Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler

Introduction to the Comparison

In the realm of CPU cooling solutions, Thermalright offers two compelling options: the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 White ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler. Priced at C$54.90 and C$71.90 respectively, these coolers cater to different cooling needs and preferences. This comparison will help determine which cooler is more suited for your setup.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 boasts dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, featuring an aluminum fin structure atop a pure copper base. Its robust build, weighing 610g, ensures durability while providing efficient heat dissipation. On the other hand, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 features a 360mm radiator that allows for extensive cooling and is designed with a full copper mirror plane base. The sleek white aluminum fin cold plate adds a modern touch, making it visually appealing as well as functional.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is equipped with six 6mm heat pipes that can handle a thermal design power (TDP) of up to 265 watts. Its dual PWM fans operate at a maximum speed of 1850 RPM and can achieve an airflow of 88.19 CFM, with a noise level of 29.5 dB(A). In contrast, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 features a more advanced water-cooling system with three PWM fans that can spin up to 2000 RPM, delivering an airflow of 72.37 CFM at a quieter noise level of 27.7 dB(A). The water cooler’s design helps it maintain lower temperatures, making it an excellent choice for overclocked CPUs.

Fan Technology

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 utilises dual thickened PWM fans that are designed for performance, achieving an airflow rate of 88.19 CFM at a noise level of 29.5 dB(A). This makes it relatively quiet while still delivering substantial cooling. In contrast, the Frozen Notte 360 features three TL-E12W-S balanced fans, which can reach speeds of 2000 RPM. Although its maximum airflow is slightly lower at 72.37 CFM, the quieter operation at 27.7 dB(A) positions it as a strong contender for those seeking a peaceful computing experience.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial when selecting a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 supports a wide range of Intel sockets, including LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, and 115X, as well as AMD’s AM4 and AM5. This extensive compatibility makes it versatile for various builds. The Frozen Notte 360 enhances this with support for a broader array of platforms, including Intel LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, 2011, and 2066, along with AMD AM4, AM5, and other older socket types. This makes it an excellent option for users with different CPU setups.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be user-friendly. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 comes with all necessary metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, making setup straightforward for varying users. Meanwhile, the Frozen Notte 360 includes a dual platform full metal black buckle, simplifying the installation process and ensuring that it can be securely mounted on various CPU platforms. With both coolers designed for ease of installation, users should encounter minimal difficulty when integrating them into their systems.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetics can play a significant role in a PC build, and the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 stands out with its ARGB lighting features. It synchronises with the motherboard’s RGB controls to provide a dazzling light show, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the system. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2, while not equipped with RGB features, presents a more traditional design, focusing on functionality rather than visual flair. For users prioritizing aesthetics, the Frozen Notte 360 may be the more attractive choice.

Price Consideration

Price is always a factor in purchasing decisions. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is priced at C$54.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking for solid performance without breaking the bank. Conversely, the Frozen Notte 360 is slightly more expensive at C$71.90 but justifies this cost with advanced cooling technology and aesthetic features. Depending on your budget, the Peerless Assassin may be more appealing, while the Frozen Notte offers added value in performance and aesthetics.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 and the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for an affordable and effective air cooler, the Peerless Assassin is an excellent choice with its solid performance and compatibility. However, if you want superior cooling performance, quieter operation, and striking aesthetics with ARGB lighting, the Frozen Notte 360 is worth the extra investment. Both coolers excel in their categories, so consider your priorities and choose accordingly.