Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black is a powerful CPU cooler priced at C$52.62. Its design focuses on efficient heat dissipation, featuring a dual-tower setup with dual fans, which allows for superior cooling performance. The cooler incorporates six pure copper heat pipes and a high-speed fan operating at 1850 RPM, which contributes to a wind pressure of 2.21 mm H2O and an impressive air volume of 88.89 CFM. This combination ensures that your CPU remains cool even under high loads.

The cooler's ARGB lighting system enhances its aesthetic appeal, allowing users to customize the lighting effects through their motherboard's software. Its compatibility with various CPU platforms, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200, further broadens its usability. The easy installation process, aided by the included Y-type adapter for fan connections, makes it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced builders.

Overview of the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile

The Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler is designed for compact builds, retailing at a lower price of C$43.39. With a height of just 47 mm, it is ideal for HTPCs and ITX systems, eliminating concerns about memory clearance. The AXP90 X47 features a 92 mm PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 2700 RPM, generating a maximum air volume of 42.58 CFM and a noise level of 22.4 dB(A). This makes it a suitable option for users prioritizing quiet operation in small form factor cases.

Utilising AGHP technology, the cooler effectively combats the inverse gravity effect, ensuring consistent cooling regardless of orientation. It also supports a range of CPU slots, including Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM4/AM5, making it versatile for various builds. The pure copper construction enhances thermal conductivity and oxidation resistance, ensuring long-term reliability.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black stands out with its dual-fan configuration and higher RPM capability. Operating at 1850 RPM with an air volume of 88.89 CFM, it provides more airflow than the AXP90 X47, which, despite its higher fan speed of 2700 RPM, only achieves a maximum air volume of 42.58 CFM. This indicates that while the AXP90 X47 can run faster, the Peerless Assassin’s larger dual-fan design offers significantly better cooling efficiency.

The Peerless Assassin’s six heat pipes also contribute to superior heat dissipation, making it a better choice for high-performance CPUs that generate more heat. The ability to operate quietly at a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A) while delivering high cooling performance makes it a compelling option for gamers and professionals alike.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black features an attractive ARGB lighting system that allows users to customize the cooler’s illumination through motherboard software. This can enhance the visual appeal of a gaming rig, providing a modern and dynamic look. The dual-tower structure also adds to its robust appearance.

On the other hand, the AXP90 X47 utilises a more understated design, prioritising functionality over aesthetics. While it lacks ARGB features, its compact form factor is a significant advantage for smaller builds. The cooler's pure copper material not only contributes to performance but also adds a sleek touch to its overall look.

Installation and Compatibility

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be user-friendly. The Peerless Assassin includes SS2 clips compatible with various CPU models, making it easy to install and upgrade. Additionally, the Y-type adapter facilitates connecting two fans to a single motherboard header, simplifying cable management.

Conversely, the AXP90 X47 also includes the necessary mounting hardware for a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel and AMD platforms. This versatility is beneficial for users building compact systems, as it ensures compatibility with multiple setups. Overall, both coolers excel in ease of installation, but the Peerless Assassin offers a slight edge in adaptability due to its broader compatibility with more CPU models.

Noise Levels and Operation

Noise levels are an important consideration for many users, especially those building a quiet workstation or gaming setup. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet given its cooling performance. This allows users to enjoy their gaming or work environments without excessive fan noise.

In contrast, the AXP90 X47, with its maximum noise level of 22.4 dB(A), is slightly quieter under full load, thanks to its lower air volume despite the higher fan speed. Users who prioritise silence may prefer the AXP90 X47 for its lower operational noise, although the difference may be negligible in practical use.

Price and Value Proposition

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black is priced at C$52.62, making it a more expensive option compared to the AXP90 X47, which retails at C$43.39. This price difference reflects the additional features and enhanced cooling performance of the Peerless Assassin, which may justify the higher cost for users with demanding cooling needs.

For users with more modest cooling requirements or those building compact systems, the AXP90 X47 offers excellent value with its lower price point and solid performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to budget constraints and specific build requirements.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black and the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile comes down to your specific needs and build configuration. If you require superior cooling performance and aesthetic features like ARGB lighting, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner, offering exceptional airflow and heat dissipation at C$52.62. However, if you are building a compact or low-profile system and prioritise noise levels and cost-effectiveness, the AXP90 X47 at C$43.39 is a commendable choice that delivers reliable performance in a smaller package.