Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Air Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is a powerful CPU air cooler priced at C$51.39. This cooler features a unique design that enhances heat dissipation while maintaining compatibility with various CPU sockets, making it an appealing choice for gamers and PC builders alike. With an effective heat dissipation area of 9600cm², it promises superior cooling performance, especially important for high-performance CPUs.

The cooler boasts a double tower design, which is reinforced by six pure copper heat pipes and two PWM fans that can reach a maximum speed of 1500 RPM. Additionally, its ARGB lighting adds a visual flair, allowing users to customize the aesthetics of their build. The Peerless Assassin 120 aims to deliver a balance of performance and style for users seeking efficient cooling solutions.

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 is a more budget-friendly option, priced at C$23.59. Despite its lower price, it offers solid performance with a fan speed of up to 1550 RPM and an air flow of 66.17 CFM. This cooler is designed to handle the thermal demands of modern CPUs while ensuring a quiet operation, with a noise level rated at 25.6 dB(A).

This model also incorporates AGHP technology with four 6mm heat pipes, which helps mitigate the inverse gravity effect when installed in different orientations. Additionally, its height of 148mm ensures compatibility with medium-sized computer cases, making it an attractive option for those with space constraints. The Assassin X 120R SE V2 combines performance and affordability, appealing to users who may not require the highest-end cooling solutions.

Design and Build Quality

The build quality of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is notable, featuring an electroplated reflow welding process that enhances its durability and aesthetic appeal. The cooler's dimensions are 125(L)x135(W)x157(H)mm, allowing for an effective fit in various builds while maximizing cooling efficiency.

In contrast, the Assassin X 120R SE V2 is designed with practicality in mind, using industrial-grade PBT and PC materials to ensure a robust structure. Its height of 148mm fits comfortably in most medium-sized cases, making installation straightforward without obstructing RAM slots. While both coolers are well-constructed, the Peerless Assassin 120 offers a slightly more premium build quality, evident in its superior cooling area and design features.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 excels with a thermal design power (TDP) of 245W, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs that generate more heat. Its dual-tower setup and six heat pipes work in tandem with two 120mm fans to provide effective cooling, reaching a maximum air flow of 66.17 CFM.

On the other hand, the Assassin X 120R SE V2 has a lower TDP capacity of 200W, which may limit its effectiveness for overclocked systems. However, it still manages to deliver a commendable cooling performance due to its efficient fan design and AGHP technology. Users looking for extreme cooling scenarios may lean towards the Peerless Assassin 120, while those with moderate cooling needs may find the Assassin X 120R SE V2 sufficient.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many PC builders, and both coolers aim to provide quiet operation. The Peerless Assassin 120 operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), making it a suitable option for quiet builds. Its fans are designed to create minimal noise while running at high RPMs, ensuring that users can enjoy a peaceful computing experience.

Similarly, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 maintains a comparable noise level of 25.6 dB(A) as well. This feature makes it an appealing choice for users who prioritize a quiet environment. Both coolers achieve a good balance between performance and noise, but the slight edge in fan speed for the Peerless Assassin 120 may yield marginally better cooling efficiency without significantly increasing noise.

Installation Process

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the Assassin X 120R SE V2 have been designed for user-friendly installation. The Peerless Assassin 120 comes equipped with metal fasteners compatible with various Intel and AMD platforms, allowing for straightforward setup across different CPU socket types.

The Assassin X 120R SE V2 also provides similar compatibility, supporting a range of Intel and AMD sockets. It includes installation resources that guide users through the process, making it accessible for both novice and experienced builders. While both coolers offer ease of installation, the Peerless Assassin 120 may provide a slight advantage due to its broader socket support and robust mounting options.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is priced at C$51.39, reflecting its higher-end features and performance capabilities. It targets users who are willing to invest more for enhanced cooling efficiency and aesthetic appeal. Conversely, the Assassin X 120R SE V2 offers a more budget-conscious alternative at C$23.59, catering to users who require decent cooling without breaking the bank.

While the price difference is significant, it is essential to consider the performance and features each cooler provides. Users looking for top-tier cooling performance may justify the added cost of the Peerless Assassin 120, while those on a budget can still find value in the Assassin X 120R SE V2.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the Assassin X 120R SE V2 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are seeking maximum cooling efficiency, compatibility with high-performance CPUs, and enhanced aesthetics, the Peerless Assassin 120 at C$51.39 is a clear choice. It offers superior heat dissipation and a robust build quality.

However, if you are looking for a more affordable option that still delivers solid performance for moderate use, the Assassin X 120R SE V2 at C$23.59 is a commendable choice. It provides sufficient cooling for most users while maintaining a low noise level and straightforward installation. In summary, both coolers have their strengths, making your decision hinge on your performance requirements and budget constraints.