Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Brand

Thermalright has established itself as a prominent player in the CPU cooling market, boasting over 20 years of experience in developing high-performance computer accessories. The brand is well-regarded both domestically and internationally, known for its commitment to innovation and quality. This article compares two of its popular CPU coolers: the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB. With their unique features and specifications, both products cater to different user needs within the evolving landscape of CPU cooling solutions.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is designed with a dual-tower configuration, measuring 125(L)x135(W)x155(H)mm and weighing 0.97kg. This design allows for superior heat dissipation, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs with a TDP of up to 245W. In contrast, the Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB is more compact, with dimensions of 120(L)x108(W)x100(H)mm and a lighter weight of 0.64kg. Its lower profile makes it ideal for small to medium-sized cases, presenting a significant advantage for users with limited space. Both coolers use high-quality aluminum for their heat sinks, ensuring durability and efficient thermal management.

Cooling Performance

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is equipped with two PWM fans that can reach speeds of 1500 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of only 25.6 dB(A). This ensures that it maintains effective cooling without generating excessive noise. On the other hand, the SI-100 White ARGB features a single PWM fan capable of 2000 RPM, offering a maximum airflow of 72.37 CFM. However, it operates at a slightly higher noise level of 27.7 dB(A). While both coolers effectively manage heat, the SI-100 delivers slightly higher airflow, but at the cost of increased noise.

Compatibility with CPU Sockets

Both coolers boast impressive compatibility with various CPU sockets, making them versatile options for users. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB supports Intel sockets 115X, 1200, 1700, and 17XX, as well as AMD’s AM4. Conversely, the SI-100 White ARGB covers a broader range, including Intel sockets 1150 through 2066 and AMD’s AM4 and AM5. This extensive support for sockets in the SI-100 allows it to cater to more system configurations, making it a more flexible choice for users with different setups.

Unique Features

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is distinguished by its ARGB lighting effects, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a gaming rig. The cooler also incorporates Thermalright's AGHP technique, utilizing 6x6mm heat pipes that enhance thermal conductivity and mitigate gravitational effects on cooling efficiency. The SI-100 White ARGB likewise employs the AGHP 3.0 technique, promising a long service life of up to 20,000 hours and ensuring a reliable cooling solution. However, the SI-100's focus on a compact design means it sacrifices some aesthetic features in favour of practicality.

Noise Levels and Operation

Noise levels are a critical consideration for any cooling solution. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB operates quietly at a maximum of 25.6 dB(A), making it suitable for users who prioritize a silent computing environment. In contrast, the SI-100 White ARGB operates at a slightly higher noise level of 27.7 dB(A). While still relatively quiet, those sensitive to noise may prefer the quieter operation of the Peerless Assassin. It’s essential for buyers to consider their tolerance for noise, particularly when building systems for gaming or content creation.

Pricing and Value

In terms of pricing, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is currently available for C$46.90, while the SI-100 White ARGB is priced at a more economical C$35.90. The price difference of C$11.00 reflects the additional features and cooling performance capabilities of the Peerless Assassin. For users on a budget or those who require a more straightforward, efficient cooling solution, the SI-100 offers excellent value without compromising too much on performance.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB ultimately boils down to your specific needs and preferences. If you require superior cooling performance and are willing to invest a bit more for quieter operation and enhanced aesthetics, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is the clear choice. However, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that offers solid performance in a compact form factor, the SI-100 White ARGB would be a suitable alternative. Both coolers deliver quality and reliability, making either a worthwhile investment for your CPU cooling needs.