Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE is priced at $17.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those in need of effective CPU cooling. This cooler features four heat pipes and a TL-C12C PWM fan, designed to support a variety of CPU sockets including Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200 and AMD AM4/AM5. With a compact design of 125x71x148mm and a weight of 0.645kg, it is suitable for medium-sized cases. The advanced AGHP technology ensures efficient heat dissipation, while the fan operates at a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A), providing a quiet computing experience.

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is priced at $38.90, approximately 117% more expensive than its counterpart. This cooler boasts six heat pipes and two TL-C12B PWM fans, enhancing its cooling capability. It supports a wider range of sockets, including Intel LGA 2066 and 2011, and has dimensions of 125x135x157mm, making it slightly bulkier. Weighing in at 1.02kg, it utilizes a double tower design for improved airflow and heat dissipation, with a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM at a similar noise level of 25.6 dB(A).

Cooling Performance Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is designed for superior cooling performance due to its six heat pipes and dual fan configuration. This setup allows it to handle a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of up to 245W, which is significantly higher than the Assassin X120 Refined SE. The latter, with its four heat pipes, is ideal for moderate cooling needs but may struggle under heavy loads. The larger effective heat dissipation area of the Peerless Assassin, at 9600cm, further enhances its cooling efficiency, making it a better choice for overclocked CPUs or high-performance builds.

Noise Levels and Fan Design

Both the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE and the Peerless Assassin 120 Black operate at a low noise level of 25.6 dB(A), ensuring a quiet user experience. However, the Peerless Assassin's dual fan setup is designed to optimize airflow, potentially providing quieter performance under load, as the fans can distribute the cooling workload. The TL-C12B fans in the Peerless model also offer more airflow capacity, which may lead to a cooler CPU during intensive tasks compared to the single fan of the Assassin X120.

Build Quality and Durability

Both coolers utilize aluminum heatsinks and are equipped with high-quality materials for durability. The Assassin X120 Refined SE employs the AGHP technology, which helps mitigate the inverse gravity effect during operation, ensuring consistent cooling performance. On the other hand, the Peerless Assassin features a full electroplating reflow welding process, enhancing its structural integrity and heat dissipation capabilities. Both models focus on longevity, but the advanced construction of the Peerless Assassin may provide an edge in durability under extreme conditions.

Installation and Compatibility

When it comes to installation, both coolers are designed for ease of use with metal fasteners compatible with various Intel and AMD platforms. The Assassin X120 Refined SE supports a range of Intel sockets from 1150 to 1851 and AMD AM4/AM5, making it versatile for different setups. The Peerless Assassin 120 Black offers even broader compatibility, supporting additional Intel sockets like LGA 2066 and 2011, which makes it suitable for more high-end builds. The slightly larger footprint of the Peerless model may require additional consideration regarding case space during installation.

Price and Value Proposition

The Assassin X120 Refined SE is priced at $17.90, presenting an economical choice for users who require basic cooling solutions. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin 120 Black, at $38.90, appeals to those looking for enhanced cooling performance and additional features. The price difference of about $21 is justified by the superior performance, dual fan setup, and broader compatibility of the Peerless model. For users focused on budget constraints, the Assassin X120 remains a compelling option, while the Peerless Assassin is ideal for performance-oriented builds.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE and the Peerless Assassin 120 Black depends largely on your specific cooling needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable, compact cooler for moderate use, the Assassin X120 is a solid choice at $17.90. However, for those requiring superior cooling capabilities and compatibility with higher-performance CPUs, the Peerless Assassin 120 Black, despite its higher price of $38.90, offers significant advantages in thermal management. Ultimately, your decision should align with your performance expectations and financial considerations.