Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler offers a robust cooling solution with a price of £26.90. As a product from a brand with over 20 years of experience in computer accessories, it utilises advanced cooling technology suitable for both Intel and AMD platforms. The cooler features double PWM fans that operate at a speed of 1550 RPM, providing airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of no more than 25.6 dB(A). This model is designed to ensure efficient heat dissipation, making it a solid choice for gamers and PC builders alike.

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE's design includes 6×6mm heat pipes, which employ the AGHP technique to tackle the inverse gravity effect in various orientations. Weighing 0.97 kg, this air cooler is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, ensuring flexibility for users who may upgrade their systems in the future.

Overview of Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 Water Cooling CPU Cooler is priced at £44.99, reflecting its advanced water-cooling technology. This cooler features a 240mm black aluminium fin cold plate and a water block with a full copper mirror plane base, which work together to reduce resistance and enhance cooling efficiency. Notably, the pump head operates at a speed of up to 5300 RPM, ensuring optimal thermal performance during demanding tasks.

In addition to its cooling capabilities, the Frozen Notte 240 boasts ARGB lighting that synchronises with the motherboard, creating a visually striking setup with a colourful display. This cooler is designed to support an extensive range of CPU sockets, including both Intel and AMD models, making it a versatile choice for various builds. Users will appreciate the attention to detail in its construction, which includes high-strength materials for durability.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 has a clear edge over the Peerless Assassin 120 SE. The water-cooling system of the Frozen Notte 240, with its 240mm radiator, is designed to handle high thermal loads more effectively than the air-cooling solution of the Peerless Assassin. The pump speed of 5300 RPM offers superior cooling capabilities compared to the maximum fan speed of 1550 RPM achieved by the Peerless Assassin.

The air cooler’s performance is commendable with up to 66.17 CFM airflow, but the efficiency of liquid cooling generally surpasses that of air cooling, especially in overclocked scenarios or high-performance gaming. Thus, for users prioritising cooling efficiency, the Frozen Notte 240 is the preferable option.

Noise Levels and Operating Conditions

In terms of noise levels, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE operates at a maximum of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet, making it suitable for users who prefer a silent computing environment. The dual PWM fans designed for this cooler are optimised for minimal noise while still delivering effective airflow.

Conversely, while the Frozen Notte 240 does not specify an exact noise level, water coolers typically operate quieter than air coolers under load due to the nature of their design. The focus on high-performance cooling in the Frozen Notte 240 suggests it may operate with less perceived noise, especially given its high pump speed. Therefore, while both coolers aim for low noise, the Peerless Assassin provides a concrete figure for users concerned about sound levels.

Compatibility and Installation

The compatibility of both coolers is extensive, with the Peerless Assassin supporting Intel sockets LGA1150 through 1700 and AMD AM4 and AM5. This makes it a flexible option for users with a variety of setups. The inclusion of appropriate mounting hardware also simplifies the installation process, ensuring that even novice builders can install it with ease.

The Frozen Notte 240 supports a wider range of sockets, including more legacy options such as LGA2011 and LGA2066, alongside modern platforms. This extensive compatibility, combined with a dual platform full metal black buckle for installation, makes it an attractive choice for users planning to build or upgrade their systems. However, potential buyers should ensure their chassis width exceeds 250mm to accommodate the radiator.

Aesthetics and Design

In terms of aesthetics, the Thermalright Frozen Notte 240 stands out with its ARGB lighting, which allows for customisation and synchronisation with other RGB components in a build. This feature not only enhances the visual appeal of the cooler but also contributes to a cohesive look in systems where aesthetics play a significant role.

In contrast, the Peerless Assassin has a more utilitarian design that focuses on performance rather than flashy features. While it is functional and well-built, it lacks the visual flair offered by the Frozen Notte. Thus, for users who place a high value on the appearance of their build, the Frozen Notte 240 may be the more appealing choice.

Price and Value for Money

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £26.90, making it an affordable choice for those on a budget or for users who do not require extreme cooling solutions. Its performance is commendable for the price, providing solid cooling for most average gaming and computing needs.

On the other hand, the Frozen Notte 240, at £44.99, represents a more significant investment. However, this price is justified by its advanced cooling capabilities, extensive compatibility, and aesthetic features. For users who are serious about their cooling needs and who appreciate the added value of ARGB lighting, the investment in the Frozen Notte 240 may be worthwhile.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the Frozen Notte 240 Black ARGB V2 comes down to individual needs and preferences. If you prioritise affordability and a quieter operation, the Peerless Assassin is a solid choice. However, if superior cooling performance and aesthetics are your main concerns, the Frozen Notte 240 offers significant advantages. For high-performance users, the extra cost of the Frozen Notte 240 is likely to be a worthwhile investment.