Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler,

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE are products of Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in developing computer accessories. This brand is recognized for its innovation and quality in the CPU cooling market. Despite both models sharing a similar brand heritage, the products differ significantly in terms of specifications and pricing.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE features a compact design with dimensions of 125mm x 71mm x 148mm and a weight of 0.645kg. It is equipped with four heat pipes and a single TL-C12C PWM fan. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE boasts a larger footprint at 125mm x 135mm x 155mm and weighs more due to its double tower design and six heat pipes. This additional size and structure could potentially lead to better cooling performance, making it suitable for more demanding setups.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance of both coolers is enhanced by the AGHP technology utilized in their heat pipes. The Assassin X120 Refined SE features four 6mm heat pipes, while the Peerless Assassin 120 SE employs six heat pipes, which may provide better heat dissipation. Both models use PWM fans capable of reaching speeds of 1550 RPM and achieving airflows of up to 66.17 CFM. However, the additional heat pipes in the Peerless model could translate to superior cooling efficiency, especially under load.

Noise Levels

Both coolers are designed to operate quietly, with a noise level of less than 25.6 dB(A). This low noise output makes both models suitable for users who prioritize a quiet computing environment. The combination of efficient cooling and low noise levels in both models suggests that users can expect a peaceful experience whether they choose the Assassin X120 Refined SE or the Peerless Assassin 120 SE.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE is compatible with a range of Intel and AMD sockets including Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700 and AMD AM4/AM5. Similarly, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE supports the same Intel and AMD socket types, ensuring wide compatibility for most modern builds. Both coolers come with the necessary mounting hardware for easy installation, making them user-friendly for PC builders.

Pricing

The Assassin X120 Refined SE is priced at $17.90, while the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is significantly more expensive at $49.99. This means the Peerless model is approximately 179% more expensive than the Assassin X120 Refined SE. For budget-conscious consumers, the Assassin X120 Refined SE presents a more appealing choice without sacrificing essential features.

User Experience

Both coolers are designed for ease of installation, featuring metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. While the Assassin X120 Refined SE is lighter and more compact, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE's double tower design might require more space and careful consideration of case compatibility. Users should assess their case dimensions before purchasing to ensure a proper fit, especially for the larger Peerless model.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an efficient, budget-friendly cooler with solid performance, the Assassin X120 Refined SE is a great choice at just $17.90. On the other hand, if you require enhanced cooling capabilities and are willing to invest more, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE could be worth the higher price tag of $49.99. Ultimately, both models uphold Thermalright’s reputation for quality, but they cater to different segments of the market.