Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler are products from Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in the cooling solutions industry. They have established a strong presence in both domestic and international markets. While both coolers share the same brand heritage, their design and specifications cater to different user needs and budgets.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is priced at C$46.90, making it a more premium option within the Thermalright lineup. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB is significantly more affordable at C$24.59. This price disparity means that budget-conscious consumers might find the Assassin King a more attractive option, especially if they are looking for decent cooling performance without breaking the bank. However, those willing to invest more may appreciate the enhanced features of the Peerless Assassin.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin boasts a TDP (Thermal Design Power) rating of 120 to 245W, while the Assassin King has a slightly lower range of 125 to 235W. This suggests that the Peerless Assassin can handle slightly more demanding cooling tasks, making it better suited for high-performance CPUs. Both models feature six heat pipes, but the Peerless Assassin uses a more advanced AGHP technique, which may enhance its cooling efficiency, especially under load.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is slightly larger, measuring 125(L)x135(W)x155(H) mm, compared to the Assassin King's dimensions of 120(L)x73(W)x148(H) mm. The increased size of the Peerless Assassin allows for better airflow and cooling efficiency. Additionally, the Peerless Assassin weighs 0.97 kg, while the Assassin King is lighter at 0.52 kg. This difference in weight may influence installation and compatibility with various cases, as the lighter Assassin King could be easier to mount in smaller form factors.

Fan Technology

Both coolers come equipped with PWM fans that provide impressive airflow. The Peerless Assassin features a fan speed of 1500 RPM, while the Assassin King operates at 1550 RPM. Surprisingly, both models deliver a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, but the noise levels are capped at 25.6 dB(A) for both units, ensuring that they operate quietly during use. This similarity means that users can expect a tranquil computing experience regardless of their choice.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin and the Assassin King both support a range of CPU sockets from Intel and AMD, including the latest offerings. The Peerless Assassin supports Intel sockets 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4, ensuring compatibility with a wide variety of modern processors. Similarly, the Assassin King also supports Intel sockets 115X/1200/1700/17XX, and it adds support for AMD AM5, making it slightly more versatile for AMD users. This feature is crucial for consumers who want to ensure that their cooler can be used with future upgrades.

User Experience and Ease of Installation

Users looking for straightforward installation will appreciate the ease with which both coolers can be mounted, given that they come with metal fasteners suitable for both Intel and AMD platforms. However, the Peerless Assassin's larger size may complicate installation in tight spaces. The Assassin King, being more compact and lightweight, is likely to be the easier option for consumers with limited space in their cases. This consideration is particularly important for those building a new rig or upgrading existing hardware.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are seeking superior cooling performance and are willing to spend more, the Peerless Assassin is the better choice with its higher TDP rating and advanced AGHP cooling technology. However, if you are on a budget or require a more compact solution, the Assassin King offers exceptional value without compromising on essential features. Both coolers are excellent in their own right, catering to different segments of the CPU cooling market.