Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler

The Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler is priced at £109.99 and is designed for high-performance cooling. It features a simple, all-in-one design that ensures strong cooling while maintaining low noise levels. With a whisper-quiet pump operating at just 20 dBA, it allows your CPU to reach its full performance potential without excessive noise. The cooler's convex cold plate ensures maximum contact with the CPU's integrated heat spreader, further enhancing its efficiency.

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is significantly more affordable, priced at £28.79. This air cooler boasts an impressive dual tower design with 6 heat pipes that apply AGHP technique to counteract gravity effects, ensuring optimal performance regardless of orientation. In addition to its effective cooling capabilities, the cooler features two PWM fans that deliver airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A). This makes it a compelling choice for those seeking budget-friendly cooling solutions.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS excels with its liquid cooling capabilities. Its design allows for efficient heat dissipation, which is crucial for high-performance CPUs. The pump's high flow rate ensures that coolant circulates effectively, contributing to a more stable temperature under heavy loads. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE, while being an air cooler, offers substantial cooling through its dual tower design and multiple heat pipes. However, it is generally accepted that liquid coolers like the Corsair can often outperform air coolers in extreme conditions.

Noise Levels

When comparing noise levels, the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS is notably quieter, operating at just 20 dBA. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritise a silent operation, especially in systems where noise could be distracting. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE has a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). Although this is still relatively quiet, it slightly edges out the Corsair in terms of sound, making the latter the better option for those who are sensitive to noise.

Installation and Compatibility

The installation process can vary significantly between these two coolers. The Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS features easy daisy-chained connections, which can simplify the wiring setup in your system. The ARGB fans can be connected to a single 4-pin PWM fan header and a +5V ARGB header, streamlining the overall installation. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE also boasts compatibility with a variety of CPU sockets, including Intel's 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD's AM4, and AM5. However, the additional complexity of its dual tower design may require more space and careful installation.

Aesthetics and Design

Aesthetically, the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler shines with its striking RGB lighting options. The RS ARGB fans not only provide strong airflow but also feature beautiful lighting that can be synchronised with compatible motherboards. Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE also offers ARGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing. However, its design is more traditional and may not stand out as much in a build compared to the Corsair model, which prioritises an elegant liquid cooling aesthetic.

Price Comparison

The pricing difference between the two coolers is substantial. The Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler comes in at £109.99, reflecting its advanced technology and performance capabilities. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £28.79, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. While the Thermalright product offers solid performance for its price, the Corsair cooler provides advanced features that may justify its higher cost for users seeking premium performance.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritise high-performance cooling with low noise levels and aesthetic appeal, the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS is worth the investment at £109.99. However, if you're looking for an effective and budget-friendly solution, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE at £28.79 offers remarkable value without significantly compromising performance.