Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler is priced at C$54.90, while the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black CPU Cooler is significantly cheaper at C$32.90. This price difference of C$22.00 makes the Assassin X 120R an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. Despite being more affordable, the Assassin X 120R does not compromise on performance, making it a viable choice for those looking to save money while still achieving effective cooling solutions.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the Assassin X 120R features a modern aesthetic with a digital screen and ARGB lighting, enhancing its visual appeal. The ARGB fans allow for synchronisation with the motherboard, offering vibrant lighting effects that can complement a variety of build styles. On the other hand, the Peerless Assassin 140 Black boasts a twin-tower design with symmetrical mecha-shaped fins, focusing more on functionality with its high-performance dual fans. While both coolers exhibit a professional look, the Assassin X 120R stands out for those who value aesthetics alongside cooling performance.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black is engineered for enhanced heat dissipation with its dual tower and dual fan setup, achieving a maximum air volume of 66.17 CFM at 1500 RPM. In contrast, the Assassin X 120R offers slightly higher air volume at 70.84 CFM but operates at a faster fan speed of 2000 RPM. The Peerless Assassin’s larger size and copper heat pipes contribute to its overall cooling efficiency, making it ideal for more demanding setups. Both coolers effectively manage CPU temperatures; however, the Peerless Assassin may provide superior performance under heavy loads due to its design and larger cooling area.

Compatibility

Compatibility is essential for CPU coolers, and both models cater to a wide range of systems. The Peerless Assassin 140 Black supports Intel sockets including LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, and LGA1851, as well as AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets. Similarly, the Assassin X 120R is compatible with Intel's 14th and 15th generations alongside AMD Ryzen 7000 series, covering LGA1851, LGA1700, and AM4/AM5 sockets. This broad compatibility ensures that users can fit either cooler into their builds, making both options versatile for different system configurations.

Noise Levels

Noise levels can significantly affect user experience, particularly in quiet environments. The Peerless Assassin 140 Black operates at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), making it relatively quiet during operation. In contrast, the Assassin X 120R has a higher maximum noise level of ≤29.8 dB(A). While both coolers are designed to minimise noise, the Peerless Assassin offers a quieter cooling solution, which may be crucial for gamers or professionals seeking a peaceful working environment.

Installation Process

Installation ease is a crucial factor for many PC builders. The Peerless Assassin 140 Black comes with all-metal fasteners and a user-friendly SS2 buckle system, facilitating easier installation across multiple CPU platforms. The included Y-type adapter cable simplifies connecting the dual fans, ensuring a straightforward setup. The Assassin X 120R also comes with necessary installation accessories and is designed to be user-friendly, but users must be mindful to use the original backplate of the motherboard for AMD installations. Overall, both coolers are designed for relatively easy installation, catering to users of varying skill levels.

Heat Dissipation Technology

The Peerless Assassin 140 Black utilises a combination of pure copper heat pipes and large-area aluminium fins to enhance heat dissipation. This design allows for effective thermal management, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. The Assassin X 120R, while slightly smaller, employs a similar approach with its all-aluminium fins and PWM fan, ensuring efficient heat dissipation as well. Both products demonstrate advanced cooling technology; however, the Peerless Assassin's larger size and dual-tower configuration may provide a more substantial cooling advantage for overclocked systems.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a cooler with superior cooling performance and quieter operation, the Peerless Assassin 140 Black is the better choice despite its higher price of C$54.90. However, if you prefer a more affordable option that still offers respectable performance and aesthetically pleasing features like ARGB lighting, the Assassin X 120R at C$32.90 is an excellent value. Both coolers provide solid compatibility and installation processes, ensuring that whichever choice you make will serve you well in your computing needs.