Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler vs upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler 45mm Height - 6 Heat Pipes

Overview of the Products

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler is priced at C$52.62, while the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler is available for C$49.99. Both coolers are designed to efficiently manage CPU temperatures, but they cater to different needs and preferences regarding size, design, and performance capabilities.

The Thermalright model features a dual-tower design with two high-speed fans, which allows for effective heat dissipation. In contrast, the upHere cooler offers a low-profile design that is only 45mm high, making it ideal for compact builds. The choice between these coolers largely depends on your specific setup and cooling needs.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin excels with its dual fans operating at a maximum speed of 1850 RPM, producing an impressive airflow of 88.89 CFM. This configuration is designed to handle significant heat loads, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs.

On the other hand, the upHere H45K6, while it has a lower airflow rating of 35.34 CFM due to its smaller 90mm fan, is still capable of maintaining stable temperatures under sustained workloads, thanks to its six heat pipes. It supports a thermal design power (TDP) of up to 150W, which is adequate for mainstream CPUs. Therefore, for users with high-performance requirements, the Thermalright cooler may be the better option, whereas the upHere model serves well in less demanding environments.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin boasts an attractive design with ARGB lighting effects, allowing users to customize the cooler’s appearance via compatible motherboard software. This feature adds a visual flair to builds, appealing to gamers and PC enthusiasts who value aesthetics as much as performance.

In contrast, the upHere H45K6 focuses on a practical low-profile design without additional lighting features. While it may not offer the same visual appeal, its compact size ensures it fits seamlessly into Mini ITX cases, making it an excellent choice for builders prioritizing space efficiency over aesthetics.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial when selecting a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is compatible with a wide range of CPUs, supporting both AMD (AM4/AM5) and Intel (LGA1851/1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200) sockets. This extensive compatibility makes it a versatile choice for various builds.

The upHere H45K6 also offers broad compatibility, supporting Intel sockets (LGA 1851/1700/115x/1200/2011/2066) and AMD sockets (AM5/AM4/AM3). Its design is specifically engineered to avoid interference with RAM and motherboard components, ensuring that it can be installed comfortably in even the tightest setups. Both coolers present solid compatibility options, but the Thermalright model offers a slight edge given its broader range of supported CPUs.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a significant consideration for many users, especially those building quiet systems. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet and acceptable for most users.

In comparison, the upHere H45K6 operates at a slightly higher noise level of ≤27 dB(A) due to its PWM fan that ranges from 800 to 2800 RPM. While both coolers are designed for quiet operation, the Thermalright has a marginal advantage in this category, making it more suitable for users who are particularly sensitive to noise.

Installation and Maintenance

When it comes to installation, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin includes SS2 clips that are compatible with various CPU models, facilitating a straightforward installation process. The included Y-type adapter allows for easy connection of two fans, ensuring efficient operation.

Conversely, the upHere H45K6 is designed for tool-free installation, completing assembly in under five minutes. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize ease of setup and maintenance in their builds. While both coolers are user-friendly, the upHere’s tool-free design gives it an edge in terms of convenience.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is priced at C$52.62, making it a slightly more expensive option compared to the upHere H45K6, which retails for C$49.99. This price difference reflects the additional features and performance capabilities offered by the Thermalright model, including its dual-fan setup and customizable ARGB lighting.

While the upHere H45K6 is more budget-friendly, it still provides reliable cooling performance and is designed for compact builds. For users looking to save on costs without significantly sacrificing quality, the upHere cooler presents a viable alternative.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler and the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you require superior cooling performance, aesthetic enhancements, and compatibility with a wide range of CPUs, the Thermalright model is the better choice despite its higher price. Conversely, if you are building a compact system and desire a budget-friendly option that still offers reliable cooling, the upHere cooler is an excellent selection. Consider your build requirements and priorities to make the best decision for your setup.