ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB - 3 Pack - Powerful Premium Fan vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

Overview of ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB and Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE

The ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE are both designed to enhance cooling performance in PC systems, yet they cater to different aspects of the cooling market. The ARCTIC fan, priced at £24.99 for a three-pack, focuses on airflow efficiency, while the Thermalright cooler, retailing at £26.90, emphasises CPU cooling with its double tower design.

The ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB features high static pressure, making it effective even under resistance from components like radiators and mesh structures. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE boasts a double tower cooling setup, which is said to provide stronger cooling performance, particularly for demanding CPU tasks.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB is built with a focus on optimising airflow while maintaining low noise levels. Its new fan blade design enhances performance, particularly at lower speeds. The smooth-running fluid dynamic bearing further reduces operational noise, appealing to users who prefer quieter systems.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE, on the other hand, features a robust double tower structure that includes six pure copper heat pipes for improved heat dissipation. Its build quality is designed to support a variety of CPU sockets, making it a versatile choice for different setups. This cooler’s dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 155mm allow it to fit into most cases while providing significant cooling capability.

Performance Metrics

When comparing performance, the ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB operates at a maximum speed of 3000 RPM, allowing for flexible cooling that adjusts based on system demands. It generates high static pressure, crucial for pushing air through densely packed components, which is essential for effective cooling in high-performance builds.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE features two PWM fans that run at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM. While this is significantly lower than the ARCTIC fan, the dual-fan setup and the presence of six heat pipes ensure excellent thermal management, especially for CPU cooling. With an airflow rating of 66.17 CFM and a noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A), it strikes a balance between performance and noise, making it suitable for quieter systems.

Installation and Compatibility

Both products offer straightforward installation processes, but they cater to different user needs. The ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB's 120mm fan size makes it compatible with a wide range of cases and setups. Its PWM control allows for easy integration into existing systems, adjusting fan speeds according to thermal requirements.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is specifically designed for CPU cooling and comes with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. This cooler supports a variety of CPU sockets including LGA 1150 to 1700 for Intel and AM4 to AM5 for AMD, making it a versatile choice for users looking to upgrade or build new systems.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical factor for many PC builders. The ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB is designed to function quietly, particularly at lower speeds. Its fluid dynamic bearing contributes to reduced noise during operation, making it an excellent choice for users looking for silent performance.

In comparison, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE has a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a CPU cooler of its class. Although it operates at a lower RPM compared to the ARCTIC fans, the noise output remains acceptable for most users, especially in systems prioritising silent operation.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetic considerations can be just as important as performance for many builders. The ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB features addressable RGB lighting, allowing users to customise their rig's look with vibrant colours and effects, appealing to gamers and those who enjoy building visually striking systems.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE, while functionally robust, does not focus on RGB or visual flair. Its design is more utilitarian, centred on performance rather than aesthetics. This may appeal more to users who prioritise functionality over visual elements in their builds.

Pricing and Value for Money

Pricing is a significant factor when comparing the ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE. The ARCTIC fan pack is priced at £24.99 for three fans, offering substantial value for those needing multiple cooling solutions in their system.

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £26.90. This price reflects its dual tower design and enhanced CPU cooling capabilities. While it is slightly more expensive, users may find the investment worthwhile for better CPU cooling performance, particularly in high-demand scenarios.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ultimately depends on your specific cooling needs. If you require efficient airflow and low noise levels, particularly for case cooling, the ARCTIC P12 Pro A-RGB is an excellent choice, especially with its RGB options. However, if your focus is on optimising CPU cooling performance with a reliable setup across various platforms, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE provides robust performance that justifies its slightly higher price.