Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler is a well-regarded option in the CPU cooling market, priced at C$44.90. It features a height of 154mm and is designed to effectively cool CPUs with a thermal design power (TDP) range from 105W to 280W. The cooler utilises an upgraded AGHP technique with a combination of aluminum fins and a finely carved pure copper base, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. This model is compatible with a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, making it a versatile choice for many builds.

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler is slightly more expensive at C$46.79 but offers some additional features that may appeal to users seeking enhanced cooling performance. This cooler stands at 155mm tall, which is marginally taller than the PS120SE. It employs a dual tower design with dual fans, which significantly increases airflow and cooling efficiency. Like the PS120SE, it supports a wide range of CPU sockets for both Intel and AMD platforms, making it a flexible option for custom builds.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black has a slight edge due to its dual fans. While both coolers have a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, the Peerless model can create a more robust cooling effect thanks to its dual tower and dual fan design. This configuration allows for better heat dissipation, particularly under heavy loads, making it a better choice for high-performance CPUs. In contrast, the PS120SE, with its single fan, is still effective but may not perform as well in extreme scenarios.

Build Quality and Materials

Both coolers exhibit high-quality construction, but there are some distinctions. The PS120SE utilises a combination of aluminum and pure copper, ensuring a solid heat transfer experience, while the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black incorporates a blackened nano coating and fully electroplated heat pipes that enhance its effectiveness and aesthetic appeal. The PS120SE is built with S-FDB bearings, promising a long service life, while the Peerless has a dual fan setup that may offer greater long-term reliability under heavy use conditions.

Compatibility with CPU Sockets

Both the Thermalright PS120SE and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black are compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets. The PS120SE supports Intel sockets such as LGA1700, LGA1851, LGA1150, and various AMD sockets including AM4 and AM5. Similarly, the Peerless Assassin offers support for the same Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring that users can integrate either cooler into their systems without issues. This compatibility makes both options suitable for a range of builds, from budget systems to high-end gaming rigs.

Noise Levels and Fan Performance

In terms of noise levels, both coolers are rated at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for air coolers. However, the Peerless Assassin has the advantage of dual fans, which can lead to more efficient cooling at potentially lower RPMs compared to the single fan in the PS120SE. This setup not only enhances cooling performance but may also result in quieter operation under load, making the Peerless a favourable option for users sensitive to noise.

Price Consideration

The price difference between the two coolers is modest, with the PS120SE retailing at C$44.90 and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black at C$46.79. While the PS120SE offers solid performance for its price, the additional features and cooling capabilities of the Peerless model may justify the extra cost for users seeking higher performance or those who plan to overclock their CPUs. The price point does not significantly diverge, making either cooler a reasonable investment depending on the user's specific needs.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright PS120SE and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black ultimately depends on your cooling needs and budget. If you are looking for an effective and more affordable cooling solution, the PS120SE provides great value at C$44.90 with solid performance for standard builds. However, if your focus is on superior cooling capabilities, especially for overclocking or high-performance CPUs, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black at C$46.79 offers enhanced features such as dual fans and a more robust cooling design. Both coolers are reliable, but your decision should be guided by your specific performance requirements and budget constraints.