Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright TL-M12QR-S X3 Wireless Splicing Reverse Case Fan-120mm Quiet

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will look at the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright TL-M12QR-S X3 Wireless Splicing Reverse Case Fan. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £26.90, while the TL-M12QR-S is slightly more affordable at £20.59. Both are manufactured by Thermalright, a reputable brand with over 20 years of experience in the cooling solutions market.

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE is designed primarily for CPU cooling, featuring a dual tower design and advanced cooling technologies. On the other hand, the TL-M12QR-S is a case fan that focuses on providing efficient airflow and aesthetic ARGB lighting effects. Each product serves a distinct purpose within a computer cooling setup.

Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE takes the lead with its double tower cooling design and six heat pipes. It boasts a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM and operates at a noise level of up to 25.6 dB(A), making it effective for high-performance CPUs. In contrast, the TL-M12QR-S offers a maximum airflow of 47.6 CFM and operates at a quieter noise level of 23.2 dB(A). While the TL-M12QR-S is quieter, its lower airflow may not be sufficient for demanding CPU cooling needs, making the Peerless Assassin the better choice for performance-focused builds.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE features a robust design with dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, constructed with an aluminium heat sink and copper heat pipes. This ensures efficient heat dissipation and durability over time. The TL-M12QR-S has a smaller footprint at 124mm x 120mm x 25mm and employs a unique 7-blade design, which not only enhances airflow but also reduces noise levels. Both products are built to a high standard, but the Peerless Assassin's larger size and dual tower configuration give it an edge in thermal performance.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial when selecting cooling solutions. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel’s LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, and LGA1851, as well as AMD’s AM4 and AM5 sockets. This versatility makes it suitable for various builds. Conversely, the TL-M12QR-S is primarily a case fan and can be easily integrated into most cases that support 120mm fans. While both products offer good compatibility, the Peerless Assassin's extensive socket support adds to its appeal for users looking to cool a variety of CPU types.

Installation Process

The installation process for both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the TL-M12QR-S is designed to be user-friendly. The Peerless Assassin comes with metal fasteners that facilitate easy installation on both Intel and AMD platforms. The case fan, TL-M12QR-S, features a wireless splicing design, which simplifies wiring and reduces cable clutter inside a chassis. While both products are straightforward to install, the Peerless Assassin may require slightly more effort due to its larger size and dual-tower structure.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise levels, the TL-M12QR-S has a slight advantage, operating at a maximum of 23.2 dB(A), compared to the Peerless Assassin's 25.6 dB(A). This makes the TL-M12QR-S a better option for users who prioritise a quiet computing experience. However, the difference in noise levels may not be significant enough to outweigh the Peerless Assassin's superior cooling performance, especially in high-demand scenarios.

Aesthetic Appeal

The TL-M12QR-S excels in terms of aesthetic appeal with its ARGB lighting effects. The fan features a circular infinite mirror design that reflects light from its multi-layer blades, creating a visually stunning effect. While the Peerless Assassin does not focus on RGB lighting, its sleek design still complements modern builds. If you are looking to enhance the visual aspects of your build with dynamic lighting, the TL-M12QR-S is the better choice.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the TL-M12QR-S comes down to your specific cooling needs and preferences. If you require superior CPU cooling performance and compatibility with a wide range of sockets, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE at £26.90 is the clear winner. However, if you are looking for a quieter operation and an aesthetically pleasing case fan at a lower price of £20.59, the TL-M12QR-S may be more suitable for your setup. Consider your priorities in performance versus aesthetics to make the best choice for your build.