Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs CORSAIR Nautilus 360 RS LCD Liquid CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and CORSAIR Nautilus 360 RS LCD

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and CORSAIR Nautilus 360 RS LCD are two excellent options for CPU cooling, each catering to different preferences and requirements. The Thermalright unit is a budget-friendly air cooler priced at C$46.90, while the CORSAIR liquid cooler carries a significantly higher price tag of C$224.99. This stark difference in cost is indicative of their design, performance capabilities, and the technologies they employ.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB features a double tower design, measuring 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, which allows for robust cooling performance. It is equipped with two PWM fans that provide colourful ARGB light effects, enhancing the visual appeal of any build. In contrast, the CORSAIR Nautilus 360 RS LCD boasts a more modern look with a customizable LCD screen that adds style to your system. The liquid cooling design is sleek, featuring high static pressure RS120 fans that push air efficiently through the radiator, making it an elegant choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is designed for CPUs with a thermal design power (TDP) of 120 to 245W, utilizing advanced technologies such as AGHP for improved heat dissipation. The dual-tower structure and six heat pipes work synergistically to provide strong cooling. On the other hand, the CORSAIR Nautilus 360 RS LCD is engineered for powerful and low-noise performance, ensuring that your CPU can reach its full potential. The efficient circulation of coolant by the low-noise pump operates at just 20 dBA, making it an excellent option for users prioritizing quiet operation.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical consideration for many PC builders. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet but not as silent as the CORSAIR Nautilus. With its whisper-quiet pump performance, the Nautilus maintains just 20 dBA while ensuring effective cooling. For those who are sensitive to sound, especially in quiet environments or gaming setups, the CORSAIR option may be more appealing.

Installation Process

Both coolers feature user-friendly installation processes but cater to different preferences. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin comes with metal fasteners compatible with Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a straightforward setup. Its design considers memory clearance for unrestricted installation. Conversely, the CORSAIR Nautilus includes a convex cold plate with pre-applied thermal paste, simplifying installation further. Users looking for ease and speed may find the Nautilus particularly appealing due to its ready-to-use thermal paste.

Compatibility

Compatibility is essential when choosing a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin supports various Intel sockets (115X, 1200, 1700, 17XX) and AMD's AM4, making it versatile enough for many builds. The CORSAIR Nautilus 360 RS is also designed for a broad range of sockets, though specific compatibility details are not provided. Both coolers aim to accommodate a wide spectrum of CPU models, ensuring that users can find a suitable match for their systems.

Price and Value

The price difference between the two products is significant, with the Thermalright Peerless Assassin retailing at C$46.90 and the CORSAIR Nautilus 360 RS LCD at C$224.99. The Thermalright cooler offers excellent value for those on a budget or looking for solid cooling performance without breaking the bank. However, the higher price of the CORSAIR cooler may be justified by its advanced features, including a customizable LCD screen and superior noise performance, appealing to those who value aesthetic and quiet operation.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the CORSAIR Nautilus 360 RS LCD ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable, effective air cooler with decent performance, the Thermalright is an excellent choice at C$46.90. However, if you are willing to invest in a premium liquid cooling solution that prioritizes low noise levels and offers stylish aesthetics, the CORSAIR Nautilus at C$224.99 may be worth the splurge. Consider your priorities, whether they are budget, aesthetics, or cooling performance, to make the best decision for your build.