Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air

Overview of the Thermalright AXP120-X67 and Peerless Assassin 120 Black

The Thermalright AXP120-X67 is priced at $27.99, while the Peerless Assassin 120 Black costs $38.90, making the AXP120-X67 about 28% cheaper. Both are high-performance CPU air coolers, but they serve different cooling needs and system configurations. The AXP120-X67 is designed as a low-profile cooler, suitable for compact builds, whereas the Peerless Assassin offers a dual-tower design aimed at maximizing cooling efficiency.

Design and Build Quality

The AXP120-X67 features a compact design with dimensions of 120mm x 120mm x 67mm, making it an excellent choice for smaller cases. Its aluminum fins on a copper base ensure effective heat dissipation. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin measures 125mm x 135mm x 157mm, providing a larger cooling surface area. The black-painted nanoscale finish of the Peerless Assassin not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also increases its effective heat dissipation area to 9600cm², which is significantly larger than that of the AXP120-X67.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance varies significantly between the two coolers. The AXP120-X67 utilizes a single 120mm TL-12015 PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1800 RPM and delivers an airflow of 59 CFM. In comparison, the Peerless Assassin comes equipped with dual 120mm TL-C12B PWM fans, which spin at a maximum speed of 1500 RPM but provide a higher airflow of 66.17 CFM. This dual-fan configuration allows the Peerless Assassin to efficiently handle higher thermal loads, making it a better choice for overclocked systems.

Noise Levels

When it comes to operational noise, the AXP120-X67 has a noise level of up to 26.1 dB(A), while the Peerless Assassin operates at a slightly quieter level of 25.6 dB(A). The difference is marginal, but for users prioritizing a silent operation, the Peerless Assassin has a slight edge. Both coolers utilize PWM fan technology to ensure optimal performance and noise management, but the design of the Peerless Assassin allows for better airflow without significantly increasing noise levels.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial when choosing a CPU cooler. The AXP120-X67 supports a wide range of sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200. This versatility makes it suitable for various builds. The Peerless Assassin is similarly compatible, supporting AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1700/115X/1851/1200/2066/2011. Both models come with necessary mounting hardware, ensuring easy installation across various platforms.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be user-friendly. The AXP120-X67 includes metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, making it straightforward to mount. The Peerless Assassin also comes with metal fasteners and has an asymmetric layout that allows for installation without interfering with the first graphics card slot. This feature is particularly advantageous for users with limited space. Both coolers aim to simplify the installation experience, but the Peerless Assassin's design offers added flexibility.

Thermal Management Technologies

Both the AXP120-X67 and Peerless Assassin utilize Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe (AGHP) technology, employing six 6mm heat pipes to enhance thermal conductivity. This technology helps mitigate the inverse gravity effect, improving cooling performance regardless of orientation. The AXP120-X67 focuses on low-profile cooling, ideal for compact builds, while the Peerless Assassin, with its dual-tower design, is built to handle high thermal demands. Both coolers prioritize efficient heat management, but the Peerless Assassin is better suited for high-performance applications.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP120-X67 and the Peerless Assassin 120 Black depends largely on your specific needs and build configuration. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that fits into tight spaces, the AXP120-X67 at $27.99 is an excellent choice. However, if your system demands superior cooling performance and you are willing to invest $38.90, the Peerless Assassin delivers enhanced efficiency and better thermal management. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your cooling requirements, case size, and budget.