Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler vs Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler with Quite 120mm TL-12015 PWM

Overview

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler and the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler are two distinct offerings from the same brand, catering to different user needs. The Peerless Assassin 140 Black is priced at C$54.90, while the AXP120-X67 comes at a more budget-friendly C$36.90. This price difference reflects their design, features, and cooling capabilities, making them suitable for various builds and preferences.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black features a twin-tower body with symmetrical mecha-shaped fins and a height of 158mm. This design allows for a more extensive cooling area, making it suitable for larger cases. On the other hand, the AXP120-X67 boasts a low-profile design, measuring only 67mm in height, making it ideal for compact builds. Both coolers use high-quality materials, with the Peerless Assassin primarily made of aluminium and copper, while the AXP120-X67 employs an aluminium fin on a copper base.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is where the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black truly excels, thanks to its dual fans that operate at a speed of 1500 RPM and offer an air volume of 66.17 CFM (MAX). This robust airflow leads to better heat dissipation, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. In contrast, the AXP120-X67 features a single PWM fan that runs at 1800 RPM, delivering an air flow of 59 CFM. Although the AXP120-X67 is effective, it may not match the sheer cooling power of the Peerless Assassin in demanding scenarios.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black operates at a noise value of ≤25.6 dB(A), making it relatively quiet during operation. This is beneficial for users who prefer a peaceful computing experience. The AXP120-X67, however, has a slightly higher noise level of ≤26.1 dB(A). While both coolers are designed to be quiet, the Peerless Assassin has a slight edge in this area, making it potentially more suitable for noise-sensitive environments.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial for CPU coolers, and both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and AXP120-X67 cater to a wide range of platforms. The Peerless Assassin supports multiple Intel sockets, including LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, and LGA1851, as well as AMD’s AM4 and AM5. Similarly, the AXP120-X67 is compatible with Intel sockets such as LGA1700, LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA2011, and LGA2066, along with AMD’s AM4. This broad compatibility ensures that both coolers can accommodate a variety of CPUs.

Installation

Installation processes can vary significantly between CPU coolers. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black is designed for ease of installation, featuring an all-metal fastener system with a SS2 buckle system that helps to make mounting straightforward. The inclusion of a Y-type adapter cable aids in connecting both fans efficiently. The AXP120-X67 also offers a user-friendly installation experience, equipped with metal fasteners tailored for both Intel and AMD platforms. However, the complexity of installation may slightly favour the Peerless Assassin due to its dual-fan setup and additional components.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant factor when choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the AXP120-X67. The Peerless Assassin is priced at C$54.90, reflecting its advanced cooling capabilities and larger size. In contrast, the AXP120-X67 offers a more affordable option at C$36.90, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers or those with smaller form-factor cases. While you get more cooling power with the Peerless Assassin, the AXP120-X67 provides solid performance at a lower price point.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the AXP120-X67 depends largely on your specific needs. If you require superior cooling performance and have the space for a larger cooler, the Peerless Assassin is the better option with its dual fans and higher airflow capacity. However, if you're working with a compact build and are looking for an economical solution, the AXP120-X67 presents a solid choice with its low-profile design and competitive pricing. Ultimately, both products uphold the Thermalright reputation for quality, making either a worthy investment based on your requirements.