This article covers THERMALRIGHT AssassinX 120 SE ARGB CPUエアクーラー.

Overview

The THERMALRIGHT AssassinX 120 SE ARGB is a tower-style air CPU cooler that punches well above its price point. With four 6mm heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan, it handles CPUs up to 225W TDP — enough for most mainstream processors from AMD and Intel. Standing just 148mm tall, this cooler fits comfortably in most mid-tower cases. The included fan features addressable RGB lighting, letting you sync it with your motherboard's lighting ecosystem. It supports Intel LGA 1700/1200/115x and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets, making it a versatile choice for new builds or upgrades on a budget.

Connectivity & Compatibility

The AssassinX 120 SE ARGB supports Intel LGA 1700, 1200, and 115x sockets, plus AMD AM4 and AM5. The package includes separate backplates and brackets for each platform. The fan connects via a standard 4-pin PWM header for automatic speed control, while the ARGB lighting requires a 3-pin 5V addressable RGB header on your motherboard. Physical dimensions are 120 x 71 x 148 mm (W x D x H). This compact size fits most ATX and MicroATX cases, but check your case's CPU cooler height limit before purchasing — some Mini-ITX cases may be too tight. Memory clearance is generally good thanks to the single-fan design, though very tall RAM heatsinks may require adjusting the fan position slightly upward.

Product Info

Released around 2022, the AssassinX 120 SE ARGB sits firmly in the entry-level to mid-range segment. At roughly $25–30 USD (or around ¥3,000 in Japan), it offers excellent value for money. The warranty period varies by region but is typically 1–2 years. Included accessories: Intel and AMD mounting kits, backplate, thermal grease, anti-vibration rubber pads, and fan clips.

Best Use Cases

Budget-conscious builders: Perfect for Ryzen 5 or Core i5 builds where every dollar counts. It cools these CPUs quietly and effectively without breaking the bank. Silence seekers: The fan maxes out at 1550 RPM with a noise rating of just 25.6 dBA. The S-FDB bearing ensures long-term quiet operation. RGB enthusiasts: The ARGB fan adds a splash of color to your build and can be synchronized with motherboard software like ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light, or Gigabyte RGB Fusion. Who should skip it: If you're running a high-TDP CPU like a Core i9-13900K or Ryzen 9 7950X, or you plan heavy overclocking, look at larger dual-tower air coolers or AIO liquid coolers instead.

Things to Consider

While the AssassinX 120 SE ARGB is a great value cooler, it has limits. CPUs with TDPs exceeding 225W may cause thermal throttling under sustained full load. For example, an Intel Core i7-13700K (253W peak) or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X (230W) could push this cooler past its comfort zone. Always verify your case's CPU cooler clearance — 148mm is fine for most mid-towers, but some compact or slim cases won't accommodate it. Also, ensure your motherboard has a 5V ARGB header if you want to control the lighting; older boards with only 12V RGB headers will need a separate controller. ## FAQ
Q: Can this cooler handle a Ryzen 7 7800X3D? A: Yes, the 7800X3D has a 120W TDP, which is well within this cooler's capacity. It's a great match for gaming-focused AM5 builds. Q: Will it interfere with tall RAM modules? A: Generally no, but if you use very tall RAM (over 50mm), you may need to shift the fan slightly upward. The single-fan design leaves plenty of room for most standard-height memory. Q: Does it support Intel LGA 1851 (Arrow Lake)? A: Official support hasn't been announced yet. However, since LGA 1851 is expected to share the same mounting hole pattern as LGA 1700, it may work. Check Thermalright's official compatibility list before purchasing.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: THERMALRIGHT(サーマルライト)
  • Seller: TR-Thermalright-JP
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon
  • ASIN: B0C9C55YLT
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.