Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is a high-performance cooling solution priced at C$46.90. This cooler is designed to accommodate both Intel and AMD platforms, providing excellent flexibility for users. With a dual tower design and advanced features, it promises robust cooling performance, making it suitable for enthusiasts and gamers alike.

Thermalright has over 20 years of experience in the industry, and the Peerless Assassin reflects that expertise. It utilizes six heat pipes and a pure copper base, ensuring efficient thermal management. The cooler dimensions are 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, and it comes equipped with two PWM fans that generate a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This combination of features leads to superior cooling capabilities, especially for CPUs with a TDP ranging from 120W to 245W.

Overview of Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78

The Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is a mounting upgrade kit priced at a mere C$12.95, specifically designed for Noctua CPU coolers. This kit enables users to install compatible Noctua coolers on Intel’s LGA1851 and LGA1700 sockets, which are used in newer Intel Core processors. The affordability of this upgrade kit makes it an attractive option for users looking to enhance their existing cooling systems without breaking the bank.

The NM-i17xx-MP78 features a dedicated one-piece backplate with fixed struts, ensuring optimal contact pressure and reliability during installation. This design allows for straightforward mounting, and the cooler can even be installed turned by 90° if space permits. While this product does not include a cooling solution itself, it expands the versatility of existing Noctua coolers for modern Intel platforms.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin clearly holds an advantage over the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78. The Peerless Assassin features a dual tower design with six copper heat pipes, which effectively dissipate heat from high-performance CPUs. It supports a TDP of up to 245W, making it suitable for overclocking and demanding applications.

Conversely, the NM-i17xx-MP78 does not provide cooling capabilities on its own, as it is merely a mounting kit. While it allows users to install Noctua coolers on newer Intel sockets, its performance is entirely dependent on the cooler being used. Therefore, if raw cooling performance is your primary concern, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is the clear winner.

Compatibility with CPU Sockets

When discussing compatibility, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin supports a range of CPU sockets, including Intel’s 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD’s AM4. This wide compatibility ensures that users can install the cooler on various systems without the need for additional adapters.

On the other hand, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is specifically tailored for Intel’s LGA1851 and LGA1700 sockets, limiting its application to newer Intel processors. While the NM-i17xx-MP78 enhances the usability of existing Noctua coolers, its restricted compatibility means it may not be suitable for users with older Intel or AMD systems. Thus, in terms of versatility, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin offers broader support for different setups.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is geared towards aesthetics as well as functionality. It features colourful ARGB lighting effects, which allow users to customise their build's appearance. This aspect appeals to gamers and PC builders who value not just performance but also visual appeal.

In comparison, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 does not include any design features since it is a mounting kit rather than a cooler. It is designed for functionality and practicality, focusing on reliability and ease of installation rather than visual aesthetics. Users prioritising a visually striking build would undoubtedly favour the Thermalright Peerless Assassin over the NM-i17xx-MP78.

Installation Process

The installation process for the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is straightforward, thanks to its inclusion of metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. This ease of installation is a significant advantage for users who may not be experienced with CPU cooler setups.

In contrast, the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is designed to simplify the installation of compatible Noctua coolers on specific Intel sockets. It features a dedicated backplate that ensures optimal contact pressure and reliability. However, the complexity of installation can increase depending on the specific cooler being used. For users looking for an all-in-one solution, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin provides a more comprehensive package.

Price and Value for Money

The price difference between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin and the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 is significant. The Peerless Assassin is priced at C$46.90, reflecting its advanced cooling capabilities and dual tower design. For users needing high-performance cooling, this price is justified by the enhanced thermal management it offers.

On the other hand, the NM-i17xx-MP78 is an economical option at C$12.95, making it an appealing choice for those who already own Noctua coolers and wish to upgrade their compatibility with newer sockets. However, this lower price point comes at the cost of not providing any cooling capability on its own. Therefore, while the NM-i17xx-MP78 offers excellent value for existing Noctua users, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin provides a greater overall value for those seeking an effective air cooling solution.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78, your choice hinges on your specific needs. If you require a high-performance cooling solution that supports a wide range of CPUs, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is the superior option. Its advanced features, impressive cooling capabilities, and aesthetic appeal make it a well-rounded choice for gamers and enthusiasts.

Conversely, if you already own a compatible Noctua cooler and simply need to upgrade your mounting options for newer Intel sockets, the NM-i17xx-MP78 presents a budget-friendly solution. In summary, for standalone cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin leads, while the Noctua NM-i17xx-MP78 caters to those seeking compatibility enhancements.