Thermalright AXP90-X53 White Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler, vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU

Overview of the Thermalright AXP90-X53 White Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 is a low-profile CPU cooler designed for compact builds, standing at just 53mm tall. It features a 92mm PWM fan capable of reaching 2700 RPM, which operates at a noise level of 22.4 dBA, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a silent cooling solution. With a price of $19.39, it positions itself as a budget-friendly option that does not compromise on heat dissipation capabilities.

The cooler's design includes a pure copper base and four heat pipes, promoting effective heat transfer and cooling performance. It is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA1700 and AMD's AM4/AM5, which adds to its versatility for various builds. This product is particularly well-suited for ITX motherboards and small chassis, alleviating concerns over memory clearance.

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU Cooler

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is a dual tower cooler designed for high-performance desktop systems. Priced at $38.99, it is about 101% more expensive than the AXP90-X53, reflecting its robust design and superior cooling capabilities. The cooler houses six heat pipes and dual 120mm PWM fans that operate at a maximum speed of 1850 RPM, producing a noise level of 29.5 dBA.

With dimensions of 125mm x 110mm x 155mm, it is significantly larger than its counterpart, which allows for improved heat dissipation, making it suitable for gaming and multitasking. The dual tower design enhances thermal performance, providing stable cooling for demanding applications. Like the AXP90-X53, it supports both AMD and Intel platforms, making it a solid option for mainstream builds.

Cooling Performance

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 excels in cooling performance for compact systems. Its combination of a 92mm fan and four heat pipes allows it to efficiently dissipate heat with a thermal design power (TDP) rating of up to 150W. This is particularly advantageous for small form factor builds where space is at a premium, and it ensures that CPUs remain cool even under load.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is engineered for high-load scenarios, thanks to its dual tower structure and six heat pipes. It benefits from dual 120mm fans that maximize airflow, achieving a maximum air flow rate of 88.89 CFM. This superior airflow translates into lower temperatures during intensive tasks, making it a more capable choice for gamers and content creators who push their systems to the limit.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the Thermalright AXP90-X53 is the quieter option, operating at just 22.4 dBA. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a silent computing experience, especially in home theater PCs or small office setups. The PWM fan adjusts its speed according to temperature, ensuring minimal noise during light use.

In contrast, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 operates at a higher noise level of 29.5 dBA, which is still reasonable for a high-performance cooler. However, the trade-off for better cooling performance is a slight increase in noise, which could be a consideration for users who prefer a quieter environment. Nevertheless, the fans are designed to balance cooling efficiency with everyday operating stability.

Size and Compatibility

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 is compact, measuring only 94.5mm x 95mm x 53mm, which makes it ideal for builds with limited space. This low profile allows it to fit comfortably in small ITX cases without interfering with RAM clearance, a common concern in compact builds. Its broad compatibility includes Intel's LGA1700 and various AMD sockets, making it versatile for multiple platforms.

In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is significantly larger, with dimensions of 125mm x 110mm x 155mm. While this larger size allows for enhanced cooling capabilities, it may not fit in all cases, particularly smaller ones. However, it also supports a wide range of sockets, ensuring compatibility with advanced desktop builds. Users should ensure their cases can accommodate this larger cooler.

Installation Process

The installation process for the Thermalright AXP90-X53 is designed to be user-friendly, especially for those who may be new to PC building. It comes with the necessary mounting hardware for various CPU sockets, and the included manual or installation video aids in a straightforward setup. This makes it an appealing choice for users who appreciate ease of installation in small form factor builds.

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2, while also straightforward to install, may require a bit more effort due to its larger size and dual tower design. The cooler comes with all necessary mounting fasteners for both AMD and Intel platforms, but the added complexity of handling a larger unit may be intimidating for some users. However, those familiar with building PCs will likely find it manageable.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 is priced at $19.39, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. Its affordability does not significantly compromise performance, making it a solid choice for users needing efficient cooling in compact builds.

Conversely, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is listed at $38.99, which is about 101% more expensive than the AXP90-X53. While it offers superior cooling performance, the higher price may deter those on a strict budget. However, for users seeking enhanced thermal performance for gaming or high-load applications, the investment may be justified.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP90-X53 and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require a low-profile solution for a compact build and prefer a quieter operation, the AXP90-X53 is the ideal choice at a budget-friendly price of $19.39. However, if you are looking for superior cooling performance for demanding tasks and are willing to invest more, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 at $38.99 offers exceptional thermal efficiency and is better suited for high-performance systems. Each cooler has its strengths, so consider your cooling requirements and case compatibility before making a decision.