Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›
all judged against CPU coolers at a similar priceThe NZXT Kraken Elite 360 and Thermalright Assassin X 120 Refined SE both score 6.8/10 overall.
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 leads on cooling and build and installation.
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 Refined SE leads on value.
They score the same on noise and compatibility and fit.
The biggest difference is value, where the Thermalright Assassin X 120 Refined SE scores 8/10 to the NZXT Kraken Elite 360's 5/10.
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 is for builders who want a 360 mm AIO on a current Intel or AMD platform. It suits people who want low temperatures under heavy load and a simple install. It is less suited to buyers watching the budget closely.
Typically about £279.95 in the UK when we researched itSearch Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 Refined SE is for builders who want a low-cost single-tower air cooler for a current Intel or AMD platform. It suits mainstream CPUs in cases with enough height for a 148mm cooler. Owners mostly praise its value, quiet running and easy fitting.
Typically about £15.95 in the UK when we researched itSearch Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details
| Criterion | Weight | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 | Thermalright Assassin X 120 Refined SE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling | 35% | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Noise | 25% | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Compatibility and fit | 15% | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Value | 15% | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Build and installation | 10% | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Overall | 6.8/10 | 6.8/10 |
| Spec | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 | Thermalright Assassin X 120 Refined SE |
|---|---|---|
| Type (tower air cooler, low-profile air, or AIO liquid with radiator size) | Liquid AIO with 360 mm radiator | Single-tower air cooler |
| Supported sockets (e.g. AM5, AM4, LGA1851, LGA1700) | Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, 115X; AMD AM5, AM4 | Intel 115x/1200/1700/1851; AMD AM4/AM5 |
| Height in mm (air coolers) or radiator size in mm (AIO) | Radiator 401 × 120 × 27 mm; pump cap 93.5 mm diameter × 65 mm high | 148 mm |
| Fans included and their size | Elite 360: 3 × F120P (2024) 120 mm static-pressure fans, 500–2,000 ±200 RPM, 30 dBA each. Elite 360 RGB: 1 × F360 RGB Core fan containing three 120 mm fans, 500–2,400 ±250 RPM, 30.0 dBA per fan | One 120 x 120 x 25 mm TL-C12C PWM fan, 1550 RPM max, 66.17 CFM max, 1.53 mm H2O max, S-FDB bearing |
| Noise level (dBA) | Elite 360 RGB: 33.88 dB stated by manufacturer; PCGamesN lists 34 dBA | 25.6 dBA maximum (manufacturer figure) |
| Warranty (years) | 6 years | 3 years |
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