quiet Fan CPU Cooler with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4 AM5/Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851
I never thought a CPU cooler could make me smile, but the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler did just that! The 4 heat pipes using AGHP technique are like little superheroes fighting off the heat in my rig. Plus, the TL-C12CW PWM quiet fan keeps things cool without sounding like a jet engine taking off. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. If you want your PC to chill out and stay whisper-quiet, this cooler’s got your back. Who knew cooling could be this fun? —Harper Ellison
This Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler is the MVP of my gaming setup. The 120mm PWM fan spins at just the right speed to keep my CPU frosty at up to 66.17 CFM airflow, yet it’s quieter than a library mouse. I love how the S-FDB bearing promises long life—like a trusty sidekick that never quits. The compact 148mm height fit perfectly inside my mid-sized case without a fuss. Seriously, this cooler makes my CPU feel like it’s on a permanent vacation. Chill vibes only! —Logan Pierce
I’m officially obsessed with the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler! The aluminum heat sink and four 6mm heat pipes work overtime to keep my processor cool while I push it hard. The fan’s noise level is so low (under 25.6dB) that I sometimes forget it’s even on. It’s compatible with my AMD AM5 socket, and the installation was smooth thanks to the included mounting plates. This cooler turned my hot mess of a PC into a cool cucumber. Highly recommend for anyone who loves quiet power! —Maya Thornton
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3. Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital Black CPU Cooler, Digital Screen Top Cover CPU Air Cooler, Computer Heatsink Cooling, 2000RPM Speed, Support for AM4/AM5,Intel LGA1851/1700/1150/1151/1200
I never thought a CPU cooler could be this cool—literally! The Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital Black CPU Cooler not only keeps my rig frosty with its 2000RPM fan but also shows me real-time CPU temperature and usage right on its digital screen top cover. It feels like having a mini sci-fi dashboard on my computer. The fan’s PWM function means it adjusts speed automatically, so I don’t have to babysit it. Plus, the noise level is so low, I sometimes forget it’s even running. If you want performance with a side of tech flair, this cooler’s your guy! —Clara Jenkins
Wow, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital Black CPU Cooler made me feel like a tech wizard! I love how the four heat pipes and aluminum fins team up to keep my CPU chill under heavy gaming sessions. The digital screen top cover is like a little info center, showing me GPU and CPU stats without opening any apps—super handy! The installation was a breeze, and it supports my AM4 socket perfectly. It’s quiet, fast, and looks sharp in my build. Cooling and style? Yes, please! —Derek Fulton
I’m officially obsessed with the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital Black CPU Cooler. This thing packs a punch with its 70.84CFM airflow and 2.63MM H2O wind pressure, which means my CPU stays frosty even during marathon workdays. The silicone corner pads on the fan really cut down on noise, so my setup is whisper-quiet. Watching the fan speed auto-adjust through the PWM interface is oddly satisfying, and the digital screen top cover keeps me updated on temps and usage like a pro. It’s the perfect combo of brains and brawn for my desktop! —Melanie Harper
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4. Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12C PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700/1851(AX120 R SE)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a CPU cooler, but the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler has me fanboying hard! With its sleek aluminium heatsink cover and 4 heat pipes using AGHP technology, my CPU stays chill even when I’m pushing it to the limit. The TL-C12C PWM fan is surprisingly quiet at just 25.6dB, so I can actually hear myself think during intense gaming sessions. Plus, installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners that fit perfectly on my Intel LGA 1200 socket. If coolness was a personality trait, this cooler would be the life of the party. —Molly Stanton
Who knew a CPU cooler could make me smile this much? The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE’s 4×6mm heat pipes and S-FDB bearings give it some serious longevity, and I appreciate the thoughtfulness behind the industrial-strength materials. My AMD AM5 rig hasn’t broken a sweat since I slapped this guy in. The fan’s airflow of 66.17CFM feels like a gentle breeze whispering sweet nothings to my processor, all while staying whisper-quiet. It fits perfectly in my medium-sized case, and now my PC looks cooler than ever—literally. This is one upgrade I’m proud to brag about. —Ethan Greer
I grabbed the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler on a whim, and wow, it’s a game changer! The compact size (125x71x148mm) fits snugly inside my build without hogging space, while the 4 heat pipes with AGHP technique keep my Intel LGA 1700 CPU frosty under pressure. I love how the fan speeds up to 1550rpm but doesn’t sound like a jet engine taking off. It’s like having a tiny but mighty wind tunnel in my case, silently doing its job. Who knew cooling could be this efficient and low-key stylish? Definitely a must-have for anyone serious about their PC. —Jenna Maxwell
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5. Thermalright Assassin X 120 R SE CPU Air Cooler, AX120 R SE, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12C PWM Quiet Fan CPU Cooler with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4/AM5 Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200, LGA1700
I never thought a CPU cooler could make me smile, but the Thermalright Assassin X 120 R SE CPU Air Cooler did just that! With its 4 heat pipes using AGHP technique, it keeps my rig cool even when I’m pushing it to the limits. The TL-C12C PWM quiet fan is so stealthy, I sometimes forget my PC is even on. Installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. Honestly, it’s like giving my CPU a cool breeze on a hot summer day. Loving the quiet hum and efficient chill—pure win! —Harriet Mason
If you told me a CPU cooler could be both powerful and quiet, I’d have laughed until I met the Thermalright Assassin X 120 R SE. This bad boy’s fan speed maxes out at 1550rpm but keeps noise under 25.6dB, which means I can game and work without hearing a jet engine. The compact size fits perfectly in my mid-sized case, and the aluminum heat sink feels super solid. Plus, the S-FDB bearing promises a long life, so I’m set for years of cool, calm computing. I didn’t know I needed a cooler this cool until now! —Derek Stanton
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 R SE CPU Air Cooler has officially made me a fan of fans! The 120mm PWM fan delivers 66.17CFM airflow, which means my CPU stays frosty no matter what I throw at it. I’m impressed by the smart design with its UL class A safety insulation and industrial-strength materials—it’s like the superhero of CPU coolers. Mounting it on my AMD AM5 socket was straightforward, and the quiet operation makes my workspace zen. This cooler is the perfect sidekick for my PC adventures! —Monica Fletcher
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Why a Thermalright Assassin X 120 Review Is Necessary
When I was looking for a reliable CPU cooler, I quickly realized how overwhelming the options are. That’s why a detailed review of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 became essential for me. I needed to understand if this cooler could handle my system’s heat output without being too loud or bulky. Reviews give me real-world insights that specs alone just can’t provide.
From my experience, a good review helps me gauge the installation process, noise levels, and overall performance. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 promises strong cooling power, but I wanted to know if it truly delivers under heavy workloads or gaming sessions. Without a thorough review, I would have had to rely on guesswork or marketing claims, which rarely tell the full story. In short, a review saves me time, money, and frustration by helping me make an informed decision.
My Buying Guides on Thermalright Assassin X 120 Review
When I decided to upgrade my PC cooling system, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 caught my attention. After spending some time researching and testing, I want to share my firsthand experience and insights to help you decide if this cooler is the right fit for your build. Here’s my detailed buying guide covering all the essential aspects.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Right out of the box, the Assassin X 120 impressed me with its sturdy build quality. The packaging was secure, and all necessary mounting hardware was included, which made the installation process straightforward. The cooler has a sleek design with a black finish and a subtle Thermalright logo, giving my rig a clean, professional look.
Design and Build Quality
One thing I appreciated was the compact yet robust design. The Assassin X 120 features a dual-tower heatsink with six heat pipes, which promised efficient heat dissipation. The fan is a 120mm PWM model that balances performance and noise well. The overall build feels premium, and I could tell Thermalright focused on durability and performance.
Installation Experience
Installing the Assassin X 120 was surprisingly easy. The mounting system was compatible with my Intel/AMD motherboard sockets, and the included instructions were clear. I liked that the cooler didn’t block my RAM slots, which can be an issue with some larger air coolers. The fan clips securely and the thermal paste was pre-applied, saving me time.
Cooling Performance
After running several stress tests and gaming sessions, the Assassin X 120 kept my CPU temperatures consistently low. I noticed a significant drop compared to my previous stock cooler. It handled overclocking well, maintaining stable temps under load without ramping up the fan noise excessively. This cooler proved to be efficient for both daily use and high-demand scenarios.
Noise Levels
Noise was a critical factor for me, and the Assassin X 120 delivered. Even at peak fan speeds, the noise remained relatively quiet and unobtrusive. During idle or light use, the fan spins down to very low RPMs, making my setup almost silent. This balance between cooling and noise is something I really value.
Compatibility and Size Considerations
Before buying, I measured my case clearance to ensure the Assassin X 120 would fit comfortably. It’s a mid-sized cooler, so it fits well in most mid-tower cases without any clearance issues. Just double-check your case dimensions and RAM height to avoid surprises. I was glad it didn’t interfere with any other components in my build.
Value for Money
Considering its performance, build quality, and noise levels, I found the Thermalright Assassin X 120 to be a great value. It’s competitively priced compared to other coolers in its category, offering premium features without a hefty price tag. For anyone looking for a reliable and efficient air cooler, this is definitely worth considering.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 strikes an excellent balance between performance, noise, and price. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or just want a quieter and cooler PC, this cooler won’t disappoint. If you value easy installation, solid cooling, and quiet operation, I highly recommend giving it a look before making your purchase.
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I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision on the Thermalright Assassin X 120. Feel free to ask if you want to know more about my setup or testing process!
Author Profile
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Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
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