Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU Cooler vs upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler 45mm Height - 6 Heat Pipes

Overview

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU Cooler and the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler are two popular options in the CPU cooling market, priced at C$54.90 and C$49.99, respectively. While the Thermalright cooler offers robust performance for high-end CPUs, the upHere cooler is designed for compact builds, making it an appealing choice for small form factor cases.

Design and Dimensions

The design of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is focused on high performance, featuring dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 155mm. This cooler is bulkier, which may not fit in all cases, especially smaller ones. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 has a low-profile design measuring just 45mm in height, making it ideal for Mini ITX cases. This compact size allows for seamless installation in tighter spaces without sacrificing performance, making it a perfect choice for users prioritising space.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a crucial factor when selecting a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin boasts a TDP rating of up to 265 watts, aided by its six 6mm heat pipes and dual 120mm PWM fans. This configuration ensures efficient cooling under heavy loads. On the other hand, the upHere H45K6 has a lower TDP of 150 watts, which is still adequate for mainstream CPUs. Its six heat pipes and a 90mm fan work efficiently to maintain stable temperatures, although it may not handle extreme workloads as effectively as the Thermalright.

Fan Specifications

When it comes to fan specifications, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin features two thickened 120mm fans with a maximum speed of 1850 RPM, generating airflow of 88.19 CFM at a noise level of 29.5 dB(A). This setup is designed to provide high airflow for maximum cooling efficiency. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 utilises a 90mm PWM fan that operates between 800 to 2800 RPM, producing 35.34 CFM at a quieter 27 dB(A). While the upHere fan may be quieter, it sacrifices some airflow compared to the Thermalright model.

Compatibility

Compatibility is an essential consideration for CPU coolers. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin supports a wide range of socket types, including Intel LGA 1851/1700/1200/115X, and AMD AM4/AM5. This broad compatibility ensures that it can fit various builds with ease. The upHere H45K6 also offers universal hardware compatibility, supporting Intel LGA 1851/1700/115x/1200/2011/2066 and AMD AM5/AM4/AM3 sockets. Both coolers are designed to avoid interference with RAM and motherboard components, making them suitable for most setups.

Noise Levels

Noise levels can significantly impact a user’s experience, especially in quiet environments. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 29.5 dB(A), which might be noticeable during operation, particularly under load. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 is designed for silence, with a maximum noise level of just 27 dB(A). This makes the upHere cooler a more attractive option for users who prioritize a quiet computing experience.

Installation Process

Ease of installation is another critical factor for many users. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin comes equipped with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a straightforward installation process. Meanwhile, the upHere H45K6 emphasizes its tool-free installation, which can be completed in under five minutes. This user-friendly approach makes the upHere cooler particularly appealing to those who may not be as experienced with hardware installations.

Price Comparison

In terms of price, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is slightly more expensive at C$54.90 compared to the upHere H45K6, which retails for C$49.99. While the price difference is minimal, the higher cost of the Thermalright cooler reflects its superior TDP rating and cooling performance. Buyers will need to decide if the extra investment in the Thermalright cooler is justified based on their specific cooling needs and build requirements.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 and the upHere H45K6 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require a high-performance cooler with a higher TDP rating for demanding CPUs, the Thermalright is the clear choice. However, for users with space constraints looking for a quieter and more compact solution, the upHere cooler stands out as an excellent option. Consider your CPU requirements and case size to make the best decision for your build.