Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is priced at C$46.90 and boasts impressive cooling capabilities with a TDP of 120 to 245W. Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience, offers this cooler with a focus on high performance and aesthetics.

The cooler features a dual tower design complemented by two PWM fans, which can reach a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This makes it a robust choice for users seeking both performance and quieter operation. The Peerless Assassin is compatible with both Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring broad usability across various builds.

Overview of Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler

The Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler is slightly more affordable at C$43.39, designed specifically for compact builds like HTPCs and ITX systems. With a height of only 47mm, this cooler effectively addresses space constraints without compromising on performance.

Utilising AGHP technology with four 6mm heat pipes, the AXP90 X47 can maintain efficient heat dissipation. Its 92mm PWM fan operates at a maximum speed of 2700 RPM, delivering an airflow of 42.58 CFM while remaining quieter at 22.4 dB(A). The cooler supports a range of Intel and AMD sockets, making it a versatile option for lower-profile setups.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB has a significant edge, supporting a TDP of 120 to 245W compared to the AXP90 X47, which is designed for lower power scenarios. The dual tower design in the Peerless Assassin enhances its cooling efficiency, allowing for better thermal management during intense gaming or heavy workloads.

The airflow for the Peerless Assassin stands at 66.17 CFM, significantly surpassing the AXP90 X47's 42.58 CFM. This difference in airflow, coupled with the higher TDP support, makes the Peerless Assassin a more powerful option for overclockers or users with high-performance CPUs.

Noise Levels and Fan Operation

Noise levels are an important consideration for many users. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is slightly higher than the AXP90 X47's 22.4 dB(A). While both coolers aim for quiet operation, the AXP90 X47 may be more appealing for users prioritising a silent computing environment.

Despite its slightly higher noise output, the Peerless Assassin offers superior thermal performance, making it suitable for users who can tolerate a bit more noise for the sake of cooling efficiency.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB features vibrant ARGB lighting effects that can enhance the visual appeal of a gaming rig. Its larger dimensions (125x135x155 mm) also present a more substantial presence in a case.

Conversely, the AXP90 X47's compact design (94.5x95x47 mm) is ideal for smaller builds, making it less intrusive while still providing effective cooling. However, it lacks the ARGB features of its counterpart. Users focused on aesthetics may prefer the Peerless Assassin, while those prioritising space efficiency may lean towards the AXP90 X47.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers are designed with user-friendly installation in mind. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin comes with metal fasteners compatible with various Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 115X/1200/1700 and AM4. This broad compatibility ensures that it can be installed on a wide range of systems.

The AXP90 X47 also supports a variety of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM4/AM5, accompanied by the necessary mounting hardware. This makes both products easy to integrate into existing setups, but the Peerless Assassin's larger size might require more consideration for case compatibility.

Price Point Consideration

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is priced at C$46.90, while the AXP90 X47 comes in at a more budget-friendly C$43.39. The price difference of C$3.51 may be justified by the superior cooling performance and aesthetic features of the Peerless Assassin, particularly for users with high-performance CPUs.

However, for those looking to save some money and who have less demanding cooling needs, the AXP90 X47 provides solid performance at a lower cost. This makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious builders or those with less power-hungry setups.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the AXP90 X47 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require robust cooling capabilities and appreciate aesthetic features like ARGB lighting, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner. Its higher TDP support and airflow make it ideal for high-performance applications.

On the other hand, if you are building a compact system and value quieter operation at a lower price, the AXP90 X47 is a commendable choice. It offers adequate performance for less demanding builds, making it suitable for users who prioritise space and budget.