Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler

Price Comparison

When comparing the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler, price is a significant factor. The Assassin X 120R SE V2 is priced at C$23.59, while the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black comes in at C$46.79. This makes the Assassin X 120R SE V2 nearly half the price of its counterpart, which may appeal to budget-conscious consumers looking for effective cooling solutions without breaking the bank.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, both coolers feature PWM fans with a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. However, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black utilises a dual tower design with two fans, which enhances its cooling capabilities compared to the single fan in the Assassin X 120R SE V2. The dual fans allow for improved air circulation, making the Peerless Assassin a more robust option for users seeking superior cooling under heavy loads.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of both coolers reflects Thermalright's commitment to durability. The Assassin X 120R SE V2 incorporates S-FDB bearings and an industrial strength PBT + PC material, ensuring a lengthy service life. Conversely, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black boasts a fully electroplated reflow soldering process combined with a blackened nano coating, enhancing its heat dissipation performance. The choice of materials and construction techniques indicates a more advanced design in the Peerless model.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer compatibility with a range of Intel and AMD CPU sockets. The Assassin X 120R SE V2 supports Intel sockets LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4/AM5, while the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black covers Intel LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5. Both coolers come with appropriate mounting kits, making installation straightforward for users regardless of their CPU platform.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are crucial for users who value a quiet computing environment. Both the Assassin X 120R SE V2 and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black are rated at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This equivalency means that users can expect similar acoustic performance from both coolers, making either choice viable for those prioritising silent operation.

Size and Clearance

The Assassin X 120R SE V2 has a height of 148mm, which is suitable for medium-sized cases without obstructing RAM installation. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black, however, is slightly taller at 155mm. While this additional height may allow for enhanced cooling due to its dual tower design, it could also pose compatibility issues in smaller cases. Users should consider their case dimensions when selecting between the two.

User Experience and Installation

Both coolers provide a user-friendly installation experience, with accompanying installation videos and instructions. The Assassin X 120R SE V2 stands out for its adjustable features, allowing users to tweak the configuration to their liking. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black's dual fan system may require more attention during installation but ultimately provides a powerful cooling solution that justifies the effort.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black boils down to individual needs and budget. If affordability and efficiency in a compact size are your priorities, the Assassin X 120R SE V2 is an excellent choice at C$23.59. On the other hand, if you require superior cooling performance and are willing to invest more for the benefits of a dual fan system and advanced build quality, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black at C$46.79 is worth considering.