Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST - PC Fan

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is a powerful CPU air cooler designed for optimal thermal performance. Priced at £26.90, it features a dual-tower design complemented by PWM fans that promise effective cooling for both Intel and AMD platforms. With dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 155mm and a weight of 0.97kg, it is built to handle substantial thermal loads, making it suitable for gaming and high-performance computing.

The cooler utilises advanced technology, including six heat pipes that enhance heat dissipation. This ensures that even under heavy loads, the CPU remains cool. The sound level is rated at 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler of its size. The compatibility with various sockets, including Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM5, further adds to its versatility, making it a compelling choice for builders seeking reliable cooling solutions.

Overview of ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST - PC Fan

The ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST is an affordable and efficient fan priced at just £5.87. Its slim profile, with an installation height of only 15mm, makes it an excellent choice for compact builds or cases where space is limited. The fan operates within a speed range of 200 to 2100 RPM, ensuring optimal performance while maintaining low noise levels.

Designed specifically for high static pressure, the P12 is ideal for use on heat sinks and radiators, ensuring effective cooling even in tight spaces. With an airflow of 34.51 CFM and a noise level of just 0.3 Sone, it balances performance and quiet operation well. This fan is particularly suitable for users looking to optimise airflow in their systems without compromising on noise levels.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is designed for high-end cooling, with a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM from its dual PWM fans. This makes it well-suited for handling intensive CPU tasks, offering robust thermal management during demanding applications such as gaming or video editing.

In contrast, the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST provides a lower airflow of 34.51 CFM but is engineered for static pressure. This means it excels in scenarios where air needs to be pushed through dense heatsinks or radiators. While it may not match the sheer airflow of the Thermalright cooler, it is still an effective option for enhancing cooling in compact setups, particularly where space is limited.

Noise Levels Assessment

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), ensuring that it runs quietly even under load. This is an important consideration for users who prefer a quieter computing environment, particularly in gaming or multimedia scenarios where sound can be distracting.

Meanwhile, the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST is even quieter, producing a noise level of only 0.3 Sone, which is approximately equivalent to 23.5 dB(A). This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritise silence, especially in small form factor builds or office environments. The lower noise level enhances the user experience without sacrificing performance, making it a strong contender for silent PC builds.

Installation and Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel’s LGA1700 and AMD’s AM5. It comes with metal fasteners for both platforms, facilitating a straightforward installation process. The cooler’s dimensions allow it to fit into most cases, although users should ensure adequate clearance for optimal performance.

On the other hand, the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST’s slim design is its standout feature, making it particularly beneficial for builds with limited vertical space. Its installation height of just 15mm allows it to fit in more compact cases where traditional 25mm fans cannot. This flexibility in installation makes it a practical option for users who might be constrained by the dimensions of their cases.

Brand Reputation and Reliability

Thermalright has established a solid reputation over its 20 years of experience in the cooling market. Known for its commitment to research and development, the brand offers products that cater to both mainstream and enthusiast users. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE reflects this commitment, showcasing advanced features aimed at delivering high performance and reliability.

Conversely, ARCTIC is also a well-respected brand within the PC cooling industry, particularly noted for its innovative fan technologies. The P12 Slim PWM PST reflects ARCTIC's dedication to creating efficient products at competitive prices, ensuring that users receive value without sacrificing quality. Both brands have proven track records, making either a reliable choice depending on specific cooling needs.

Price and Value Proposition

With a price of £26.90, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE offers a comprehensive cooling solution that caters to high-performance needs. Its dual-tower design and enhanced cooling capabilities position it well within the mid-range market for CPU coolers, appealing to gamers and enthusiasts alike.

In contrast, the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST is priced at £5.87, making it an extremely budget-friendly option for users looking to enhance airflow in their systems. Its value lies in its versatility and performance in static pressure scenarios. While it may not provide the same level of cooling as the Thermalright unit, its affordability and effectiveness make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious builders.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require robust cooling for high-performance CPUs and can accommodate a larger cooler, the Thermalright model is the clear choice, offering superior airflow and cooling efficiency. However, if you are constrained by space or budget, the ARCTIC fan provides excellent value and performance in compact setups, ensuring that even smaller builds can achieve effective cooling without breaking the bank.