Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs Waveshare Active Cooler

Overview of Products

In this comparison, we will evaluate the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler against the Waveshare Active Cooler. The Thermalright model is priced at C$46.90, while the Waveshare cooler is more budget-friendly at C$15.99. Each product serves a different purpose, catering to distinct user needs.

Brand Background

Thermalright has established itself as a reputable brand over the last 20 years, particularly in the CPU cooling market. It is known for its innovative designs and high-performance cooling solutions. Conversely, Waveshare is recognized for its various electronic components, including cooling solutions, but is less established in the air cooler segment. The brand’s focus on Raspberry Pi accessories positions it more towards hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin boasts a maximum cooling capability with a Thermal Design Power (TDP) rating of 120 to 245 watts, which is ideal for high-performance CPUs. It features advanced technologies such as six pure copper sintered heat pipes and a double tower cooling design, ensuring robust thermal management. In contrast, the Waveshare Active Cooler has a significantly lower cooling performance, with an airflow rate of 1.39 CFM at 8000 RPM, suitable for lower power applications. This stark difference highlights that the Thermalright cooler is tailored for demanding scenarios, while the Waveshare is best for light use.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin features dimensions of 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 155mm in height, with a sturdy weight of 0.97kg. Its design prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality, boasting colourful ARGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Waveshare Active Cooler is made from anodised aluminium, offering a sleek and lightweight design but lacking any RGB features. While the Thermalright cooler presents a more premium appearance, the Waveshare focuses on practicality and simplicity.

Installation and Compatibility

Installation is straightforward for both coolers, but they target different user bases. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin comes with metal fasteners compatible with both Intel and AMD platforms, supporting a wide array of CPU sockets including Intel 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4. The Waveshare Active Cooler is designed to be powered via the four-pin fan header on the Raspberry Pi 5, making it very specific in its application. This difference means that the Thermalright is far more versatile, accommodating various systems and users.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), ensuring a quiet computing experience even under load. In comparison, the Waveshare Active Cooler does not specify its noise level, but the high RPM and lower airflow suggest it may be less efficient in terms of silent operation. Users seeking a quieter environment will likely prefer the Thermalright cooler, which is built with silent airflow fans.

Price Comparison

There is a significant price gap between the two coolers, with the Thermalright Peerless Assassin priced at C$46.90 and the Waveshare Active Cooler at C$15.99. While the Waveshare is an economical choice, it sacrifices performance and versatility. The Thermalright, though more expensive, provides superior cooling capabilities and a more comprehensive feature set, making it a better investment for serious users.

Target Audience

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is aimed at gamers and professionals who require effective cooling for high-performance CPUs. Its robust design and advanced cooling technology cater to those willing to invest in quality. In contrast, the Waveshare Active Cooler is tailored for Raspberry Pi enthusiasts and casual users who need a simple cooling solution without the complexities of high-performance setups. This differentiation highlights the importance of choosing a cooler based on the specific needs of the user.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Waveshare Active Cooler hinges on your cooling needs and budget. If you require a high-performance cooler that efficiently manages heat for demanding tasks, the Thermalright is clearly the superior option at C$46.90. However, if you're looking for a straightforward, cost-effective cooling solution for basic applications like a Raspberry Pi, the Waveshare at C$15.99 would be more suitable. Consider your specific requirements carefully to make the best decision for your setup.