Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler

Overview of the Products

When comparing the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler, both are designed to provide efficient cooling solutions for CPUs. The Assassin X is priced at C$24.29, making it a more budget-friendly option, while the Peerless Assassin is priced at C$46.79, reflecting its additional features and capabilities.

The Thermalright brand has established itself with over 20 years in the market, focusing on the development of computer accessories. Both products exhibit this commitment to quality and performance, appealing to gamers and PC builders alike.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X features a compact design with dimensions of 125(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm and a weight of 0.645kg. It is constructed with aluminum and boasts a sleek aesthetic, particularly with its ARGB lighting capabilities. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin measures 125(L)x135(W)x155(H)mm, making it slightly bulkier but still manageable for most mid-sized cases.

The Peerless Assassin's build quality is reinforced with a blackened nano coating and fully electroplated heat pipes, which enhance its heat dissipation efficiency. The dual-tower and dual-fan design of the Peerless allows for superior cooling performance, making it an attractive choice for high-performance builds.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin X has a thermal design power (TDP) range of 125 to 225 watts. It uses four 6mm heat pipes and a single PWM fan with a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, operating at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This makes it suitable for most gaming and workstation setups.

Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin, with its dual fans, can also achieve a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM but benefits from the dual tower design that significantly boosts its overall heat dissipation capabilities. This makes it ideal for higher TDP CPUs, ensuring that even under load, temperatures remain manageable.

Noise Levels

Both CPU coolers maintain a similar noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet and conducive to a pleasant gaming or working environment. The Thermalright Assassin X achieves this noise level with its single PWM fan, while the Peerless Assassin's dual fans also operate within the same range, providing strong airflow without excessive noise.

This similarity in noise levels means that users do not have to sacrifice acoustics for performance, regardless of the cooler they choose. Both options ensure a quieter computing experience, making them suitable for both casual and intense usage scenarios.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Assassin X supports a wide variety of CPU sockets including Intel's 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD's AM4. This broad compatibility allows it to fit into many systems without requiring additional modifications. The mounting hardware is included for both Intel and AMD platforms, making installation straightforward.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin also offers extensive compatibility, supporting Intel sockets from LGA1150 to LGA1700 and AMD's AM4 and AM5. This makes the Peerless a versatile choice for users looking to upgrade their systems or build new ones, providing peace of mind in knowing that it can accommodate a range of CPU models.

Installation Process

Both coolers come equipped with necessary mounting hardware, making installation relatively simple for users. The Thermalright Assassin X features metal fasteners that facilitate easy installation on both Intel and AMD platforms. Its design is user-friendly, allowing even novice builders to set it up without hassle.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin also includes a comprehensive mounting kit, ensuring that users can install it securely on various sockets. With clear instructions provided, the installation process is straightforward, allowing builders to get their systems up and running with minimal fuss.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetically, the Thermalright Assassin X features ARGB lighting, giving it a modern and appealing look that can enhance the visual aspect of a gaming rig. This feature is particularly attractive to gamers who value the appearance of their builds as much as the performance.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin’s sleek black design with a nano coating adds a sophisticated touch to any setup. While it does not feature RGB lighting, its elegant finish complements a variety of PC builds, appealing to those who prefer a more understated aesthetic.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. The Assassin X is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users seeking effective cooling performance at a lower price point of C$24.29. It is suitable for users who need solid performance without the bells and whistles.

In contrast, the Peerless Assassin, priced at C$46.79, offers enhanced cooling capabilities and build quality, making it better suited for users with high-performance CPUs or those who anticipate overclocking. Its dual fan design and superior heat dissipation make it a compelling choice for gamers and professionals alike. Ultimately, your decision should align with your cooling requirements, aesthetic preferences, and budget constraints.