Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, vs Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler,7×

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is a competitive CPU cooler priced at $49.99. Known for its 6 heat pipes and AGHP technology, it promises efficient cooling performance for both AMD and Intel processors. The cooler is designed with dual 120mm PWM fans that operate at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A).

With dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, the Peerless Assassin features a robust aluminum heat sink and a pure copper base, ensuring excellent thermal conductivity. The inclusion of metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms adds to its versatility, making it a solid choice for users looking for reliable cooling performance in their builds.

Overview of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO, priced slightly lower at $46.90, is another strong contender in the CPU cooler market. This model boasts 7 heat pipes and a faster dual PWM fan system that can reach up to 2150 RPM, delivering an impressive airflow of 69 CFM. However, it does come with a slightly higher noise level of ≤27 dB(A).

In terms of dimensions, the Phantom Spirit is similar to the Peerless Assassin, measuring 125mm x 135mm x 157mm. It features an anodized black frosted design with finely carved pure copper base technology, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and performance. With compatibility for a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, this cooler is also a practical choice for diverse setups.

Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling efficiency, the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO outperforms the Peerless Assassin 120 SE, primarily due to its higher RPM fan speed and increased heat pipe count. The Phantom Spirit's dual fans operate at 2150 RPM compared to the 1550 RPM of the Peerless Assassin, resulting in better airflow (69 CFM versus 66.17 CFM). This 3% increase in airflow can lead to more effective heat dissipation, making the Phantom Spirit a preferable option for high-performance builds or overclocking scenarios.

However, the Peerless Assassin offers commendable performance as well, with its AGHP technology and quality construction. For users who prioritize quieter operation, the lower noise level of the Peerless Assassin may be more appealing, even if it sacrifices some cooling efficiency.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of both coolers is impressive, with both featuring aluminum heat sinks and copper bases to ensure effective thermal transfer. The Peerless Assassin's design emphasizes functionality with its dual tower cooling system, while the Phantom Spirit adds a touch of elegance with its anodized black frosted finish.

The Peerless Assassin measures 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, making it slightly shorter than the Phantom Spirit, which has dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 157mm. This marginal difference in height may influence compatibility with certain cases, particularly those with limited vertical space.

Ease of Installation

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO come with mounting hardware suitable for various CPU sockets, including Intel and AMD configurations. However, the Peerless Assassin's installation instructions note that users must utilize the original motherboard's backplane for AMD installations, which may add a layer of complexity for some users.

Conversely, the Phantom Spirit's design aims to avoid interference with other components, potentially simplifying the installation process. The clear compatibility across multiple platforms for both coolers makes them accessible choices for builders of all skill levels.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is the quieter option, with a maximum noise output of ≤25.6 dB(A). In contrast, the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO has a slightly higher noise level of ≤27 dB(A). This difference may be significant for users who prioritize a silent computing experience, particularly in home or office settings.

While both coolers operate within reasonable noise levels for their performance metrics, the quieter operation of the Peerless Assassin may make it more suitable for users who are sensitive to noise.

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at $49.99, while the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO is available for $46.90, making it approximately 17% cheaper. This price difference may be a crucial factor for budget-conscious consumers. However, the slight increase in price for the Peerless Assassin could be justified by its quieter operation and reliable performance.

Both coolers provide good value for their price points, but shoppers may want to weigh the performance and noise level benefits of each product against the cost to determine which aligns best with their needs.

Which should you buy?

In the comparison of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO, choosing the right cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize cooling efficiency and aesthetics, the Phantom Spirit, with its faster fans and sleek design, is the better choice. However, if you value quieter operation and a potentially simpler installation process, the Peerless Assassin may be more suitable.

Both coolers offer excellent performance for their price points, but the decision should hinge on the balance between cooling power, noise levels, and any specific compatibility considerations for your build.