Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 CPU Air Cooler vs Vetroo V3 CPU Air Cooler with ARGB Lighting and PWM Smart Control - Adjustable F

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is priced at C$51.39, while the Vetroo V3 CPU Air Cooler is significantly cheaper at C$19.99. This price difference of C$31.40 highlights a substantial gap between the two products. The greater investment in the Thermalright unit may be justified by its advanced features and performance capabilities, but for budget-conscious consumers, the Vetroo V3 presents an attractive entry point into CPU cooling solutions without sacrificing essential functionalities.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 boasts a TDP rating of 245W, indicating its ability to handle high thermal loads effectively. The cooler is equipped with six 6mm heat pipes and dual fans, which contribute to its superior heat dissipation area of 9600 cm². In contrast, the Vetroo V3 features a more modest design with an adjustable fan speed range of 800-2200 RPM, making it suitable for everyday tasks but possibly less effective for high-performance scenarios. This difference in capabilities suggests that those seeking top-tier cooling may prefer the Thermalright model.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 has a larger footprint with dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 157mm, offering a robust design that supports effective airflow and cooling. Additionally, it features colourful ARGB lighting that can be synchronised with the motherboard, enhancing visual appeal. On the other hand, the Vetroo V3 has a more compact design at a height of 133mm, tailored for smaller cases and RAM clearance. While the Vetroo also includes ARGB lighting, its overall aesthetic impact may not match the grandeur of the Thermalright's larger dual-tower setup.

Compatibility

Both coolers provide extensive compatibility with various CPU sockets. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 supports Intel sockets including 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and AMD's AM4 and AM5. Meanwhile, the Vetroo V3 is compatible with AMD's AM4 and AM5 sockets as well as Intel's LGA1851, 1700, 1200, and 115X. While both coolers offer ample compatibility, the Thermalright has a wider range of Intel socket support, making it a more versatile choice for users with different setups.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is straightforward, but they have notable differences. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 comes with metal fasteners for easy installation on both Intel and AMD platforms. Its dual-tower design may require a bit more space and attention during setup. In contrast, the Vetroo V3 features a pre-installed fan on the radiator, eliminating the need to remove the fan during installation, which can be advantageous for users looking for a quick and hassle-free setup.

Noise Levels

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6dB(A), which is considered quite quiet, especially for a cooler capable of handling high TDPs. The Vetroo V3, with its adjustable fan speeds, allows users to optimise for either minimal noise or maximum airflow, but specific noise levels at different RPMs are not provided. This flexibility could make the Vetroo V3 a good option for users who prioritise silence during regular operations while still offering the capability for increased airflow when needed.

Fan Features

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 features two PWM fans that provide a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, contributing significantly to its cooling efficiency. The high-brightness LED atomizing fan blades enhance the RGB lighting effects, making it not only functional but visually appealing. In comparison, the Vetroo V3's PWM Smart Control allows for dynamic speed adjustments between 800-2200 RPM, enabling users to find a balance between noise and performance. While both coolers offer PWM control, the Thermalright's dual fans and higher airflow capacity may make it a superior choice for demanding applications.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the Vetroo V3 CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require top-tier cooling performance and are willing to invest more for advanced features, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is the clear winner with its superior TDP rating, extensive compatibility, and impressive cooling capabilities. However, if you are on a tighter budget and need a compact cooler that still offers decent performance and aesthetic appeal, the Vetroo V3 is an excellent choice, especially for everyday computing tasks.