Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler Air with 6X6mm vs Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark CPU Cooler Air with 4×6mm HeatPipes

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black offers a visually striking design with a digital display board and a sleek black finish. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark features a more understated aesthetic, with an anodised black brushed top cover. The Peerless Assassin’s dual tower and dual fan configuration not only enhance its cooling performance but also add to its modern look. With its height of 162mm, the Peerless Assassin is designed to fit most ATX chassis, providing an added dimension to its appeal. Meanwhile, the Assassin Spirit, measuring 156mm in height, has a simpler, yet elegant form that prioritises functionality without compromising on style.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black is superior, featuring a dual-tower and dual-fan design that operates at a speed of 1850 RPM and delivers an impressive air volume of 88.89 CFM. This allows for effective heat dissipation, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. In comparison, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark, while also operating at 1850 RPM, utilises a single fan with a lower heat dissipation capability. This product includes four heat pipes, as opposed to the six in the Peerless Assassin, which may impact cooling efficiency under heavy workloads. Thus, if you’re looking for maximum cooling performance, the Peerless Assassin stands out.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise levels, both coolers are relatively quiet, with the Peerless Assassin providing an operating noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This ensures that even under load, it operates quietly, making it ideal for users who value a silent gaming or work environment. The Assassin Spirit does not specify its noise levels, but its design is optimised for low noise, featuring PWM temperature control that adjusts fan speed based on CPU temperature. While both products aim for minimal noise, the Peerless Assassin provides a clear numeric advantage, confirming its quieter operation.

Build Quality and Materials

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black features a robust construction with a combination of pure copper heat pipes and a copper base, ensuring efficient heat transfer from the CPU. The dual fans are equipped with S-FDB bearings, contributing to their longevity and reliability. Conversely, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark utilises an all-aluminium fin design, which maximises the heat dissipation area. The four heat pipes are also designed for direct touch to the CPU, enhancing thermal conductivity. While both coolers are made from quality materials, the Peerless Assassin’s copper components may offer slightly better performance due to copper's superior thermal conductivity.

Compatibility

Compatibility is an essential factor for CPU coolers, and both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin and the Assassin Spirit are versatile in this regard. The Peerless Assassin supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, making it a suitable choice for various builds. Its height of 162mm allows it to fit comfortably in most ATX cases. The Assassin Spirit also boasts extensive compatibility, supporting Intel and AMD platforms, and is designed to accommodate the original backplate for AM4/AM5 motherboards. While both products excel in compatibility, the larger size of the Peerless Assassin may limit its use in smaller cases.

Price and Value

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black is priced at C$62.90, reflecting its advanced features and superior cooling performance. In contrast, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark is a budget-friendly option at C$24.90, making it an attractive choice for users seeking an affordable cooling solution. The significant price difference may influence your decision, especially if you are working with a limited budget. While the Peerless Assassin offers enhanced performance and aesthetics, the Assassin Spirit provides excellent value for casual users or less demanding builds.

User Experience

User experience is crucial when selecting a CPU cooler, and both products are designed for ease of installation and use. The Peerless Assassin includes TRCC software that allows users to monitor CPU and GPU temperatures while adjusting RGB settings. This level of control adds a layer of interactivity and customisation that many users will appreciate. The Assassin Spirit, while lacking advanced software features, offers straightforward installation instructions and compatibility with common CPU platforms, making it user-friendly for first-time builders. The Peerless Assassin may appeal more to tech-savvy users looking for additional features, while the Assassin Spirit is ideal for those prioritising simplicity.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black and the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you seek superior cooling performance, advanced features, and a striking design, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with decent performance for less demanding tasks, the Assassin Spirit is an excellent choice. Consider your system requirements, aesthetic preferences, and budget constraints before making a decision.