Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler is priced at C$52.62, while the Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB CPU Air Cooler is more budget-friendly at C$35.90. The difference of C$16.72 reflects not only the features but also the brand positioning of each product. While the Peerless Assassin 120 Digital offers enhanced cooling capabilities and aesthetics with its dual fans and ARGB lighting, the SI-100 focuses on efficiency and compactness. For users on a tighter budget or those looking for a basic cooling solution, the SI-100 may be the better choice.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital stands out with its dual-tower and dual-fan design, achieving a fan speed of 1850 RPM and an air volume of 88.89 CFM. This configuration ensures effective heat dissipation, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. In contrast, the Thermalright SI-100 operates with a single fan at a maximum speed of 2000 RPM, delivering 72.37 CFM. Although the SI-100 has a slightly higher RPM, the overall air volume from the Peerless Assassin allows it to cool better under load. Therefore, for users who prioritize peak cooling performance, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a crucial factor for many PC builders, and both coolers offer relatively quiet operation. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital has a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), making it one of the quieter options available. The SI-100, however, has a slightly higher maximum noise level of ≤27.7 dB(A), which may be noticeable in a quiet environment. This difference of 2.1 dB(A) could be a deciding factor for users who prioritize a silent computing experience. In this comparison, the Peerless Assassin provides a quieter cooling solution.

Aesthetics and Design

In terms of aesthetics, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital includes ARGB lighting effects that can be controlled via the motherboard's lighting software, adding a customizable flair to your build. The dual fans feature this lighting, enhancing the overall look of the cooler when installed. On the other hand, the Thermalright SI-100 features a more minimalist white design with ARGB lighting but lacks the dual-fan setup. Users looking for a more visually striking cooler would likely prefer the Peerless Assassin, while those who appreciate a simpler design might opt for the SI-100.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer wide compatibility with various CPU sockets. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital is compatible with AMD's AM4/AM5 and Intel's LGA1851/1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200 sockets. Similarly, the Thermalright SI-100 supports a broad range of Intel sockets, including 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851/2066/2011, along with AMD's AM4 and AM5 platforms. This makes both options versatile, allowing them to accommodate a wide array of builds. However, the additional compatibility of the Peerless Assassin with more recent Intel sockets may make it more appealing for future-proofing.

Installation and Maintenance

Ease of installation is another aspect where the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital excels. It comes with SS2 clips that are compatible with a variety of CPU models, ensuring users can install and maintain their cooler without hassle. The included Y-type adapter allows for connecting both fans to a single motherboard interface, simplifying setup further. In contrast, the Thermalright SI-100 also features metal fasteners that facilitate installation, but its simpler design may not offer the same level of flexibility as the dual-fan setup of the Peerless Assassin. For those who value straightforward installation, both models perform well, but the Peerless Assassin's features provide added convenience.

Warranty and Brand Reputation

Thermalright has a solid reputation in the cooling market, boasting over 20 years of experience. Both products reflect the brand's commitment to quality, but the Peerless Assassin may carry more weight due to its advanced technology and features. While specific warranty details weren't provided, Thermalright's established presence suggests that they stand behind their products. Users can generally expect reliable performance from both models, but the Peerless Assassin's additional features and higher price point may indicate a more premium offering.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black and the Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB really depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for superior cooling performance, quieter operation, and extensive aesthetic features, the Peerless Assassin is the way to go, albeit at a higher price of C$52.62. However, if you are on a budget and require a compact cooler that still offers decent performance at C$35.90, the SI-100 is a solid choice. Ultimately, both coolers hold their own in terms of quality, but the Peerless Assassin takes the lead in performance and features.