Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler vs Thermalright ASF-RED AM5 CPU Holder

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler and Thermalright ASF-RED AM5 CPU Holder

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler and the Thermalright ASF-RED AM5 CPU Holder serve distinct purposes in the realm of CPU cooling and support. The Peerless Assassin 140 is a robust cooling solution priced at C$54.90, whereas the ASF-RED is a dedicated CPU holder designed for AMD AM5 sockets, available for C$10.99. Both products are manufactured by Thermalright, indicating a level of quality and reliability associated with the brand.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 features a twin-tower design with symmetrical mecha-shaped fins, complemented by a pure copper base and six heatpipes for optimal heat dissipation. It stands at a height of 158mm, making it compatible with a variety of cases while maximizing cooling surface area. In contrast, the Thermalright ASF-RED is designed with a focus on preventing CPU bending. It utilises an all-aluminum anodized sandblasting process, which not only enhances its durability but also ensures a non-marking installation due to its precise fit. With a compact size of 70mm x 54mm x 6mm, it offers a lightweight and efficient solution for AM5 CPUs.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a primary consideration for any CPU cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 excels in this area, featuring dual PWM fans that operate at a speed of 1500 RPM and an airflow capacity of 66.17 CFM. This robust airflow, combined with its advanced design, allows it to effectively dissipate heat even under high loads. On the other hand, the Thermalright ASF-RED does not serve as a cooling unit but rather as a stabiliser for the CPU. While it does not provide cooling itself, it enhances the performance of any cooler used in conjunction by ensuring the CPU remains securely positioned.

Installation Process

When it comes to installation, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. It includes a Y-type adapter cable for connecting its dual fans, making it straightforward to set up. The cooler is compatible with various socket types, including Intel's LGA1700 and AMD's AM4 and AM5, demonstrating its versatility. Conversely, the Thermalright ASF-RED is equipped with an L-shaped screwdriver for easy installation. It also comes with TF7 silicone grease with a thermal conductivity of 12.8 W/M.K, facilitating a quick and efficient installation process for AM5 CPUs.

Compatibility

The Peerless Assassin 140 boasts compatibility across a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA1200, LGA1700, and AMD's AM4 and AM5. This broad compatibility makes it a suitable choice for diverse builds. In contrast, the ASF-RED is specifically tailored for AMD's AM5 CPU socket. While its compatibility is limited to AM5 motherboards (specifically with X670 and B650 chipsets), it effectively addresses the needs of users with these specific setups.

Price Comparison

In terms of pricing, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 is positioned at C$54.90, which reflects its more complex design and superior cooling capabilities. The ASF-RED, however, is significantly more affordable at C$10.99, catering to users who may not need a full cooling solution but require support for their CPU. This price difference highlights the varying functionalities of each product, with the Peerless Assassin 140 aimed at those prioritising cooling performance and the ASF-RED targeting users focused on CPU stability.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetics play a role in product selection for many users. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black features an all-black design that can blend seamlessly into most builds, especially those aiming for a sleek, modern appearance. The dual fans and twin-tower design add a level of sophistication to the overall look. The ASF-RED, on the other hand, sports a distinctive red finish that stands out, catering to users who prefer a pop of colour in their build. While the aesthetic choices are subjective, both products offer appealing designs that can complement various setups.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler and the Thermalright ASF-RED AM5 CPU Holder ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require an effective cooling solution capable of handling high-performance CPUs, the Peerless Assassin 140 is the clear choice, thanks to its advanced cooling technology and compatibility with multiple CPU sockets. However, if you own an AM5 CPU and are looking for a reliable way to prevent bending while using your cooler, the ASF-RED provides a cost-effective solution that enhances CPU stability without the need for an additional cooling unit.