Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler,

Overview

When comparing the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, the price difference is significant. The Peerless Assassin 120 Black retails for $38.90, while the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at $49.99, making the SE about 29% more expensive. Both coolers share remarkable features, including AGHP technology and dual PWM fans, yet they have distinct specifications and performance characteristics that could influence your purchasing decision.

Design and Build Quality

Both coolers feature a dual tower design and are built with aluminum heatsinks, but their dimensions vary slightly. The Peerless Assassin 120 Black measures 125mm x 135mm x 157mm, while the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is slightly taller at 125mm x 135mm x 155mm. The slight variation in height may impact case compatibility for some users. The Black version is noted for its full electroplating reflow welding process, which enhances its aesthetics and durability. In contrast, the SE emphasizes its brand prestige, highlighting Thermalright’s 20 years of experience in the market, which may appeal to buyers looking for a trusted brand.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is critical for CPU coolers, and both products feature six heat pipes and AGHP technology, which helps mitigate the inverse gravity effect during operation. The Peerless Assassin 120 Black has a TDP (thermal design power) rating of 245W, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs. The SE, while not explicitly stating its TDP, utilizes a dual fan setup with a maximum RPM of 1550, which is slightly lower than the 1500 RPM of the Black version. However, both coolers deliver similar airflow rates of 66.17 CFM, suggesting that performance in actual use may be closely matched.

Fan Technology

The fan technology in these coolers is another area of distinction. The Peerless Assassin 120 Black uses TL-C12B PWM fans, while the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is equipped with TL-C12C PWM fans. Both fans are 120mm in size and designed for optimal airflow and noise reduction, rated at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). The SE's fans, running at a slightly higher RPM, may offer marginally better cooling performance under load, although both are designed for silent operation. This makes either cooler an excellent choice for low-noise systems.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a crucial factor for CPU coolers, and both models support a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. The Peerless Assassin 120 Black supports Intel’s LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, 2066, and 2011 as well as AMD’s AM4 and AM5 platforms. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE supports similar Intel sockets but adds a note regarding the need for the original motherboard’s backplane for AMD installations. This slight difference could be critical for users unfamiliar with mounting requirements, making the Black version potentially more user-friendly for AMD setups.

Installation Ease

Both coolers are designed for straightforward installation, providing metal fasteners compatible with Intel and AMD platforms. However, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE includes a note about checking case compatibility due to its dimensions, which may be a concern for users with tighter builds. The Peerless Assassin 120 Black’s slightly simpler installation process, combined with its comprehensive compatibility, may make it a more appealing choice for users who prioritize ease of setup.

Price and Value

Price is a major factor in choosing between these two coolers. The Peerless Assassin 120 Black is priced at $38.90, while the SE is available for $49.99. This means the Black is about 29% cheaper. Given their similar performance characteristics, the price difference could sway budget-conscious consumers. However, those willing to invest in the SE may appreciate the additional brand prestige and potential for slightly better cooling performance.

User Reviews and Reception

While specific sales ranks are not provided, Thermalright is a well-regarded brand with a solid reputation in the market. Both coolers have received positive feedback for their cooling efficiency and build quality, but user reviews may highlight preferences based on individual experiences with installation and performance. The peerless reputation of Thermalright suggests that both products are likely to perform well in real-world applications, but user endorsements could provide further insight into their reliability and effectiveness.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE ultimately hinges on your specific needs and budget. The Black version offers excellent cooling performance, compatibility, and ease of installation at a lower price point, making it ideal for most users. On the other hand, the SE, while more expensive, may appeal to those looking for slightly better fan performance and brand prestige. If budget constraints are a priority, the Peerless Assassin 120 Black is the clear winner, but if you’re looking for a premium option with marginally enhanced features, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is worth considering.