Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Price Comparison

When considering price, the Thermalright Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is significantly more affordable at C$29.90 compared to the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 CPU Air Cooler, which is priced at C$51.39. This represents a difference of C$21.49, making the Burst Assassin a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers. The substantial price gap raises questions about the features and performance trade-offs between these two coolers.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 offers superior cooling capabilities with a total heat dissipation area of 9600cm², thanks to its twin tower design and advanced AGHP technique. It is rated for a thermal design power (TDP) of 245W, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. In comparison, the Burst Assassin, while still effective, features a single tower design and is rated with an unspecified but lower cooling capacity. Both models utilize 120mm PWM fans, but the Peerless operates at a higher fan speed of 1500 RPM, contributing to its enhanced cooling performance.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 boasts a more robust build with its double tower configuration and an effective heat dissipation area, which is critical for maintaining system stability under load. The Burst Assassin, while constructed with a single tower and 6 nickel-plated pure copper heat pipes, offers a simplistic design that may appeal to users with less demanding cooling needs. Both coolers feature ARGB lighting, but the Peerless has a more extensive setup, enhancing its visual appeal in a custom build.

Noise Levels

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the Burst Assassin are designed to operate quietly, with noise levels capped at 25.6 dB(A). This means that users can expect a near-silent operation from either cooler, making them suitable for a variety of environments. The Peerless Assassin features high-brightness LED atomizing fan blades, which not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute to efficient airflow without increasing noise levels. Meanwhile, the Burst Assassin incorporates noise-reduction technology with soft silicone pads surrounding its PWM fan, ensuring a tranquil computing experience.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial when selecting a CPU cooler, and both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the Burst Assassin support a wide range of Intel and AMD socket types. The Peerless is compatible with Intel sockets, including LGA 1150 through 2066, and AMD AM4/AM5, while the Burst Assassin supports similar Intel sockets and AMD counterparts. Both models come with the necessary mounting plates and fasteners, simplifying installation. However, it is worth noting that the Burst Assassin requires the use of the original motherboard backplane for AMD installations, which may complicate setup for some users.

Cooling Technology

Both coolers employ Thermalright’s AGHP technique, which effectively addresses the inverse gravity effect in various orientations. The Peerless Assassin features 6×6mm heat pipes designed for optimal heat transfer, elevating its cooling efficiency. In contrast, the Burst Assassin also utilizes 6 heat pipes but is built on a slightly less advanced cooling architecture with the TL-C12C-S series fan. While both coolers are engineered for high performance, the Peerless Assassin's enhanced technology allows it to cater better to users who demand maximum cooling efficiency.

User Experience

The user experience with both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and Burst Assassin is enhanced by their efficient cooling and low noise levels. The Peerless Assassin, with its higher performance capabilities, is likely to be favoured by gamers and content creators who push their systems to the limit. On the other hand, the Burst Assassin provides adequate cooling for everyday tasks and casual gaming, making it a suitable choice for less demanding users. Both coolers have been designed for easy installation and maintenance, ensuring that users can set up their systems with minimal hassle.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the Burst Assassin 120 SE ARGB comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for top-tier cooling performance and can invest more, the Peerless Assassin at C$51.39 is the clear winner with its advanced features and higher TDP rating. However, if you are budget-conscious and require a cooler that is still effective for general use, the Thermalright Burst Assassin at C$29.90 offers great value without sacrificing much in terms of performance. Ultimately, assess your cooling requirements, compatibility needs, and budget to make the best choice for your setup.