Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black CPU Air vs Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black CPU

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is priced at $38.90, while the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black comes in at $39.90. This makes the Peerless Assassin about 2.5% cheaper than its counterpart. Both coolers are designed to provide efficient CPU cooling for a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, making them suitable for a range of builds. With similar features and specifications, the choice between these two may come down to specific performance needs or brand loyalty.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Peerless Assassin features a black-painted aluminum heatsink and a twin-tower structure designed for optimal airflow. Its dimensions measure 125mm x 135mm x 157mm, allowing it to fit comfortably in most cases. On the other hand, the Phantom Spirit is slightly shorter at 125mm x 135mm x 154mm, which may provide a better fit in tighter spaces. Both products utilize a fully electroplated reflow soldering process, enhancing their durability and aesthetic appeal. With a robust design and quality materials, both coolers stand out in build quality.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is crucial for any CPU cooler, and both the Peerless Assassin and Phantom Spirit excel in this area. The Peerless Assassin features six heat pipes and claims a thermal dissipation capacity of 245W, thanks to its AGHP technology. The Phantom Spirit, with seven heat pipes, also employs AGHP technology but focuses on increasing the effective heat dissipation area through its design. Both coolers are equipped with dual PWM fans that offer similar airflow at 66.17 CFM, ensuring that both options effectively manage CPU temperatures during high-performance tasks.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, both coolers are designed to operate quietly. The Peerless Assassin maintains a noise level of 25.6 dB(A), which is considered very quiet for a cooling solution of this type. Similarly, the Phantom Spirit matches this with the same noise rating, allowing users to enjoy a quieter computing experience. Given that both coolers perform equally well in terms of noise output, this aspect will likely not influence the decision for most users.

Compatibility

Compatibility is essential for ensuring that a CPU cooler fits well within your system. The Peerless Assassin supports a broad range of Intel sockets including LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, 2066, and AMD sockets AM4 and AM5. The Phantom Spirit offers similar compatibility, supporting Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, and AMD AM4 and AM5. Both coolers come with the necessary mounting hardware for different socket types, making them versatile options for various builds.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be user-friendly, catering to both novice and experienced builders. The Peerless Assassin comes with metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring a secure fit. The Phantom Spirit also provides the necessary mounting plates and fasteners, and it specifically notes that AMD installation requires the use of the original motherboard backplane. While both coolers facilitate a straightforward installation, users may find the additional note in the Phantom Spirit’s instructions useful when configuring their systems.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetics can be a deciding factor for many users building a custom PC. The Peerless Assassin features a sleek black finish that appeals to those who prefer a minimalist design, while the Phantom Spirit showcases a combination of black anodized aluminum and finely carved copper that adds a touch of elegance. Both coolers are visually appealing and can complement various builds, yet the Phantom Spirit’s unique design may attract those looking for a more distinct look.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, deciding between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black and the Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black ultimately comes down to subtle differences in features and personal preferences. The Peerless Assassin is slightly cheaper at $38.90 and offers robust performance with its six heat pipes. However, the Phantom Spirit, priced at $39.90, features seven heat pipes and a unique design that may appeal to users looking for something different. Both coolers provide excellent cooling performance, quiet operation, and broad compatibility. Therefore, if budget is a primary concern, the Peerless Assassin is the better choice, but if aesthetics and a slightly higher heat pipe count are more important, the Phantom Spirit is worth the extra cost.