Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air

Overview of Both CPU Coolers

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB Black CPU Air Cooler is priced at $45.90, while the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air Cooler is available for about $35.90, making the SE V3 approximately 17% cheaper. These two coolers are designed to efficiently dissipate heat from CPUs, utilizing advanced heat pipe technology and dual-fan configurations, yet they cater to different needs and preferences.

Design and Aesthetics

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB features a striking digital screen top cover, which adds a modern touch to any build. It boasts an overall black style and a height of 162mm, ensuring compatibility with most ATX chassis. In contrast, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 adopts a more traditional double-tower structure with a sleek aluminum heatsink cover, standing slightly shorter at 155mm. Both units employ a dual-fan design, but the Digital ARGB's magnetic top cover offers a unique aesthetic advantage that might appeal to gamers and PC enthusiasts looking for visual flair.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB has a fan speed of 1850 RPM and an air volume of 88.89 CFM, achieving a lower operating noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). On the other hand, the SE V3 pushes the fan speed to 2000 RPM, with an air volume of 70.84 CFM, producing a slightly higher noise level of ≤29.8 dB(A). While the SE V3 can reach a higher RPM, its overall airflow is lower, indicating that the Digital ARGB may provide more efficient cooling with less noise.

Heat Pipe Technology

Both coolers utilize Thermalright's AGHP heat pipe technology, which enhances heat dissipation by addressing reverse gravity effects during operation. The Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB employs six 6mm heat pipes, designed for effective contact with the CPU. The Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 also features the same six heat pipes, but it emphasizes its nickel-plated anti-oxidation properties. The innovative AGHP technology in both models ensures that users can expect solid cooling performance, whether they opt for the more visually appealing Digital ARGB or the straightforward design of the SE V3.

Compatibility

The compatibility of both coolers is extensive, supporting various platforms, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1700/1851/1150/1151/1200. The Digital ARGB comes with dual-platform mounting clips for easy installation, while the SE V3 also includes mounting accessories. However, the SE V3 specifies that for AMD installations, users must utilize the original motherboard backplate. This slight difference in installation requirements may sway some users depending on their existing setup.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many users. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB operates at a quieter ≤25.6 dB(A), making it ideal for those who prioritize a silent environment, such as in home offices or quiet gaming setups. In contrast, the SE V3 operates at a maximum of ≤29.8 dB(A), which, while still reasonable, indicates a potential trade-off for users seeking higher performance at the cost of increased noise. Those sensitive to sound may prefer the Digital ARGB for its quieter operation.

Installation Experience

Both coolers are designed for user-friendly installation, but there are slight differences in the process. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB includes clear instructions and mounting clips for both AMD and Intel platforms, making it straightforward for users regardless of their CPU type. The SE V3 also provides installation accessories, but it requires the original backplate for AMD installations, which might complicate the process for some users. Thus, the Digital ARGB may offer a more hassle-free setup experience.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Digital ARGB and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3, potential buyers should consider both their cooling needs and aesthetic preferences. The Digital ARGB, priced at $45.90, offers superior cooling performance, a quieter operation, and a unique design that appeals to those wanting a modern look. Meanwhile, the SE V3, at $35.90, presents a solid yet simpler option with high RPM capabilities. If budget constraints are a primary concern, the SE V3 is a worthy choice. However, for users willing to invest a bit more for enhanced features and quieter performance, the Digital ARGB stands out as the better option.