ARCTIC Case Fan Hub - 10-fold PWM Fan Distributor with SATA Power - Black vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

Overview of ARCTIC Case Fan Hub and Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE

The ARCTIC Case Fan Hub is a compact and efficient fan distributor priced at £7.07, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is a robust cooling solution retailing at £29.99. The two products cater to different needs in the cooling realm, with the fan hub focusing on expanding fan connectivity and the CPU cooler designed for high-performance thermal management.

The ARCTIC Case Fan Hub allows users to connect up to ten fans through a single motherboard header, enhancing airflow without clutter. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE features a dual tower design with two PWM fans, providing substantial cooling power and compatibility with a wide range of CPUs.

Design and Build Quality

The ARCTIC Case Fan Hub boasts a sleek black design, measuring 55.6 x 86.3 x 14.3 mm and weighing just 50 g. Its compact size allows for easy installation in various cases, helping manage cables neatly. The hub’s design facilitates a clean look within your PC, as it reduces the number of visible cables.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is more substantial, with dimensions of 125 mm x 135 mm x 155 mm and a weight of 0.97 kg. This robust build is indicative of its cooling capabilities, featuring a double tower structure that optimises airflow. The use of materials like aluminium and copper enhances heat dissipation efficiency, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE stands out significantly. It employs two PWM fans, each capable of spinning at 1550 RPM, producing an airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This configuration allows the cooler to handle a thermal design power (TDP) of 120 to 265 W, making it ideal for overclocking and demanding applications.

In contrast, the ARCTIC Case Fan Hub doesn’t actively cool but rather facilitates the connection of multiple fans. It synchronises the PWM signal across all connected fans, allowing for consistent speed control. While it expands the cooling potential of a system, its effectiveness is contingent on the fans used with it. Therefore, the performance comparison favours the Thermalright cooler for direct CPU cooling applications.

Ease of Installation

The ARCTIC Case Fan Hub is designed for straightforward installation. It connects to the motherboard via a single 4-pin fan header and requires a SATA power connection for the fans. This simplicity makes it accessible for users who may not have extensive technical knowledge.

Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE comes with a detailed installation kit, including multiple mounting brackets for both Intel and AMD platforms. Its comprehensive package ensures compatibility across various CPU sockets, but the installation process may be more complex, especially for novice builders. The additional components might require more time and effort to set up.

Compatibility

In terms of compatibility, the ARCTIC Case Fan Hub excels by allowing users to add up to nine extra fans to their existing setup, which is particularly beneficial for cases lacking sufficient fan headers. It’s versatile enough to work with virtually any motherboard supporting PWM fan headers.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE supports a range of CPU sockets, including Intel’s 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD’s AM4. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile choice for users looking to upgrade their cooling solution without worrying about socket compatibility issues.

Price Point Comparison

The ARCTIC Case Fan Hub is priced at £7.07, making it an affordable option for users looking to enhance their cooling capabilities without a significant investment. Its low cost is appealing for those who already have fans but lack connections on their motherboard.

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £29.99. While this is a higher investment, it reflects the advanced cooling technology and performance it offers. For users seeking top-tier cooling solutions, the price may be justified by its robust features and capabilities.

User Experience and Feedback

User feedback on the ARCTIC Case Fan Hub often highlights its effectiveness in simplifying cable management and enhancing airflow within PC cases. Users appreciate the ease of installation and the ability to connect multiple fans, which can lead to improved system cooling.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE receives praise for its cooling efficiency and performance under load. Users report significant temperature reductions during intensive tasks, making it a popular choice among gamers and content creators. The noise levels are also noted to be low, which is a critical factor for those seeking a quieter computing experience.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC Case Fan Hub and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ultimately depends on your specific cooling needs. If you're looking for a budget-friendly solution to expand your fan connections and improve airflow without the need for additional cooling hardware, the ARCTIC Case Fan Hub is an excellent choice at £7.07. However, if you require a high-performance CPU cooler capable of handling demanding applications and overclocking, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE at £29.99 is the superior option. Consider your system's requirements and budget to make the best decision for your cooling solution.