Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Cooler, 4× vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX ARGB

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 CPU Cooler is priced at $16.59, making it an economical option for users seeking effective cooling solutions. This cooler features four 6mm heat pipes and a 120mm RGB PWM fan that operates at a speed of 1550 RPM. The design is compact, with dimensions of 120mm x 71mm x 148mm, making it suitable for medium-sized computer cases. The fan is designed to operate quietly, with a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A), which is ideal for users who prioritize a quiet computing environment.

The Assassin X 120R SE V2 is built with quality in mind, utilizing S-FDB bearings that minimize fan noise while maximizing cooling performance. This cooler is compatible with both AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851 sockets, providing versatility for various builds.

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX ARGB Black CPU Cooler

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler has a significantly higher price of $57.69, positioning it as a premium option. This cooler boasts a dual-tower design with a 2150 RPM fan that delivers superior cooling performance. The overall dimensions are 125mm x 135mm x 164mm, which allows it to fit in most mainstream ATX cases.

Notably, this cooler features a 5-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 480x854, providing real-time monitoring of system parameters. The dual fans and six pure copper heat pipes enhance its cooling efficiency significantly, with an airflow of 69 CFM and a noise level of 27 dB(A). It is designed to support the latest Intel and AMD CPU sockets, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of systems.

Cooling Performance Comparison

The cooling performance of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX is superior due to its dual-tower design and higher fan speed of 2150 RPM, compared to the Assassin X 120R SE V2's 1550 RPM. The Peerless model offers an airflow of 69 CFM, while the Assassin X provides a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM. This translates to a noticeable difference in cooling efficiency, especially for high-performance CPUs during intensive tasks.

Additionally, the Peerless cooler's six heat pipes and nickel-plated copper base enhance thermal conductivity, making it more effective at dissipating heat. The notable noise level of both coolers shows that the Assassin X operates slightly quieter at 25.6 dB(A) compared to the Peerless at 27 dB(A), but the cooling performance of the latter may justify the slight increase in operational noise.

Design and Aesthetics

When it comes to design, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX stands out with its modern aesthetic, featuring a magnetic top cover that houses a vibrant 5-inch LCD screen. This display not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows users to monitor system parameters in real time, which is a significant advantage for tech enthusiasts.

In contrast, the Assassin X 120R SE V2 has a more straightforward design, focusing on functionality rather than flashy features. Its RGB PWM fan offers some customization for lighting, but it lacks the interactive display found in the Peerless model. Users looking for a cooler that combines performance with aesthetics may prefer the Peerless, while those seeking a more minimalistic approach may lean toward the Assassin X.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers are designed for easy installation and support a wide range of CPU sockets. The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 offers compatibility with Intel's LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851 and AMD's AM4/AM5 sockets. Similarly, the Peerless model supports the same socket types, ensuring that users can install either cooler on a variety of builds.

The Assassin X cooler has a height of 148mm, making it suitable for medium-sized cases, while the Peerless is slightly taller at 164mm, designed for standard ATX cases. Both coolers come with the necessary mounting hardware, and their installation processes are straightforward, appealing to both novice and experienced builders.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 operates at a quieter 25.6 dB(A), making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a silent computing experience. The Peerless Assassin, while still relatively quiet at 27 dB(A), produces slightly more noise due to its higher RPM and dual-fan design.

For users who plan to run their systems under heavy loads, the additional cooling performance of the Peerless may outweigh the marginal increase in noise. However, for casual users or those with quieter setups, the Assassin X may be preferable for its quieter operation.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two coolers is quite significant. The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 is priced at $16.59, making it about 71% cheaper than the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX, which costs $57.69. This substantial price gap makes the Assassin X an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who still want effective cooling.

However, the higher price of the Peerless model reflects its advanced features, including superior cooling performance, a dual-tower design, and an integrated LCD screen. Buyers will need to weigh their budget against the features offered to determine which cooler best meets their needs.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX comes down to individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective cooling solution that operates quietly and fits well in smaller cases, the Assassin X is an excellent choice at $16.59. Alternatively, if you require superior cooling performance and appreciate modern aesthetics with real-time monitoring features, the Peerless model at $57.69 offers significant advantages. Consider your specific requirements and preferences to make the best decision for your build.