Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler vs Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB CPU coolers come from the renowned brand Thermalright, which boasts over 20 years of experience in developing high-performance cooling solutions. While the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is positioned as a more robust, dual-tower solution, the SI-100 is designed for compact builds. Thermalright's reputation for quality is evident in both products, making either a reliable choice for users looking to improve their CPU cooling efficiency.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE features a dual tower design with dimensions of 125(L)x135(W)x155(H)mm, making it a substantial cooler that maximises heat dissipation. Conversely, the SI-100 is more compact, measuring 120(L)x108(W)x100(H)mm, which is ideal for smaller cases. The Peerless Assassin is constructed from a combination of aluminium and copper, while the SI-100 utilises aluminium for its heatsink. This difference in materials may affect thermal performance, with the Peerless Assassin likely offering better heat exchange due to its copper base and larger surface area.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is equipped with two high-performance ARGB fans, capable of delivering a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). In contrast, the SI-100 features a single PWM fan that provides a slightly higher airflow of 72.37 CFM but operates at a higher noise level of 27.7 dB(A). The Peerless Assassin’s dual-fan setup generally offers superior cooling efficiency, particularly for high-performance CPUs under load, while the SI-100 may be better suited for quieter, less demanding environments.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers are designed for compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. The Peerless Assassin supports Intel’s LGA1150 through LGA1851 and AMD’s AM4 and AM5 sockets. However, it requires the original motherboard backplate for installation, which is not included. The SI-100 also supports similar Intel and AMD sockets, including the more advanced LGA2066 and LGA2011. Its more compact size makes it easier to install in tighter spaces, which could be a significant advantage for users with limited case dimensions.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration when choosing a CPU cooler, especially for users seeking a quieter computing experience. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler of its size and performance capabilities. The SI-100, while still within a reasonable range, produces a higher noise level of 27.7 dB(A). For users prioritising a silent operation, the Peerless Assassin may be the preferable choice, especially in noise-sensitive environments.

Visual Appeal

Aesthetically, both coolers include ARGB lighting, appealing to gamers and PC builders who value visual customization. The Peerless Assassin’s dual fans create a more dynamic lighting effect due to their larger surface area, while the SI-100's single fan still offers a clean and modern look. However, the overall impact of the lighting may be more pronounced with the Peerless Assassin due to its greater size and dual-fan configuration, which could enhance the visual appeal of a build.

Price Comparison

When considering price, the Thermalright SI-100 is the more budget-friendly option, retailing at C$35.90, whereas the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at C$48.90. The C$13 difference in price reflects the enhanced features and performance of the Peerless Assassin, such as its dual-tower design and increased cooling capabilities. For those on a tighter budget, the SI-100 still offers solid performance, but the additional investment in the Peerless Assassin may be justified for users needing superior cooling efficiency.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the Thermalright SI-100 White ARGB CPU cooler depends on your specific needs and build requirements. If you are looking for superior cooling performance, particularly for high-performance CPUs, and are willing to invest a little more, the Peerless Assassin is the better choice. However, if you have space constraints or are seeking a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential performance, the SI-100 is a commendable alternative. Both coolers exemplify Thermalright's commitment to quality, ensuring that you will receive a reliable product regardless of your choice.