Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler is priced at $17.90, making it an economical choice for those looking to enhance their CPU cooling without breaking the bank. This cooler features four heat pipes and is designed for compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including AM4, AM5, and LGA 1700.

With a height of 148mm, the X120 Refined SE is suitable for medium-sized computer cases. The cooler boasts a TL-C12C PWM fan that operates at 1550 RPM and provides an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A). This combination of features ensures that users can enjoy efficient cooling alongside a quiet computing environment.

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3, priced at $35.90, positions itself as a more premium option with enhanced cooling capabilities. This cooler features six heat pipes and a dual-tower design with dual fans, making it more effective for high-performance CPUs compared to its counterpart.

With a maximum fan speed of 2000 RPM, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 delivers an impressive airflow of 70.84 CFM and operates at a slightly higher noise level of 29.8 dB(A). Its design includes AGHP heat pipe technology and a nickel-plated copper base, ensuring superior heat dissipation, which is critical for overclocking and intensive gaming scenarios.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 stands out with its six heat pipes and dual-fan configuration, allowing for better heat dissipation. The higher fan speed of 2000 RPM enables this cooler to manage temperatures more effectively during demanding tasks.

Conversely, the Assassin X120 Refined SE, while effective, is limited by its four heat pipes and single fan. It operates at a lower maximum fan speed of 1550 RPM, which may not suffice for high-performance CPUs under heavy loads. Thus, the Peerless Assassin provides a significant cooling edge, particularly for users looking to maximize their system's performance.

Noise Levels and Acoustic Performance

When considering noise levels, the Assassin X120 Refined SE is quieter at 25.6 dB(A), making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a silent operation. This low noise output is particularly appealing for those who use their systems for tasks requiring concentration, such as programming or content creation.

On the other hand, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3, with its noise level of 29.8 dB(A), is slightly louder but still falls within a reasonable range for most users. The increase in noise is a trade-off for enhanced cooling performance, which may be acceptable for gamers or heavy users who value temperature control over silence.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers offer wide compatibility across Intel and AMD sockets. The Assassin X120 Refined SE supports Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5, making it versatile for various builds. Its installation is straightforward, featuring metal fasteners for easy setup.

Similarly, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 is compatible with a broad range of Intel and AMD platforms, including the latest LGA 1851 and Ryzen 9000 series. However, it requires the use of the motherboard's original backplate for AMD installations, which may complicate setup slightly for some users. Both coolers come with necessary mounting accessories, but the simpler installation of the Assassin X120 may appeal to novice builders.

Aesthetic Design

In terms of aesthetics, both coolers carry the Thermalright brand's signature style but differ in their visual appeal. The Assassin X120 Refined SE has a more compact and understated design, making it suitable for builds where space is a concern.

Conversely, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 features a more robust dual-tower structure with a black anodized finish, appealing to users who prefer a more aggressive and striking look in their gaming rigs. The choice between them may come down to personal preference for aesthetics in addition to performance.

Price Comparison

The Assassin X120 Refined SE is priced at $17.90, making it about 50% cheaper than the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3, which retails at $35.90. This significant price difference makes the X120 an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers or those with less demanding cooling needs.

However, for users who require higher cooling efficiency and are willing to invest more for improved performance, the additional cost of the Peerless Assassin may be justified. Ultimately, the decision hinges on individual cooling needs versus budget constraints.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 depends largely on your specific cooling requirements and budget. The Assassin X120 is a cost-effective solution that offers decent performance for mainstream usage, especially in quiet environments. However, if you are looking for superior cooling capabilities and are willing to invest more, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 is the better option, providing enhanced performance with its dual-fan setup and advanced heat dissipation technology. Ultimately, your choice should align with your cooling needs and how much you are willing to spend on a CPU cooler.