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

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we analyze the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler. The AXP120-X67 is priced at $27.99, making it about 44% cheaper than the Peerless Assassin, which retails for $49.99. Both products are manufactured by Thermalright and cater to different cooling needs and space constraints.

Design and Dimensions

The AXP120-X67 features a low-profile design with dimensions of 120mm x 120mm x 67mm, which is ideal for compact builds. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin stands at 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, making it significantly taller. This height difference of nearly 88mm could pose installation challenges in smaller cases. The AXP120-X67 is designed to fit snugly in tighter spaces, whereas the larger Peerless Assassin is suited for setups that can accommodate its bulkier dimensions.

Cooling Technology

Both coolers employ AGHP (Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe) technology with six 6mm heat pipes to effectively dissipate heat. However, the AXP120-X67 features a single 120mm PWM fan that operates at a speed of 1800 RPM, delivering an airflow of 59 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 26.1 dB(A). The Peerless Assassin, on the other hand, is equipped with dual 120mm PWM fans that run at 1550 RPM, achieving an airflow of 66.17 CFM with a slightly quieter noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This makes the Peerless Assassin potentially better for high-performance setups, as it can move more air while remaining quieter.

Compatibility

The AXP120-X67 supports a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, including Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM4, which makes it versatile for different platforms. The Peerless Assassin also supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including AMD AM5 and LGA 1700. Both coolers come with the necessary mounting hardware for easy installation. However, the Peerless Assassin requires the use of the motherboard's original backplane for installation, which may complicate the setup for some users.

Installation Process

Installation can vary significantly between the two coolers due to their sizes and designs. The AXP120-X67's low profile allows for straightforward installation in most cases without obstructing RAM slots. Conversely, the larger Peerless Assassin may require careful consideration of space, particularly regarding RAM clearance. While both coolers include necessary mounting hardware, the Peerless Assassin's installation may be less intuitive due to its size, making the AXP120-X67 a more user-friendly option for beginners.

Performance and Efficiency

In terms of performance, the AXP120-X67 is designed for lower to mid-range CPUs and provides effective cooling in compact cases, achieving solid thermal performance. The Peerless Assassin, with its dual-fan design, is aimed at high-performance CPUs and can handle more demanding thermal loads, making it suitable for overclocking. However, the trade-off is its larger size, which may not fit in all cases. For users focused on maximizing CPU performance, the Peerless Assassin is the better option, while the AXP120-X67 excels in compact builds.

Price Comparison

The AXP120-X67 is currently priced at $27.99, while the Peerless Assassin is available for $49.99. This represents a price difference of $22, with the AXP120-X67 being about 44% cheaper. For budget-conscious consumers or those looking for basic cooling solutions, the AXP120-X67 offers excellent value for money. However, those prioritizing performance may find the additional investment in the Peerless Assassin justified, especially for high-end builds.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP120-X67 Low Profile CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you have a compact build and are looking for a cost-effective solution, the AXP120-X67 is an excellent choice, providing sufficient cooling for everyday use at a budget-friendly price of $27.99. Conversely, if you are building a high-performance system and require superior cooling capabilities, the Peerless Assassin, despite its higher price of $49.99, offers enhanced airflow and quieter operation, making it worth the investment.