ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit - Compatible with Liquid Freezer III and vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler

Price Comparison

The ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit is priced at C$26.70, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler is significantly higher at C$46.79. This price difference of C$20.09 indicates that the ARCTIC mounting kit is a budget-friendly option, particularly appealing for users looking to enhance compatibility with existing cooling solutions without breaking the bank. In contrast, the higher cost of the Thermalright cooler reflects its advanced features and dual-fan design aimed at delivering superior heat dissipation.

Compatibility

The ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit boasts compatibility with a variety of Intel socket types, specifically LGA1200, 1156, 1155, 1151, and 1150. This expansive compatibility allows users to upgrade or install the Liquid Freezer III and other ARCTIC coolers easily. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin supports both Intel and AMD platforms, with socket compatibility including Intel's LGA1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and 1851, as well as AMD's AM4 and AM5. This broad compatibility makes the Thermalright cooler a versatile choice for users with different CPU types.

Installation Process

Ease of installation is a notable feature of the ARCTIC mounting kit, which is designed for quick assembly with a user-friendly design. The availability of a multilingual and animated manual online further enhances the installation experience, making it accessible even for novice users. Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin also promotes a straightforward installation process, equipped with metal fasteners compatible with both Intel and AMD platforms. However, the complexity of installing a dual tower cooler might require a bit more effort compared to the simple mounting kit from ARCTIC.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is engineered for better cooling performance, utilising a dual tower and dual fan design. Its advanced construction features a blackened nano coating, fully electroplated heat pipes, and a fine micro-carved copper bottom, significantly increasing the effective heat dissipation area. The dual PWM fans can deliver an airflow of up to 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A), making it a powerful option for those prioritising cooling efficiency. In contrast, the ARCTIC mounting kit does not offer direct cooling performance metrics, as it primarily serves as a compatibility solution for existing coolers.

Noise Levels

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a dual-fan cooler. This low noise output is beneficial for users who prefer a quieter computing environment. The ARCTIC mounting kit does not have associated noise levels, as it is not a cooling solution itself but rather a facilitating component for certain ARCTIC coolers. Therefore, users selecting the Thermalright cooler can expect effective cooling without excessive noise.

Design and Build Quality

The ARCTIC mounting kit is designed to expand compatibility for specific cooling solutions, focusing on straightforward functionality rather than aesthetics. It prioritises ease of installation and user-friendliness. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin features a more robust design, with its dual tower configuration and premium materials that enhance heat dissipation. The use of a blackened nano coating and electroplated heat pipes not only improves performance but also adds a sleek look to the build, appealing to those who value aesthetics alongside functionality.

Customer Support and Resources

ARCTIC provides a multilingual and animated manual online, which is a significant advantage for users who may need additional guidance during installation. This resource simplifies the process, making it accessible for a wider audience. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin, while it includes installation instructions for various CPU slots, does not highlight any specific customer support resources in the provided details. Thus, users may need to rely on general installation tutorials or community support for assistance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC Intel LGA1200/115X Mounting Kit and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly solution to enhance compatibility with existing ARCTIC cooling products, the ARCTIC mounting kit at C$26.70 is an excellent choice. However, if superior cooling performance and versatile compatibility are your primary concerns, the Thermalright cooler, despite its higher price of C$46.79, offers a more advanced cooling solution.