Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler 4 Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus CPU Cooler are products from Thermalright, a Taiwanese brand with over 20 years of experience in the computer accessories market. The company is well-known for its focus on CPU coolers and has established a strong presence in both domestic and international markets. While both products share the same brand lineage, their features and specifications cater to different user needs.

Design and Dimensions

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB measures 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 155mm in height, making it a larger option compared to the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus, which measures 120mm in length, 96mm in width, and 154mm in height. The overall dimensions suggest that the Peerless Assassin may offer slightly better cooling potential due to its larger surface area. However, both coolers are designed to fit within standard PC cases, ensuring compatibility with various builds.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB has a cooling capacity of 120 to 245W, thanks to its six heat pipes employing AGHP technology, which helps overcome the inverse gravity effect. In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus uses four heat pipes with a maximum cooling capability of up to 200W. This difference means that the Peerless Assassin is likely to be more effective in high-performance settings or overclocked systems, making it the better choice for users seeking maximum cooling efficiency.

Fan Configuration

The Peerless Assassin comes equipped with two PWM fans that can reach a speed of 1500 RPM, providing a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of no more than 25.6 dB(A). This dual-fan setup is designed to enhance cooling performance significantly. In comparison, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus features a single fan configuration, utilising S-FDB bearings for quieter operation but lacking the airflow capacity of its competitor. Users prioritising silence may prefer the Assassin X, but for users needing robust cooling, the Peerless Assassin clearly stands out.

Build Quality

Both coolers feature high-quality materials, with the Peerless Assassin utilising a pure copper base and aluminum heat sink for effective heat dissipation. The Assassin X 120 V2 Plus also employs aluminum cooling fins but uses four heat pipes instead of six, leading to a slightly less effective cooling solution. The Peerless Assassin’s construction, along with its advanced features, suggests a focus on long-term durability and performance, which may appeal to serious gamers and PC builders.

Compatibility

Both products support a range of CPU sockets, ensuring they can be used with various systems. The Peerless Assassin is compatible with Intel sockets 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4, while the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus supports Intel sockets 1150 through 1700 and AMD AM4/AM5. This broad compatibility means users can easily integrate either cooler into their builds, but users with newer AMD systems may find the Assassin X offers slightly better options.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is priced at C$46.90, while the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus is significantly more affordable at C$25.90. This C$21 difference may influence budget-conscious users, particularly those who do not require the enhanced features and performance of the Peerless Assassin. However, investing in the more expensive option could pay off in terms of cooling efficiency and longevity for high-performance systems.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2 Plus ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require maximum cooling performance and are willing to invest a bit more, the Peerless Assassin is the superior choice, boasting advanced cooling capabilities, dual fans, and robust build quality. However, if budget constraints are a primary concern and your cooling needs are moderate, the Assassin X 120 V2 Plus provides solid performance for a very affordable price.