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Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 1851 V1 vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air

Updated August 2026 — Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 1851 V1 wins on installation and ease of use, Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air wins on compatibility and cooling perf.

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 offers superior cooling performance and compatibility, making it the better choice for most users. However, the Thermal Grizzly contact frame is a more budget-friendly option for Intel Core Ultra Series CPUs.

Why Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 1851 V1 is better

Price

Thermal Grizzly is cheaper by 30%

Installation

Easier installation process

Material

Durable anodized aluminum construction

Why Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air is better

Cooling

Better heat dissipation with dual fans

Compatibility

Supports multiple Intel and AMD sockets

Performance

Advanced AGHP technology for improved cooling

Overall score

Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 1851 V1
75
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air
85

Specifications

SpecThermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 1851 V1Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air
Cooling TypeContact FrameAir Cooler
Fan SpeedN/A2000 RPM
MaterialAluminumAluminum/Copper
Socket CompatibilityLGA1851LGA1851/AM4/AM5
Price$24.99$35.90

Dimension comparison

Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 1851 V1Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air

Overview of Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 1851 V1

The Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 1851 V1 is designed specifically to improve the cooling performance of Intel Core Ultra Series CPUs. Priced at $24.99, this product emphasizes enhanced contact pressure for better thermal management. The installation process is user-friendly, allowing for a quick upgrade to your CPU cooling system. Made from anodized aluminum, it promises durability and high quality, making it a reliable choice for users seeking efficient cooling solutions.

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air Cooler comes in at a higher price point of $35.90. This cooler features a double-tower design with dual 120mm fans, which boosts its heat dissipation capabilities significantly. With six heat pipes and advanced AGHP technology, it is engineered to manage CPU temperatures effectively. Its specifications make it compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring versatility for various builds.

Cooling Performance Comparison

The Thermal Grizzly contact frame focuses on optimizing the contact pressure between the CPU and cooler, which can lead to lower temperatures. This product is particularly beneficial for users with Intel Core Ultra Series processors, as it allows for improved heat dissipation. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin boasts a robust cooling system with dual fans and six heat pipes, designed to handle high thermal loads effectively. The combination of these features allows the Peerless Assassin to cater to users who require substantial cooling, especially during demanding tasks.

Installation Process

Installation is a straightforward affair for both products. The Thermal Grizzly contact frame promotes an easy installation process, allowing users to upgrade their cooling performance quickly. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin also comes with mounting accessories, making it user-friendly. However, it is worth noting that users looking to install it on AMD platforms must use the original backplate of the motherboard. This could add a slight complication compared to the simpler installation of the Thermal Grizzly product.

Material and Build Quality

The build quality of the Thermal Grizzly contact frame is attributed to its anodized aluminum construction, which offers both durability and a sleek finish. This high-quality material ensures that the product can withstand the demands of regular use. Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin utilizes a combination of aluminum and nickel-plated copper in its design. This blend not only enhances heat dissipation but also contributes to the overall longevity of the cooler. Both products prioritize durability, but the choice of materials reflects different design philosophies aimed at cooling efficiency.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a striking feature of both products. The Thermal Grizzly contact frame is specifically designed for Intel Core Ultra 200 Series processors utilizing the LGA1851 socket. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin offers broader compatibility, supporting various Intel sockets (including LGA1851, 1700, 1150, 1151, and 1200) as well as AMD AM4 and AM5 platforms. This versatility may make the Peerless Assassin a more appealing option for users with diverse CPU setups, while the Thermal Grizzly frame is tailored for a specific line of processors.

Price Comparison

When comparing prices, the Thermal Grizzly contact frame is about 30% cheaper than the Thermalright Peerless Assassin, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users looking to enhance their cooling solution. At $24.99, the Thermal Grizzly provides a specialized product for Intel processors, while the Thermalright, priced at $35.90, offers a more comprehensive cooling solution but at a higher cost. This price difference could influence purchasing decisions, especially for those who may not require extensive cooling capabilities.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermal Grizzly - CPU Contact Frame Intel 1851 V1 and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 ultimately depends on your specific needs and setup. If you are focused on optimizing cooling performance for Intel Core Ultra Series CPUs and are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Thermal Grizzly is a solid choice. However, if you require a versatile, high-performance cooler with robust capabilities for various CPU types, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is worth the investment. Consider your needs, compatibility, and budget to make the best decision for your cooling requirements.