Compare: Hyper 212 EVO vs Assassin X 120 R SE

Design and Aesthetics:

Hyper 212 EVO

The Hyper 212 Evo has a simple and clean design, with an aluminum tower and a single 120mm fan. It's black and silver, so it matches most computer setups. It doesn't have fancy lights like some other coolers, but it still looks professional and cool. Compared to other coolers, this cooler has a lighter feel in both the radiator and fan, giving in a cheaper feel.

Assassin X 120 R SE

Despite its budget-friendly nature, this cooler impresses with a surprisingly refined and visually appealing design that seamlessly blends aesthetics into any PC setup. It serves as an excellent and stylish choice for maintaining optimal CPU temperatures, transcending budget constraints.

Install Notes:

Hyper 212 EVO

This cooler works with many different Intel and AMD sockets. This cooler proved to be rather difficult to install compared to the other coolers tested. there are many parts that don't look like their picture within the instructions. Some parts not even within the directions but look like parts that are used, which adds confusion. Given the install type, I would suspect that there is a high chance to damage your motherboard given the setup and for the hold not to be secure. The mount that connects to the cooler isn't even bolted on and it can feel like a puzzle to get it on the cooler. Overall, this has proven to be one of the most difficult installations.

Assassin X 120 R SE

This cooler employs a conventional installation process commonly found in mainstream air coolers, utilizing a pair of brackets for connection, first to the motherboard and then to the cooler. Thanks to its compact size, it easily slots into place with minimal fuss.

Cooling Performance:

Hyper 212 EVO

This cooler has four heat pipes that touch the CPU directly and a 120mm fan that helps take away the heat. This keeps your CPU from getting too hot when you're doing a lot of work on your computer or playing games. It might not be the best choice for extreme overclocking, but it's good enough for most people.

Assassin X 120 R SE

With its combination of four heat pipes and a solitary fan, this cooler effectively provides robust cooling capabilities. Although it may not match the extreme heat dissipation of dual heatsink coolers, it remains a top-notch option for those seeking efficient cooling solutions within the realms of low to moderate thermal demands.

Noise Performance:

Hyper 212 EVO

Unfortunately, the Hyper 212 EVO is louder than most other coolers on the market. This means that you might experience more noise while your PC is running, which could be a drawback if you're sensitive to noise or prefer a quiet workspace. If having a quiet PC setup is important to you, it's worth considering other coolers with better noise profiles.

Assassin X 120 R SE

Fitted with a four heat pipes and a single fan, this cooler brings forth considerable cooling for its size. Although it may not compete with dual heatsink coolers regarding handling extreme cooling needs, it remains a standout selection for those whose cooling needs fall within the spectrum of low to moderate demands.

Summary:

Hyper 212 EVO

The Hyper 212 Evo cooler, compatible with various Intel and AMD sockets, has a simple and clean design with an aluminum tower and a single 120mm fan, but its installation can be challenging and potentially damaging to the motherboard. Although it lacks fancy lights and has a cheaper feel, it performs well for most users with its four heat pipes and a 120mm fan that keeps the CPU cool during heavy workloads or gaming. However, it is louder than most other coolers, which may be a concern for those seeking a quiet workspace.

Assassin X 120 R SE

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 R SE offers an easy installation process with brackets securing it to the CPU backplate. This cooler has a visually appealing design despite its budget-friendly nature. Equipped with four heat pipes and a single fan, it provides strong cooling performance, making it a solid choice for those with moderate cooling needs.