Thermalright AXP90-X53 White Low Profile ITX CPU Air Cooler, vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX ARGB

Overview of Thermalright AXP90-X53 White and Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 White is priced at $19.39, making it a budget-friendly option, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX stands at a higher price of $57.69. This price difference of about 197% indicates that the AXP90-X53 targets smaller builds and cost-conscious users, whereas the Peerless Assassin is designed for users seeking enhanced cooling performance and additional features.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Thermalright AXP90-X53 White is compact and streamlined, standing at only 53mm in height. This low-profile design is perfect for small ITX cases and offers a clean aesthetic, particularly in its white finish. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX has a substantial height of 164mm, featuring a dual-tower design with a matte black coating. It also includes a magnetic top cover with a built-in 5-inch IPS LCD screen, adding a modern touch to the overall look while providing functional monitoring capabilities.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance of the Thermalright AXP90-X53 White is competent for its size, equipped with a 92mm PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 2700 RPM. It is designed to handle CPUs with a TDP of up to 150W. On the other hand, the Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX excels with a dual-fan setup and a maximum fan speed of 2150 RPM, delivering an airflow of 69 CFM. This configuration is better suited for high-performance CPUs, making it a more effective choice for gamers and heavy users.

Noise Levels

The AXP90-X53 White operates quietly with a noise level of 22.4 dB(A), which is suitable for users who prioritize a silent computing environment. The Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX, while slightly louder, maintains a noise level of ≤27 dB(A). Although this is still relatively quiet, it may be noticeable in a very silent setting, especially given its higher performance capabilities.

Compatibility

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 White offers broad compatibility, supporting various Intel and AMD CPU sockets, including LGA1700 and AM4/AM5. This makes it an excellent choice for users with small form factor builds that require low-profile cooling solutions. Conversely, the Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX also supports a wide range of sockets but is designed for larger ATX cases, accommodating high-performance setups that might include tall RAM heat spreaders, which the AXP90-X53 cannot as effectively handle.

Installation Process

Installation of the Thermalright AXP90-X53 White is straightforward, as it comes with the necessary metal mounting fasteners and clear instructions. The design caters to users who may not have extensive experience with CPU cooler installations. In comparison, while the Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX also comes with installation instructions, its larger size and dual-tower structure may require more careful planning and space management within the case.

Additional Features

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX stands out with its 5-inch IPS LCD screen that allows real-time monitoring of system parameters. This feature is complemented by TRCC control software, enabling users to customize the display. The AXP90-X53 White, however, focuses on simplicity and effectiveness, providing solid cooling without additional features, which could be a deciding factor for users who prefer straightforward functionality over advanced monitoring.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP90-X53 White and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a compact, cost-effective solution for smaller ITX builds, the AXP90-X53 White at $19.39 is a compelling choice, offering decent cooling performance in a low-profile design. However, if you need superior cooling for high-performance CPUs and appreciate additional features like the LCD display, the Peerless Assassin 120 Vision MAX at $57.69 is worth the investment.