Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm T

Introduction to CPU Coolers

When it comes to cooling solutions for CPUs, two notable contenders from Thermalright are the Peerless Assassin 120 and the AXP120-X67 Black ARGB. Both coolers are designed to provide effective thermal management, but they differ significantly in their features, sizes, and prices. The Peerless Assassin 120 is priced at C$51.39, while the AXP120-X67 Black ARGB is more budget-friendly at C$38.79. This comparison will delve into the specifications, cooling performance, design, noise levels, and compatibility of these two products.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 boasts an impressive heat dissipation area of 9600cm², aided by its double tower design and advanced AGHP technique with six 6mm heat pipes. It can handle a thermal design power (TDP) of up to 245W, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. In contrast, the AXP120-X67 Black ARGB uses a low-profile design with a maximum TDP capability that is not specified but is designed for compact cases. Its six heat pipes also employ the AGHP technique, ensuring effective cooling despite its smaller stature. The Peerless Assassin 120 clearly has the edge when it comes to maximum cooling capacity.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is characterized by its dual-tower configuration and a sleek white paint finish, giving it a modern aesthetic. It features two PWM fans with vibrant ARGB lighting, which can be synchronized with the motherboard for a unified lighting effect. On the other hand, the AXP120-X67 Black ARGB offers a low-profile design with a height of only 67mm, making it ideal for cramped spaces. Its black finish and 15mm thick fan also contribute to a sleek appearance. While both coolers have their unique styles, the Peerless Assassin 120 stands out with its more striking design.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise levels, the Peerless Assassin 120 operates at a maximum of 25.6 dB(A), making it relatively quiet even under load. The dual fans ensure efficient airflow while maintaining a low noise profile. In comparison, the AXP120-X67 Black ARGB has a slightly higher maximum noise level of 26.1 dB(A). While both coolers are designed to minimize sound, the Peerless Assassin 120 has a marginal advantage in terms of quiet operation, making it a better choice for noise-sensitive environments.

Fan Specifications

The Peerless Assassin 120 comes equipped with two PWM fans, each measuring 120x120x25mm and capable of reaching a speed of 1500 RPM with an airflow of 66.17 CFM. This higher airflow contributes to its superior cooling performance. In contrast, the AXP120-X67 features a single PWM fan that is 120x120x15mm, spinning at 1800 RPM with a maximum airflow of 59 CFM. Although the AXP120-X67’s fan is faster, its lower airflow capacity indicates that it may not cool as effectively as the Peerless Assassin 120, which benefits from its dual-fan setup.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer wide compatibility with various CPU sockets from Intel and AMD, making them versatile choices for different builds. The Peerless Assassin 120 supports Intel sockets from 1150 to 2066 and AMD sockets including AM4 and AM5. The AXP120-X67 also supports a variety of Intel sockets, including 1700, 1150, and 2066, alongside AMD AM4 compatibility. The broad compatibility of both models ensures that users can easily integrate them into their systems without worrying about socket mismatches.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is facilitated by their inclusion of metal fasteners compatible with Intel and AMD platforms. The Peerless Assassin 120’s design allows for easier installation in tight spaces due to its offset asymmetric layout, which provides ample room for other components, such as RAM. Conversely, the AXP120-X67’s low-profile design simplifies installation in compact cases, but could be slightly more challenging for larger builds due to its dimensions. Overall, both coolers offer straightforward installation, but the Peerless Assassin 120’s layout may provide a slight advantage in terms of accessibility.

Price Comparison

The pricing of the two coolers is a significant differentiator. The Peerless Assassin 120 is priced at C$51.39, reflecting its premium features, dual-fan setup, and superior cooling capabilities. In contrast, the AXP120-X67 Black ARGB is priced more affordably at C$38.79, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a capable low-profile cooler. While the Peerless Assassin 120 offers better performance, the price difference may sway buyers looking for value in their cooler choice.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the AXP120-X67 Black ARGB hinges on your specific cooling needs and budget. If you require superior cooling performance, especially for high-end CPUs, the Peerless Assassin 120 is the better choice with its higher TDP capacity, dual-fan setup, and lower noise levels, despite its higher price. However, if you’re working with a compact build and need a reliable cooler at a more affordable price, the AXP120-X67 Black ARGB is a commendable option. Consider your system's requirements and your budget to make the best decision for your cooling needs.