Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 CPU Air Cooler vs Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is a robust CPU air cooler priced at C$51.39, while the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78, an upgrade kit for Noctua coolers, is significantly more affordable at C$12.95. The former is designed for effective cooling with advanced features, while the latter focuses on enhancing compatibility for specific sockets.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 boasts a heat dissipation area of 9600cm² and supports a wide range of CPU sockets, making it a versatile choice for gamers and professionals alike. In contrast, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 serves a specific purpose by enabling Noctua CPU coolers to be installed on Intel's LGA1700 and LGA1851 sockets.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 excels with its dual tower design and six heat pipes. This cooler is rated for a thermal design power (TDP) of 245W, indicating its ability to handle high-performance CPUs effectively.

With features like a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and a noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A), the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is built for efficiency without sacrificing quiet operation. In contrast, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not provide cooling capabilities on its own; rather, it is an accessory designed to enhance existing Noctua coolers. Therefore, if raw cooling performance is your priority, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is the clear winner.

Installation and Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 offers a user-friendly installation process with compatibility for a wide array of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1700, AM4, and AM5. This versatility makes it suitable for various builds and configurations.

On the other hand, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is a dedicated mounting kit that allows Noctua coolers to be used with Intel's LGA1700 and LGA1851 sockets. It includes a specially designed backplate and struts to ensure optimal contact pressure and reliability. While the NM-i17xx-MP78 simplifies installation for compatible coolers, it cannot be installed independently, which limits its utility compared to the all-in-one design of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 features an attractive design with a white paint finish and ARGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of any build. Its dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 157mm make it a substantial presence in any case, ensuring not just functionality but also aesthetic value.

Conversely, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not have an aesthetic component as it is purely a functional upgrade kit. It focuses on providing a reliable installation method without any added visual flair. If aesthetics are important to you, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 stands out significantly.

Fan Specifications

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 comes equipped with two PWM fans, both measuring 120mm, which can reach speeds of 1500 RPM. This dual-fan setup plays a crucial role in maintaining the cooler's performance, ensuring effective airflow and heat dissipation during operation.

In contrast, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not include any fans as it is solely an installation kit. This makes it impossible to compare fan performance between the two products. For users seeking a complete cooling solution with integrated fan systems, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is the far superior option.

Price Consideration

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is priced at C$51.39, reflecting its advanced features and robust design. In comparison, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is available for C$12.95, making it a very economical choice for those who already own compatible Noctua coolers.

However, the price difference underscores the fundamental difference in functionality. While the NM-i17xx-MP78 is a budget-friendly accessory, the Peerless Assassin 120 provides a complete cooling solution. If you are looking for a standalone cooler, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 justifies its higher price.

Target Audience

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is targeted towards gamers and PC enthusiasts who require effective cooling solutions for high-performance systems. Its features and specifications cater to those who seek optimal thermal management without excessive noise.

The Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78, however, is aimed at existing Noctua cooler users who need to upgrade their mounting hardware for newer Intel sockets. It caters to a niche audience that values compatibility and reliability but does not require a standalone cooling solution. This distinction makes the products suitable for different segments of the market.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, your choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 depends on your specific needs. If you are in the market for a comprehensive CPU cooler that offers superior cooling performance, aesthetic appeal, and broad compatibility, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is the clear winner at C$51.39. However, if you already own a compatible Noctua cooler and need a reliable mounting solution for Intel's LGA1700 or LGA1851 sockets, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is an excellent choice at just C$12.95. Each product serves its purpose well, but they cater to distinctly different requirements in the CPU cooling landscape.