Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler offers superior cooling performance with its effective heat dissipation area of 9600 cm². This air cooler features a twin-tower design and is equipped with two PWM fans that can reach a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. With a price of C$54.90, it promises to deliver excellent performance for gamers and PC enthusiasts alike.

This cooler's standout feature is its AGHP technique, which employs six 6mm heat pipes to enhance heat transfer efficiency. The design allows for compatibility with both Intel and AMD platforms, making it a versatile choice for various CPU setups. Additionally, its double tower cooling system provides a robust solution for managing high-performance CPUs, ensuring that temperatures remain in check during intensive tasks.

Overview of the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler

The Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler presents a compact alternative for those with space constraints. Priced at C$43.39, this cooler is designed with a height of only 47mm, making it ideal for HTPC and ITX builds. It features a single 92mm PWM fan that can reach a maximum speed of 2700 RPM, providing an airflow of 42.58 CFM.

This cooler also incorporates AGHP technology, utilizing four 6mm heat pipes to optimize cooling performance. Its low-profile design eliminates memory clearance issues, ensuring compatibility with smaller cases. The AXP90 X47 is suitable for various Intel and AMD sockets, demonstrating its broad compatibility for a range of builds.

Cooling Performance Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black excels in cooling performance primarily due to its twin-tower design and dual fan setup. With a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and a noise level of 25.6 dB(A), it balances performance with acoustic efficiency. This makes it a strong candidate for high-demand gaming and multitasking scenarios.

In contrast, the AXP90 X47, while still effective, offers a lower maximum airflow of 42.58 CFM. Its single 92mm fan operates at a higher RPM of 2700 but generates a slightly lower noise level of 22.4 dB(A). This makes it an excellent choice for quieter builds, although it may not cool as effectively under heavy loads compared to the Peerless Assassin.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black features a robust design with a full electroplating reflow welding process and a sleek black finish. Its dimensions of 125(L) x 135(W) x 157(H) mm provide ample surface area for heat dissipation, making it aesthetically pleasing while also functional. The use of aluminum for the heat sink contributes to its durability.

On the other hand, the AXP90 X47 is designed specifically for compact builds, measuring 94.5 x 95 x 47 mm. Its low profile is complemented by a pure copper radiator, which enhances heat transfer and oxidation resistance. While it may sacrifice some bulk for size, the build quality remains high, catering to users with limited space.

Installation and Compatibility

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and AXP90 X47 are designed for easy installation across various CPU platforms. The Peerless Assassin supports a wide range of Intel sockets, including LGA 1150 to 2066, and AMD sockets such as AM4 and AM5. It comes with metal fasteners tailored for these platforms, facilitating a hassle-free setup.

Similarly, the AXP90 X47 is compatible with Intel LGA 1700, 1150 series, and AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets. It also includes corresponding mounting fasteners, along with a manual and installation video for additional guidance. The installation process for both coolers is straightforward, but the AXP90 X47’s design might appeal more to users who prioritize space and ease of installation in compact cases.

Noise Levels During Operation

The noise levels produced by CPU coolers are critical for users who prefer a quieter computing environment. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which, while slightly higher than the AXP90 X47, is still relatively quiet considering its cooling capabilities.

Conversely, the AXP90 X47 operates quietly at a maximum of 22.4 dB(A). This lower noise output makes it particularly suitable for media centres or environments where silence is paramount. While the Peerless Assassin may deliver better cooling performance, the AXP90 X47 has the edge in terms of acoustic efficiency for those sensitive to noise.

Price and Value for Money

In terms of pricing, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is available for C$54.90, while the AXP90 X47 is priced at C$43.39. The Peerless Assassin offers high-end cooling performance, which may justify its higher price for gamers and heavy users needing optimal thermal management.

In contrast, the AXP90 X47 provides excellent value for users with small form-factor builds who require effective cooling without breaking the bank. Its lower price point and compact design make it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers or those looking to build a quiet PC.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and the AXP90 X47 depends largely on your specific needs and build requirements. If you seek maximum cooling performance and can accommodate a larger cooler, the Peerless Assassin, with its dual fans and superior airflow capabilities, is the clear choice.

However, if you have space constraints and are looking for a quieter solution that still offers reliable performance, the AXP90 X47 is an excellent option, especially at its lower price point. Ultimately, both coolers cater to different segments of the market, ensuring that there's a suitable choice for various types of PC builds.