Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA 1200/1156/1155/1150/1151 92mm CPU Cooler CL vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler

Overview of the Thermaltake Gravity i2 and Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black

When comparing the Thermaltake Gravity i2 and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black, immediate distinctions arise in their design, features, and pricing. The Gravity i2 is priced at C$19.86, making it a cost-effective option for users with lower thermal demands, while the Peerless Assassin stands at C$46.79, targeting users seeking superior cooling performance.

The Gravity i2 is engineered for low-power CPUs, featuring a low-profile design that prioritizes compact builds. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin boasts dual tower construction and dual fans, geared towards high-performance systems that require exceptional heat dissipation capabilities.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black significantly outshines the Thermaltake Gravity i2. The Peerless Assassin features a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and dual PWM fans that enhance cooling efficiency, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. Its dual fan setup allows for a more robust airflow, generating a noise level of up to 25.6 decibels.

On the other hand, the Gravity i2 provides an airflow of 31.343 CFM, which, while adequate for low-power CPUs, pales in comparison to the capabilities of the Peerless Assassin. This substantial difference in airflow indicates that the Peerless Assassin is better equipped for demanding applications and overclocking scenarios.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of the two coolers further highlight their intended applications. The Thermaltake Gravity i2 features a low-profile design, making it ideal for small form factor builds. Its dimensions include a 92mm fan, which is suitable for compact cases. The Gravity i2's design prioritizes ease of installation, with a straightforward mounting process that appeals to beginners.

Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black is larger, measuring 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 155mm in height. Its double tower design is crafted from aluminum and includes advanced features like a blackened nano coating and finely micro-carved copper bottom, enhancing its heat dissipation efficiency. This sophisticated build is aimed at users who need maximum cooling performance, particularly in larger cases.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 operates at a quieter 21.3 decibels, making it an excellent choice for users prioritising a silent computing experience. This low noise output is particularly appealing for home or office environments where minimal disturbance is desired.

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin has a maximum noise level of 25.6 decibels, which, while still relatively quiet, is higher than that of the Gravity i2. Users who value silence over performance may lean towards the Gravity i2, while those requiring superior cooling might accept the slightly elevated noise levels of the Peerless Assassin.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another important consideration when choosing between these two coolers. The Thermaltake Gravity i2 supports a range of Intel sockets, including LGA 1200, 1156, 1155, 1150, and 1151, making it versatile for a variety of Intel CPUs. Its design is specifically optimized for low-power CPUs, ensuring reliable performance in compatible systems.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin offers broader compatibility, supporting not only Intel sockets (LGA 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851) but also AMD sockets (AM4/AM5). This makes the Peerless Assassin a more flexible choice for users who may switch between Intel and AMD platforms in the future.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be user-friendly, but they cater to different levels of complexity. The Thermaltake Gravity i2 prides itself on quick and easy installation, appealing to users who may be new to building PCs or looking for a hassle-free setup.

Conversely, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is designed with a straightforward installation in mind, its larger size and dual fan setup may require a bit more attention during installation. Users will need to ensure their cases can accommodate its dimensions, which could add complexity for those with tighter builds.

Warranty and Support

Warranty and support are critical factors in ensuring peace of mind when purchasing a CPU cooler. The Thermaltake Gravity i2 comes with a 2-year warranty, which is standard for many cooling solutions but may not be as reassuring for users investing in higher-end components.

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin typically offers robust support alongside its warranty, reflecting its positioning as a premium product. While specific warranty details can vary, users can generally expect a commitment to quality and support, which is critical for higher investment products.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Thermaltake Gravity i2 and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black boils down to your specific needs. If you require a budget-friendly, low-profile cooler for a low-power Intel CPU, the Gravity i2 at C$19.86 is a strong choice. However, for those seeking superior cooling performance and versatility across different CPU platforms, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin at C$46.79 provides unparalleled cooling capabilities and compatibility. It is crucial to evaluate your cooling requirements, case dimensions, and budget when making your choice.