The Noctua NH-U12A wins in 2 out of 3 comparable specs. Its biggest advantage is TDP Rating (33% better).
Assassin X 120 Refined SE wins in 1 spec (MSRP: 82% better).
Recommendation
Choose NH-U12A if you want the best overall performance — especially tdp rating.
Choose Assassin X 120 Refined SE if msrp matters more to you.
| Spec | NoctuaNH-U12A | ThermalrightAssassin X 120 Refined SE |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Type | Air Tower | Air Tower |
| Height | 158 mm | 148 mm |
| Performance | ||
| TDP Rating | 200W+33% | 150W |
| Fans | 2 | 1 |
| Fan Size | 120 mm | 120 mm |
| Acoustics | ||
| Noise Level | 22.6 dB(A)−10% | 25 dB(A) |
| Fan RPM | 450 - 2000 | 500 - 1550 |
| Compatibility | ||
| Sockets | AM2+, AM3+, FM2+, LGA2011-3, LGA2011, LGA2066, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, AM5, AM4, AM3, AM2, FM1, FM2 | LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1151, AM5, AM4 |
| Price | ||
| MSRP | $100 | $18−82% |
| Release Date | Jan 2019 | Jun 2023 |
