Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler Air with 6X6mm

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is a solid choice for those looking for effective cooling solutions at an affordable price of C$24.29. It is designed for compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, making it a versatile option for various builds. Its compact dimensions of 125mm x 71mm x 148mm allow it to fit comfortably in medium-sized cases, while its weight of 0.645 kg ensures stability during operation.

The cooler features a PWM fan with a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This combination makes it an excellent choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts who desire both performance and quiet operation. The use of advanced AGHP technology and S-FDB bearings further enhances its durability and cooling efficiency, promising a long service life of up to 20,000 hours.

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler stands out for its advanced design and higher cooling performance at a price point of C$62.90. This cooler features a dual-tower setup combined with dual fans, which not only enhances heat dissipation but also improves overall airflow. With dimensions of 138mm x 125mm x 162mm, it is slightly larger than the Assassin X, requiring sufficient space in the chassis.

Equipped with six pure copper heat pipes and a fan speed of up to 1850 RPM, this model can achieve an impressive airflow of 88.89 CFM. The noise level remains competitive at ≤25.6 dB(A), making it suitable for quiet environments. The Peerless Assassin also incorporates PWM intelligent temperature control, allowing for automatic speed adjustments based on CPU temperature, which optimizes performance and noise levels.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital outshines the Assassin X 120 SE. With a maximum airflow of 88.89 CFM compared to the Assassin X’s 66.17 CFM, the Peerless Assassin is notably more effective at heat dissipation, making it ideal for high-performance CPUs, especially during intense gaming sessions or heavy workloads.

The dual-tower and dual-fan design of the Peerless model allows it to manage higher thermal loads more efficiently, thanks to its dual fans operating at a maximum speed of 1850 RPM. This setup provides superior wind pressure, measured at 2.21 mm H2O, compared to the single-fan setup of the Assassin X. Thus, for users prioritizing cooling performance, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner in this comparison.

Noise Levels and Acoustic Performance

Both coolers are designed to operate quietly, with maximum noise levels of ≤25.6 dB(A). However, while they share this specification, the Peerless Assassin’s dual fans and intelligent temperature control may allow it to manage noise more effectively under varying loads. The PWM feature not only adjusts fan speeds based on the CPU's thermal demands but also minimizes unnecessary noise during lighter tasks.

The Thermalright Assassin X, while quieter at its peak RPM, does not have the same level of speed adjustment capabilities, potentially leading to a more consistent noise output in demanding scenarios. Consequently, users who value a quieter operation under a wide range of conditions may find the Peerless Assassin's features more appealing.

Installation and Compatibility

Regarding installation and compatibility, both coolers are designed to support a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, with the Assassin X supporting Intel 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4. The Peerless Assassin follows suit, ensuring compatibility with mainstream platforms.

However, the larger size of the Peerless Assassin, measuring 162mm in height, may pose a challenge in smaller cases, whereas the Assassin X's more compact design makes it a more universally fitting option. Users with space constraints may prefer the Assassin X for its easier compatibility with various setups.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin offers a modern aesthetic with its digital display board and a sleek black finish, appealing to users who want a visually striking centerpiece in their build. The magnetic top cover adds a unique touch, allowing for customization with the TRCC software, which provides options for monitoring CPU and GPU parameters.

The Assassin X, while functional, is more utilitarian in appearance, focusing primarily on performance without the additional aesthetic features. For users prioritizing style alongside performance, the Peerless Assassin’s design may be more attractive, particularly in builds where aesthetics play a significant role.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant factor in making a choice between these two coolers. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB is priced at a budget-friendly C$24.29, which makes it an excellent option for entry-level builders or those on a tight budget. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black is priced at C$62.90, reflecting its advanced features and superior cooling capabilities.

While the initial investment in the Peerless Assassin is higher, its performance benefits may justify the cost for users who require enhanced cooling for overclocked CPUs or demanding gaming setups. Ultimately, the choice may come down to the user's specific cooling needs and budget constraints.

Which should you buy?

Selecting between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB and the Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black largely depends on your specific requirements and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution suitable for moderate use and smaller cases, the Assassin X offers solid performance at an unbeatable price of C$24.29. However, if your focus is on high-performance cooling with advanced features and you are willing to invest a bit more at C$62.90, the Peerless Assassin is the superior choice, providing excellent cooling efficiency and modern aesthetics.