Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black CPU vs Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black CPU Cooler is priced at $34.39, making it a mid-range option for users looking for effective cooling solutions. This cooler utilizes AGHP technology and features six heat pipes, which enhance its heat dissipation capabilities, especially in vertical or horizontal orientations. Additionally, it includes a 120mm PWM fan that operates at a speed of 1500 RPM, delivering an airflow of 66.87 CFM while maintaining a noise level of 25.6 dB(A). With its compact design, the Peerless Assassin is compatible with a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, making it a versatile choice for many builds.

Overview of Thermaltake Gravity i2

The Thermaltake Gravity i2 is significantly more budget-friendly, priced at just $12.78. This cooler is optimized for low-power CPUs and features a low-profile design that fits well in compact cases. It comes equipped with a 92mm fan that provides an airflow of 31.343 CFM while generating a noise level of 21.3 decibels, making it quieter than many of its competitors. Supporting Intel LGA 1200, 1156, 1155, 1150, and 1151 socket types, the Gravity i2 offers a straightforward installation process and an effective cooling solution for users with less demanding thermal requirements.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black boasts a robust build quality with its fully blackened design and CNC precision micro-engraved copper base. This not only provides aesthetic appeal but also enhances thermal conductivity. In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 features a simpler, low-profile design that is functional yet lacks the premium materials seen in the Peerless Assassin. The Gravity i2's 7-bladed fan also contributes to its efficiency, but it does not match the six heat pipes of the Peerless Assassin in terms of heat dissipation capabilities.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin stands out significantly. With its six heat pipes and 120mm PWM fan, it is designed to handle higher thermal loads, making it suitable for moderate to high-performance CPUs. The 66.87 CFM airflow at 1500 RPM ensures that heat is effectively managed even under stress. Conversely, the Thermaltake Gravity i2, with a maximum airflow of 31.343 CFM, is better suited for low-power processors, making it ideal for basic computing needs but likely insufficient for more demanding applications.

Noise Levels

The Thermaltake Gravity i2 operates at a slightly lower noise level of 21.3 dB(A), which may be appealing for users prioritizing a quiet environment. However, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin, while slightly noisier at 25.6 dB(A), still maintains a pleasant acoustic profile given its higher performance capabilities. Users who require efficient cooling for gaming or content creation might find the trade-off in noise levels acceptable for the added cooling efficiency.

Compatibility

Both coolers support a range of Intel socket types, but the Thermalright Peerless Assassin has the added advantage of compatibility with AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets, broadening its usability for diverse CPU builds. This makes the Peerless Assassin a more versatile option for users who may switch platforms in the future. The Gravity i2, however, is limited to Intel socket types, which may restrict its appeal for users considering AMD processors.

Price and Value

At $34.39, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin is about 169% more expensive than the Thermaltake Gravity i2, which is priced at $12.78. While the Gravity i2 offers excellent value for budget-conscious users or those with low-power CPUs, the Peerless Assassin justifies its higher price with superior performance and versatility. For users building high-performance systems, the investment in the Peerless Assassin could result in better longevity and thermal management.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black and the Thermaltake Gravity i2 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require robust cooling for moderate to high-performance CPUs and value versatility, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner despite its higher price. However, if you're on a tight budget or working with low-power processors, the Gravity i2 provides adequate performance at a fraction of the cost.