Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is a CPU air cooler priced at C$46.90. It boasts a dual-tower design and features that cater to a wide range of CPU sockets, making it a versatile choice for many PC builders. With dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, this cooler is relatively compact yet effective in thermal management.

This air cooler employs six 6mm heat pipes using the Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe (AGHP) technique, enhancing its cooling efficiency. Its two PWM fans provide airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A). The Peerless Assassin features a stunning ARGB lighting system, which adds an aesthetic appeal to your build, while also being compatible with Intel and AMD platforms. Its affordable price and effective cooling make it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.

Overview of the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB is a liquid cooling solution that comes with a price tag of C$62.90. This cooler features a 240mm radiator, which allows for superior cooling performance compared to many air coolers. It is designed with a full copper mirror plane base and a black aluminum fin cold plate for enhanced heat dissipation.

Equipped with dual PWM fans, the Frozen Notte can achieve a maximum airflow of 72.37 CFM and runs at a noise level of 27.7 dB(A). The ARGB lighting is synchronized with the motherboard, allowing for a vibrant display of colours. This cooler supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring compatibility with various CPU models. Its advanced design and efficient cooling make it a strong contender in the performance cooling market.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black has a clear advantage due to its liquid cooling design. The larger 240mm radiator allows for more efficient heat dissipation compared to the 120mm size of the Peerless Assassin. The Frozen Notte's airflow of 72.37 CFM surpasses the Peerless Assassin's 66.17 CFM, giving it an edge in cooling potential.

While the Peerless Assassin can handle a TDP of 245W, the Frozen Notte's advanced design, featuring a high-performance cold head and dual PWM fans, ensures that it can handle even more demanding CPUs effectively. For users prioritizing maximum cooling performance, especially for high-end processors or overclocking, the Frozen Notte is likely the better choice.

Noise Levels and Acoustic Performance

When comparing noise levels, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a quieter level of 25.6 dB(A) under maximum load, making it a suitable option for users who value a silent computing experience. The Frozen Notte, on the other hand, reaches a noise level of 27.7 dB(A). While this is only slightly louder, it may still be a consideration for those sensitive to noise.

Both coolers utilize PWM fans, which adjust their speeds based on CPU temperature, helping to balance performance and acoustic output. However, if absolute silence is a priority, the Peerless Assassin may be the more appealing option between the two.

Installation and Compatibility

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin and the Frozen Notte offer extensive compatibility with various CPU sockets. The Peerless Assassin supports Intel sockets 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4, while the Frozen Notte is compatible with a wider range of sockets, including Intel's LGA 1150 to 2066 and AMD's AM4, AM5, and others.

In terms of installation, the Peerless Assassin is designed for straightforward mounting with metal fasteners provided for both Intel and AMD platforms. The Frozen Notte also promises easy installation, but its liquid cooling setup may require additional considerations, such as ensuring the chassis can accommodate the 240mm radiator. Overall, if compatibility and ease of installation are paramount, both coolers perform admirably, but the Frozen Notte's wider range may offer more flexibility.

Aesthetic Appeal and Design

Aesthetically, both coolers feature RGB lighting that enhances their visual appeal. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin has a colourful ARGB light effect on its PWM fans, providing a vibrant look. Meanwhile, the Frozen Notte's ARGB is synchronized with the motherboard, allowing for a cohesive lighting scheme across the build.

The design of the Frozen Notte is slightly more sophisticated, featuring a high-quality copper bottom and an aluminum alloy cover, adding a premium feel. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin’s dual-tower design is practical and efficient but may not have the same high-end look. For users prioritizing aesthetics alongside functionality, the Frozen Notte may have a slight edge.

Price Comparison

In terms of pricing, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is notably more budget-friendly at C$46.90, making it accessible for those building a PC on a tighter budget. In contrast, the Thermalright Frozen Notte is priced at C$62.90, reflecting its enhanced cooling capabilities and advanced design.

While the Frozen Notte offers superior performance, the price difference may be a deciding factor for users who do not require extreme cooling capabilities. For budget-conscious gamers or those with moderate cooling needs, the Peerless Assassin provides excellent value without sacrificing essential performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for an affordable air cooler that provides decent performance and operates quietly, the Peerless Assassin is a solid choice. However, for users seeking superior cooling performance, particularly for high-end CPUs or overclocking, the Frozen Notte is the better option, despite its higher price point.