Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black CPU vs Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler, 7 Heat Pipes

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black CPU Cooler is priced at $34.39, making it a budget-friendly option for gamers and PC enthusiasts. This cooler features 6 heat pipes designed with AGHP technology, which improves heat dissipation efficiency. The 120mm PWM fan operates at a speed of 1500 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.87 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). Its compact dimensions of 125mm x 110mm x 135mm make it suitable for smaller cases, while its compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets ensures versatility.

Overview of Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler is slightly more expensive, retailing at $35.90. This model boasts 7 heat pipes and also incorporates AGHP technology, designed to facilitate maximum heat dissipation. The dual 120mm TL-C12B V2 PWM fans spin at the same speed of 1500 RPM but provide a slightly lower airflow of 66.17 CFM. With dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 154mm, it is taller than its competitor, which may limit its compatibility with certain cases. This cooler is designed to support CPUs with TDP ranging from 105W to 280W, making it suitable for high-performance builds.

Performance Comparison

In terms of performance, both coolers utilize advanced AGHP technology to enhance their heat dissipation capabilities. The Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black has a marginally better airflow of 66.87 CFM compared to the PS120SE's 66.17 CFM, which could translate to slightly better cooling performance under load. However, the PS120SE’s additional heat pipe and higher TDP capacity make it a contender for more powerful CPUs. Users may find that the choice between these two ultimately depends on their specific cooling needs and the hardware they plan to use.

Noise Levels

Both products maintain a noise level of 25.6 dB(A) during operation, which is considered relatively quiet for CPU coolers. This means that users can expect a similar noise profile from both coolers, making them suitable for builds where noise reduction is a priority. The efficiency of the PWM fans in both models contributes to this low noise level, ensuring that users can enjoy a quieter computing experience without sacrificing performance.

Build Quality and Design

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black features a fully blackened main body with an antioxidant coating and a CNC precision micro-engraved copper base. This not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its durability. The PS120SE, on the other hand, employs anodized black frosted material for its exterior, which also maintains a high-quality finish. Both coolers are constructed from aluminum, ensuring they are lightweight and effective at dissipating heat.

Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility, both coolers support a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. The Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black is compatible with Intel LGA1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and 1851, as well as AMD AM4 and AM5. The PS120SE supports similar Intel sockets but does not explicitly mention LGA1155 and LGA1156. Both coolers come with appropriate mounting kits, making installation straightforward for users. However, the slightly taller design of the PS120SE may limit its installation in some compact cases.

Price Analysis

The price difference between the two coolers is minimal, with the Peerless Assassin priced at $34.39 and the PS120SE at $35.90, making the former about 4.25% cheaper. While both options are reasonably priced for their performance capabilities, the Peerless Assassin may be the better option for budget-conscious consumers who do not require the additional features of the PS120SE.

User Experience and Reputation

Both coolers are produced by Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in the cooling market. This reputation ensures that customers can trust the quality and performance of both products. Although there is no specific sales or bestseller rank provided, Thermalright's longstanding presence in the industry serves as an indicator of reliability and user satisfaction.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black CPU Cooler and the Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a slightly cheaper option with a compact design and solid performance, the Peerless Assassin is the way to go. Conversely, if you require a cooler with a higher TDP capacity and are willing to accommodate its larger size, the PS120SE may suit your needs better. Both coolers deliver excellent performance, but your decision should be based on your specific CPU requirements and case compatibility.