NZXT Kraken Plus 240 vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

Overview of NZXT Kraken Plus 240

The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 is a high-performance liquid cooler designed to provide efficient cooling with low noise levels. Priced at £97.97, this cooler is equipped with a powerful NZXT Turbine pump, which enhances both flow and head pressure. This ensures that even under heavy workloads, your CPU can maintain optimal performance without overheating. The product also features a custom LCD screen that can display real-time system temperatures, animated GIFs, and even web integrations like Spotify and YouTube, making it not just functional but also visually appealing.

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler offers an impressive cooling solution at a significantly lower price of £29.99. Known for its robust build quality, the cooler features a double tower design that enhances cooling efficiency. It includes two PWM fans that can reach a maximum fan speed of 1550 RPM and produce a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. This cooler is designed to support a range of Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring compatibility with various systems, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 excels with its liquid cooling technology, which is particularly effective during intensive tasks. The high flow and head pressure from its Turbine pump keep the CPU temperature in check, even during demanding workloads. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE, while effective for air cooling, has a maximum TDP rating of 265W, which is respectable but may not match the performance of liquid cooling under extreme conditions. Therefore, for users prioritising top-tier cooling performance, the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 is a clear leader.

Noise Levels

The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 has been designed with quiet operation in mind. Its Zero RPM Mode allows the fans to stop completely at low loads, resulting in silent performance during non-intensive tasks. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who value a quiet computing environment. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE operates at a noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A). While this is still relatively quiet, it does not offer the same silent operation capabilities as the Kraken Plus 240. Thus, if noise reduction is a key factor, the NZXT cooler is more appealing.

Installation Process

Installation is straightforward with the NZXT Kraken Plus 240, thanks to its pre-applied thermal paste and a single breakout cable from the pump cap. This design simplifies the setup process and reduces cable clutter, making it user-friendly, especially for novices. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE also provides an easy installation experience with its tool-free mounting brackets and compatibility with various CPU sockets. However, the complexity of mounting a double tower cooler may require a bit more careful handling compared to the all-in-one design of the Kraken. Therefore, while both coolers are designed for ease of installation, the NZXT has a slight edge due to its streamlined approach.

Aesthetics and Customisation

The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 stands out with its custom LCD screen that not only shows system temperatures but also allows for animated GIFs and custom images. This feature offers a level of customisation that many users find appealing, enabling them to personalise their setup. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE, while functional, lacks such visual customisation options. Its design is more utilitarian, focusing on performance rather than aesthetics. Thus, for users looking to add a more personalised touch to their PC setup, the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 is the superior choice.

Brand Reputation and Product Longevity

NZXT has established a strong reputation in the cooling market, known for producing high-quality, reliable products. The Kraken series has been well-received, often praised for its performance and design. Thermalright also has a significant presence in the cooling industry, especially in the air cooler segment, with over 20 years of experience. However, the brand might not be as widely recognised for liquid cooling solutions as NZXT. This difference in brand perception could influence potential buyers, particularly those seeking long-lasting and well-supported products.

Price Comparison

The pricing of £97.97 for the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 reflects its advanced features and performance capabilities. In comparison, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at a much more affordable £29.99, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers. However, the lower price tag of the Thermalright cooler comes with trade-offs in terms of cooling performance and advanced features. Users must consider their budget against the performance needs of their CPU when making a decision.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ultimately comes down to your specific requirements and budget. If you are looking for exceptional cooling performance, low noise levels, and customisation options, the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 is worth the investment at £97.97. However, if you are on a tighter budget and need a reliable cooler for moderate workloads, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE at £29.99 presents a compelling value. In summary, both coolers serve distinct user needs, making your decision largely dependent on whether you prioritise performance or price.