Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs ELUTENG Dual USB Fan 120mm 5V

Overview of the Products

When comparing the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler and the ELUTENG Dual USB Fan 120mm 5V, there are distinct differences in their design and intended use. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is a dedicated CPU cooler, while the ELUTENG fan serves as a versatile cooling solution for various devices. Priced at £26.90, the Thermalright cooler aims to provide efficient CPU cooling, whereas the ELUTENG fan, costing £16.99, focuses on general airflow for multiple devices.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin features a robust design with dimensions of 125mm (L) x 135mm (W) x 155mm (H) and weighs 0.97kg. This air cooler includes a double tower cooling system made from aluminium and is equipped with metal fasteners compatible with both Intel and AMD platforms. In contrast, the ELUTENG fan is lighter and more compact, measuring 12cm x 12cm x 2.5cm, and connects to a USB power source. The build quality includes a black metal grill for safety, ensuring durability and a sleek appearance.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin excels with its dual PWM fans, offering an airflow of 66.17 CFM and a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). Its advanced AGHP technique and six heat pipes ensure optimal heat dissipation for CPUs, making it highly effective in maintaining lower temperatures during intensive use. On the other hand, the ELUTENG fan provides an airflow of approximately 56 CFM per fan, with a maximum noise level of 32.5 dB when operating at high speed. While both products are efficient, the Thermalright cooler is specifically designed for CPU cooling, thus surpassing the ELUTENG in terms of performance in this area.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin boasts extensive compatibility with various CPU sockets, including Intel’s LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1200, LGA1700, and AMD’s AM4 and AM5. This makes it suitable for a wide range of CPU models, ensuring users can upgrade their cooling without worrying about compatibility issues. Conversely, the ELUTENG fan is primarily a universal cooling solution that can be used with PCs, laptops, and gaming consoles like PS4 and Xbox. While it offers versatility, it lacks the specific CPU compatibility that the Thermalright cooler provides.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many users. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet, making it suitable for use in environments where noise is a concern. The ELUTENG fan, while having adjustable speed settings, can reach noise levels up to 32.5 dB at its highest setting. This means that while the ELUTENG fan may provide adequate cooling, it is likely to be louder, particularly under maximum load.

Power Source

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is powered directly through the motherboard and operates at a standard 12V, making it a typical air cooler for PCs. It utilises a 4-pin power port for its fans, ensuring a reliable power supply. In contrast, the ELUTENG fan is USB powered, allowing for easy connectivity to any device with a 5V USB port. This feature provides flexibility and convenience, enabling users to connect the fan to various devices without the need for additional power sources.

Price Consideration

With the Thermalright Peerless Assassin priced at £26.90 and the ELUTENG fan at £16.99, there is a clear distinction in their price points. The higher cost of the Thermalright cooler reflects its specialised design and performance capabilities tailored for CPU cooling. In contrast, the ELUTENG fan offers a more budget-friendly option for general cooling applications. Depending on the user's needs, the price difference may be a significant factor in their decision-making process.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler and the ELUTENG Dual USB Fan 120mm 5V comes down to specific user needs. If you require a dedicated and highly efficient CPU cooler with excellent performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is the superior option, especially given its low noise levels and extensive compatibility with CPU sockets. However, if you need a versatile, portable cooling solution for various devices at a lower price point, the ELUTENG fan would be suitable. Each product serves its purpose well, but your specific requirements will dictate the best choice for your setup.