Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler is priced at C$54.90, making it an affordable option for those seeking effective cooling solutions. This cooler features a dual-tower design with symmetrical mecha-shaped fins and a pure copper base that efficiently disperses heat. The combination of high-performance dual fans operating at 1500 RPM ensures excellent heat dissipation, achieving an air volume of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). With a height of 158mm, this cooler is ideal for medium to large chassis, accommodating high-profile memory and graphics cards.

Overview of Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB Water Cooling CPU Cooler is priced at C$65.37, positioning it slightly higher than the Peerless Assassin. This advanced water cooler boasts a 360mm radiator and features a full copper mirror base for superior thermal conductivity. With three PWM fans that can reach speeds of 2000 RPM, it delivers an impressive air volume of 72.37 CFM, but at a slightly higher noise level of 27.7 dB(A). Its ARGB capabilities add an aesthetic element to your build, synchronising with motherboard lighting for a visually appealing setup.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 360 has the edge due to its water cooling technology. The three fans allow it to achieve a maximum airflow of 72.37 CFM, while the Peerless Assassin delivers 66.17 CFM with its dual-fan setup. However, the Peerless Assassin's 1500 RPM fans operate at a lower noise level of 25.6 dB(A), making it quieter under load compared to the Frozen Notte's 27.7 dB(A). Thus, while the Frozen Notte may provide superior cooling efficiency, the Peerless Assassin offers a quieter operation.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers are designed for easy installation, supporting a wide range of CPU sockets. The Peerless Assassin is compatible with Intel sockets LGA1150 through LGA1851 and AMD's AM4 and AM5, while the Frozen Notte supports a broader array of Intel sockets, including LGA2011 and LGA2066, in addition to AMD's AM2, AM3, and AM5. The Peerless Assassin stands at 158mm, making it suitable for large cases, whereas the Frozen Notte's larger 360mm radiator requires a chassis width of more than 250mm, potentially limiting its compatibility with smaller builds.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Thermalright Frozen Notte is significantly more visually striking due to its ARGB lighting, which can create dynamic lighting effects within your build. The light synchronization with a 5V 3-pin connection offers a dazzling display, which is a major draw for gamers and PC enthusiasts. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin has a more utilitarian aesthetic, focusing on performance over flair, making it less appealing for those who prioritise visual aesthetics in their setups.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise levels, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is the quieter option, operating at a maximum of 25.6 dB(A) compared to the 27.7 dB(A) of the Frozen Notte. If you are concerned about noise—especially in a quiet work environment or during gaming sessions—the Peerless Assassin's lower noise output could be a decisive factor. However, the Frozen Notte's slightly higher noise levels come with enhanced cooling performance, which some users may find acceptable.

Price Consideration

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is more budget-friendly at C$54.90, while the Frozen Notte comes in higher at C$65.37. This price difference of C$10.47 may be justified by the Frozen Notte's advanced water cooling technology and ARGB features. Buyers should consider their budget and whether the additional features of the Frozen Notte align with their cooling needs and aesthetic preferences.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the Frozen Notte 360 Black ARGB cooling solutions ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you prioritise a quieter operation and a more affordable price, the Peerless Assassin is an excellent choice. However, if you seek superior cooling performance and visual appeal with ARGB lighting, the Frozen Notte justifies its higher cost. Overall, both coolers offer solid performance, but your decision should align with your priorities in terms of cooling, noise, design, and budget.