Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright AM5 Secure Frame Black AM5 CPU Holder

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is designed to provide effective cooling performance for various CPU architectures. With a current price of C$46.90, this cooler offers a robust build quality and features that cater to both gamers and PC builders. The cooler measures 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 155mm in height, utilizing a double tower design that enhances heat dissipation. Its two PWM fans, operating at a maximum speed of 1500 RPM, deliver an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of only 25.6 dB(A).

Thermalright has a strong reputation in the cooling market, and this model is no exception. It features six heat pipes using the Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe (AGHP) technique, which helps to mitigate the inverse gravity effect in various orientations. This cooler supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel's 115X series and AMD's AM4, making it a versatile choice for many builds.

Overview of Thermalright AM5 Secure Frame Black AM5 CPU Holder

The Thermalright AM5 Secure Frame Black AM5 CPU Holder is a specialized accessory priced at C$14.90, aimed at enhancing the installation and stability of AM5 CPUs. It boasts a dedicated CPU slot designed to prevent bending, thanks to its all-aluminum anodized construction. Its compact size of 70mm in length, 54mm in width, and 6mm in height allows it to fit seamlessly into AMD's AM5 motherboard slots.

This holder is equipped with insulated foot pads to reduce capacitance from thermal conductive materials, ensuring a secure fit without damaging the CPU. It also includes a TF7 silicone grease packet with a thermal conductivity of 12.8 W/M.K, which can significantly improve the thermal interface between the CPU and the cooler. Designed for easy installation, it comes with an L-shaped screwdriver, making setup straightforward even for novice users.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is impressive, featuring a double tower design and metal fasteners that ensure durability. Weighing 0.97 kg, it is constructed from premium materials that support efficient heat transfer. The cooler's aesthetic appeal is enhanced by its ARGB lighting effects, allowing users to customize their system's look.

In contrast, the AM5 Secure Frame is constructed from a single piece of aluminum alloy, which provides strength while maintaining a lightweight design at just 20 grams. Though less complex than a CPU cooler, its anodized finish offers a visually appealing touch. The holder's design focuses on functionality, ensuring that it performs its job of stabilizing the CPU effectively without compromising on aesthetics.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is engineered for high-performance cooling, with a thermal design power (TDP) rating of 120 to 245W. This allows it to handle demanding tasks, such as gaming or content creation, efficiently. The dual fans contribute significantly to its cooling capability, ensuring that temperatures remain low even under heavy loads.

On the other hand, the AM5 Secure Frame does not directly influence cooling performance but serves as a support mechanism for the CPU. By preventing bending and ensuring even weight distribution, it indirectly aids in maintaining optimal thermal performance when paired with a quality cooler like the Peerless Assassin.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is compatible with various CPU sockets, including Intel's 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD's AM4. This wide compatibility makes it an excellent choice for users building or upgrading their systems. The cooler comes with all necessary mounting hardware for easy installation across these platforms.

In contrast, the AM5 Secure Frame is specifically designed for AMD's AM5 CPUs and motherboards, including those using the X670 and B650 chipsets. While its compatibility is narrower than that of the Peerless Assassin, it ensures a perfect fit for its intended use case, making it a valuable addition for users committed to the AM5 platform.

Installation Process

The installation process for the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is straightforward, thanks to its included mounting hardware and user-friendly design. The cooler is equipped with metal fasteners that facilitate secure attachment to both Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring that users can install it with confidence.

Similarly, the AM5 Secure Frame is designed for easy installation, featuring an included L-shaped screwdriver and clear instructions. Its non-marking installation method and insulated foot pads simplify the setup, allowing users to secure their CPUs without fear of damage. Both products prioritize user-friendliness, but the cooler necessitates a more involved process due to its size and complexity.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is priced at C$46.90, reflecting its advanced cooling capabilities and features. This price point positions it as a competitive option in the market for high-performance CPU coolers.

In contrast, the AM5 Secure Frame is significantly more affordable at C$14.90. This lower price makes it an accessible choice for users looking to enhance their AM5 CPU's stability without a substantial investment. While the cooler represents an investment in thermal performance, the holder offers a budget-friendly solution for those focused on maintaining CPU integrity.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright AM5 Secure Frame Black AM5 CPU Holder ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are seeking a high-performance cooling solution with extensive compatibility and advanced features, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner. Its robust cooling performance, dual fan setup, and aesthetic appeal make it ideal for gamers and PC enthusiasts alike.

However, if you are specifically working with an AM5 CPU and are concerned about CPU stability during operation, the AM5 Secure Frame is an essential accessory. It provides dedicated support and is a cost-effective addition to your build. Ultimately, for optimal performance, consider using both products in tandem: the cooler for thermal efficiency and the holder for added CPU support.