Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, vs Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler, 7 Heat

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and Thermalright PS120SE ARGB

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at $49.99, while the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB is more budget-friendly at $34.94, making it about 30% cheaper. Both products are designed as CPU coolers and cater to a range of Intel and AMD sockets, showcasing Thermalright's commitment to performance and compatibility in the CPU cooling market.

The Peerless Assassin features 6 heat pipes utilizing AGHP technology, which enhances heat transfer efficiency. In contrast, the PS120SE ARGB boasts 7 heat pipes with an upgraded AGHP 4.0 technology, suggesting a potentially better cooling performance. Both coolers are equipped with dual 120mm PWM fans, but their specifications and features set them apart.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is robust, featuring dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 155mm, with a metal construction that ensures durability. In comparison, the PS120SE ARGB is similarly sized at 125mm x 135mm x 154mm, making it compatible with a wide range of chassis models.

The materials used in both coolers are of high quality, with the PS120SE ARGB using anodized black frosted tops and finely carved pure copper bases. This combination not only enhances durability but also aids in effective heat dissipation. Overall, while both coolers are well-built, the aesthetic appeal of the PS120SE ARGB, with its integrated ARGB lighting, may attract users looking for a visually appealing component.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is designed with 6 heat pipes and dual 120mm PWM fans that can reach a speed of 1550 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM. This setup aims for effective CPU cooling, especially when under load.

On the other hand, the PS120SE ARGB features 7 heat pipes, which suggests a slightly enhanced cooling capacity. Its dual TL-C12B-S V2 PWM fans operate at a speed of 1500 RPM, also offering 66.17 CFM airflow. Although the airflow is the same, the increased number of heat pipes in the PS120SE could provide better heat distribution and overall cooling efficiency.

Noise Levels

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the PS120SE ARGB operate at a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), indicating that they are designed to maintain a quiet operation, making them suitable for gaming and other noise-sensitive environments.

While the noise levels are comparable, the Peerless Assassin's slightly higher fan speed may lead to a marginally louder operation under certain conditions. However, both coolers are engineered to minimize noise while maximizing airflow, ensuring that users experience effective cooling without excessive sound.

Compatibility

The Peerless Assassin offers broad compatibility with various CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700, 1150, 1151, 1152, and AMD AM4/AM5, making it a versatile choice for many builds. The PS120SE ARGB matches this by supporting the same Intel and AMD sockets, ensuring that it can also fit in a wide range of systems.

Both products come with the necessary mounting hardware for easy installation, though the Peerless Assassin specifically notes that an original motherboard backplane is needed for AMD installations, which may require additional attention during setup.

Aesthetic Features

The Thermalright PS120SE ARGB stands out with its attractive ARGB lighting, which can synchronize with the motherboard's lighting effects. This feature allows for customization with up to 17 different light modes, enhancing the visual appeal of any build.

Conversely, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE lacks RGB lighting, focusing solely on performance. This makes it a more understated option for users who prioritize function over aesthetics. If visual impact is a key consideration for your build, the PS120SE ARGB might be the more appealing choice.

Price and Value

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is currently priced at $49.99, which may be justified by its solid performance and build quality. However, the PS120SE ARGB is significantly cheaper at $34.94, representing a cost difference of about $15.05 or roughly 30%.

When considering value, the PS120SE ARGB not only provides a lower upfront cost but also includes additional features like enhanced heat pipe technology and ARGB lighting, offering a compelling reason for budget-conscious buyers to choose it over the Peerless Assassin.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance and don't mind spending a bit more, the Peerless Assassin offers solid cooling capabilities and durability. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option with appealing aesthetics and potentially better heat distribution, the PS120SE ARGB stands out as a strong contender. Overall, both coolers are excellent choices, but the PS120SE ARGB slightly edges ahead in value and features.