Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 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 and ASUS Prime LC 360

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and ASUS Prime LC 360 are both capable cooling solutions for CPUs, but they cater to different preferences and needs. Priced at C$51.39, the Thermalright model is an air cooler, while the ASUS Prime LC 360, which costs C$159.99, is an all-in-one liquid cooler. This price difference reflects the distinct technologies and cooling performances offered by both products.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 boasts a total dissipation area of 9600cm², which, combined with its dual tower design and six heat pipes, provides robust cooling capabilities with a thermal design power (TDP) of up to 245W. In comparison, the ASUS Prime LC 360 features a specially designed CPU contact area aimed at maximising heat dissipation. While specific TDP numbers are not provided for the ASUS model, its liquid cooling design generally allows for superior heat management under load, particularly for high-performance CPUs.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of aesthetics, the ASUS Prime LC 360 stands out with its futuristic design, featuring customizable infinity mirror lenses that can complement the look of your rig. Its high-performance ARGB fans add a vibrant touch, appealing to gamers and PC builders who prioritise visual appeal. Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 showcases a minimalist design with a white finish, which may appeal to those seeking a more understated look. However, it lacks the advanced lighting features found in the ASUS cooler.

Installation

When it comes to installation, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is designed with compatibility in mind, supporting a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including Intel’s LGA 1700 and AMD’s AM5. Its asymmetric layout allows for unrestricted installation, ensuring that it doesn’t interfere with other components. The ASUS Prime LC 360 also supports multiple CPU sockets, including AMD AM4 and AM5, as well as Intel’s LGA series, with reinforced, sleeved tubing for added durability during installation. Both products are user-friendly, but the thermalright's design specifically emphasises ease of installation.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many users. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6dB(A), making it relatively quiet during operation, especially for an air cooler. The ASUS Prime LC 360's noise levels are not explicitly mentioned, but liquid coolers generally tend to operate quieter than their air counterparts, particularly under heavy loads. Users may find the ASUS cooler to be quieter overall, but without specific data, the comparison remains somewhat subjective.

Durability and Build Quality

Both coolers are built with durability in mind. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 utilises a robust aluminum heat sink and metal fasteners designed for the Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a strong, stable installation. The ASUS Prime LC 360 features reinforced tubing that is designed to withstand wear and tear, contributing to its longevity. While both coolers are well-constructed, the liquid cooler may have an edge in terms of resilience to thermal cycling due to its sealed, liquid-based design.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and ASUS Prime LC 360 is significant, with the Thermalright model retailing for C$51.39 and the ASUS cooler priced at C$159.99. This C$108.60 difference reflects the advanced technology and performance capabilities of the liquid cooler. Users looking for budget-friendly options may lean towards the Thermalright solution, while those seeking top-tier cooling performance might justify the higher price of the ASUS model.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the ASUS Prime LC 360 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for a cost-effective, reliable air cooler that offers solid performance and quiet operation, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is an excellent choice. However, if your priority is advanced cooling capabilities and aesthetics, particularly for high-performance builds, the ASUS Prime LC 360 is worth the investment. Consider your budget, cooling requirements, and design preferences when making your decision.