Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler Air with 6X6mm vs Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Introduction to CPU Coolers

When selecting a CPU cooler, two popular options from Thermalright stand out: the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black and the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB. Both coolers are designed to efficiently dissipate heat from your CPU, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. The Peerless Assassin is priced at C$62.90, while the PS120SE comes in at C$63.68. This article will delve into their features, performance, design, compatibility, and more to help you make an informed choice.

Performance and Cooling Efficiency

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital boasts a dual-tower design, complemented by dual fans that can reach speeds of up to 1850 RPM. This configuration allows it to achieve an impressive air volume of 88.89 CFM, providing excellent heat dissipation. In contrast, the Thermalright PS120SE uses a slightly different approach with its single tower design and dual PWM fans that reach speeds of 1500 RPM, yielding a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. While both coolers operate quietly at ≤25.6 dB(A), the Peerless Assassin's higher fan speed and airflow make it the superior choice for cooling performance.

Build Quality and Materials

In terms of build quality, both coolers utilise high-grade materials. The Peerless Assassin features a combination of pure copper heat pipes and base, offering effective thermal conductivity. The PS120SE, on the other hand, employs an aluminum heat sink complemented by a finely carved pure copper base, which also aids in heat dissipation. The Peerless Assassin's six heat pipes (6X6mm) may offer a slight edge in heat transfer efficiency compared to the PS120SE’s seven heat pipes (7X6mm) due to its overall design and airflow capabilities. Both products promise durability, with S-FDB bearings ensuring long service life.

Noise Levels

Noise levels can often be a decisive factor when choosing a CPU cooler. Both the Peerless Assassin and the PS120SE operate at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), making them exceptionally quiet options for users concerned about noise pollution in their setup. The Peerless Assassin, with its intelligent PWM fan control, adjusts speed based on CPU temperatures, ensuring that noise remains minimal even under load. The PS120SE also features PWM functionality but with a lower maximum fan speed, which may result in slightly less cooling efficiency but maintains a comparable noise profile.

Design and Aesthetics

Aesthetically, both coolers offer unique designs that cater to modern builds. The Peerless Assassin features a sleek black finish with a digital display board integrated into its magnetic top cover, adding a contemporary touch to any rig. Its overall height of 162mm allows for compatibility with most ATX cases, while the dual tower design enhances its visual appeal. The PS120SE, with its anodized black frosted top and high-brightness ARGB lighting, provides a more traditional yet elegant look. Its height is 154mm, making it compatible with a wide range of chassis, and it boasts 17 different lighting modes for customisation.

Installation and Compatibility

When considering installation, both coolers are designed for ease of use and compatibility. The Peerless Assassin has an overall dimension of 138x125x162mm, while the PS120SE measures 125x135x154mm. Both coolers support a variety of CPU sockets, including Intel’s LGA1700/1851/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200 and AMD’s AM4/AM5, making them versatile options for different builds. The PS120SE provides mounting plates and fasteners for various CPU slots, ensuring a straightforward installation process. Similarly, the Peerless Assassin’s design allows for easy integration into most systems.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is priced at C$62.90, while the PS120SE is slightly higher at C$63.68. While the price difference is minimal, the Peerless Assassin offers more value in terms of performance and cooling efficiency, making it a more attractive option for users looking for superior cooling without a significant price increase. Both coolers, however, present a good balance of price to performance within the CPU cooler market.

User Experience and Reviews

User feedback on both coolers highlights their effectiveness and reliability. The Peerless Assassin is often praised for its superior cooling capabilities and ease of installation, while the PS120SE is noted for its aesthetic appeal and quiet operation. Both products have received positive reviews for their performance, but the Peerless Assassin tends to have the edge when it comes to heat dissipation and user satisfaction. Those looking for robust cooling solutions lean towards the Peerless Assassin, while users prioritising design and quieter performance may prefer the PS120SE.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black and the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Coolers offer solid performance and build quality. However, if you are seeking superior cooling efficiency and value for your money, the Peerless Assassin at C$62.90 is the better choice. Its higher fan speed, greater airflow, and innovative design make it an excellent option for gamers and power users alike. Conversely, if aesthetics and quieter operation are your primary concerns, the PS120SE at C$63.68 is a worthy contender. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific needs and preferences in a CPU cooler.