Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB - AIO CPU Cooler

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler and the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB serve distinct market segments in the CPU cooling landscape. Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of development, has garnered a reputation for producing reliable air cooling solutions. In contrast, ARCTIC is known for its advanced liquid cooling technology, positioning itself as a leader in the AIO (All-In-One) cooling market.

Thermalright’s legacy in the cooling industry is bolstered by its focus on research and development, particularly in air-cooled radiators and other computer accessories. On the other hand, ARCTIC’s commitment to innovation is evident in its product design, particularly the Liquid Freezer III Pro, which integrates several unique features to enhance cooling efficiency and system aesthetics.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE offers strong cooling capabilities with its double tower design and six heat pipes. It achieves a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, which is facilitated by two PWM fans that operate at a speed of 1550 RPM. This design is particularly effective in dissipating heat from the CPU, especially under moderate loads.

Conversely, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB takes cooling to another level with its 360mm radiator and integrated VRM fan. This AIO cooler boasts a higher maximum fan speed than the Thermalright model, enabling it to excel under high load conditions. Its P12 PRO fan design ensures that it operates more powerfully and quietly, particularly at lower speeds, thus providing superior thermal management for overclocked systems.

Installation and Compatibility

When it comes to installation, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is designed with user-friendliness in mind. It supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1700 and AM5, ensuring compatibility with most modern CPUs. The inclusion of metal fasteners aids in achieving a secure installation, which is crucial for effective cooling performance.

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro also offers extensive compatibility, featuring native offset mounting for both Intel and AMD processors. This design shifts the cold plate centre towards the CPU hotspot for optimal heat transfer. However, its installation may require more planning due to the larger size of the radiator and the management of multiple fan cables, which can be less straightforward compared to the thermalright’s simpler setup.

Noise Levels

Noise is a significant factor for many PC builders, especially for those seeking a quieter operation. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE has a noise level capped at 25.6 dB(A), making it a suitable choice for users prioritising a silent build. The PWM fans are designed to operate efficiently without generating excessive noise, ensuring a tranquil computing environment.

In comparison, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro employs advanced fan technology to minimise noise while maximising performance. Thanks to its well-engineered P12 PRO fans, it is able to operate quietly even at higher speeds, contributing to an overall less noisy experience when under load. This combination of performance and low noise levels makes it an attractive option for gamers and professionals alike.

Aesthetic Design

Aesthetic appeal can influence your choice of cooler, especially if your system features a transparent case. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE presents a more traditional look with its dual tower design, complemented by a straightforward fan configuration. While it may not include RGB lighting, its sleek design still holds a certain charm for those who prefer a classic aesthetic.

In contrast, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB is designed with visual flair in mind. The built-in A-RGB lighting not only enhances the overall look of your build but also allows for customisation to match your system’s colour scheme. This cooler appeals to gamers and PC enthusiasts who value both performance and aesthetics, making it a standout choice in a visually-oriented market.

Price Point

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £26.90, making it an affordable option for those looking for an effective air cooling solution without breaking the bank. Its competitive price allows users to invest in reliable cooling technology without overspending, especially beneficial for budget builds.

On the other hand, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB comes with a significantly higher price tag of £74.99. While this may be a considerable investment, the advanced features, higher cooling performance, and aesthetic enhancements justify the cost for many users. For those building high-performance systems or engaging in overclocking, the added expense could be viewed as a worthwhile investment in system longevity and efficiency.

User Experience and Reviews

User feedback on the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE highlights its reliability and performance at a budget-friendly price. Many users appreciate its straightforward installation process and effective cooling capabilities, particularly for mid-range builds. The cooler's ability to maintain low temperatures under load has earned it a solid reputation among PC builders.

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro has garnered praise for its exceptional cooling efficiency and innovative features. Users often highlight the performance benefits during intensive tasks, such as gaming or video rendering, where heat generation is a concern. The integrated VRM fan and A-RGB lighting also receive positive remarks, contributing to both functionality and aesthetic appeal. However, some users note that its installation can be more complex, requiring careful cable management.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an efficient air cooler that offers solid performance at a budget-friendly price, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is an excellent choice. It provides reliable cooling without the complications often associated with liquid cooling systems.

However, if you are seeking top-tier cooling performance, especially for high-end builds or overclocking, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro is worth the investment. Its advanced features, integrated cooling solutions, and aesthetic design make it a strong contender for anyone serious about their PC performance. Ultimately, your decision should align with your cooling requirements, budget, and personal preferences for aesthetics and installation complexity.