Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is priced at C$46.90, while the Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black is more budget-friendly at C$32.90. Despite their price differences, both coolers are designed to deliver efficient CPU cooling with their unique features.

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB boasts a double tower cooling design with a TDP rating of 120 to 245W, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. In contrast, the Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black, while slightly less powerful in terms of TDP, offers a well-balanced performance with its 2000 RPM fan speed and 70.84 CFM airflow. Both products are manufactured by Thermalright, a reputable brand with over 20 years of experience in the cooling market.

Cooling Performance: Peerless Assassin vs. Assassin X

Cooling performance is a critical factor in selecting a CPU cooler, and here both products shine in their own right. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB features a robust cooling capacity supported by its six 6mm heat pipes and an efficient airflow of 66.17 CFM. This design allows it to effectively manage heat from CPUs with a higher TDP rating.

On the other hand, the Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black offers a slightly higher maximum fan speed of 2000 RPM, resulting in an increased airflow of 70.84 CFM. However, its noise level reaches up to 29.8 dB(A), which is relatively higher than the Peerless Assassin's maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This makes the Peerless Assassin a quieter option while still providing excellent cooling performance.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, both coolers feature striking aesthetics, particularly with their ARGB lighting. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is equipped with two 120mm PWM fans that provide colourful and vibrant ARGB light effects, enhancing the overall look of any build.

Conversely, the Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black features a modern digital screen on its top cover which not only adds to its visual appeal but also improves the user experience. The ARGB effects are synchronised with the motherboard for a cohesive lighting scheme, making this cooler a visually stunning addition to any setup. The combination of aesthetics and functionality is a strong point for both models.

Size and Compatibility

Size and compatibility are important considerations when choosing a CPU cooler. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB measures 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, while the Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black is slightly more compact at 120mm x 71mm x 151mm. The difference in dimensions may affect compatibility with certain cases, but both coolers are designed to fit within standard ATX cases.

In terms of socket compatibility, the Peerless Assassin supports a wide range including Intel 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4. The Assassin X also covers a broad spectrum with support for Intel LGA 1851/1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200 and AMD AM4/AM5, making both options versatile for different builds.

Installation Process

Ease of installation can significantly impact user experience. The Peerless Assassin comes with metal fasteners that facilitate installation on both Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a secure fit. This cooler also offers a straightforward installation process that is well-suited for both novice and experienced builders.

The Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black features a user-friendly installation process with accessories included for both Intel and AMD platforms. Notably, it requires the use of the motherboard's original backplate for AMD installation, which may add an extra step for users. Nevertheless, both coolers are designed to simplify the installation experience.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB demonstrates a quieter operation at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritise a silent computing environment.

Conversely, the Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black operates at a maximum noise level of 29.8 dB(A), which may be noticeable in quieter setups. If a low-noise operation is essential for your build, the Peerless Assassin clearly has the edge in this category.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

In terms of price-to-performance ratio, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is priced at C$46.90 and offers robust cooling capabilities suitable for high-performance CPUs. Its features justify the higher price point, but it might be considered overkill for users with standard needs.

The Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black, priced at C$32.90, presents a compelling value for users seeking performance without breaking the bank. While it has a slightly lower TDP rating, it still delivers solid cooling performance and aesthetics at a more accessible price, making it a great option for budget-conscious builders.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require superior cooling performance and quieter operation, the Peerless Assassin is the better option. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly cooler that still provides good performance and striking aesthetics, the Assassin X is an excellent choice. Each cooler has its strengths, catering to different user preferences within the CPU cooling market.