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

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is priced at C$51.39, while the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE offers a more budget-friendly option at C$25.59. Both products are designed for effective CPU cooling, but they cater to different market segments.

The Peerless Assassin 120 boasts advanced cooling features and a larger heat dissipation area, making it suitable for high-performance setups. Conversely, the Assassin X 120 SE, with its lower price point, is ideal for users looking for efficient cooling without breaking the bank.

Design and Build Quality

The Peerless Assassin 120 features a more robust build, with dimensions of 125x135x157mm and a weight of 1.02 kg. This cooler uses a full electroplating reflow welding process, enhancing its durability and heat dissipation capability. Its double tower design and aluminum material contribute to a heat dissipation area of 9600 cm².

In contrast, the Assassin X 120 SE is more compact, measuring 125x71x148mm and weighing 0.645 kg. While it still utilises aluminum construction, it is designed with a single tower, making it less effective in extreme cooling scenarios but still adequate for mid-range systems.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance of the Peerless Assassin 120 is superior, with a thermal design power (TDP) of 245W. It employs 6×6mm heat pipes and includes two PWM fans that can reach a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This combination ensures efficient heat removal during intensive tasks.

The Assassin X 120 SE, while still effective, has a TDP range of 125 to 225W and utilises 4×6mm heat pipes. It also features a single PWM fan, achieving the same airflow rate of 66.17 CFM but with a similar noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This makes it a more suitable choice for users who prioritise quieter operation over extreme cooling performance.

RGB Lighting and Aesthetics

A significant feature of the Peerless Assassin 120 is its vibrant ARGB lighting effects. The high-brightness LED atomizing fan blade enhances the cooler's visual appeal, making it a great choice for gamers and aesthetics-conscious users. The RGB lighting can be synchronised with compatible motherboards for a cohesive look.

On the other hand, the Assassin X 120 SE does not mention any RGB features, focusing instead on performance and efficiency. While it may appeal to users looking for a more minimalist design, it lacks the eye-catching elements of the Peerless Assassin 120.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers are designed for easy installation, supporting a variety of Intel and AMD sockets. The Peerless Assassin 120 is compatible with Intel’s 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and AMD’s AM4 and AM5 sockets, offering broad compatibility for most modern CPUs.

The Assassin X 120 SE also supports a wide range of sockets, including Intel’s 115X, 1200, and 1700, along with AMD’s AM4. However, it is worth noting that the Peerless model provides a more flexible installation due to its offset asymmetric layout, allowing for better clearance and unrestricted installation.

Noise Levels

Both the Peerless Assassin 120 and the Assassin X 120 SE maintain a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), making them relatively quiet options in their category. This means that users can expect a similar acoustic performance when operating either cooler, which is crucial for those who prefer a quieter computing environment.

However, the Peerless Assassin 120's dual fan setup may provide better cooling efficiency at similar noise levels, making it a more compelling choice for users who demand both performance and low noise.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two coolers is significant. The Peerless Assassin 120 is priced at C$51.39, while the Assassin X 120 SE retails for C$25.59. This price discrepancy reflects the difference in features, cooling capacity, and overall performance.

For budget-conscious consumers, the Assassin X 120 SE represents a great value proposition, providing adequate cooling for less demanding systems. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin 120 is better suited for users willing to invest more in their cooling solution for high-performance applications.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require superior cooling performance, RGB aesthetics, and broad compatibility, the Peerless Assassin 120 is the clear winner, justifying its higher price of C$51.39.

However, if you are looking for an effective, budget-friendly option for a mid-range build, the Assassin X 120 SE at C$25.59 offers excellent value without sacrificing essential cooling capabilities. Assess your system requirements and budget to make the most informed decision.