Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright TL-C12CW-S X3 CPU Fan 120mm White ARGB Case Cooler Fan

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black offers significantly higher cooling performance compared to the Thermalright TL-C12CW-S X3. The Peerless Assassin 120 features a dual-tower design with dual fans running at 1850 RPM, generating 88.89 CFM of airflow and 2.21 mm H2O of air pressure. In contrast, the TL-C12CW-S X3 fan operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, delivering 66.17 CFM airflow and 1.53 mm H2O air pressure.

This means the Peerless Assassin 120 can move roughly 34% more air and produce about 44% greater air pressure, which is crucial for dissipating heat effectively from high-performance CPUs. The dual-fan setup and six pure copper heat pipes with a copper base on the Peerless Assassin 120 ensure excellent heat transfer directly from the CPU, making it the stronger choice for demanding cooling needs.

Noise Levels

Noise levels between the two products are comparably low, with both rated to operate at or below 25.6 dBA. The Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black uses dual fans equipped with S-FDB bearings and soft corner pads to reduce vibration noise, aiming for long-term quiet operation despite the higher fan speed. The TL-C12CW-S X3 also employs S-FDB bearings that minimize fan blade shaking and noise while maintaining performance.

Since the noise ceiling is identical at 25.6 dBA, the Peerless Assassin’s advanced anti-vibration features may result in a quieter experience under load, especially given its higher RPM and airflow. For users prioritizing silent operation without sacrificing performance, the Peerless Assassin 120 offers a balanced approach.

Design and Build Quality

The Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black is a comprehensive CPU cooling solution featuring a dual-tower heatsink with six pure copper heat pipes, a pure copper base, and dual 120 mm fans with magnetic top cover, whereas the TL-C12CW-S X3 is a single 120 mm case or CPU cooler fan.

The Peerless Assassin’s design is geared toward direct CPU cooling with a robust build that includes durable S-FDB bearing fans and a dual-tower radiator measuring 125 x 138 x 162 mm. Meanwhile, the TL-C12CW-S X3 focuses on being a versatile, high-performance ARGB fan with a 120 x 120 x 25 mm profile, suitable for both case ventilation and supplementary CPU cooler airflow.

In terms of build quality, both employ S-FDB bearings for longevity and stable operation. The Peerless Assassin’s integration of copper heat pipes and base offers a premium build for efficient heat conduction, while the TL-C12CW-S X3 emphasizes fan performance and lighting effects.

RGB Lighting Features

Both products feature ARGB lighting, but the Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black provides a more integrated lighting experience with dual fans equipped with customizable ARGB effects controlled via a 5V 3-pin motherboard interface. The lighting can be synchronised through motherboard software and supports a series function to connect the two fans’ lighting.

The TL-C12CW-S X3 fan also offers ARGB with up to 17 light effect modes, utilizing LED atomizing ARGB fan blades that soften and reflect light well. The fan lighting is controllable through the motherboard’s ARGB port, allowing good synchronisation with other system components.

While both provide vibrant and customizable ARGB lighting, the Peerless Assassin 120’s dual-fan setup and series connection capability might appeal more to users looking for a cohesive dual-fan lighting effect on their CPU cooler.

Compatibility and Installation

The Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black supports a wide range of platforms, including AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets and multiple Intel sockets such as LGA1851, 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, and 1200. It comes with dual-platform mounting clips designed for easy installation and maintenance, along with a Y-type adapter that allows both fans to be connected to a single motherboard header.

In comparison, the TL-C12CW-S X3 is a versatile 120 mm fan that can serve as either a case fan or a supplementary fan for CPU coolers. It uses a 4-pin PWM interface for automatic speed control via the motherboard but does not include specific mounting hardware aimed at CPU installation.

Therefore, the Peerless Assassin 120 is the more comprehensive and CPU-specific solution with broader socket compatibility and installation convenience, while the TL-C12CW-S X3 is better suited as an add-on fan to complement existing cooling setups.

Price and Value

Price-wise, the Thermalright TL-C12CW-S X3 CPU Fan is significantly more affordable at C$17.99, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable ARGB fan with decent airflow. The Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black is priced at C$52.62, reflecting its more advanced cooling capabilities, dual-fan dual-tower design, and extensive mounting hardware.

Considering the substantial difference in cooling performance and features, the Peerless Assassin 120 offers strong value for users who need serious CPU cooling with integrated lighting. Meanwhile, the TL-C12CW-S X3 delivers solid performance as a standalone 120 mm ARGB fan at a fraction of the cost, ideal for case ventilation or supplementary cooling.

Use Case and Target Audience

The Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black is designed for users who want a high-performance CPU air cooler with advanced dual-fan cooling, superior heat dissipation, and customizable ARGB lighting. It suits PC builders upgrading or building high-end systems requiring efficient heat removal from the CPU with quiet operation.

The TL-C12CW-S X3 fan targets users looking for a versatile, cost-effective 120 mm ARGB fan that can be used for case ventilation or as an additional fan on CPU coolers. It is ideal for those who want improved airflow and lighting aesthetics without investing in a full CPU cooler solution.

In summary, the Peerless Assassin 120 serves demanding CPU cooling needs, while the TL-C12CW-S X3 fits well as a budget-friendly, multi-purpose ARGB fan.

Which should you buy?

Your decision should be based on your cooling requirements and budget. If you need a complete CPU air cooling solution with strong heat dissipation, dual fans, and wide socket compatibility, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black at C$52.62 is the better choice. It provides 88.89 CFM airflow, 2.21 mm H2O air pressure, and advanced installation features, making it ideal for high-performance CPUs.

However, if you are looking for a cost-effective, versatile ARGB fan to improve case airflow or supplement an existing cooler, the Thermalright TL-C12CW-S X3 at C$17.99 is an excellent option. It delivers decent airflow of 66.17 CFM and quiet operation, with flexible use as a case or cooler fan.

Ultimately, the Peerless Assassin 120 is suited for users prioritizing superior CPU cooling and integrated lighting, while the TL-C12CW-S X3 appeals to those valuing affordability and flexibility in fan placement.