Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler vs Noctua NH-U12S Redux

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and Noctua NH-U12S Redux

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler is priced at C$54.90, while the Noctua NH-U12S Redux retails for C$62.95. Both coolers are designed to provide efficient heat dissipation for CPUs, but they cater to slightly different user needs and preferences. Understanding their features will help you determine which one fits your requirements better.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black offers superior cooling performance with its dual tower design and dual fans. It features high-performance dual fans that operate at 1500 RPM and can push an air volume of 66.17 CFM, making it effective in dissipating heat. In contrast, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux utilises a single NF-P12 redux-1700 fan, which provides reliable cooling while maintaining a quieter operation. Though both coolers are capable of handling high workloads, the Thermalright model’s dual fans likely give it the edge in extreme scenarios.

Design and Compatibility

In terms of design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin stands at 158mm tall, making it suitable for larger and medium-sized cases. It is designed to ensure compatibility with high-profile RAM and graphics cards. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux also shares the same height but is known for its slim profile, which allows it to fit in most tower cases without overhanging RAM slots or blocking PCIe slots. Both coolers are compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, but the streamlined design of the Noctua may be more appealing for compact builds.

Noise Levels

When comparing noise levels, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which positions it as a quieter option under load. Meanwhile, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux is designed for near-silent operation at idle, thanks to its PWM fan that adjusts speed according to the CPU's workload. While both options are relatively quiet, the Thermalright's specified noise level may appeal to users who prioritize minimal sound during high-performance tasks.

Installation Process

Installation is straightforward for both coolers. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin comes with an all-metal fastener system that simplifies the setup process. It includes a Y-type adapter cable for connecting both fans, ensuring users can manage their motherboard's fan connections easily. The Noctua NH-U12S Redux also offers an easy installation experience with its SecuFirm2 mounting system and includes high-end thermal paste. Both coolers are designed for user-friendliness, but the dual fan setup of the Thermalright may require slightly more attention during installation.

Thermal Interface Material

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin does not specify its thermal paste but is designed to work effectively with its cooling system. In contrast, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux includes renowned NT-H1 thermal paste, which is known for its excellent thermal conductivity. This inclusion may provide an additional performance edge out of the box for the Noctua, making it a strong contender for users who want a ready-to-install solution.

Brand Reputation

Brand reputation plays a significant role in consumer choice. Thermalright has built a solid reputation for delivering high-performance coolers at competitive prices, as seen with the Peerless Assassin. Noctua, on the other hand, is often lauded for its premium cooling solutions and low noise levels. Users looking for a dependable, quiet solution may lean towards Noctua, given its established reputation in the market.

Value for Money

In terms of value, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is priced at C$54.90, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the Noctua NH-U12S Redux, which costs C$62.95. The extra cost for the Noctua may be justified by its renowned build quality and included thermal paste, but for users prioritising cost-effectiveness without sacrificing performance, the Thermalright could be the better choice.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the Noctua NH-U12S Redux ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for maximum cooling performance and a more budget-friendly price, the Thermalright may be the better option. However, if you value a quieter operation and the assurance of high-quality thermal paste, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux stands out as a superior choice. Both coolers are excellent in their own right, but aligning your choice with your cooling requirements and budget will lead to the best decision.