AMD Wraith Stealth Socket AM4 4-Pin Connector CPU Cooler with Aluminum Heatsink vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler

Overview of the AMD Wraith Stealth and Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black

When comparing the AMD Wraith Stealth and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black, it's essential to consider their key features and intended use cases. The AMD Wraith Stealth is priced at C$22.49, making it an economical choice for users on a budget or those with basic cooling needs. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black, at C$46.79, offers more advanced cooling technology, catering to those who require superior thermal performance for their high-end systems.

Design and Build Quality

The AMD Wraith Stealth features an aluminum heatsink, designed for direct mounting to AM4 motherboards and equipped with a pre-applied thermal paste for ease of installation. Its compact 90mm fan offers sufficient airflow for standard CPU cooling needs. Meanwhile, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black boasts a dual tower design with a more substantial height of 155mm, allowing for enhanced heat dissipation. The use of a blackened nano coating and fine micro-carved copper bottom signifies a focus on aesthetic and functional quality, making it ideal for users seeking both performance and style in their builds.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is where the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black truly shines. With dual PWM fans capable of delivering an air volume of 66.17 CFM, it can provide significantly better cooling than the single 90mm fan of the AMD Wraith Stealth. The AMD cooler is designed for basic cooling and is suitable for standard usage, but it lacks the advanced heat dissipation characteristics that the Thermalright model offers through its dual tower and dual fan setup. This means that for overclocking or high-performance tasks, the Peerless Assassin is the superior option.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise levels, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB, which is relatively quiet for a cooler with dual fans. While the AMD Wraith Stealth does not specify its noise levels, the single fan design typically results in lower noise but may not provide the same airflow efficiency as the dual fans of the Thermalright. Consequently, users prioritizing a quiet computing experience while still demanding robust cooling would likely lean towards the Thermalright.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer compatibility with AMD AM4 sockets, but the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black expands its compatibility to include various Intel sockets, such as LGA1150 through LGA1700. This broader compatibility makes the Peerless Assassin a more versatile choice for users who may switch between different CPU platforms. In contrast, the AMD Wraith Stealth is exclusive to AMD platforms, limiting its appeal for those who might consider upgrading to Intel in the future.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be straightforward. The AMD Wraith Stealth is noted for its direct screw mounting to AM4 motherboards, which simplifies installation for users unfamiliar with cooler setups. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black comes with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, allowing for more flexible installation options. Users who value ease of installation might find the AMD cooler slightly more user-friendly, while those seeking a more robust cooling solution may appreciate the versatility of the Thermalright.

Price Consideration

The AMD Wraith Stealth is significantly more affordable at C$22.49, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers or those building entry-level systems. Alternatively, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black, priced at C$46.79, represents a higher investment but promises enhanced cooling performance and versatility. For users who are serious about their CPU performance, the additional cost of the Thermalright is justified by its superior capabilities.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the AMD Wraith Stealth and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an economical and straightforward cooling solution for a standard build, the AMD Wraith Stealth is a solid choice. However, if you require advanced cooling performance, compatibility with multiple platforms, and a more robust design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black is worth the investment. Consider your performance requirements and future upgrade plans to make the best decision for your setup.