Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 Air CPU Cooler

Brand Overview

Thermalright and be quiet! are both established brands in the cooling market, but they cater to slightly different segments. Thermalright has over 20 years of experience and is renowned for its focus on innovation and performance in computer accessories. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is a representation of this ethos, appealing to gamers and enthusiasts alike. On the other hand, be quiet! is known for its premium cooling solutions designed for silent operation. The be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 Air CPU Cooler is positioned as a high-end option, primarily targeting users who prioritise quiet performance without compromising on cooling efficiency.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE features a double tower cooling design with an aluminium heat sink, measuring 125mm x 135mm x 155mm. This design allows for efficient heat dissipation while maintaining a compact form factor. The cooler weighs 0.97kg, making it lightweight yet sturdy. Conversely, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 boasts a more premium look with its special black coating and ceramic particles, enhancing both aesthetics and performance. It features 7 copper heat pipes and weighs a heftier 1.2kg, indicating robust build quality. The distinct design of the Dark Rock Pro 5 is not only visually appealing but also functional, contributing to its cooling performance.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a critical factor for any CPU cooler. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE utilises 6 copper heat pipes and double PWM fans that can achieve speeds of up to 1550rpm, delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A). This combination ensures effective heat management for CPUs under load. In comparison, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 takes cooling to another level with its advanced design. It features two Silent Wings PWM fans that can reach speeds of up to 2000rpm in Performance Mode, allowing for superior cooling, especially in overclocked scenarios. This cooler is designed to handle extreme conditions, making it suitable for users pushing their systems to the limit.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are often a deciding factor for consumers. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is impressively quiet for a cooler of its capability. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prefer a silent PC experience. The be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5, however, offers versatility with its Speed Switch that allows users to toggle between Quiet Mode and Performance Mode. In Quiet Mode, the fans operate at a maximum of 1500rpm, while in Performance Mode, they can reach up to 2000rpm. This flexibility means that users can choose the balance between noise and cooling performance that best suits their needs.

Compatibility

Compatibility is essential when selecting a CPU cooler, and both options provide extensive support for various CPU sockets. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is compatible with multiple Intel sockets including LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, and LGA1851, as well as AMD sockets AM4 and AM5. This wide compatibility makes it a versatile choice for many builds. The be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 also supports a range of sockets, ensuring it can be used with a variety of modern CPUs. However, the specifics of the supported sockets were not detailed, which could be a consideration for users with specific requirements.

Installation Process

The installation process can greatly affect user experience. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE comes with metal fasteners designed for both Intel and AMD platforms, which simplifies the installation process. It is designed to allow for easy mounting without obstructing RAM slots. On the other hand, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 features a simple and elegant installation concept with a detachable mesh top cover and a pre-installed mounting bridge. This thoughtful design not only aids in installation but also aligns with the cooler's overall aesthetic. Both coolers aim to provide user-friendly installation experiences, but the be quiet! cooler may have an edge with its refined mounting kit.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant factor when comparing these two coolers. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £26.90, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious builders looking for solid cooling performance. In contrast, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 is significantly more expensive, retailing at £75.99. This price reflects its premium features and high-end design, targeting users who are willing to invest more for superior performance and aesthetics. The substantial price difference means that potential buyers must weigh their cooling needs against their budget constraints.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are seeking a cost-effective solution that offers reliable cooling performance and a quieter operation, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is a commendable choice. However, if you have a larger budget and require high-end cooling capabilities along with exceptional aesthetics, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 is arguably the superior option. Each cooler has its strengths, catering to different users within the PC building community.