DGZZI AM4 Backplane Back Durable CPU Heatsink vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air

Overview of the Products

The DGZZI AM4 Backplane Back Durable CPU Heatsink Bracket is priced at $7.99, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air Cooler costs $35.90. These products serve different purposes within the realm of CPU cooling, targeting distinct needs and preferences among users.

The DGZZI product is primarily a mounting bracket designed for AMD Socket AM4 CPUs, facilitating the installation of cooling fans. In contrast, the Thermalright cooler is a comprehensive cooling solution featuring a dual-tower structure and multiple heat pipes aimed at maximizing heat dissipation.

Design and Build Quality

The DGZZI AM4 Backplane is constructed from copper and ABS plastic, designed specifically for AMD Socket AM4 motherboards. Its design focuses on longevity and effectiveness in heat dissipation, with a mounting hole spacing of 90x54mm, ensuring a secure fit.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 boasts a more complex design, featuring a double-tower dual-fan structure and six heat pipes. Made from aluminum, it has a refined look with a blackened anodic matte top sheet. This design not only enhances aesthetics but also significantly improves heat dissipation efficiency, making it a more robust choice for serious gamers and PC builders.

Cooling Performance

The DGZZI AM4 Backplane functions mainly as a mounting solution for fans, indirectly influencing cooling performance by ensuring proper fan placement. However, it does not provide any active cooling capabilities itself.

Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 is engineered for superior cooling performance, capable of managing higher thermal loads thanks to its dual fans that can operate at speeds of up to 2000 RPM. This cooler offers an air volume of 70.84 CFM and an air pressure of 2.63 mm H2O, which are impressive figures for effective CPU cooling. Thus, if cooling performance is a priority, the Thermalright model is the clear winner.

Compatibility

The DGZZI AM4 Backplane is specifically tailored for AMD Socket AM4 motherboards, including chipsets like B350, X370, A320, and X470. It’s a straightforward solution for users needing a reliable mounting bracket.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3, however, offers broader compatibility across both AMD and Intel platforms, including AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1851/1700/1150/1151/1200 sockets. This flexibility makes it an attractive option for users who may switch between different CPU types in the future.

Installation Process

Installation of the DGZZI AM4 Backplane is relatively simple, as it replaces existing mounting hardware for the motherboard. The bracket features a small hole that corresponds to the motherboard's pins, ensuring a firm and practical installation.

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 requires a more involved installation process due to its dual-tower design and multiple components. It includes mounting accessories and necessitates the use of the motherboard's original backplate for AMD installations. While this may be a bit more complex, the thorough instructions and included video guidance help streamline the process.

Price and Value

The DGZZI AM4 Backplane is priced at $7.99, making it a budget-friendly option for users simply needing a mounting solution. This is about 78% cheaper than the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3, which retails for $35.90.

However, while the DGZZI product provides value for its specific purpose, the Thermalright cooler justifies its higher price through advanced features, superior cooling performance, and broader compatibility. For users looking for effective cooling solutions, the investment in the Thermalright product may prove worthwhile.

Intended Use and Target Audience

The DGZZI AM4 Backplane is ideal for casual users or those who already have a cooling solution but need to replace or upgrade their mounting hardware. Its straightforward functionality caters to those looking for minimal upgrades without high costs.

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 targets enthusiasts and gamers who demand high-performance cooling solutions. Its advanced features and dual-fan setup make it perfect for high-performance CPU setups, particularly for overclocking scenarios.

Which should you buy?

The choice between the DGZZI AM4 Backplane and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for a simple, budget-friendly mounting solution for your AMD Socket AM4 motherboard, the DGZZI product is suitable at just $7.99. However, if you require a powerful, efficient cooling solution capable of handling intensive workloads and gaming, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 is worth the investment at $35.90. Thus, assess your requirements carefully to determine the best fit for your CPU cooling needs.