Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler vs Thermalright AXP90 X53 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Cooler with 92mm Slim PWM Fan fo

Overview of the Brands

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler and the Thermalright AXP90 X53 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Cooler come from Thermalright, a brand renowned for its expertise in computer cooling solutions, boasting over 20 years of experience. This heritage is reflected in the quality and performance of their products. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at C$48.90, while the AXP90 X53 is slightly less expensive at C$45.99. Both products target different segments of the CPU cooling market, with the Peerless Assassin designed for larger builds and the AXP90 catering specifically to compact ITX setups.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE features a dual tower heatsink configuration, measuring 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 155mm in height. It employs a combination of aluminium and copper for optimal heat dissipation, while the AXP90 X53 has a more compact design, standing at only 53mm tall. This makes it a better choice for small form factor cases. The AXP90 X53 employs a 92mm slim PWM fan that can reach speeds of 2700 RPM, enhancing its cooling efficiency despite its smaller size. Both coolers are built to ensure solid performance, although the Peerless Assassin is likely to offer superior cooling due to its larger size and dual-fan setup.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE's dual tower design and two high-performance ARGB fans (each rated at 1550 RPM) generate a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, delivering effective heat dissipation for high-performance CPUs. In contrast, the AXP90 X53, while compact, features a single 92mm fan that can achieve high speeds, but its airflow potential is less than that of its competitor. The AXP90 X53's innovative AGHP technology allows for effective heat transfer, yet the Peerless Assassin likely has the edge in cooling capabilities, especially in demanding environments.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers are designed to be compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets. The Peerless Assassin supports Intel sockets LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5, but requires the use of the motherboard's original backplate for installation on AM4 and AM5. The AXP90 X53 is also compatible with various Intel (LGA1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200) and AMD (AM4/AM5) sockets. Its installation process involves some complexities, particularly when dealing with conflicting backplane components, but clear instructions are provided. Overall, both products offer good compatibility, although the Peerless Assassin may require more attention to detail during installation.

Noise Levels

Noise performance is an essential factor for many PC builders. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE operates at a rated noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A) at maximum fan speed, which is relatively quiet for a cooler of its size. The AXP90 X53, on the other hand, employs an STABLY-FDB V2 bearing fan that enhances durability and reduces noise. However, specific noise levels for the AXP90 X53 were not provided, making it difficult to quantify its performance in this regard. Based on available data, the Peerless Assassin may be the quieter option, making it more appealing for users sensitive to noise.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics play a significant role in the choice of CPU coolers, especially for gamers and PC enthusiasts. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE comes with colourful ARGB lighting effects, adding a vibrant touch to any build. Its size and dual-fan setup also give it a more robust appearance. In contrast, the AXP90 X53, while sleek and compact, may lack the visual appeal offered by the more extensive ARGB features of its rival. If a visually striking cooler is a priority, the Peerless Assassin certainly stands out more.

Price and Value

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at C$48.90, while the AXP90 X53 is available for C$45.99. Although the price difference is minimal, the Peerless Assassin offers more features, including dual fans and a larger heatsink, which could justify the higher price for users seeking maximum cooling performance. The AXP90 X53, however, presents a compelling value for those needing an efficient cooler for smaller cases, potentially making it the better choice for users with tighter budgets or space constraints.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the Thermalright AXP90 X53 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require superior cooling performance and have the space for a larger cooler, the Peerless Assassin stands out with its dual-fan design and effective heat dissipation features. Conversely, if you're working with a compact ITX build and need a cooler that can fit into tighter spaces, the AXP90 X53 is a solid choice, providing adequate cooling at a slightly lower price. Each cooler has its strengths, making them suitable for different types of users.