Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler vs ASUS Prime LC 360 ARGB All-in-one AIO CPU Liquid Cooler AMD: AM5 & AM4 Intel: LG

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and ASUS Prime LC 360 ARGB

When comparing the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler and the ASUS Prime LC 360 ARGB All-in-one AIO CPU Liquid Cooler, the differences in performance, design, and price are notable. The Thermalright cooler is priced at C$54.90, making it an economical choice for those seeking effective air cooling, while the ASUS liquid cooler comes in at C$159.99, reflecting its advanced features and liquid cooling capabilities.

The Peerless Assassin is designed for better heat dissipation with an effective area of 9600cm and dual fans that deliver a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. In contrast, the ASUS Prime LC 360 boasts a specially designed CPU contact area for powerful heat dissipation, paired with high-performance ARGB fans that enhance both cooling and aesthetics.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black stands out with its dual PWM fans that operate at a speed of 1500 RPM, achieving a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This design allows for significant airflow, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs.

On the other hand, the ASUS Prime LC 360 is a liquid cooler that offers a different approach to thermal management. Its specially designed contact area is engineered for optimal heat dissipation, enabling it to handle more demanding tasks. However, specific airflow metrics for the ASUS model are not provided, leaving a gap in direct performance comparison.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is functional, featuring a black-painted twin tower layout that not only looks sleek but also enhances heat dissipation. The offset asymmetric layout allows installation without obstructing the first PCIe slot, which is a practical consideration for building a system.

Conversely, the ASUS Prime LC 360 features futuristic aesthetics with customizable infinity mirror lenses, making it visually striking. The ARGB fans not only contribute to cooling but also to the overall look of a build, particularly when paired with a matching Prime motherboard. This focus on aesthetics may appeal to users who prioritise the visual aspect of their PC builds.

Installation and Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is designed with user-friendliness in mind. It is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 1150 through 1700 for Intel and AM4/AM5 for AMD. The inclusion of metal fasteners ensures a reliable installation experience.

The ASUS Prime LC 360 also supports both AMD and Intel platforms, but the specifics on the installation process are less detailed. Its reinforced, sleeved tubing is a highlight, enhancing durability during installation. While both coolers promise compatibility, the clear specifications of the Thermalright model may make it easier for users to ensure a proper fit for their systems.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black operates at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a CPU cooler. This low noise output can be particularly beneficial for users looking to maintain a silent workstation or gaming setup.

The ASUS Prime LC 360 does not specify its noise levels, making it difficult to assess how it compares in this aspect. Liquid coolers are generally quieter than air coolers at lower RPMs, but without specific data, it's hard to make a definitive comparison.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is priced at C$54.90, offering significant value for those seeking an effective air cooling solution without breaking the bank. In contrast, the ASUS Prime LC 360 comes in at a higher price point of C$159.99, reflecting its advanced features and liquid cooling capabilities.

This substantial difference in price means that budget-conscious consumers may lean towards the Thermalright cooler, while those willing to invest more for enhanced performance and aesthetics may opt for the ASUS liquid cooler.

Target Audience

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is ideal for gamers and PC builders on a budget who require efficient cooling without the added complexity of liquid cooling systems. Its straightforward installation and solid performance make it a reliable choice.

Conversely, the ASUS Prime LC 360 is targeted towards enthusiasts who prioritise aesthetics and are willing to invest in a high-performance cooling solution. Its advanced features, such as customizable lighting and reinforced tubing, cater to users who want both style and substance in their builds.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and the ASUS Prime LC 360 ARGB depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable, effective air cooler with solid performance, the Thermalright model is an excellent choice at C$54.90. However, if you seek superior aesthetics and the benefits of liquid cooling, the ASUS Prime LC 360 at C$159.99 may be worth the investment. Each cooler has its unique strengths, so consider your priorities—performance, design, or price—when making your decision.