Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU Cooler vs Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm T

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 and AXP120-X67

When comparing the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU Cooler and the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Black ARGB Low Profile CPU Air Cooler, the first notable difference is in their pricing. The Peerless Assassin is priced at C$54.90, while the AXP120-X67 is more budget-friendly at C$38.79. This price disparity highlights the varying target markets and performance expectations of these two coolers.

The Peerless Assassin is designed for high-performance cooling, suitable for users looking to push their systems to the limit, while the AXP120-X67 aims to deliver solid cooling in a compact form factor, ideal for smaller builds or those with clearance issues. Both coolers come from Thermalright, a reputable brand with over two decades of experience in the cooling market, which assures buyers of quality and reliability.

Design and Dimensions

In terms of design and dimensions, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is larger, measuring 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, while the AXP120-X67 has a more compact profile at 123.5mm x 120mm x 67mm. The height difference is particularly significant, as the AXP120-X67's low-profile design makes it suitable for cases with height restrictions, standing only 67mm tall compared to the Peerless Assassin's 155mm.

The larger size of the Peerless Assassin allows for more extensive heat dissipation capabilities, with a weight of 610g compared to the AXP120-X67's unspecified but lighter build. This additional mass in the Peerless Assassin can contribute to better thermal performance, especially under load, making it a solid choice for high-end CPUs.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance is a crucial aspect when comparing these two coolers. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin boasts a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of up to 265 watts, indicating its capability to handle high-performance CPUs effectively. Its six heat pipes and dual thickened PWM fans, which can reach a maximum speed of 1850 RPM and an airflow of 88.19 CFM, ensure efficient heat dissipation.

In contrast, the AXP120-X67 employs a single PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1800 RPM, with an airflow rating of 59 CFM. While the AXP120-X67 is designed to perform well within its low-profile constraints, it may not match the extreme cooling potential of the Peerless Assassin, especially for overclocked or higher wattage CPUs.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are another important factor for potential buyers. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin has a maximum noise level of ≤29.5 dB(A), which is relatively quiet considering its high airflow performance. This makes it suitable for users who desire a balance between cooling efficiency and low noise during operation.

On the other hand, the AXP120-X67 has a slightly lower maximum noise level of ≤26.1 dB(A), making it an even quieter option. This could be an appealing feature for users who prioritize silence over maximum cooling performance, especially in smaller or noise-sensitive environments.

Compatibility

Compatibility with various CPU sockets is essential for any cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin supports a wide range of Intel sockets, including LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, and 115X, as well as AMD's AM4 and AM5 platforms. This extensive compatibility means that users can easily integrate it into a variety of systems.

In comparison, the AXP120-X67 also supports several Intel sockets, including 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 2011, 2066, and AMD's AM4. While both coolers offer solid compatibility, the Peerless Assassin's broader support for newer platforms may be advantageous for users looking to future-proof their builds.

Installation and Ease of Use

When it comes to installation, both coolers feature metal fasteners for improved mounting stability on Intel and AMD platforms. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin includes specific mounting plates and installation instructions, making it user-friendly for both novice and experienced builders.

The AXP120-X67, while also designed for easy installation, is tailored for low-profile setups, which may complicate installation in certain cases due to its size constraints. However, its lightweight design may make it easier to handle during installation, reducing the risk of damaging other components.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetics play a role in many users' purchasing decisions, especially for those building systems with transparent cases or RGB lighting. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin has a more traditional cooler design, focusing on performance rather than visual flair.

Conversely, the AXP120-X67 features ARGB lighting, allowing for customizable colour effects that can enhance the overall look of a build. This can be particularly appealing for gamers and PC enthusiasts looking to create a visually striking system.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 and the AXP120-X67 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you require maximum cooling performance for high-end CPUs and are willing to invest a bit more at C$54.90, the Peerless Assassin is an excellent option with its superior TDP rating and airflow capabilities.

However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly solution at C$38.79 that offers decent performance in a compact, low-profile design with aesthetic lighting options, the AXP120-X67 is a strong contender. Each cooler has its strengths, so consider your requirements regarding cooling performance, noise levels, compatibility, and aesthetics before making a decision.