DGZZI AM4 Backplane Back Durable CPU Heatsink vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black CPU

Overview of DGZZI AM4 Backplane and Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini

When comparing the DGZZI AM4 Backplane with the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini, the key difference lies in their functionality and intended use. The DGZZI is primarily a mounting bracket designed for AMD Socket AM4 CPUs, while the Thermalright acts as a full CPU cooler solution. At $7.99, the DGZZI is significantly cheaper than the Thermalright, which retails at $34.39, making it about 17% more expensive.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the DGZZI AM4 Backplane emphasizes durability and practicality, featuring a combination of copper and plastic materials that facilitate good heat dissipation. Its construction aims to prevent deformation over time, ensuring a long service life. In comparison, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini boasts a robust design with a fully blackened aluminum body and CNC precision micro-engraved copper base, which not only enhances its aesthetics but also improves heat dissipation efficiency. The Thermalright cooler integrates six heat pipes employing AGHP technology, promising superior cooling performance.

Cooling Efficiency

Cooling efficiency is a strong point of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini, which is designed for effective heat management through its six heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan that operates at a speed of 1500 RPM. This fan can generate an air flow of 66.87 CFM while maintaining a noise level of only 25.6 dB(A), making it a quiet yet powerful option for cooling. In contrast, the DGZZI AM4 Backplane does not offer active cooling features but serves as a solid foundation for attaching compatible cooling systems. Thus, for users needing robust thermal management, the Thermalright cooler is the superior choice.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another critical factor to consider. The DGZZI AM4 Backplane is specifically designed for AMD Socket AM4 motherboards, ensuring a snug fit and reliable mounting. Its installation hole distance is 90x54mm, tailored for AMD chipsets like B350, X370, A320, and X470. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini is versatile, compatible with both AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets as well as a range of Intel sockets including LGA 1150, 1151, 1200, and others. This broader compatibility makes the Thermalright a more flexible option for users with diverse setups.

Installation Process

The installation process for the DGZZI AM4 Backplane is straightforward, as it primarily involves attaching the mounting bracket to the motherboard. However, it does not include a CPU fan, meaning users must source a compatible cooling fan separately. Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini comes with a complete mounting kit and installation instructions, simplifying the setup for users. This comprehensive package is particularly beneficial for those who may lack experience in assembling cooling solutions.

Price and Value Proposition

In terms of price, the DGZZI AM4 Backplane is priced at $7.99, making it an economical choice for those who need a simple mounting solution for their AMD CPU. This low-cost option may appeal to budget-conscious builders or those who already own a compatible cooling fan. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini, at $34.39, represents a higher investment but offers significant value in terms of performance and versatility. The price difference is justified by the comprehensive cooling capabilities that the Thermalright provides, making it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers or high-performance users.

Brand Reputation

Brand reputation plays a significant role in consumer decision-making. DGZZI is known for producing specialized components that cater specifically to AMD users, but it lacks the extensive market presence of Thermalright. Thermalright has over 20 years of experience in the cooling market and is recognized for its innovative products, including the Peerless Assassin series. This established reputation may give potential buyers more confidence in the Thermalright cooler’s performance and reliability.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the DGZZI AM4 Backplane and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini hinges on your specific needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly mounting solution for an existing AMD cooler, the DGZZI's price of $7.99 is appealing. However, if you require a complete and efficient cooling solution capable of handling demanding tasks, the Thermalright cooler at $34.39 offers better performance, versatility, and reliability. For most users seeking effective cooling, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini is the recommended choice.