Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Noctua NH-U9S

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is a robust CPU air cooler designed for high-performance cooling. Priced at C$46.90, it combines affordability with advanced features tailored for gamers and PC enthusiasts. The cooler boasts a double tower design, enhancing its cooling efficiency, and supports both Intel and AMD platforms.

Thermalright has a history of over two decades in developing computer accessories, reflecting its commitment to quality and innovation. The Peerless Assassin features two PWM fans that deliver a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, allowing it to efficiently handle a thermal design power (TDP) of 120 to 245W. Its AGHP technique and six heat pipes significantly improve thermal performance, making it a solid choice for demanding setups.

Overview of the Noctua NH-U9S

The Noctua NH-U9S presents a compact yet powerful cooling solution with a price tag of C$74.95. This single-tower cooler is particularly well-suited for small form factor builds, such as HTPCs and ITX cases, thanks to its height of just 125mm. This design ensures compatibility without overhanging RAM or PCIe slots, making it a versatile choice.

Noctua is renowned for its high-quality products, and the NH-U9S is no exception. It features a highly optimised 92mm NF-A9 fan that operates quietly due to its PWM support and Low-Noise Adaptor. The cooler also comes with premium NT-H1 thermal paste and a reliable SecuFirm2 mounting system, ensuring easy installation across a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. This cooler is backed by a six-year manufacturer’s warranty, underscoring its durability.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB has a clear advantage due to its dual tower design and six heat pipes, which allow it to effectively manage a TDP of up to 245W. In contrast, the Noctua NH-U9S, with its single-tower design, is tailored for lower TDP applications, making it ideal for compact builds but potentially less capable under extreme conditions.

The airflow of the Peerless Assassin at a maximum of 66.17 CFM indicates its ability to move air efficiently, contributing to better thermal performance. The NH-U9S, while offering excellent cooling for its size, may not match the overall airflow capabilities of the Thermalright. Therefore, for users prioritising maximum cooling efficiency, the Thermalright cooler is likely the better choice.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB stands out with its ARGB lighting effects, providing a visually striking element for RGB enthusiasts. The cooler's dimensions are 125(L)x135(W)x155(H)mm, allowing it to fit in a variety of cases while still delivering substantial cooling power.

On the other hand, the Noctua NH-U9S adopts a more utilitarian aesthetic, prioritising functionality over flashy designs. Its compact size of 125mm in height makes it ideal for builds where space is limited, but it lacks the RGB features that appeal to many modern gamers. Users who appreciate aesthetics alongside performance might lean towards the Thermalright, while those who favour a classic, understated look will find the Noctua appealing.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers offer straightforward installation processes, but they cater to different user needs. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin includes mounting hardware for Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of CPUs. Its design allows for easy installation without significant restrictions on RAM clearance.

The Noctua NH-U9S also excels in installation ease, featuring the SecuFirm2 mounting system that supports multiple Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1851, LGA1700, and AM4. This cooler’s offset mounting option allows for optimal efficiency. However, its compact design is particularly beneficial for users with space constraints in their cases. For users prioritising compatibility and ease of use, both options perform admirably, but the Thermalright may have a slight edge in accommodating larger CPUs.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many PC builders, especially those seeking a quiet computing environment. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet considering its powerful performance. The PWM fans are designed to operate at an optimal speed, ensuring that noise is kept to a minimum while delivering high airflow.

In comparison, the Noctua NH-U9S is designed for ultra-quiet operation, thanks to its highly optimised NF-A9 fan. With automatic speed control and a Low-Noise Adaptor, it can run quietly even under load. While both coolers are designed with noise reduction in mind, the Noctua may be preferable for users prioritising silence, particularly in home or office environments.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is priced at C$46.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking high performance without breaking the bank. Its advanced features and cooling capabilities make it an attractive choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts looking for value.

Conversely, the Noctua NH-U9S is priced higher at C$74.95. While it offers exceptional quality and performance, particularly for compact builds, the price difference may deter budget-conscious buyers. Ultimately, the choice between these two products will depend on the user’s specific needs and budget considerations.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Noctua NH-U9S depends largely on your specific requirements and preferences. If you are looking for a powerful cooler that excels in performance and features RGB lighting, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is an excellent choice at a more affordable price point. Its dual tower design and high airflow make it ideal for demanding applications.

However, if you prioritise compactness, quiet operation, and reliability backed by a reputable brand, the Noctua NH-U9S is worth the investment. Its premium build quality and six-year warranty reflect the brand’s commitment to excellence. Ultimately, for high-performance needs, go with Thermalright, while for compact, silent builds, Noctua is the way to go.