Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub with Controller

Overview of the Products

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is designed for high-performance cooling, while the upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub with Controller focuses on optimising fan speed and RGB lighting. Each product serves distinct purposes in a PC build, catering to different needs for cooling efficiency and aesthetic appeal.

Thermalright, with over 20 years of experience, offers a robust air cooler that supports various CPU sockets, including Intel and AMD platforms. On the other hand, upHere’s fan hub enhances the cooling capacity of your PC by connecting multiple fans and providing synchronised RGB lighting, thus appealing to gamers and PC enthusiasts who value both functionality and aesthetics.

Cooling Efficiency

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE shines with its advanced design. It features a double tower cooling system and six heat pipes that efficiently dissipate heat, making it ideal for demanding tasks and overclocking. The cooler can achieve an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A).

In contrast, the upHere fan hub is not a cooling solution itself but enhances the performance of connected fans. It allows for the connection of up to nine fans, optimising cooling capacity through synchronised PWM control. However, it lacks the direct cooling capabilities that the Thermalright cooler provides, making it a supplementary product rather than a primary cooling solution.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE boasts a solid build with a combination of aluminium and pure copper materials. Its dimensions of 125(L)x135(W)x155(H)mm make it a substantial presence in any case, while its aesthetic appeal is further enhanced by its dual fan setup.

Conversely, the upHere fan hub features a compact design, measuring 12x5.5x1.8cm, which is unobtrusive within a case. Its magnetic backing allows for easy attachment to metal surfaces, providing a tidy installation. While the build quality is commendable, it lacks the robust construction of the Thermalright cooler, as it is primarily a plastic hub designed to manage fan connections rather than dissipate heat.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE supports a wide array of CPU sockets, including Intel’s LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and 1851, as well as AMD’s AM4 and AM5. This extensive compatibility ensures that it can cater to a variety of builds, making it a versatile choice for users.

On the other hand, the upHere fan hub is designed to support up to nine fans, with both 4-pin PWM ports and ARGB ports for lighting. This makes it compatible with a broad range of fan models, allowing users to customise their cooling setup easily. However, it does not directly interact with CPU compatibility as the Thermalright cooler does, focusing instead on fan management.

Performance Under Load

In terms of performance under load, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE excels with its ability to maintain low temperatures even during intensive tasks. The double tower design, combined with its six heat pipes, effectively counters the heat generated by CPUs during demanding applications, ensuring optimal performance.

The upHere fan hub, while it does not cool directly, significantly enhances the performance of connected fans. By synchronising fan speeds, it helps maintain optimal airflow, which can indirectly contribute to better overall system temperatures. However, its effectiveness is contingent upon the quality and performance of the fans it controls.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at £26.90, reflecting its high-performance cooling capabilities and advanced engineering. This price point is relatively competitive for a CPU cooler of its calibre, offering great value for users looking for effective cooling solutions.

In contrast, the upHere fan hub is significantly more affordable at £10.99. This lower price makes it a cost-effective option for those who wish to enhance their cooling setup without making a substantial investment. However, prospective buyers should consider that the hub serves a different purpose than a dedicated cooler.

Installation Process

Installation of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE requires careful attention to CPU socket compatibility and mounting methods. It comes equipped with metal fasteners suitable for various Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a secure fit. While the installation may require some technical know-how, the included instructions help simplify the process.

The upHere fan hub offers a much simpler installation experience. With its magnetic design, it can be easily attached to the inside of a PC case without the need for adhesives. Connecting fans via the hub is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice builders looking to expand their cooling options.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the upHere 2 in 1 ARGB Fan Hub ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require a high-performance cooling solution that effectively manages CPU temperatures, the Thermalright cooler is the clear choice. Its design and capabilities are tailored for serious gamers and PC enthusiasts who push their systems to the limit.

However, if your aim is to enhance the aesthetics and cooling efficiency of your existing fan setup without the need for a dedicated CPU cooler, the upHere fan hub provides excellent value. Its ability to support multiple fans and synchronise their operation makes it a fantastic addition to any build focused on airflow and visual appeal.