Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler - 4×6mm Heat Pipes

Brand Overview

Both products come from Thermalright, a reputable brand in the computer accessories market with over 20 years of development experience. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus CPU Cooler showcase the brand's commitment to high-quality cooling solutions. Both coolers are well-regarded for their performance and durability, but they target slightly different segments of the market. The Peerless Assassin is priced at C$46.90, while the Assassin X is significantly more affordable at C$25.59. This pricing difference immediately sets the tone for their intended use and target audience.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin boasts a higher thermal design power (TDP) rating of 120 to 245W, making it suitable for more demanding CPUs. It utilises six heat pipes with advanced AGHP (Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe) technique to efficiently manage heat dissipation. In comparison, the Thermalright Assassin X is rated for a TDP that can handle moderately demanding CPUs, utilising four heat pipes. The peerless cooling performance of the Peerless Assassin may be more appealing for users with high-performance processors, while the Assassin X is a solid choice for budget-conscious users with less demanding needs.

Fan Specifications

The Peerless Assassin features two PWM fans with a maximum speed of 1500 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). Its fans are designed for silent operation, ensuring a quiet computing environment. The Assassin X, on the other hand, includes a combination of two PWM fans with speeds of 1550 RPM and 1500 RPM, resulting in a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and 58 CFM respectively. Both coolers are designed to operate quietly, but the Peerless Assassin has a slight edge in airflow capability, making it a better option for high-performance setups.

Build Quality and Design

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is constructed with a robust aluminum heat sink and features a striking ARGB lighting design. Its dimensions are 125(L)x135(W)x155(H) mm, making it a substantial unit designed to fit most cases while effectively cooling high-performance CPUs. The Assassin X, while also built to a high standard, utilises a simpler design with quality S-FDB bearings that enhance its longevity. It showcases a more utilitarian approach in its appearance, which may appeal to users who prefer a less flashy but still effective cooling solution.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer broad compatibility with various CPU sockets. The Peerless Assassin supports Intel sockets 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4, making it a versatile choice for many modern processors. The Assassin X extends compatibility further, supporting Intel sockets 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4/AM5. This makes the Assassin X a more flexible option for users upgrading their systems or changing platforms.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is straightforward. The Peerless Assassin comes equipped with metal fasteners designed for both Intel and AMD platforms, facilitating a seamless installation experience. The Assassin X also includes corresponding mounting plates and fasteners for various CPU socket platforms. However, the Peerless Assassin’s double tower cooling design may require more space, which could complicate installation in smaller cases compared to the more compact Assassin X.

Price Point

Price is a significant differentiator between these two products. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is priced at C$46.90, which reflects its advanced features and superior cooling capabilities. In contrast, the Assassin X is available for a very attractive C$25.59, making it a budget-friendly option for users who may not require the highest cooling performance. This substantial price difference may influence purchasing decisions, particularly for users on a tighter budget.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus ultimately hinges on your specific needs and budget. If you seek superior cooling performance with a stylish design and are willing to invest more, the Peerless Assassin is the better choice, offering a higher TDP rating and more robust airflow. However, if you're on a budget and require solid cooling performance for a mid-range build, the Assassin X provides excellent value without compromising too much on efficiency. Your decision should reflect the balance between your cooling needs and financial considerations.