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

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler is designed for effective heat dissipation and compatibility with a range of CPU sockets. Priced at C$54.90, it features an impressive heat dissipation area of 9600 cm², which is facilitated by its dual tower design and innovative AGHP technique with six 6mm heat pipes. This cooler is built to handle high performance, ensuring that your CPU remains cool even under heavy load.

In terms of dimensions, the Peerless Assassin measures 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 157mm in height. It includes two PWM fans that can operate at a maximum speed of 1500 RPM, producing an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level that does not exceed 25.6 dB(A). This cooler is compatible with various Intel and AMD sockets, making it versatile in different builds.

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is a more budget-friendly option, retailing at C$25.59. Although it has a smaller footprint, with dimensions of 125mm by 71mm by 148mm, it still delivers commendable cooling performance with its four 6mm heat pipes and AGHP technique. This cooler is rated for a thermal design power (TDP) of 125 to 225 watts, making it suitable for medium-sized cases and a range of processors.

The Assassin X comes equipped with one PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, providing airflow also rated at 66.17 CFM while keeping noise levels at 25.6 dB(A). It supports a variety of Intel and AMD socket types, ensuring compatibility across many systems. Its design focuses on efficiency while aiming for quieter operation, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers or builders.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black has a clear advantage due to its dual tower design and higher number of heat pipes. With an effective heat dissipation area of 9600 cm² and dual fans, it can handle more demanding workloads and maintain lower temperatures during high-performance tasks. The combination of dual 120mm fans allows for more airflow, which is critical during intense gaming or processing activities.

On the other hand, the Assassin X 120 SE, while still capable, operates with a single fan and a lower number of heat pipes. This configuration may not be as efficient for cooling during peak loads, especially in high-performance scenarios. However, its design is optimized for quiet operation, making it a suitable option for users who prioritise a quieter computing experience over maximum cooling efficiency.

Noise Levels and Fan Operation

Both coolers maintain a competitive noise level, with the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black achieving a maximum of 25.6 dB(A) and the Assassin X 120 SE matching this rating. Despite the difference in their cooling configurations, both coolers are designed to operate quietly, which is an essential factor for many users, especially in home or office environments.

The Peerless Assassin's dual PWM fans may provide more cooling power without significantly increasing noise levels, as both models are engineered to keep noise as low as possible. However, the Assassin X's single fan setup might make it slightly quieter during less intensive tasks, making it ideal for users who have less demanding cooling needs or who operate their systems in quieter settings.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of build quality, both coolers are constructed with durable materials, with a focus on performance and longevity. The Peerless Assassin features a full electroplating reflow welding process, enhancing its durability while providing a sleek black finish. This cooler’s design allows for installation on the first graphics card slot without obstruction, which is a thoughtful feature for builders concerned about space and airflow.

Conversely, the Assassin X 120 SE, while lighter at 0.645 kg compared to the Peerless Assassin's 1.02 kg, still offers a robust design suitable for various setups. Its aluminum construction is both lightweight and effective for heat dissipation, though it may not offer the same level of performance under heavy loads compared to its counterpart. The choice between the two can depend on the user's specific aesthetic or spatial preferences in their build.

Compatibility with CPU Sockets

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black has a broader compatibility range, supporting a variety of Intel sockets, including LGA1150 through LGA2066, and AMD's AM4 and AM5. This makes it a versatile choice for users who may upgrade their systems in the future or who work with different platforms.

The Assassin X 120 SE also supports multiple Intel sockets, such as 115X and 1700, and AMD's AM4. However, it does not support as wide a range of Intel sockets as the Peerless Assassin. This difference in socket compatibility may influence a builder's choice, especially if they are looking to future-proof their setup.

Price Comparison and Value for Money

Price plays a significant role in the decision-making process between the two products. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is priced at C$54.90, reflecting its advanced features and superior cooling performance. Meanwhile, the Assassin X 120 SE is much more affordable at C$25.59, making it an attractive option for users on a budget or those with less demanding cooling requirements.

While the Peerless Assassin offers enhanced performance, the Assassin X provides excellent value for its price point. Users need to weigh their specific cooling needs against their budget, as the more affordable option may suffice for casual users or those with mid-range systems.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for superior cooling performance, broader compatibility, and don't mind spending a bit more, the Peerless Assassin is the better choice. However, if you are on a tighter budget and require a cooler that still offers decent performance for everyday tasks, the Assassin X 120 SE is a commendable option that will serve you well without breaking the bank.