Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White CPU Cooler

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler is priced at C$48.90, while the Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White CPU Cooler costs C$95.14. The price difference of C$46.24 indicates a significant disparity in features and performance capabilities between the two models.

Both coolers are produced by Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in computer cooling solutions. They feature advanced heat dissipation technologies and are built to cater to a wide range of CPU sockets from both Intel and AMD. However, they differ in design, cooling efficiency, and overall specifications, making them suitable for different user needs.

Cooling Technology

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE utilises six 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology to enhance heat exchange and address gravity effects during orientation changes. This configuration allows for effective cooling, achieving a rated airflow of 66.17 CFM and a noise level not exceeding 25.6 dB(A).

In contrast, the Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White features an upgraded 7x6mm pure copper heat pipe system that improves heat dissipation efficiency. Its two fans can provide an airflow of 69 CFM and 81.88 CFM, with operating noise levels around 27 dB(A). The superior airflow and upgraded heat pipe technology make the Royal Pretor more capable in demanding scenarios.

Fan Performance

The Peerless Assassin is equipped with two standard 120mm ARGB fans that operate at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM. These fans are designed to produce a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), making them relatively quiet while delivering adequate cooling performance.

The Royal Pretor, however, uses a more advanced dual fan setup with one fan rated at 2150 RPM and another at 1750 RPM. This higher RPM translates to improved cooling capability, albeit with a slight increase in noise to approximately 28.3 dB(A). The use of S-FDB V2.0 bearings in the Royal Pretor further enhances its durability and reduces vibration, ensuring a longer lifespan and quieter operation.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the Peerless Assassin measures 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, featuring an attractive ARGB lighting system that adds a visual appeal to any build. It is designed with compatibility in mind, having cutouts on the fins to accommodate RAM modules.

On the other hand, the Royal Pretor stands taller at 130mm x 140mm x 158mm, with a sleek white finish that complements various chassis designs. The larger size not only improves aesthetic appeal but also increases the cooling surface area, allowing for more effective heat dissipation. Both coolers are aesthetically pleasing, but the Royal Pretor provides a more robust build that can appeal to users looking for a premium look.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer wide compatibility with various motherboard sockets. The Peerless Assassin supports Intel's LGA1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and 1851, as well as AMD's AM4 and AM5 sockets. It’s important to note that for AM4 and AM5 installations, the original motherboard backplate is required, which is not included with this cooler.

The Royal Pretor matches this compatibility, supporting a similar range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA2011 and LGA2066. This broad compatibility ensures that either cooler can fit into most builds, although the installation requirements may vary slightly depending on the motherboard.

Installation Process

The Peerless Assassin employs a straightforward installation process with its SS2 install system and metal pressure plate, which ensures optimal contact with the CPU. This design aims to enhance installation efficiency and reduce the chances of user error during setup.

Conversely, the Royal Pretor also provides an easy installation experience, complete with dedicated mounting grommets and clear instructions, including an installation video to assist users. The additional complexity of its dual fan setup may require slightly more attention, but it is designed to be user-friendly for both novice and experienced builders.

User Experience and Noise Levels

The Peerless Assassin has been designed to operate quietly, with a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), making it an excellent option for users prioritising a silent experience. Its cooling performance is adequate for standard gaming and computing tasks.

The Royal Pretor, while slightly noisier at approximately 28.3 dB(A), compensates for this with significantly better cooling performance due to its higher airflow capabilities. Users who engage in heavy gaming or CPU-intensive tasks may find the trade-off worth it for the enhanced cooling efficiency provided by this cooler.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the Royal Pretor 130 Ultra White ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution for general computing tasks, the Peerless Assassin at C$48.90 offers solid performance and quiet operation. However, if your focus is on high-performance cooling for demanding applications, the superior features of the Royal Pretor, priced at C$95.14, may justify the higher investment. Its advanced cooling technology, superior airflow, and aesthetic design make it a compelling choice for users seeking premium performance.