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

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black is priced at C$54.90, while the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB is significantly cheaper at C$24.29. This price difference highlights a key factor for potential buyers: budget constraints and cooling performance needs.

The Peerless Assassin boasts advanced cooling features with a twin-tower design and dual high-performance fans, making it ideal for users seeking maximum heat dissipation capabilities. On the other hand, the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB is tailored for those looking for a more budget-friendly option while still offering decent cooling performance and aesthetic appeal with its ARGB lighting.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black stands out with its dual tower configuration and dual fans that can reach a maximum fan speed of 1500 RPM. This design allows it to effectively dissipate heat, making it suitable for high-performance setups.

In contrast, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB features a single tower with a maximum fan speed of 1550 RPM. While it can deliver an airflow of 66.17 CFM, its cooling capabilities are somewhat limited compared to the Peerless Assassin, which is designed to handle more demanding thermal loads. Users with high-performance CPUs might appreciate the extra cooling potential provided by the Peerless Assassin.

Dimensions and Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black has a height of 158mm, making it suitable for large and medium chassis while providing ample space for memory and graphics card installation. It supports a wide array of CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and AMD's AM4 and AM5.

On the other hand, the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB has a more compact height of 148mm, which is still adequate for medium-sized cases. It supports Intel's 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD's AM4. While both coolers provide good compatibility, the Peerless Assassin offers greater versatility for larger setups, which might be crucial for enthusiasts planning extensive builds.

Noise Levels

Both coolers maintain a low noise level, rated at ≤25.6 dB(A). This specification ensures that users can enjoy quiet operation without compromising on cooling efficiency.

However, the Peerless Assassin's dual-fan setup, while effective at heat dissipation, may produce slightly more noise under load compared to the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB, which is designed for efficiency with its single fan. Ultimately, users prioritising quiet operation in less demanding setups may find the Assassin X to be more suitable for their needs.

Build Quality and Materials

In terms of build quality, both coolers utilise aluminium as the primary heatsink material. The Peerless Assassin features a more complex design with a twin-tower structure and six pure copper heatpipes, which enhances its heat dissipation capabilities.

The Assassin X 120 SE ARGB, while solidly built, employs the AGHP technique with four heatpipes, which is effective but may not match the raw thermal performance of the Peerless Assassin. Therefore, if build quality and superior materials are critical to your decision-making process, the Peerless Assassin has a clear advantage.

Aesthetic Features

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB stands out with its ARGB lighting, appealing to users who value aesthetics alongside performance. The illuminated fans can enhance the visual appeal of a gaming setup or workstation.

In comparison, the Peerless Assassin lacks additional lighting features, focusing purely on performance. While this might appeal to users looking for a more understated or professional appearance, those wanting a vibrant and illuminated build might lean towards the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB for its aesthetic advantages.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

When evaluating price-to-performance, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB offers excellent value at C$24.29. It provides adequate cooling for budget-conscious users without sacrificing essential features.

In contrast, the Peerless Assassin, priced at C$54.90, justifies its higher cost with superior cooling capabilities and a robust design. Users with higher thermal demands or those building performance-oriented systems may find the additional investment worthwhile for the enhanced cooling efficiency.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. If you require superior cooling performance, compatibility with larger cases, and don't mind spending extra, the Peerless Assassin is the way to go. However, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that still offers decent cooling and aesthetic appeal, the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB is a solid choice. Consider your specific use case, budget, and aesthetic preferences to make the best decision for your setup.