Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs TR-Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB White CPU Cooler Air with 6X6mm Heatpipes

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is a well-constructed cooling solution priced at £26.90. This model boasts a dual-tower design and is built with six 6mm heat pipes, utilising Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe (AGHP) technology. This technology significantly improves heat dissipation efficiency, particularly in vertical or horizontal orientations. With a weight of 0.97kg, it is relatively lightweight, which aids in easy installation without putting undue stress on the CPU socket.

The cooler operates with a pair of 120mm PWM fans that can reach speeds of up to 1550 RPM, delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A). This combination ensures effective cooling while remaining relatively quiet, making it suitable for both gaming and professional setups. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring versatility across different platforms.

Overview of the TR-Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB White

The TR-Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB White CPU Cooler is a premium option priced at £35.89, offering advanced features and aesthetic appeal. This cooler is slightly larger than its counterpart, measuring 138x125x162mm, and includes dual fans with a speed of 1850 RPM, which can generate an impressive airflow of 88.89 CFM. This enhanced airflow is beneficial for maintaining optimal CPU temperatures during heavy workloads or gaming sessions.

The cooler also incorporates the latest AGHP heat pipe technology, optimising the heat dissipation performance for dual-platform CPUs. It is designed with a digital display board and a sleek white aesthetic, adding a modern touch to any build. The TR-Peerless Assassin 120 is compatible with a wide array of CPU sockets, similar to its competitor, ensuring broad applicability across systems.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the TR-Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB White has a clear advantage. With a maximum airflow of 88.89 CFM and fan speeds reaching 1850 RPM, it can effectively dissipate heat more efficiently than the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE, which offers 66.17 CFM at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM. This difference in airflow is significant, particularly for users who push their CPUs to the limit during intense gaming or multitasking.

Both coolers utilise advanced heat pipe technology to enhance their cooling capabilities. However, the TR model’s 5.0 version of AGHP technology is designed to address the inverse gravity effect more effectively, which can be crucial for maintaining performance in various orientations. Overall, if cooling efficiency is your main concern, the TR-Peerless Assassin 120 clearly stands out.

Noise Levels and Operation

When it comes to noise levels, both coolers are quite competitive, maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A) during operation. This makes both options relatively quiet, suitable for users looking to maintain a peaceful working or gaming environment. However, despite the similar noise ratings, the TR-Peerless Assassin 120 operates at a slightly higher fan speed, which could potentially lead to more noise under extreme conditions.

The design of both coolers also plays a role in noise reduction. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is equipped with metal fasteners that promote stability and reduce vibrations, while the TR model features soft corner pads on the fans to minimise vibration noise. This attention to detail in both designs helps ensure that users enjoy a quiet experience, regardless of which cooler they choose.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers offer broad compatibility with modern CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA1150 through LGA1851 and AMD's AM4 and AM5. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE weighs 0.97kg and features a straightforward installation process, supported by metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. This makes it an excellent choice for DIY builders.

On the other hand, the TR-Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB White, although slightly heavier and larger, comes with dual-platform mounting clips that facilitate installation across various setups. Its overall height of 162mm ensures compatibility with most ATX chassis. Thus, both products cater to a wide audience, but the additional features in the TR model provide a more user-friendly installation experience.

Aesthetic Appeal

In terms of aesthetics, the TR-Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB White takes the lead with its modern design. Featuring a digital display board and an elegant white finish, it not only performs well but also enhances the visual appeal of any build. The ARGB lighting allows for customisation, adding a personal touch that many gamers and PC builders appreciate.

Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE, while functional and efficient, lacks the visual flair of its counterpart. Its design is more utilitarian, focusing on performance rather than aesthetics. For users prioritising style, the TR model is a clear winner, while those focused solely on performance may find the Thermalright sufficient.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £26.90, making it a more budget-friendly option for those looking for reliable CPU cooling without breaking the bank. In comparison, the TR-Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB White is available for £35.89, which reflects its advanced features and aesthetic enhancements.

While the price difference is notable, the additional cost of the TR model can be justified by its superior performance, aesthetic appeal, and enhanced features. For users who can stretch their budget, the TR option offers value that aligns with its price.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the TR-Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB White ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly cooler that performs well and is easy to install, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is an excellent choice.

However, if you desire superior cooling performance, aesthetic appeal, and additional features, the TR-Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB White is worth the extra investment. It excels in airflow, incorporates advanced technology, and offers a modern design that can elevate your PC build. Thus, for most users, especially gamers and high-performance PC builders, the TR model is the preferred option.