Thermalright has recently launched its new family of Assassin Classic (AC) air CPU coolers in China. This series comprises three models, which we’ll summarize for you quickly and easily. The most basic model is the Thermalright AC-4, featuring four heatpipes and one fan. In the mid-range, we find the Thermalright AC-5, equipped with five heatpipes and a fan. Meanwhile, the high-end model is the Thermalright AC-6, boasting six heatpipes and two fans.
All models utilize a simple tower design, meaning these are not massive dual-tower coolers, which might be surprising for the highest-end model. This positions them as more compact solutions aimed at conventional builds. In other words, they are suitable for mid-range gaming PCs or configurations where maintaining good compatibility with cases and RAM is important. Alternatively, they are a great choice for any system seeking a cooler that is good, looks good, and is affordable.
Appearance of the Thermalright Assassin Classic AC-4, AC-5, and AC-6 CPU Coolers
The most striking innovation with these coolers lies not so much in their thermal architecture but in their aesthetic customization. Thermalright will offer several top cover options for these Assassin Classic models. In addition to a simple top plate, the brand is preparing variants with a wood finish and an infinity mirror effect with RGB. There’s even a more advanced version with an integrated screen. This indicates that the company is bringing visual elements, previously more common in AIO liquid cooling or premium coolers, to a more accessible range of CPU coolers.
For reference, Thermalright already has official product pages for the Assassin Classic-5 SE BLACK and the Assassin Classic-5 SE ARGB BLACK. Both are listed as compatible with Intel LGA115X/1200/1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5 processors. The AC-5 measures 124 x 57 x 152 mm in height and features five 6 mm thick heatpipes. The non-illuminated version uses a 120 mm TL-NT12 fan capable of reaching up to 1,850 RPM, with a maximum airflow of 84.5 CFM, a static pressure of 2.38 mmH₂O, and a declared maximum noise level of 30.2 dBA. The ARGB variant maintains these specifications but adds a 3-pin, 5V ARGB connector.
Through this, Thermalright aims to enhance one of its strengths: offering air coolers with a good performance-to-price ratio, now with added visual variety. The Assassin Classic series doesn’t appear to directly compete with dual-tower models like the Peerless Assassin 120 SE. That cooler’s official specifications show a dual-tower design, six heatpipes, a weight of 730 grams, and dimensions of 125 x 110 x 155 mm in height. In contrast, the AC models target an intermediate niche: simpler, more compact, and presumably more affordable coolers, but with more visually striking premium finishes. Currently, there is no pricing, international availability, or complete technical specifications for the entire range.
