Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler is priced at C$62.90, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler comes in at a more budget-friendly C$46.79. This makes the Frozen Notte roughly 34% more expensive than the Peerless Assassin. While both coolers are from the same brand, their price points reflect their different cooling technologies. The Frozen Notte features a water-cooling system, which generally offers superior cooling performance, especially under heavy loads, whereas the Peerless Assassin utilises traditional air cooling. For users prioritising cost-effectiveness, the Peerless Assassin may present a more appealing option.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 boasts a high-performance cold head with a maximum pump speed of 5300 RPM and is designed to maintain optimal CPU temperatures. It combines a full copper mirror base with a 240mm aluminum fin cold plate and dual PWM fans that can reach speeds of 2000 RPM, making it capable of delivering up to 72.37 CFM of airflow. Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE employs dual tower cooling with two PWM fans that can achieve a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM at a lower fan speed of 1550 RPM. While both coolers provide efficient heat dissipation, the Frozen Notte's water-cooling technology grants it a distinct advantage in high-performance scenarios.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 operates at a maximum noise level of 27.7 dBA, which is relatively quiet for a water cooler. The added benefit of its PWM fans allows for automatic speed adjustment based on CPU temperature, potentially reducing noise levels during lighter workloads. On the other hand, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE has a slightly lower noise level of 25.6 dBA, making it a quieter option overall. However, the difference in noise levels is minimal, and the performance of the Frozen Notte may justify the minor increase in sound output for users wanting optimal cooling.

Build Quality and Design

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 features a sleek design with an all-black aesthetic and integrated ARGB lighting for a visually appealing setup. Its construction includes a high-quality copper base and a durable aluminum fin cold plate, which contribute to both its performance and longevity. The design also accommodates a wide range of CPU sockets across both Intel and AMD platforms. Meanwhile, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE also boasts a robust build with a dual tower structure and a height of 155mm, making it compatible with a variety of cases. The electroplated heat pipes and finely crafted copper base enhance its cooling efficiency. Both products exhibit excellent build quality, but the aesthetic appeal of the Frozen Notte's ARGB lighting may be more attractive to users looking for a stylish build.

Installation Process

Installation ease is a crucial factor for many users. The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 is designed for compatibility with a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1150 through 2066 and AMD AM2 through AM5. Its dual-platform black buckle system simplifies the installation process. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE also supports a variety of Intel and AMD sockets (LGA 1150 to 1700 and AM4/AM5), and its dual tower design is designed to fit comfortably in most cases without worrying about height restrictions. Both coolers provide adequate mounting hardware, but the installation instructions and ease of use may vary, with users often finding the peerless design more straightforward due to its less complex structure.

Aesthetic Appeal

The aesthetic appeal of the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 is enhanced by its ARGB lighting, which synchronizes with the motherboard for dynamic colour effects. This feature allows users to create a visually striking system that stands out. The sleek, all-black design further adds to its modern look, making it suitable for various setups. Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE maintains a clean and professional appearance with its blackened nano coating and dual tower structure. While it lacks the ARGB features of the Frozen Notte, its elegant design can still complement a wide range of builds. Ultimately, the choice between these two may boil down to personal preference regarding lighting and visual style.

Compatibility

Compatibility is essential when choosing a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 offers extensive compatibility options, supporting a wide range of Intel (LGA 1150 to 2066) and AMD (AM2 through AM5) sockets. It’s designed for cases with a minimum width of 250mm, ensuring a good fit in most builds. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE also supports multiple Intel and AMD sockets (LGA 1150 to 1700 and AM4/AM5), making it versatile for various setups. Both coolers come with the necessary mounting kits for easy installation. However, the Frozen Notte's water-cooling system may require more careful consideration regarding case space and tubing management compared to the straightforward installation of the air-cooled Peerless Assassin.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you seek superior cooling performance and aesthetic appeal with ARGB lighting, the Frozen Notte is the better choice, albeit at a higher price of C$62.90. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with solid cooling capabilities, lower noise levels, and a straightforward installation process, the Peerless Assassin at C$46.79 is an excellent alternative. Both coolers excel in their respective niches, making them worthy contenders in the CPU cooling market.