Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB both showcase impressive design and build quality, but they cater to different aesthetic preferences. The Peerless Assassin features a striking black-painted finish achieved through a full electroplating reflow welding process, while the PS120SE ARGB takes a more modern approach with its anodized black frosted top and high-brightness ARGB lighting.

The dimensions of the Peerless Assassin are 125mm (L) x 135mm (W) x 157mm (H), making it slightly taller than the PS120SE, which measures 125mm (L) x 135mm (W) x 154mm (H). This slight difference in height may affect compatibility with certain cases, particularly those with limited vertical space. Overall, both models are crafted from high-quality materials, with the Peerless Assassin using aluminum and the PS120SE featuring an industrial-grade PBT + PC material for enhanced durability.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black boasts a heat dissipation area of 9600cm², enhanced by its twin-tower design and double fan setup. The dual PWM fans can reach speeds of 1500 RPM and produce an airflow of 66.17 CFM, with a noise level capped at 25.6 dB(A). This combination is designed to deliver effective cooling, even under demanding conditions.

On the other hand, the PS120SE ARGB also employs a dual-fan configuration, using TL-C12B-S V2 fans with similar specifications. It shares the same maximum airflow and noise level as the Peerless Assassin, but its upgraded AGHP technology, featuring 7x6mm heat pipes, aims to mitigate inverse gravity effects. Thus, in terms of raw cooling capability, both coolers are comparable, though the PS120SE may have a slight edge with newer technology.

Installation and Compatibility

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin and the PS120SE ARGB are designed for easy installation across a range of CPU sockets. The Peerless Assassin supports Intel sockets such as LGA1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and AMD's AM4 and AM5. This broad compatibility ensures that users can fit the cooler onto most modern systems without hassle.

Similarly, the PS120SE ARGB also accommodates a variety of sockets, including Intel LGA1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, and 1200, in addition to AMD's AM4 and AM5. The design of both coolers incorporates mounting plates or fasteners specific to their supported sockets, simplifying the installation process. Thus, users can expect a straightforward setup with either cooler.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a crucial factor for many users, especially those building systems for gaming or content creation. Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin and the PS120SE ARGB maintain a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A) under operation, making them relatively quiet choices for CPU cooling.

The dual fans in both coolers operate at a maximum speed of 1500 RPM, ensuring efficient cooling while keeping noise to a minimum. Users can enjoy high-performance cooling without the distraction of excessive fan noise. Ultimately, both models excel in this aspect, catering to those who value a quieter computing environment.

Lighting Features

The Thermalright PS120SE ARGB stands out with its advanced lighting features, equipped with high-brightness ARGB fan blades that offer up to 17 modes of light effects. This allows users to customize the aesthetics of their build significantly, syncing the colours through the motherboard's ARGB port.

In contrast, the Peerless Assassin does not feature any RGB lighting, focusing solely on performance and heat dissipation capabilities. Users seeking a visually striking cooler may prefer the PS120SE for its ARGB capabilities, while those prioritizing functionality may find the Peerless Assassin more appealing. This difference in lighting can influence the decision for users aiming to create a specific aesthetic in their builds.

Pricing

The price point is a significant consideration when comparing the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and the PS120SE ARGB. The Peerless Assassin is currently priced at C$54.90, making it a more budget-friendly option for users looking for solid performance without breaking the bank.

Conversely, the PS120SE ARGB is priced at C$63.68, reflecting its additional features, including ARGB lighting and upgraded cooling technology. While both coolers offer excellent value for their respective prices, the Peerless Assassin provides a more economical choice, particularly for users who do not require RGB features in their cooling solution.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a visually appealing cooler with advanced lighting effects and slightly newer technology, the PS120SE ARGB is the better option, despite its higher price of C$63.68.

However, if you are looking for a reliable and efficient cooler that offers excellent performance at a lower price of C$54.90, the Peerless Assassin is an outstanding choice. It excels in cooling efficiency and installation compatibility while maintaining a sleek design. Ultimately, both coolers are high-quality options, but your decision should hinge on whether aesthetics or budget takes precedence.