Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Thermaltake Gravity i3 Intel LGA 1700 Cocket

Brand Overview

When comparing the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermaltake Gravity i3, it’s essential to consider the reputation of the brands involved. Thermalright is a well-established brand from Taiwan with over 20 years of experience in developing computer accessories. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is designed for high performance, featuring advanced cooling techniques. On the other hand, Thermaltake is known for its innovative cooling solutions, and the Gravity i3 is a more budget-friendly option specifically designed for Intel LGA 1700 sockets. This background sets the stage for understanding their respective offerings.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB comes with a price tag of C$46.90, while the Thermaltake Gravity i3 is significantly more affordable at C$20.90. This price difference of C$26.00 indicates that the Peerless Assassin is positioned as a premium cooling solution aimed at users seeking superior performance. The Gravity i3, with its lower price, appeals to budget-conscious consumers or those who may not need extreme cooling capabilities. This pricing strategy reflects the differences in target users and performance expectations between the two products.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is designed for high thermal dissipation with a TDP rating of 120 to 245W, making it suitable for more demanding setups. It features six heat pipes and two PWM fans that can deliver a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, significantly enhancing its cooling capabilities. Conversely, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 has a lower airflow rating of 31.343 CFM and is designed for low-profile builds, which might not provide the same level of cooling efficiency as the Peerless Assassin. Therefore, if maximum cooling performance is your priority, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner.

Design and Aesthetics

The design and aesthetics of the products are also noteworthy. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB features vibrant ARGB lighting, which adds a decorative touch to any gaming setup. Its dimensions are 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, making it a double-tower cooler that not only looks impressive but also optimises thermal management. In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 has a low-profile design with a height of just 2.58 inches, making it suitable for compact builds but lacking the aesthetic flair of ARGB lighting. For users who value visual appeal along with performance, the Peerless Assassin offers a more sophisticated option.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are critical in CPU coolers, especially for users who favour quiet operation. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler with such robust performance capabilities. In comparison, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 has a slightly lower noise level of 21.3 dB(A) due to its low-noise fan design. While the Gravity i3 is quieter, the difference in noise levels may not be significant enough to sway users who prioritise cooling performance over acoustics.

Installation Process

The installation process can greatly affect the user experience. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB includes metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, facilitating installation across different systems. This versatility can be advantageous for users who may upgrade components in the future. The Thermaltake Gravity i3, on the other hand, is designed for quick and easy installation specifically for Intel 1700 sockets, which simplifies the process for users with compatible systems. While both coolers are user-friendly, the Peerless Assassin's broader compatibility offers more flexibility.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a crucial aspect when choosing a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin supports a wide range of CPU socket platforms, including Intel's 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD's AM4. This extensive compatibility makes it a great option for users who might switch between different CPUs. In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 is exclusively compatible with the Intel 1700 socket. While this targeted compatibility can be beneficial for specific builds, it limits the Gravity i3's appeal for users with diverse CPU preferences.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB and the Thermaltake Gravity i3 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for high-performance cooling with impressive features and aesthetics, the Peerless Assassin at C$46.90 is the superior choice, especially for high-TDP CPUs. However, for users on a tighter budget or those seeking a simple, low-profile solution for Intel LGA 1700 sockets, the Thermaltake Gravity i3 at C$20.90 offers excellent value without sacrificing too much performance.