Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler vs Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm T

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler and the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler are products from the well-established brand Thermalright, which boasts over 20 years of experience in the computer cooling market. Thermalright is known for its high-performance heatsinks and accessories, gaining popularity among gamers and PC builders alike. While both coolers offer quality construction and advanced cooling technologies, their design philosophies cater to different user needs. The Peerless Assassin is aimed at users seeking robust cooling performance, while the AXP120-X67 is designed for compact builds with limited space.

Design and Dimensions

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE has dimensions of 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 155mm in height, making it a more substantial cooler. Its dual-tower heatsink configuration is designed for maximum heat exchange, featuring a combination of aluminum and copper materials. In contrast, the AXP120-X67 is a low-profile cooler measuring 123.5mm in length, 120mm in width, and only 67mm in height. This significant difference in height makes the AXP120-X67 ideal for compact cases where space is a premium, while the Peerless Assassin is better suited for larger setups that can accommodate its bulkier design.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is equipped with two high-performance ARGB fans that can reach a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and operate at a fan speed of 1550 RPM. This configuration provides effective cooling for demanding CPUs, especially during intense gaming or heavy workloads. On the other hand, the AXP120-X67 features a single PWM fan that can achieve up to 59 CFM with a higher maximum speed of 1800 RPM. While it is slightly less powerful in terms of airflow, the AXP120-X67's design prioritises whisper-quiet operation with a noise level of 26.1 dB(A), making it an attractive choice for users who value a quieter computing environment.

Installation and Compatibility

Both the Peerless Assassin and the AXP120-X67 are designed to be compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD motherboards. The Peerless Assassin supports Intel sockets LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851 and AMD sockets AM4/AM5, while the AXP120-X67 is compatible with Intel sockets 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, 2066, and AMD AM4. However, installation varies between the two; the Peerless Assassin requires the use of the motherboard's built-in backplate for AM4 and AM5 installations, which may complicate installation for some users. In contrast, the AXP120-X67 comes with metal fasteners for easier installation, particularly appealing for those new to PC building.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetics are crucial for many PC builders, and both coolers cater to this with their ARGB lighting. The Peerless Assassin features colourful ARGB light effects, enhancing its visual appeal while providing effective cooling. The AXP120-X67 also includes ARGB lighting, but its low-profile design allows for a sleeker look, making it a stylish choice for minimalistic builds. Both coolers can be integrated into systems with RGB lighting, giving users the ability to customise their setups visually, but the choice ultimately comes down to whether one prefers the bolder look of the Peerless Assassin or the understated elegance of the AXP120-X67.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at C$48.90, reflecting its larger size and dual-fan configuration, which are designed for superior cooling performance. Conversely, the AXP120-X67 is more budget-friendly at C$38.79, making it an attractive option for those looking to save without sacrificing too much performance. This C$10.11 difference in price makes the AXP120-X67 a compelling choice for users on a tighter budget or those who do not require the extensive cooling capabilities of the Peerless Assassin.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many users, especially in home office or gaming setups. The Peerless Assassin operates at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A), while the AXP120-X67 is slightly noisier at 26.1 dB(A). Despite this small difference, both coolers are relatively quiet, making them suitable for environments where noise can be a concern. The choice may ultimately depend on which cooler's performance and aesthetics align more closely with the user's specific needs.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the AXP120-X67 largely depends on your specific requirements. If you have a larger case and seek maximum cooling performance for high-end CPUs, the Peerless Assassin is the better choice, given its dual-tower design and higher airflow capabilities. However, if you're working with a compact build and need an efficient cooler that combines decent performance with a quieter operation, the AXP120-X67 offers excellent value at a lower price. Ultimately, both coolers uphold Thermalright's reputation for quality, making either a solid investment for effective CPU cooling.