Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is a robust air cooler priced at £26.90, designed for effective CPU cooling. With dimensions of 125(L)x135(W)x155(H)mm, it features a double tower cooling design that elevates its thermal performance. The cooler is equipped with two PWM fans, each capable of generating an airflow of 66.17 CFM, maintaining a noise level beneath 25.6 dB(A). This combination allows the Peerless Assassin to provide substantial cooling while ensuring quiet operation.

The cooler employs an Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe (AGHP) technique with six 6mm heat pipes, enhancing its ability to dissipate heat efficiently regardless of the cooler's orientation. Its compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets makes it a versatile choice for various builds.

Overview of Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright AXP90-X47, priced at £41.90, is a low-profile cooler ideal for compact builds. Measuring 94.5×95×47mm, it stands out due to its slim design, making it particularly suited for ITX cases. The cooler features a single 92mm PWM fan that can reach speeds of up to 2700 RPM, producing an airflow of 42.58 CFM and maintaining a noise level of 22.4 dB(A).

This cooler also utilises the AGHP technique, featuring four 6mm heat pipes that enhance its cooling efficiency. It is compatible with both Intel and AMD sockets, making it a flexible option for users looking to save space without sacrificing performance.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE stands out with its higher airflow capacity of 66.17 CFM compared to the AXP90-X47's 42.58 CFM. This difference indicates a superior potential for heat dissipation, making the Peerless Assassin more effective in intense gaming or heavy-load scenarios.

Additionally, the double tower design of the Peerless Assassin allows for a larger surface area, contributing to its enhanced cooling capabilities. The AXP90-X47, while efficient in its own right, is primarily designed for compact builds, which inherently limits its cooling potential when compared to the more robust Peerless Assassin.

Noise Levels and Operation

In terms of noise levels, both coolers operate quietly, but the Peerless Assassin has a slightly higher noise rating of 25.6 dB(A) compared to the AXP90-X47’s 22.4 dB(A). This results in a quieter operation, making the AXP90-X47 more appealing for users who prioritise silence in their systems, particularly in home theatre setups or office environments.

However, the noise difference is marginal, and for many users, the cooling performance of the Peerless Assassin may justify the slight increase in noise level. Ultimately, the choice may depend on whether the user prefers maximum cooling performance over minimal noise.

Size and Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE has a larger footprint, making it suitable for mid-tower and larger cases, while the Thermalright AXP90-X47 is specifically designed for small form factor builds, with a height of only 47mm. This makes the AXP90-X47 ideal for ITX and HTPC setups where space is at a premium.

Both coolers support a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring compatibility with contemporary CPUs. However, users with limited space may find the AXP90-X47 to be the more appropriate option, as it eliminates memory clearance issues often associated with larger coolers.

Build Quality and Design

Both coolers exhibit high build quality, with the Peerless Assassin featuring a double tower design made from aluminium and equipped with metal fasteners for secure installation. The AXP90-X47, on the other hand, is crafted from pure copper, which enhances its oxidation resistance and thermal conductivity.

The choice of materials impacts not only the performance but also the aesthetic appeal of each cooler. The Peerless Assassin’s design may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial cooling solution, while the AXP90-X47’s low-profile design is attractive for users looking for a sleek look in compact setups.

Price and Value for Money

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £26.90, which offers excellent value for the level of cooling performance it delivers. In contrast, the AXP90-X47 is more expensive at £41.90, reflecting its specialised design for small form factor systems.

While the AXP90-X47 may seem pricier, its low-profile design and effective cooling capabilities can justify the cost for users specifically needing a compact solution. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's specific needs and budget considerations.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the AXP90-X47 ultimately hinges on your specific requirements. If you are looking for superior cooling performance and have space for a larger cooler, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner with its effective design and lower price point.

Conversely, if you are constrained by space and need a low-profile solution, the AXP90-X47 is an excellent choice, offering solid performance in a compact form factor, albeit at a higher price. Each cooler has its strengths, so consider your build requirements and personal preferences when making a decision.