ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB - AIO CPU vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air

Overview of the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB is a high-performance AIO CPU cooler designed for powerful heat dissipation. Priced at $94.99, this cooler incorporates advanced features such as a PWM pump and an integrated VRM fan, making it suitable for both AMD AM5/AM4 and Intel LGA 1851/1700 CPUs. With a 38 mm radiator and three 120 mm fans, it offers excellent cooling efficiency, especially under high loads.

The standout feature of this cooler is its optimized contact pressure distribution, ensuring better heat dissipation and a longer CPU lifespan. The native offset mounting positions the cold plate closer to the CPU hotspot, enhancing the cooling performance. Additionally, the integrated cable management simplifies installation, providing a cleaner look inside the case.

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is an affordable air cooler priced at $38.90, making it about 59% cheaper than the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro. It features six heat pipes and comes equipped with dual PWM fans, which enhance airflow and cooling performance. This cooler is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA 1700 and AM4/AM5.

With dimensions of 125(L)x135(W)x157(H) mm, the Peerless Assassin boasts a robust aluminum heatsink cover that contributes to its effective heat dissipation area of 9600 cm². The AGHP technology in its six heat pipes allows for improved thermal performance, making it a solid option for mid-range builds. The combination of dual fans also translates to better cooling efficiency while maintaining a noise level of less than 25.6 dB(A).

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB is designed for extreme efficiency with its three fans and larger radiator. The PWM-controlled fans are engineered to deliver higher airflow, especially under load, which is crucial for high-performance CPUs. This cooling solution is ideal for gaming or resource-intensive applications.

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black, while effective for general use, lacks the same level of performance under heavy loads due to its smaller design and fewer fans. However, its dual fan setup and AGHP technology still offer commendable cooling capabilities for standard usage. Users should consider their cooling needs based on their CPU's TDP and usage scenarios when choosing between the two.

Noise Levels

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro is designed to operate quietly even under load, thanks to its advanced fan technology. This cooler prioritizes not only performance but also a quieter operation, which is critical for users who prefer a silent PC experience. The integrated VRM fan also helps maintain low noise levels by only operating when necessary.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black also boasts low noise levels, with its fans operating at a maximum of 1500 RPM and producing noise levels below 25.6 dB(A). This makes it suitable for users seeking a quieter air cooling solution. However, under heavy load, the sound profile may differ, and users should weigh how much noise they are willing to tolerate based on their cooling demands.

Installation Process

The installation process for the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB is designed to be user-friendly, thanks to its integrated cable management and optimized mounting system. The native offset mounting for both Intel and AMD CPUs simplifies the installation process and contributes to its overall efficiency.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black also features a relatively straightforward installation process with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. However, its larger dual tower design may require more space within the case, which is a consideration for users with limited room.

Aesthetics

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB offers a modern aesthetic with its A-RGB lighting, making it an attractive choice for users who appreciate visual appeal in their builds. The sleek black finish and RGB lighting can complement any build, providing a stunning visual experience.

Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black features a simple yet elegant design with a black aluminum heatsink cover. While it lacks the RGB elements of the ARCTIC model, its understated appearance can still appeal to users who prefer a more classic look.

Price Comparison

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB is priced at $94.99, making it a premium choice for users looking for top-tier cooling performance. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is priced at $38.90, making it a great budget-friendly option. The significant price difference—about $56.09—means that buyers should assess their budget and cooling needs carefully.

While the ARCTIC cooler offers superior performance, the Thermalright cooler provides excellent value for those not requiring extreme cooling capabilities.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 360 A-RGB and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you seek high-performance cooling with advanced features and are willing to invest, the ARCTIC model is the clear choice. However, for users looking for a reliable and cost-effective cooling solution, the Thermalright cooler stands out as an excellent alternative. Consider your CPU's cooling requirements, case compatibility, and aesthetic preferences to make the best decision for your build.