ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse – 3 Pack – vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air
Updated August 2026 — ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse – 3 Pack – wins on design and performance, Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air wins on compatibility.
The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse offers excellent value and quiet operation, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin excels in CPU cooling performance. Choose based on your specific needs.
Why ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse – 3 Pack – is better
Price
ARCTIC is significantly cheaper at $18.49 vs $38.90
Noise
ARCTIC operates quieter with hydrodynamic bearing
Design
ARCTIC's reversed airflow is ideal for aesthetic builds
Why Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air is better
Cooling
Thermalright has a higher TDP of 245W
Build Quality
Thermalright features a dual-tower design for better heat dissipation
Compatibility
Thermalright supports more CPU socket types
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse – 3 Pack – | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $18.49 | $38.90 |
| Airflow | High | Very High |
| Bearing | FDB | PWM |
| Fan Count | 3 | 2 |
| TDP | N/A | 245W |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Products
The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is priced at $18.49 for a three-pack, making it a cost-effective choice for premium cooling. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler is priced at $38.90, offering a comprehensive cooling solution for CPUs. The price difference between the two products is about 110%, with the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse being the more economical option for those looking to enhance airflow in their builds.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse features a unique reversed airflow system, which is ideal for glass-fronted PC cases. Its sleek black design does not compromise aesthetics, appealing to users who prioritize visual appeal in their builds. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black has a robust construction with a dual-tower design and an aluminum heatsink cover, ensuring durability and effective heat dissipation. The effective heat dissipation area measures 9600cm², highlighting its capability to manage heat efficiently.
Cooling Performance
The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse excels in static pressure, generating airflow that penetrates dense radiators and mesh structures effectively. Operating within a speed range of 500 to 3000 RPM, this fan can stop entirely at less than 5% PWM, ensuring quieter operation during low-demand situations. In comparison, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin boasts a TDP of 245W, supported by six heat pipes and dual PWM fans that can reach a maximum speed of 1500 RPM. The combination of these features makes it particularly adept at maintaining lower CPU temperatures under heavy loads.
Noise Levels
In terms of noise levels, the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse operates with a hydrodynamic bearing that minimizes operational noise, making it ideal for users who prefer a quieter computing environment. Its design results in long-lasting performance with reduced vibrations. Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black has a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet but may be slightly noisier than the ARCTIC fan under certain conditions. This makes the ARCTIC fan a more suitable choice for silence-oriented builds.
Installation and Compatibility
The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is designed to be straightforward to install, particularly due to its fan nature that fits various builds easily. Its Y cable splitter allows for flexible installation options, which can be advantageous in complex setups. On the contrary, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin supports a wide range of socket types, including Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM4/AM5, and comes equipped with metal fasteners for secure installation. This adaptability makes it a versatile choice for users with different CPU platforms.
User Experience
The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is known for its smooth running and efficient performance, attributed to its precise manufacturing processes that reduce vibrations and enhance longevity. Users can expect reliable cooling without excessive noise, contributing to a positive experience overall. Meanwhile, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black has received positive feedback for its excellent cooling capabilities and design, especially when it comes to handling high thermal loads. However, its larger size may require more consideration during installation.
Price Comparison
The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is priced at $18.49 for a three-pack, which breaks down to approximately $6.16 per fan. This price point is significantly lower than the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black, which stands at $38.90 for a single unit. This represents a 110% price difference, making the ARCTIC option not only more affordable but also a better value for users looking to enhance airflow across multiple fans in their systems.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for cost-effective, quiet fans that provide excellent airflow, the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is the clear winner. Its unique reversed airflow design and ability to operate quietly make it an ideal choice for aesthetic builds. However, if you require a robust CPU cooler that can handle high thermal loads and are willing to spend more for enhanced cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is worth considering.