Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler is designed for superior heat dissipation and performance. Priced at C$54.90, this cooler utilises a twin-tower body with high-performance dual fans and six pure copper heat pipes to effectively manage CPU temperatures. Its dimensions of 140mm in length, 157mm in width, and 158mm in height make it suitable for large and medium-sized chassis, providing ample compatibility with various CPU models.

Overview of Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is a more compact option, priced at C$24.59. With dimensions of 120mm in length, 73mm in width, and 148mm in height, it offers a space-saving design ideal for medium-sized cases. This cooler features a single PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, providing effective cooling with an emphasis on low noise levels, making it a good choice for quieter builds.

Cooling Performance Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black boasts higher cooling performance with its dual fans and six heat pipes, which are specifically designed to dissipate heat effectively. Its dual fans can reach an air volume of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). In contrast, the Assassin King 120 SE also achieves 66.17 CFM but with a single fan configuration, which may not be as effective under heavy loads as the dual-fan setup. This indicates that while both coolers perform well, the Peerless Assassin is likely to handle high thermal demands more efficiently.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black has a robust twin-tower structure that not only enhances its cooling capabilities but also gives it a more substantial appearance, fitting well in larger cases. Its all-aluminium fins aid in maximizing cooling area. On the other hand, the Assassin King 120 SE features an ARGB lighting system, which adds a visually appealing element to builds, especially for users who prefer a vibrant aesthetic. While the Peerless Assassin excels in size and cooling, the Assassin King’s ARGB lights provide a unique flair.

Installation and Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black is designed with installation ease in mind, featuring all-metal fasteners and a size that accommodates a wide range of CPU models. It supports Intel sockets from LGA1150 to LGA1851 and AMD sockets AM4 and AM5. The Assassin King 120 SE is also user-friendly, with compatibility across Intel and AMD platforms, but its slightly smaller footprint may make it easier to fit into tighter spaces. Both coolers are equipped with appropriate mounting plates, ensuring broad compatibility, but the Peerless Assassin’s larger size may pose installation challenges in compact cases.

Noise Levels

Both coolers operate at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), indicating that neither will disturb a quiet workspace or gaming environment significantly. The Peerless Assassin, with its dual fans, may create a more robust sound profile under heavy loads, but its design aims to balance performance with noise. The Assassin King 120 SE focuses on delivering efficient cooling with minimal noise, making it an excellent choice for users prioritizing quiet operation.

Price and Value Proposition

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black is priced at C$54.90, reflecting its advanced cooling technology and larger design. In contrast, the Assassin King 120 SE is considerably more affordable at C$24.59. While the price difference is significant, it is essential to consider what users need from a cooler. The Peerless Assassin offers higher performance and greater cooling capabilities suitable for overclocking or high-demand systems, while the Assassin King provides excellent value for budget-conscious buyers who require basic cooling without extra features.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE ultimately depends on your needs and budget. If you require a high-performance cooling solution capable of handling demanding tasks and have the space in your case, the Peerless Assassin is the superior option. However, if you're looking for a budget-friendly cooler that balances performance with aesthetics and operates quietly, the Assassin King 120 SE is an excellent choice. Each cooler serves a distinct purpose, catering to different user preferences and system requirements.