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

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB are products from Thermalright, a reputable brand with over 20 years of experience in the computer accessory market. They have gained significant popularity, especially among gaming enthusiasts. Thermalright focuses on developing high-performance cooling solutions, which is evident in their product lines that include CPU coolers, case fans, and more. Despite being from the same manufacturer, these two models cater to different needs in terms of performance and pricing.

Design and Dimensions

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB has dimensions of 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 155mm in height, making it a larger cooler compared to the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB, which measures 125mm in length, 71mm in width, and 148mm in height. The difference in dimensions results in the Peerless model weighing 0.97 kg, while the Assassin X is lighter at 0.645 kg. This larger size of the Peerless may provide enhanced cooling capabilities due to increased surface area, which is beneficial for dissipating heat, especially under heavy loads.

Performance and Cooling Efficiency

In terms of cooling efficiency, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB has a thermal design power (TDP) rating of 120 to 245W, while the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB has a slightly lower TDP rating of 125 to 225W. This means that the Peerless model can handle a higher thermal output, making it more suitable for overclocked CPUs or high-performance builds. Both coolers utilize advanced technologies such as the AGHP technique, which helps to mitigate the inverse gravity effect, ensuring effective heat transfer regardless of the orientation of the cooler.

Fan Specifications and Noise Levels

Both models are equipped with PWM fans that provide efficient cooling with low noise levels. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB features two PWM fans that operate at a speed of 1500 RPM and generate an airflow of 66.17 CFM with a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). In comparison, the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB has a single PWM fan that runs at 1550 RPM, also achieving an airflow of 66.17 CFM, but maintains a similar noise level at 25.6 dB(A). While both coolers are designed for quiet operation, the additional fan on the Peerless model may offer better cooling performance, especially under load.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers support a variety of CPU socket types, including Intel 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4. The Peerless model is equipped with metal fasteners for improved installation, accommodating its larger structure. The Assassin X also includes metal fasteners but is designed to fit more easily into medium-sized cases due to its smaller height of 148mm. This aspect could be crucial for users with limited space in their builds, as the Assassin X is more compact and may be easier to install without compromising on performance.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two models is significant, with the Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB priced at C$46.90 and the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB at a more budget-friendly C$24.29. This nearly 50% price difference makes the Assassin X an attractive option for users who require a cost-effective cooling solution without sacrificing essential features. However, those who seek higher performance might find the additional investment in the Peerless model justifiable.

Target Audience

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is targeted towards users who require superior cooling performance, particularly gamers and enthusiasts who may overclock their CPUs. Its higher TDP rating and dual-fan design cater to systems that demand more from their cooling solutions. Conversely, the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB is ideal for budget-conscious users or those with less demanding cooling needs, providing adequate performance for standard builds without the extra features that may not be necessary for casual users.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for maximum cooling efficiency and performance for high-end systems, the Peerless model is a solid choice, albeit at a higher price of C$46.90. However, if you are working with a tighter budget and require a reliable cooler for a standard build, the Assassin X at C$24.29 offers excellent value without compromising essential features.