Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Products

The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler are both strong contenders in the CPU cooling market. The Assassin X 90 SE V2 is priced at C$24.90, making it a budget-friendly option, while the Peerless Assassin 120 Black is priced higher at C$54.90, reflecting its advanced features and cooling capabilities.

Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in the cooler market, has developed these products with a focus on high-performance cooling solutions. Each cooler brings unique features that cater to different user needs, from standard builds to more demanding gaming or workstation setups.

Design and Dimensions

In terms of design, the Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 is compact, measuring 94mm x 77mm x 118mm. This makes it suitable for smaller cases without compromising on cooling performance. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is larger, with dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 157mm.

The larger size of the Peerless Assassin allows for a greater effective heat dissipation area of 9600cm, which is particularly beneficial for high-performance CPUs under heavy workloads. The black paint and twin-tower design not only offer aesthetic appeal but also enhance heat dissipation capability compared to the more modest design of the Assassin X 90 SE V2.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance of both products is noteworthy, but they cater to different levels of demand. The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 features a single fan with a maximum airflow of 32.77 CFM and operates at a noise level of ≤23.85 dB(A). This makes it suitable for quieter builds, particularly in office environments or home PCs where noise minimisation is crucial.

Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is equipped with two PWM fans, which combined can deliver an impressive airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This dual-fan setup provides enhanced cooling performance, making it ideal for gaming rigs or high-performance systems where maintaining low temperatures is essential during intense operations.

Fan Technology

Fan technology plays a significant role in the efficiency of CPU coolers. The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 employs a single 92mm fan that operates at 2200 RPM. Its PWM capabilities ensure that the fan adjusts its speed based on the CPU temperature, providing adequate cooling while maintaining low noise levels.

In contrast, the Peerless Assassin 120 Black utilises two 120mm fans that operate at a lower speed of 1500 RPM. The dual-fan configuration enhances airflow and cooling performance, making it a superior choice for users who demand more from their cooling solutions, especially in overclocking scenarios or prolonged gaming sessions.

Heat Pipe Configuration

Heat pipe technology is critical in determining the cooling efficiency of CPU coolers. The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 features four 6mm heat pipes, utilising the AGHP upgraded 4th generation technology. This setup allows for effective heat transfer and a service life of up to 20,000 hours, making it a reliable option for long-term use.

On the other hand, the Peerless Assassin 120 Black advances this technology with six 6mm heat pipes. This additional heat pipe not only enhances heat transfer but also improves the cooler's overall performance under load. Such a configuration is particularly advantageous for users looking to push their CPUs to higher limits, as it mitigates overheating risks.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a vital consideration for any CPU cooler. The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 supports a range of Intel sockets including 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, and 1200, as well as AMD’s AM4 and AM5 sockets, making it versatile for various builds.

The Peerless Assassin 120 Black offers even broader compatibility, supporting Intel sockets 1150 through 1700 and AMD AM4 and AM5. This wider range makes it a more flexible option for users who may upgrade their systems in the future or work with diverse setups.

Price Consideration

Price is a crucial factor when choosing between these two coolers. The Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 is priced at C$24.90, making it an affordable choice for budget-conscious users. It provides sufficient cooling for standard builds and is an excellent option for those who do not require extensive overclocking capabilities.

Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black, priced at C$54.90, reflects its advanced features and superior cooling performance. While it is a higher investment, it offers significant advantages for gamers and power users who need effective cooling under heavy loads, making it a worthwhile consideration for those who can stretch their budget.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the Thermalright Assassin X 90 SE V2 and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black, the choice largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an economical solution that performs adequately for standard computing tasks, the Assassin X 90 SE V2 is a solid choice. However, if you require advanced cooling performance for gaming or demanding applications, the Peerless Assassin 120 Black, with its dual fans and superior heat pipe configuration, justifies its higher price. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your cooling requirements and budget constraints.