Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler vs Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler

Overview of the Products

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler and the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler offer distinct cooling solutions for different user needs. The Peerless Assassin 140 Black is priced at C$54.90, while the AXP90 X47 is more budget-friendly at C$43.39. Both products are designed by Thermalright, a brand known for its innovative cooling technologies and extensive experience in the market.

The Peerless Assassin 140 Black stands out with its twin-tower design and dual fans, aiming for maximum heat dissipation. In contrast, the AXP90 X47 is a low-profile cooler designed specifically for compact builds, making it a great choice for users with space constraints.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a critical aspect when choosing a CPU cooler, and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black excels here with its dual fans delivering an impressive maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. This high volume of air is essential for maintaining lower temperatures during intense workloads.

On the other hand, the AXP90 X47 features a 92mm PWM fan that achieves a maximum airflow of 42.58 CFM. While this is sufficient for its intended low-profile application, it does fall short compared to the Peerless Assassin. Thus, if maximum cooling performance is your priority, the Peerless Assassin is the superior choice.

Size and Compatibility

When it comes to size, the Thermalright AXP90 X47 is significantly more compact, measuring only 47mm in height, which makes it ideal for small form factor builds such as HTPCs and ITX cases. This height allows users to avoid compatibility issues with high-profile memory modules and graphics cards.

In contrast, the Peerless Assassin 140 Black measures 158mm in height, making it suitable for larger chassis. While this cooler provides excellent performance, it may not fit in more compact setups. Therefore, your choice should depend on the size of your case and your upgrade plans.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many PC builders. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black operates at a noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler of its size and performance capabilities. This makes it an excellent option for users who prioritize a silent computing experience.

Conversely, the AXP90 X47 operates even quieter, with a maximum noise level of 22.4 dB(A). This makes it particularly appealing for users who are building a low-noise system. If noise reduction is your primary concern, the AXP90 X47 is the better choice, albeit with some trade-offs in cooling performance.

Installation Process

Both coolers are designed with user-friendly installation in mind, but they cater to different setups. The Peerless Assassin 140 Black includes an all-metal fastener system with a SS2 buckle design, which simplifies installation across a wide range of CPU sockets including Intel LGA1700, and AMD AM4/AM5.

The AXP90 X47 also boasts broad compatibility, supporting various Intel and AMD CPU slots. Its installation is facilitated by corresponding metal mounting fasteners, which are well-documented in the accompanying manual and video. However, due to its compact design, it might be easier to install in tight spaces. The choice here largely depends on your personal preference for installation ease versus compatibility with larger cases.

Design and Aesthetics

Design plays a significant role in the overall appeal of a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black features a striking twin-tower design with symmetrical mecha-shaped fins, giving it a modern and aggressive look. Its dual fans also enhance its aesthetic, making it a visually striking addition to any build.

In contrast, the AXP90 X47 has a more utilitarian appearance, prioritizing functionality over flashiness. Its low-profile design is sleek but may not stand out in a case with a transparent side panel. If aesthetics are important to you, the Peerless Assassin 140 Black is likely to be more visually appealing.

Brand Reputation

Thermalright has built a solid reputation over its 20 years in the industry, known for high-quality cooling solutions. Both the Peerless Assassin 140 Black and AXP90 X47 reflect the brand’s commitment to performance and reliability, backed by extensive research and development in the CPU cooling sector.

While both products come from the same reputable brand, the choice may come down to individual experiences or specific community recommendations. Users often rely on brand reputation when making final decisions, and Thermalright is generally viewed positively by the PC building community.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the Thermalright AXP90 X47 boils down to your specific needs and preferences. If you require superior cooling performance and have space for a larger cooler, the Peerless Assassin 140 Black is the clear winner, offering high airflow and excellent heat dissipation capabilities for C$54.90.

However, if you're building a compact system and need a reliable, low-profile cooler that operates quietly, the AXP90 X47 is an excellent choice at a more affordable price of C$43.39. Each cooler has its strengths, and your choice should align with your setup and priorities.