Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 13th & vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air

Overview of the Products

The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is priced at $19.99, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air Cooler retails for $35.90. The price difference between them is $15.91, making the Peerless Assassin about 80% more expensive than the Thermal Grizzly. While both products aim to enhance CPU performance, they cater to different aspects of cooling technology.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is constructed from anodized aluminum, ensuring durability and high product quality. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 features a double-tower design with aluminum heatsink covers and six heat pipes. Its structure is engineered to maximize heat dissipation efficiency, featuring a blackened anodic matte top sheet and nickel-plated copper bottoms. The Peerless Assassin’s dual fans and complex build make it a more robust solution for those requiring extensive cooling.

Installation Process

When it comes to installation, the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame boasts an easy installation process, allowing users to enhance their cooling performance with minimal hassle. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 includes mounting accessories and installation instructions, making it user-friendly as well. However, it does require the original motherboard backplate for AMD installations. Both products are designed for straightforward setup, but the Thermal Grizzly may appeal more to those looking for quick upgrades.

Cooling Performance

The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is designed to optimize CPU contact pressure, which can lead to lower temperatures and improved cooling performance. It features a special inner contour that distributes pressure evenly, addressing issues like concave curvature. Meanwhile, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 employs a dual-fan setup that can reach speeds of 2000 RPM, providing impressive air volume and pressure for heat dissipation. The Peerless Assassin thus may offer superior cooling for high-performance builds, while the Thermal Grizzly frames the contact pressure more effectively.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial when selecting a cooling solution. The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is engineered specifically for Intel's 13th and 14th generation processors, targeting users who are upgrading their CPU coolers within that range. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 is compatible with a broader spectrum of platforms, including both Intel (LGA 1851, 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200) and AMD (AM4/AM5) systems. This versatility makes the Peerless Assassin an attractive option for users with diverse system configurations.

Noise Levels

The Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame does not specify noise levels, focusing instead on performance characteristics. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3, however, operates with an impressive noise level of ≤29.8 dB, which is quiet for a cooler of its capacity. The Peerless Assassin’s dual PWM fans adapt their speeds based on motherboard temperature, aiming to maintain an optimal balance between cooling performance and noise output. Therefore, if noise levels are a significant concern, the Thermalright may be the better choice.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

In terms of price-to-performance ratio, the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame is priced at $19.99, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to enhance their cooling setup without breaking the bank. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3, at $35.90, represents about a 80% increase in cost, which could be justified by its advanced cooling features and broader compatibility. Users need to consider whether the additional investment in the Peerless Assassin aligns with their performance requirements.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermal Grizzly CPU Contact Frame and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 depends largely on your specific needs. If you seek a simple, cost-effective upgrade for Intel 13th or 14th generation CPUs, the Thermal Grizzly may be the way to go at $19.99. However, if you require extensive cooling capabilities, compatibility with various platforms, and advanced features like dual fans and lower noise levels, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3, priced at $35.90, could offer superior performance worth the investment.