ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse – 3 Pack – vs Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air

Overview

When it comes to enhancing your PC's cooling capabilities, the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse and the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air Cooler are two strong contenders. The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is priced at $18.49 for a pack of three, while the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE is available for $32.90. This represents a price difference of about 44%, making the ARCTIC option significantly more budget-friendly.

The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is designed primarily as a high-performance fan, while the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE functions as a comprehensive CPU air cooling solution. Each product caters to different cooling needs and preferences, which we'll explore in detail.

Design and Aesthetics

The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse features a unique reversed airflow design, making it ideal for glass-fronted cases, where aesthetics are crucial. This design allows the fan to draw air from the backside, reducing visual clutter from conventional fan setups. In contrast, the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE has a dual-tower design with an anodized brushed black top cover, offering a sleek and professional appearance that fits well in various builds.

While the ARCTIC fan focuses on functionality with a minimalist look, the Peerless Assassin emphasizes a more robust appearance with its dual heatsinks and heat pipe configuration. Both designs serve their purposes well, but the choice will depend on whether you prioritize functionality or visual appeal in your PC build.

Performance

In terms of performance, the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse boasts a wide speed range of 500 to 3000 RPM, providing high static pressure that efficiently pushes air through tight spaces, such as dense radiators and mesh panels. This capability makes it particularly effective for cooling in a variety of scenarios. On the other hand, the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE features dual 120mm fans with a maximum speed of 1550 RPM and a rated airflow of 66.17 CFM, contributing to its effective cooling performance.

While the ARCTIC can achieve higher RPM for more aggressive cooling, the Peerless Assassin's dual fans and six heat pipes provide excellent heat dissipation, ensuring your CPU remains at optimal temperatures during demanding tasks. The choice between the two will rely on whether you need a high-speed fan or a more stable cooling solution for your CPU.

Noise Levels

The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is designed for quiet operation, utilizing a smooth-running fluid dynamic bearing (FDB) that minimizes noise during operation. It's particularly well-suited for builds where silence is a priority. While specific noise levels are not provided for the ARCTIC, the emphasis on reducing vibrations suggests it operates quietly, especially at lower RPMs.

In comparison, the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE has a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A) when running at full speed. This level of noise is reasonable for a CPU cooler, but it may not be as quiet as the ARCTIC fan at lower speeds. If noise reduction is a critical factor for your setup, the ARCTIC may have the edge.

Compatibility

The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is a versatile fan, suitable for various case configurations and setups, particularly those requiring reversed airflow. It can easily fit into any custom build without compatibility issues. However, it is essential to ensure that your case can accommodate the 120mm fan size.

The Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851. This extensive compatibility makes it a versatile choice for users upgrading or building systems with different CPU types. However, installation may require specific considerations, such as using the motherboard's built-in backplate for AMD systems.

Installation and Ease of Use

The ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is designed for straightforward installation, making it easy to integrate into existing builds or new setups. Its 4-pin PWM connection allows for simple connectivity to most motherboards, enhancing user-friendliness.

The Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE, while also designed for ease of installation, comes with a more complex structure due to its dual-tower design and multiple heat pipes. Users may need to pay additional attention to compatibility and installation procedures. The included SS2 install system and metal pressure plate enhance contact with the CPU but may require a bit more effort during setup.

Value for Money

In terms of value, the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse offers a compelling price point at $18.49 for three fans, making it about 44% cheaper than the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE, which retails for $32.90. For users looking to enhance airflow without breaking the bank, the ARCTIC is a solid choice.

Conversely, the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE justifies its higher price with robust cooling capabilities and extensive compatibility options, making it suitable for users willing to invest in a more comprehensive CPU cooling solution. It provides excellent performance and build quality, which may be worth the extra cost for serious gamers or content creators.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse and the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE ultimately depends on your specific cooling needs and budget. If you need a cost-effective solution focused on airflow, the ARCTIC P12 Pro Reverse is an excellent choice, offering high static pressure and versatility for various configurations. However, if you require a dedicated CPU cooling solution with superior heat dissipation and compatibility with a range of CPU sockets, the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE may be worth the investment. Each product excels in its domain, making them both valuable additions to any PC build.