Lyai 2-in-1 ARGB PWM Fan Hub with Controller vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will examine the Lyai 2-in-1 ARGB PWM Fan Hub with Controller and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler. The Lyai fan hub is priced at £10.99, while the Thermalright cooler costs £28.79. While both products enhance a PC's cooling capabilities, they serve very different purposes within a computer system.

The Lyai fan hub is designed to manage multiple fans and RGB lighting, allowing users to connect up to nine 4-pin fans and nine 5V 3-pin ARGB devices. In contrast, the Thermalright cooler is a dedicated CPU air cooler that aims to optimise the thermal performance of the central processing unit (CPU) itself.

Design and Build Quality

The Lyai hub features a compact design measuring 12 × 5.5 × 1.8 cm, making it easy to fit into any PC case. It boasts a robust ABS construction and a magnetic base for easy attachment to metal surfaces. This thoughtful design ensures that the hub remains accessible while maintaining a tidy interior.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin cooler has a double tower design that enhances its cooling efficiency. It weighs 0.97 kg and includes features such as six heat pipes and ARGB lighting effects. The combination of aluminium heat sinks and metal fasteners ensures a sturdy installation, compatible with various CPU sockets including Intel and AMD platforms.

Cooling Performance

The Lyai fan hub’s primary function is to manage fan speeds through PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) technology, which allows automatic adjustment based on system temperatures. This capability optimises airflow and reduces noise levels, thus contributing to the overall cooling performance of the PC.

Conversely, the Thermalright cooler is engineered for direct CPU cooling, boasting a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and operating at a noise level of no more than 25.6 dB(A). Its advanced AGHP technique, which involves six heat pipes, significantly enhances heat dissipation, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs.

RGB Lighting Features

The Lyai fan hub shines in its RGB lighting capabilities. It supports over 360 dynamic lighting effects and can synchronise with various motherboard brands like ASUS and MSI. The inclusion of a wireless remote allows for easy control of lighting modes, offering users a high level of customisation for their PC builds.

In contrast, the Thermalright cooler also incorporates ARGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic. However, it does not offer the same level of dynamic effects or control options as the Lyai fan hub. The focus here is more on performance rather than extensive lighting customisation.

Installation and Compatibility

The Lyai fan hub is straightforward to install, thanks to its magnetic design that enables easy attachment inside the case. It allows for the connection of multiple fans and ARGB devices without complicated mounting processes, making it ideal for users who prefer simplicity.

The Thermalright cooler is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets including Intel 115X/1200/1700 and AMD AM4/AM5. Installation involves using the provided mounting plates and fasteners, which may require a bit more effort compared to the Lyai hub. However, this attention to detail ensures a secure fit, which is critical for effective cooling.

Pricing and Value for Money

The Lyai fan hub is competitively priced at £10.99, making it an affordable option for users looking to enhance their cooling and lighting setup without breaking the bank. Its ability to control multiple fans and lighting simultaneously provides excellent value for those building or upgrading their PCs.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin cooler, at £28.79, is positioned as a premium cooling solution. While it costs more, its advanced cooling capabilities and durability justify the price for serious gamers or PC builders who require reliable thermal management for high-performance CPUs.

User Experience and Satisfaction

The user experience with the Lyai fan hub is enhanced by its intuitive design and functionality. The ability to manage fan speeds and RGB lighting from a single hub simplifies the PC-building process, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

On the other hand, the Thermalright cooler has garnered praise for its effective cooling performance and aesthetic appeal. Users appreciate its quiet operation and strong cooling capabilities, which are essential for maintaining optimal CPU temperatures during intensive tasks.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Lyai 2-in-1 ARGB PWM Fan Hub with Controller and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your needs. If you are looking for an affordable way to manage multiple fans and enhance your RGB lighting, the Lyai hub is an excellent choice at £10.99. However, if you require a dedicated cooling solution for a high-performance CPU, the Thermalright cooler at £28.79 offers superior cooling efficiency and compatibility, making it worth the investment.