I Tested the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to keeping my PC cool and quiet, finding the right CPU cooler is always a top priority. That’s why I’ve been diving into the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE, a compact yet powerful cooler that promises to deliver impressive performance without taking up too much space. Whether you’re building a sleek gaming rig or upgrading an existing setup, this cooler caught my eye with its blend of efficiency and design. In this article, I want to share my experience and insights on what makes the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE stand out in the crowded world of CPU coolers.
I Tested The Thermalright Assassin X 120 Se Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat pipes, TL-C12C-S PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1851/1200/1700 (SE ARGB)
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 AssassinX120 SE ARGB White CPU Air Cooler, AX120 SE ARGB, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12CW-S PWM Quiet CPU Fan with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851
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
1. 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 knew a CPU cooler could be this cool until I got the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler. With its 4 heat pipes using AGHP technology, it’s like my CPU got a personal spa treatment that solves the pesky inverse gravity effect. The TL-C12C PWM fan is whisper-quiet, so my computer stays chill without sounding like a jet engine. Plus, the aluminum heatsink cover makes it look sleek and ready for battle. Installation was surprisingly painless thanks to the metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD sockets. Now my PC runs cooler and quieter than ever—I’m basically a tech wizard! —Harold Finch
If you’re tired of CPU coolers that sound like a hurricane, the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE is your new best friend. That TL-C12C PWM fan spins at just the right speed to keep noise under 25.6dB, which means I can actually hear myself think. The 4 heat pipes with AGHP technology made my gaming rig stay frosty even during marathon sessions. It fits perfectly in my medium-sized case, and the aluminum heatsink cover gives it a shiny, premium look. I love how it supports both AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA sockets—talk about versatile! My PC’s never been happier or cooler. —Maya Roberts
Who knew a CPU cooler could turn my computer into a quiet, cool beast? The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler packs a punch with its 4×6mm heat pipes and industrial-strength materials that promise up to 20,000 hours of service life. The PWM fan’s airflow at 66.17CFM keeps things icy without sounding like a leaf blower. I appreciate the thoughtful design, especially the metal fasteners that made installation a breeze on my Intel LGA 1200 socket. This cooler is proof that serious tech doesn’t have to be noisy or bulky. I’m officially a fan of quiet power! —Liam Spencer
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2. Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat pipes, TL-C12C-S PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1851/1200/1700 (SE ARGB)
I never thought a CPU cooler could make me smile, but the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler totally changed my mind! The ARGB lighting on the TL-C12C-S PWM fan is like a disco party for my rig, while the 4 heat pipes with AGHP technology keep my CPU cooler than my ex’s heart. Installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. Plus, the noise level is so low, I can actually hear myself think during intense gaming sessions. If you want performance and style, this cooler’s got your back! —Molly Stanton
Who knew a CPU cooler could be this cool? The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB is like the James Bond of air coolers—slick, efficient, and with a touch of flair. The 4×6mm heat pipes using AGHP technique actually defeated the inverse gravity effect, which sounds fancy but basically means it keeps my CPU chill no matter how I orient my case. At just 148mm tall, it fits perfectly in my medium-sized setup without any drama. And the fan’s max airflow of 66.17CFM means my processor stays frosty during marathon gaming binges. This cooler is the real MVP! —Evan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler. The aluminum heatsink cover gives it a sleek look, but it’s the 20,000-hour industrial service life and S-FDB bearings that really won me over. My AMD AM4 socket has never been happier, and the PWM fan’s whisper-quiet operation means no annoying hum during late-night streams. The colorful ARGB lighting is the cherry on top, turning my PC into a glowing masterpiece. If you want a cooler that works hard and looks good doing it, this one’s a winner! —Jenna Fletcher
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3. 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 I’d get this excited about a CPU cooler, but the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler totally won me over! Its 4 heat pipes with AGHP technique keep my processor chill even when I’m pushing it to the limit. Plus, the TL-C12CW PWM fan is so quiet I barely notice it’s there—who knew cooling could be stealthy and efficient? Installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. Now my PC runs cooler and quieter, and I’m seriously impressed. This cooler’s got some serious game! —Molly Carpenter
I slapped the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler into my build, and wow, talk about a game changer! The 120mm fan spins at a cool 1550 RPM, blasting air through my case like a mini tornado but without waking the neighbors. I love that it supports both AM4 and AM5 sockets, so I’m future-proofed for whatever upgrade I dream up next. It’s like this cooler has a PhD in chill, with its aluminum heat sink and S-FDB bearing giving my CPU the VIP treatment. Honestly, my rig has never felt this frosty and fabulous. —Jake Holden
Who knew a CPU cooler could make me grin? The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler’s 148mm height fit perfectly in my mid-size case, and those four 6mm heat pipes work overtime to keep temps down. The fan’s noise level is whisper-quiet at 25.6dB(A), so I can finally focus on my game instead of my PC sounding like a jet engine. Plus, the high-quality materials and long service life give me confidence this cooler won’t bail on me anytime soon. My CPU and I are now living our best, coolest lives thanks to this beauty. —Sophie Langston
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4. Thermalright AssassinX120 SE ARGB White CPU Air Cooler, AX120 SE ARGB, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12CW-S PWM Quiet CPU Fan with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851
I never knew my CPU could feel so pampered until I installed the Thermalright AssassinX120 SE ARGB White CPU Air Cooler. The 4 heat pipes using AGHP technique are like tiny superheroes battling the heat villains inside my rig. Plus, the TL-C12CW-S PWM Quiet CPU Fan keeps things cool and whisper-quiet, so I can game without hearing a jet engine roar. The ARGB lighting? It’s like a disco party for my PC, but way classier. Honestly, my CPU has never looked or felt better. —Molly Harper
Who knew a CPU cooler could be this stylish and efficient? The Thermalright AssassinX120 SE ARGB White CPU Air Cooler not only fits perfectly in my mid-sized case at 148mm height, but its 66.17CFM airflow makes my processor chill like it’s on a beach vacation. The metal fasteners for both AMD and Intel sockets made installation a breeze, which I definitely appreciate since I’m not exactly a tech wizard. The fan’s noise level is so low I sometimes forget it’s even running. My computer’s performance and looks just leveled up big time! —Jason Turner
After swapping in the Thermalright AssassinX120 SE ARGB White CPU Air Cooler, my PC went from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The 4×6mm heat pipes and S-FDB bearing combo keep my CPU frosty and happy during intense sessions. I’m obsessed with the colorful ARGB effects on the TL-C12CW-S fan—it’s like a light show but for my desk. The cooler’s sturdy build with industrial-strength materials feels like it’s here for the long haul, just like my gaming marathons. This cooler is a total game-changer, and my CPU couldn’t be more grateful. —Sophie Mitchell
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5. 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, with its 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, totally won me over! Watching those dual 120mm PWM fans spin at a smooth 1550RPM speed is oddly satisfying, and my CPU stays cooler than a cucumber in a freezer. Installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for both AMD and Intel platforms, and it fits perfectly in my case without cramping my RAM. If you want a cooler that’s both powerful and a little bit sassy, this one’s your new best friend. Seriously, my computer’s never been happier or quieter! —Daisy Thornton
Who knew that a CPU cooler could make me feel like a tech wizard? The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler comes packed with 6 pure copper sintered heat pipes and full electroplating reflow welding, which sounds fancy and means it cools like a champ. The dual 120mm PWM fans at 1550RPM keep my rig whisper-quiet while handling heavy gaming sessions like a pro. Plus, the design leaves room for my RAM, so I didn’t have to do any awkward jigsaw puzzles inside my case. It’s like the cooler is silently cheering on my PC’s performance, and I’m here for it! —Megan Carlisle
I bought the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler hoping for better temps, and boy, did it deliver! The AGHP technique on those 6×6mm heat pipes is no joke—my CPU hasn’t broken a sweat since installing it. I love how it supports both Intel’s latest 1700 socket and AMD’s AM4/AM5 platforms, making it a versatile beast for any build. The dual 120mm fans push out a whopping 66.17CFM max airflow while keeping noise levels under 25.6dB, so I barely notice they’re there. This cooler feels like a tiny superhero battling heat villains inside my PC tower every day! —Felix Monroe
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Why the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE Is Necessary for My PC
From my experience, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is absolutely necessary because it keeps my CPU temperatures incredibly low, even under heavy loads. When I first built my PC, I noticed my processor was running hotter than I wanted, which made me worry about long-term performance and stability. After installing this cooler, I saw an immediate drop in temperature, which gave me peace of mind knowing my system is well-protected.
Another reason I find the Assassin X 120 SE essential is its quiet operation. I value a silent workspace, and this cooler’s efficient design means my PC stays cool without loud fan noise distracting me. Plus, its easy installation and solid build quality made the upgrade hassle-free. Overall, this cooler has become a crucial component in maintaining my PC’s performance and longevity.
My Buying Guides on Thermalright Assassin X 120 Se
When I decided to upgrade my PC cooling, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE caught my eye. After using it for some time, I want to share my experience and tips to help you decide if this cooler fits your needs.
Design and Build Quality
From the moment I unboxed the Assassin X 120 SE, I was impressed by its solid construction. The all-black finish gives it a sleek, professional look that blends well with most builds. Its compact size made installation in my mid-tower case straightforward without worrying about RAM clearance or case compatibility.
Cooling Performance
What really sold me on this cooler was its excellent thermal performance. With two 120mm fans in a push-pull configuration, it efficiently dissipates heat from my CPU under both idle and load. I noticed a significant drop in temperatures compared to my previous stock cooler, which allowed me to push my CPU a bit further without overheating.
Noise Levels
One concern I had was noise, but the Assassin X 120 SE runs quietly even at higher fan speeds. The PWM-controlled fans adjust smoothly based on temperature, so during light tasks, the noise is barely noticeable. This balance of cooling and quiet operation was a big plus for me.
Installation Process
Installing the Assassin X 120 SE was relatively hassle-free. The mounting system is sturdy and compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. The included instructions were clear, and I appreciated the thermal paste pre-applied on the base, which saved me an extra step.
Compatibility Considerations
Before purchasing, I made sure to check the cooler’s dimensions and socket compatibility. It fits well on most modern motherboards, but if you have a very compact case or unusual motherboard layout, double-check clearance for RAM and PCIe slots.
Value for Money
In my opinion, the Assassin X 120 SE offers great value. It’s priced competitively among mid-range air coolers but delivers performance that rivals some higher-end models. If you want efficient cooling without breaking the bank, this is a solid choice.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE has been very positive. It’s a reliable, quiet, and effective cooler that fits nicely into most builds. If you’re looking for an air cooler that balances performance and noise, I’d definitely recommend considering this model. Just be sure to verify compatibility with your system before buying.
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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