Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler vs Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will explore the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler and the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78. The Thermalright cooler is priced at C$52.62, while the Noctua mounting upgrade kit is significantly less at C$12.95. While the Thermalright offers extensive cooling capabilities, the Noctua serves a specific function for compatibility enhancement.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black is designed as a complete cooling solution featuring dual towers and dual fans, making it suitable for high-performance CPU cooling. In contrast, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is an upgrade kit that facilitates the installation of Noctua coolers on newer Intel sockets, reflecting a different purpose in the CPU cooling ecosystem.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 clearly stands out. It features a dual-tower design coupled with dual fans that operate at a speed of 1850 RPM, delivering an air volume of 88.89 CFM. This allows for efficient heat dissipation, making it ideal for high-demand gaming or processing situations.

In comparison, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not provide any cooling performance on its own, as it is simply a mounting upgrade kit. Its effectiveness is entirely dependent on the Noctua cooler it is paired with. Therefore, if you're looking for superior cooling, the Thermalright is the clear choice.

Noise Levels

Noise levels play a crucial role in user experience, especially during intensive tasks. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 operates at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler of its performance level. This means that while it effectively dissipates heat, it won’t significantly add to ambient noise in your workspace.

On the other hand, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not generate noise by itself since it is not a cooling unit. Its value lies in enabling the use of Noctua coolers which are renowned for their quiet operation as well. However, the absence of an independent noise rating for the NM-i17xx-MP78 means it does not contribute to noise considerations directly.

Installation Process

The installation process for both products is designed to be user-friendly. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 includes SS2 clips that are compatible with various CPU models, making installation straightforward. Additionally, it comes with a Y-type adapter, allowing users to connect two fans in series with a single motherboard interface.

Conversely, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is designed specifically for Intel’s LGA1851 and LGA1700 sockets, featuring a dedicated one-piece backplate that simplifies the mounting process. However, it is important to note that it is only a mounting kit and does not include a cooler itself. Therefore, while each product offers ease of installation, the Thermalright provides a complete solution, while the Noctua enhances compatibility for existing Noctua coolers.

Aesthetics and Design

In terms of aesthetics, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 comes with ARGB lighting effects that can be controlled via the motherboard’s software, adding a visually appealing aspect to your PC build. The dual fans with adjustable lighting allow for customization that can match your overall system theme.

On the contrary, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not feature any aesthetic elements as it is purely functional. Its design is focused on practicality rather than visual appeal. Therefore, if aesthetics are a priority in your build, the Thermalright cooler is the better option.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another important factor to consider. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 supports various platforms, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1851/1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200. This wide compatibility ensures that users have a versatile cooling solution for different CPU architectures.

In comparison, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is limited to specific Intel sockets (LGA1851 and LGA1700) for Noctua CPU coolers. While it provides essential compatibility for newer processors, it is not as broadly compatible as the Thermalright cooler, which may limit its usefulness for users with diverse setups.

Value for Money

When evaluating value for money, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 priced at C$52.62 offers a comprehensive cooling solution with significant performance benefits. The dual-fan and dual-tower design, along with ARGB features, provide not only functionality but also aesthetic enhancement, making it a worthy investment for serious PC builders.

On the other hand, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is priced at a mere C$12.95, making it a cost-effective solution for users who already own compatible Noctua coolers and need an upgrade for newer sockets. While it is inexpensive, it does not add cooling capabilities on its own, so its value is entirely dependent on the existing cooling solution you plan to use it with.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler and the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 depends on your specific needs. If you require a complete and effective cooling solution with performance and aesthetic features, the Thermalright is the ideal choice at C$52.62. However, if you already own a compatible Noctua cooler and are looking to upgrade your mounting options for newer Intel sockets, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 at C$12.95 provides excellent value.