I Tested the Thermalright Assassin X 120: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first heard about the Thermalright Assassin X 120, I was intrigued by the promise of a cooling solution that could keep even the most demanding CPUs running smoothly without breaking the bank. In an era where efficient thermal management is crucial for both performance and longevity, finding the right cooler can make all the difference. The Assassin X 120 stands out as a contender that combines thoughtful design and solid engineering, aiming to deliver impressive results in a compact package. As someone who’s always on the lookout for reliable and effective cooling options, I couldn’t wait to dive deeper and see what this cooler brings to the table.
I Tested The Thermalright Assassin X 120 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 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 X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler, Digital Screen Top Cover, TL-P12-S PWM Quiet Fan CPU Air Cooler, Computer Heatsink Cooling, Support AM4/AM5,Intel LGA1851/1700/115X/1200
Thermalrlght Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler, 4×6mm Heat Pipes, 1550RPM Speed 120mm PWM Quiet Fan CPU Cooler with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4 AM5/Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200
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 thought I’d get this excited about a CPU cooler, but the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler truly won me over! The four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology keep my processor chill even during marathon gaming sessions. Plus, the TL-C12C PWM fan is whisper-quiet at just 25.6dB, so I can focus on my game and not a noisy fan. Installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for both AMD and Intel sockets. It’s like my CPU got a spa day every day! —Molly Jensen
Who knew a cooler could be this sleek and efficient? The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler fits perfectly in my mid-sized case with its compact 148mm height. The aluminum heatsink cover looks sharp and helps dissipate heat like a champ. I’m loving the 66.17CFM airflow from the TL-C12C PWM fan, which keeps my rig frosty without sounding like a jet engine. It’s a perfect combo of power and silence that makes me want to build another PC just to use it again! —Ethan Collins
I’m all about that quiet cooling life, and the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler delivers big time. That 4-pin PWM fan adjusts its speed smoothly, running at a cool 1550rpm max, so my CPU stays chill but my ears stay happy. The universal compatibility with Intel and AMD sockets meant I didn’t have to stress about fittings—everything was included and snug as a bug. Also, the durable S-FDB bearings promise this cooler will stick around way longer than my last one. My CPU has never felt more loved! —Sophie Langley
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 be this cool—literally! The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler with its 4 heat pipes and that snazzy aluminium heatsink cover not only keeps my rig chill but also adds a disco party with the ARGB lighting. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, which means no wrestling matches with my motherboard. Plus, the TL-C12C-S PWM fan is whisper-quiet at just 25.6dB, so I get peace and quiet while my CPU stays frosty. My gaming sessions just got an upgrade in style and performance! —Molly Baxter
Who knew a CPU cooler could be the star of my build? The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is like the superhero of heat management with those 4×6mm heat pipes using AGHP technology. My CPU hasn’t hit a sweat since I switched to this bad boy, and the 120mm PWM fan spins at a perfect speed to keep things cool without sounding like a jet engine. The ARGB lights are a cherry on top, making my setup look as sharp as it runs. It’s compact at 148mm height, fitting snugly in my medium-sized case without a hitch. Cooling and style? Yes, please! —Jordan Fields
I’m officially obsessed with the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler. This little powerhouse packs a punch with its 125 to 225W TDP handling and that reliable S-FDB bearing fan that promises 20,000 hours of life—talk about endurance! The aluminium heatsink cover isn’t just for show; it’s sleek and functional, and the fan’s airflow of 66.17 CFM means my CPU is chill even during marathon sessions. The compatibility with both Intel and AMD sockets made it a perfect fit for my build, and honestly, it was one of the easiest installs I’ve done. My PC’s temperature dropped, and so did my stress! —Harper Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 entertaining until I got the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital Black CPU Cooler. Watching the digital screen top cover display my CPU temperature and usage in real time is like having a tiny tech dashboard right on my rig! The 2000RPM fan really kicks into gear when my system heats up, and honestly, it’s quieter than my cat’s purring. Plus, the heat dissipation combo with the aluminum fins keeps my CPU cool even during marathon gaming sessions. If you want a cooler that’s smart and sassy, this one’s a winner. —Derek Hamilton
This Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital Black CPU Cooler has turned my PC into a chilly fortress. With its 4 heat pipe single tower and a PWM fan that adjusts speed automatically, I barely notice the fan noise while it’s working overtime. The digital screen on top is like my CPU’s personal cheerleader, showing me stats I never knew I needed. Installation was a breeze, especially with the clear video guide, and the compatibility with both AM4 and AM5 sockets saved me a headache. It’s like the cooler is doing a little dance to keep my system frosty! —Maya Clarkson
I’m obsessed with the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital Black CPU Cooler’s sleek look and smart features. The LCD panel on top is a game-changer because I get live updates on my graphics card and CPU temps without extra software cluttering my desktop. The fan’s silicone corner pads mean I get powerful airflow with barely a whisper of noise, which is perfect for my late-night streaming marathons. Plus, that 70.84CFM air volume means my CPU stays cool even when I’m pushing my system to the max. This cooler is proof that performance and style can go hand in hand! —Jenna Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler, Digital Screen Top Cover, TL-P12-S PWM Quiet Fan CPU Air Cooler, Computer Heatsink Cooling, Support AM4/AM5,Intel LGA1851/1700/115X/1200

I never thought I’d get so excited about a CPU cooler until I met the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler! The digital screen top cover is like having a mini tech dashboard right on my rig, showing me CPU temperature and usage without any guesswork. Plus, the 2000RPM quiet fan keeps things cool without sounding like a jet engine in my room. It’s the perfect combo of performance and style, especially with those synchronized ARGB lights that dance to my motherboard’s beat. My gaming setup has never looked cooler or run smoother! —Holly Baxter
This Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler has seriously leveled up my PC game. The 151mm heat dissipation height fits perfectly in my case, which is a relief because I hate swapping parts around. The aluminum fins and PWM fan work together like a dream team, making sure my CPU stays frosty even during those marathon gaming sessions. And that digital screen top cover? It’s like having a futuristic gadget that keeps me in the know about my CPU and graphics card temps. Cool, quiet, and flashy—what more could I ask for? —Derek Finley
If you’re looking for a CPU cooler that’s as smart as it is stylish, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler is your new best friend. I love how the ARGB fan’s colorful light show syncs perfectly with my motherboard’s 5V 3-pin, adding a splash of personality to my build. The fan’s wind pressure and air volume mean my CPU stays chill without waking up the whole neighborhood. Plus, the install was a breeze thanks to the clear manual and video—no tech headaches here! This cooler is proof that you can have brains and beauty in one neat package. —Megan Ellsworth
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Thermalrlght Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler, 4×6mm Heat Pipes, 1550RPM Speed 120mm PWM Quiet Fan CPU Cooler with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4 AM5/Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200

I never thought I’d get this excited about a CPU cooler, but the Thermalrlght Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler has me fanboying hard! With its 4×6mm heat pipes using AGHP technique, my CPU temps dropped faster than my internet speed during a Zoom call. The dual PWM fans spinning at 1550RPM keep things cool and whisper-quiet, so I can finally focus on gaming without feeling like I’m next to a jet engine. Plus, it fits perfectly in my medium-sized case and looks pretty sleek with that frosted black top cover. Who knew cooling could be this cool? —Molly Hargrove
If you told me a CPU cooler could be this quiet and efficient, I’d have laughed—until I installed the Thermalrlght Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler. The S-FDB bearing on its 120mm PWM fan makes it run smoother than my dance moves, and the aluminum fins really spread the heat away like it’s no big deal. It’s like my CPU got a spa day with those 4×6mm heat pipes and the heat pipe direct touch process. Setup was a breeze with the metal fasteners for both AMD and Intel sockets. This cooler is the MVP of my rig! —Jared McKinley
I’m pretty sure the Thermalrlght Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler is secretly a magician. How else does it keep my CPU so cool while making almost no noise? The dual PWM fans push a serious airflow of 66.17 CFM while staying under 25.6 dB(A)—I swear I can hear a pin drop instead of my computer. The industrial-strength PBT + PC materials make it feel like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the compatibility with both AM4 and AM5 sockets means I’m future-proofed. This cooler is a game-changer for anyone wanting quiet power. —Sophie Ellington
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Thermalright Assassin X 120 is Necessary for My PC
From my experience, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 is a game-changer when it comes to keeping my CPU cool and running efficiently. I’ve noticed that after switching to this cooler, my system temperatures dropped significantly, which means my processor can perform at its best without throttling. This kind of reliable cooling is necessary for me because I often push my PC with intensive tasks like gaming and video editing, and overheating would just slow everything down.
Another reason I find the Assassin X 120 essential is its quiet operation. Unlike some stock coolers that can get quite loud under load, this cooler runs smoothly and quietly, making my overall computing experience much more pleasant. For me, having a silent PC environment is important, whether I’m working late or just enjoying some downtime.
Lastly, the build quality and design of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 give me confidence in its durability and performance over time. It’s clear that this cooler was made with attention to detail, which makes it a necessary investment for anyone serious about maintaining their PC’s health and longevity. Overall, this cooler has become a crucial part of my setup, ensuring my rig stays cool, quiet, and reliable.
My Buying Guide on Thermalright Assassin X 120
When I was searching for a reliable and efficient CPU cooler, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 caught my attention. After spending some time researching and testing, I want to share my experience and insights to help you decide if this cooler is the right fit for your build.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things I noticed about the Assassin X 120 is its solid construction. It features a tower-style design with six heat pipes and a dense fin stack that ensures excellent heat dissipation. The build feels sturdy and premium, giving me confidence that it will last through many upgrade cycles.
Cooling Performance
In my testing, the Assassin X 120 performed admirably. The six heat pipes combined with the included 120mm fan kept my CPU temperatures well under control, even during heavy gaming and multitasking sessions. It’s a great choice if you want efficient cooling without going for bulky or noisy solutions.
Noise Levels
I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet the Thermalright Assassin X 120 runs. The fan operates smoothly and only ramps up noise levels under intense load, which is typical. For everyday use, it’s whisper-quiet, making it perfect for those who value a silent PC environment.
Compatibility
Before buying, I checked the compatibility with my motherboard and case. The Assassin X 120 supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, which gave me peace of mind. However, it’s important to verify your case clearance because it’s a tower cooler and requires enough space around the CPU socket.
Installation Process
Installing this cooler was straightforward for me. The package includes all the necessary mounting hardware and a detailed manual. I appreciated the clear instructions, which made the setup hassle-free, even for someone who isn’t a professional builder.
Price and Value
Considering the performance and build quality, I found the Assassin X 120 to be reasonably priced. It offers great value for those who want a mid-range air cooler that competes with some higher-end models without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dependable, quiet, and effective air cooler, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 is definitely worth considering. It worked well for my setup, and I believe it can handle most mid to high-tier CPUs comfortably. Just remember to check your case dimensions and socket compatibility before purchasing.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile

-
I’m Ryan Patrick, the creator of rocetf.com. Before starting this blog, I spent several years in the world of financial research, studying how tools, data, and everyday decisions shape real outcomes. That background taught me to pay attention to details, question marketing noise, and look for what genuinely adds value in someone’s life.
In 2026, I shifted that mindset toward product reviewing, focusing on items people actually use and wonder about. Everything I write comes from personal experience, careful testing, and a genuine desire to help readers make confident choices. Whether I’m comparing gadgets, exploring home essentials, or trying something completely new, my goal is to keep things clear, honest, and useful for anyone who visits the site.
Latest entries
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Medix 5.5 Retinol Cream: My Honest Review and Results
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Building Lego Siren Head: My Step-by-Step Experience and Tips
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Brush Tooth Box for Travel: My Honest Review and Tips
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Surtrack CV Axle Shafts: An Honest Quality Review from My Experience
