Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU Cooler vs Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 92mm CPU Cooler CL

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is a robust CPU cooler designed for high-performance cooling. With a current price of C$54.90, this cooler features a dual thickened PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1850 RPM, generating an impressive airflow of 88.19 CFM while maintaining a noise level of just 29.5 dB(A). The cooler's advanced AGHP GEN 5.0 technology utilizes six 6mm heat pipes, ensuring efficient heat dissipation, making it suitable for CPUs with a thermal design power (TDP) of up to 265W.

The cooler's dimensions are 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, and it is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, and 115X, as well as AMD AM4 and AM5. This extensive compatibility, combined with its powerful cooling capabilities, positions the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 as an excellent choice for gamers and professionals seeking superior cooling performance.

Overview of the Thermaltake Gravity i2

The Thermaltake Gravity i2 is a more budget-friendly option, priced at C$19.86, and is designed primarily for low-power CPUs. This cooler supports Intel LGA 1200, 1156, 1155, 1150, and 1151 sockets. It features a low-profile design with a 92mm fan that operates at a maximum airflow of 31.343 CFM and a noise level of 21.3 dB(A). The combination of a 7-bladed fan and a compact design makes it ideal for smaller cases or systems where space is a concern.

Although the Gravity i2 is optimized for CPUs with a lower thermal load, it provides quick and easy installation, making it accessible for users who may not have extensive experience with CPU cooler installation. It also comes with a 2-year warranty, providing additional peace of mind for buyers.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 significantly outperforms the Thermaltake Gravity i2. The Peerless Assassin boasts a maximum airflow of 88.19 CFM compared to the Gravity i2's 31.343 CFM. This difference indicates that the Peerless Assassin can move over 2.8 times more air than the Gravity i2, making it a better option for high-performance CPUs that generate more heat.

Additionally, the Peerless Assassin's TDP rating of 265W suggests it can handle more demanding processors, while the Gravity i2 is tailored for CPUs with lower power requirements. Users looking for high overclocking potential or gaming performance will likely benefit more from the Thermalright cooler.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 has a lower noise output of 21.3 dB(A), compared to the Thermalright Peerless Assassin's maximum noise level of 29.5 dB(A). This makes the Gravity i2 a quieter option, which could be preferable for users who prioritize a silent operation, particularly in home or office environments.

However, it is essential to weigh this aspect against the cooling capabilities. While the Gravity i2 is quieter, it sacrifices substantial cooling performance, which may not be suitable for users with high-performance builds that require more effective heat dissipation.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is more substantial and geared towards performance, featuring a larger heatsink made of aluminum fins and a pure copper base. This construction not only contributes to its robust cooling capabilities but also adds to its overall weight of 610g.

On the other hand, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 features a low-profile design with a fan dimension of 92mm x 25mm, making it lightweight and suitable for compact builds. While the Gravity i2's design is practical for small form factor cases, it may not offer the same level of durability and heat management as the Peerless Assassin.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers offer straightforward installation processes, but the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 provides compatibility with a broader range of CPU sockets, including the latest Intel and AMD platforms. This versatility ensures that users can utilize the Peerless Assassin across various builds and upgrades.

The Thermaltake Gravity i2, while easy to install, is limited to older Intel sockets. This limitation could restrict its use in newer builds, making the Peerless Assassin a more future-proof option for users looking to upgrade their systems over time.

Price Consideration

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is priced at C$54.90, which reflects its premium performance and capabilities. In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 is significantly more affordable at C$19.86. For users on a tight budget or those with less demanding cooling needs, the Gravity i2 may seem like a more appealing option.

However, for enthusiasts or professionals who require superior cooling for high-performance CPUs, the additional investment in the Peerless Assassin could prove worthwhile in terms of longevity and performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 and the Thermaltake Gravity i2 ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you are seeking exceptional cooling performance for high-end CPUs and can justify the investment, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner with its superior airflow, TDP rating, and compatibility with various platforms.

Conversely, if you are working with a low-power CPU in a compact case or are on a strict budget, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 provides a functional and quieter solution at a fraction of the price. Assess your cooling requirements and budget to make an informed decision.