Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 CPU Air Cooler vs Waveshare Active Cooler

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will explore the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 CPU Air Cooler and the Waveshare Active Cooler. The Thermalright cooler is priced at C$51.39, while the Waveshare unit is significantly more affordable at C$15.99. Both products cater to cooling needs, but their applications and performance capabilities differ greatly.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 features a robust design with dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 157mm, making it a substantial presence in any build. It employs a full electroplating reflow welding process, enhancing durability and heat dissipation. On the other hand, the Waveshare Active Cooler is compact and anodised aluminium, designed primarily for use with Raspberry Pi devices. While both units have their merits, the Thermalright's design suggests a focus on high-performance cooling suitable for more demanding CPU loads.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is the clear leader, boasting a heat dissipation area of 9600cm² and a thermal design power (TDP) of 245W. This makes it capable of handling intense workloads, thanks to its dual tower design and six heat pipes. In contrast, the Waveshare Active Cooler offers significantly less cooling capability, with a mere 1.39 CFM airflow at 8000 RPM. For users with standard desktops or gaming rigs, the Thermalright's performance will be far superior to the Waveshare's minimal output.

Fan Technology

The Thermalright cooler comes equipped with two PWM fans that operate at a maximum speed of 1500 RPM, producing an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This combination allows for effective cooling without excessive noise, making it suitable for a variety of environments. In comparison, the Waveshare Active Cooler’s single fan operates at a much higher speed of 8000 RPM but produces only 1.39 CFM, indicating a trade-off between speed and airflow efficiency. For those seeking quiet operation, the Thermalright clearly excels.

Compatibility

Compatibility is an important factor in choosing a cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including modern options like AM5 and LGA 1700. This versatility makes it a great choice for users with different system configurations. Conversely, the Waveshare Active Cooler is specifically designed for use with the Raspberry Pi 5, which limits its applicability to users who do not have this platform. Thus, if you're looking for broader compatibility, the Thermalright is the better option.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetics can play a significant role in a build, and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 includes colourful ARGB lighting effects that are controllable via the motherboard. This feature allows users to sync their cooler with other RGB components for a cohesive look. In contrast, the Waveshare Active Cooler offers no RGB lighting or customisation options, presenting a more utilitarian appearance. For those prioritising aesthetics in their builds, the Thermalright easily takes the lead.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120, priced at C$51.39, offers a high level of performance that justifies its cost, especially for users in need of effective CPU cooling for gaming or intensive tasks. It delivers features that cater to high-performance systems, making it a valuable investment. On the other hand, the Waveshare Active Cooler’s price of C$15.99 might appeal to budget-conscious consumers, but it sacrifices performance and versatility. Therefore, while the Waveshare is cheaper, the overall value of the Thermalright cooler is better for serious users.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and the Waveshare Active Cooler comes down to your specific cooling needs and system requirements. If you require a high-performance solution that supports various CPU sockets and provides effective cooling with aesthetic appeal, the Thermalright is the clear winner. However, if you are on a tight budget and need a simple cooling solution specifically for a Raspberry Pi, the Waveshare Active Cooler may suffice. For most users seeking reliable CPU cooling, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 is the superior option.