Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air

Introduction to Thermalright CPU Coolers

When it comes to cooling your CPU, choosing the right air cooler can significantly affect performance and noise levels. In this comparison, we will focus on two popular models from Thermalright: the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air Cooler. Both coolers have unique features tailored to different user needs, making them worthy contenders in the CPU cooler market.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is priced at $19.82, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 costs $35.90. This makes the Assassin King about 45% cheaper than its counterpart. The significant price difference could appeal to budget-conscious users or those looking for a solid performance without breaking the bank. However, it’s important to consider whether the price reflects the performance and features you need for your specific setup.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE features a sleek white ARGB design with dimensions of 120mm x 73mm x 148mm. It utilizes five heat pipes and weighs 0.64 kg, showcasing a robust yet lightweight build. On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 boasts a more complex design with its double-tower structure, measuring 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, and incorporates six heat pipes. The build quality of the Peerless Assassin is enhanced by its nickel-plated copper bottom and anodized exterior, providing a premium look and feel.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a crucial aspect of any CPU cooler. The Thermalright Assassin King features a TL-C12CW-S PWM fan with a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, delivering an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). In contrast, the Peerless Assassin utilizes dual 120mm fans that can reach speeds up to 2000 RPM, generating an airflow of 70.84 CFM with a noise level of 29.8 dB(A). This indicates that while the Peerless Assassin may operate slightly louder, it also offers a higher cooling capacity, which may benefit high-performance setups or overclocking scenarios.

Compatibility

Both coolers boast broad compatibility with a variety of CPU sockets. The Assassin King supports Intel sockets LGA 115X, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4, making it versatile for most modern builds. The Peerless Assassin expands upon this compatibility, supporting Intel’s LGA 1851, 1700, and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets. This wider compatibility may be appealing to users looking to future-proof their cooling solution or those with specific motherboard requirements.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be user-friendly, but there are some differences to note. The Thermalright Assassin King comes with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, facilitating an easy setup. Conversely, the Peerless Assassin includes a mounting system that requires users to utilize the original backplate of the motherboard for AMD installations. This may add a slight complexity to the installation process, especially for those unfamiliar with CPU cooler setups.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetic considerations are often important for PC builders who want their setups to look as good as they perform. The Thermalright Assassin King’s white ARGB lighting adds a modern touch, making it visually appealing in a well-lit case. The Peerless Assassin, while also attractive, features a more understated design, focusing on its dual-tower structure and blackened anodic matte finish. Depending on personal taste and the overall theme of your build, one cooler may stand out more than the other.

Noise Levels

While both coolers are designed to operate quietly, they do have different noise profiles. The Thermalright Assassin King runs at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), providing a whisper-quiet experience suitable for users who prioritize silence. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin has a slightly higher noise level of 29.8 dB(A) due to its higher RPM and airflow capacity. For users who value performance over absolute silence, the Peerless Assassin may still be an acceptable choice, while those sensitive to noise might prefer the quieter operation of the Assassin King.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, choosing between the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with solid performance and lower noise levels, the Assassin King may be the right choice for you at $19.82. However, if you require superior cooling performance for high-demand applications, and are willing to invest more, the Peerless Assassin at $35.90 offers advanced features and a more robust design. Consider your cooling requirements, budget, and aesthetic preferences carefully to make an informed decision.