Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU vs Thermaltake Gravity i2 95W Intel LGA

Overview of Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 CPU Cooler is a high-performance cooling solution featuring dual towers and six heat pipes. Priced at $38.99, it is designed for both AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1851/1700 platforms, making it a versatile choice for gamers and multitaskers. This cooler emphasizes efficient heat dissipation, thanks to its dual 120mm PWM fans that can reach speeds up to 1850 RPM.

The design and capabilities of the Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 cater to high-load desktop usage, making it a practical upgrade over standard stock coolers. The combination of its dual tower heatsink and powerful fans enhances thermal performance, ensuring stable operation during demanding tasks.

Overview of Thermaltake Gravity i2

The Thermaltake Gravity i2 is a compact and budget-friendly CPU cooler, priced at just $12.78. This cooler is specifically optimized for low-power Intel processors and supports multiple LGA socket types including 1200, 1156, 1155, 1150, and 1151. With a low profile design and a 92mm fan, it aims to deliver efficient cooling while maintaining a low noise level of 21.3 decibels.

The Gravity i2 stands out for its easy installation and space-saving design, making it a suitable choice for users with limited case space. Although it may not match the cooling performance of larger models, its lower price point and compatibility with various Intel sockets make it an appealing option for budget-conscious consumers.

Cooling Performance Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 outshines the Thermaltake Gravity i2 in terms of cooling performance. The dual tower design and six heat pipes of the Peerless Assassin enhance heat dissipation significantly, making it ideal for high-load scenarios. It boasts a maximum airflow of 88.89 CFM compared to the Gravity i2's 31.343 CFM, providing superior cooling capabilities for intensive gaming or multitasking.

While the Gravity i2 is optimized for low-power CPUs, it may struggle to maintain lower temperatures under heavy loads. Therefore, users who prioritize performance in demanding environments will find the Peerless Assassin to be the more effective cooler, despite its higher price.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise output, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 is the quieter option, operating at a noise level of 21.3 decibels. This makes it suitable for users seeking a silent computing experience, especially in home or office environments.

Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 has a noise level of 29.5 dBA, which is noticeably louder but still acceptable for most users. The trade-off for the increased noise is the cooler's enhanced performance, making it a worthwhile consideration for those who require superior cooling over silence.

Installation and Compatibility

The Thermaltake Gravity i2 excels in the installation department, offering a quick and easy setup process. Its low profile design allows for better clearance and simplifies installation, making it user-friendly for beginners or anyone looking for a hassle-free experience.

On the other hand, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2, while versatile in terms of compatibility with both AMD and Intel platforms, may require more effort to install due to its larger size and dual tower structure. This could be a consideration for users with smaller cases or those who prefer a simpler installation process.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 is more robust and visually striking, featuring a dual tower configuration that appeals to gamers and PC enthusiasts. Its larger size and dual fans give it a more aggressive look, aligning with high-performance builds.

In contrast, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 offers a more understated aesthetic with its compact design. While it may lack the visual flair of larger coolers, it fits well in smaller builds and maintains a clean appearance. Ultimately, the choice here may come down to personal preference and the overall theme of the user's build.

Price Comparison

When considering price, the Thermaltake Gravity i2 is significantly cheaper, costing $12.78. This makes it about 67% less expensive than the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2, which is priced at $38.99. For users on a tight budget or those with low-power CPUs, the Gravity i2 provides an economical solution without compromising too much on performance.

However, buyers should weigh the cost against the performance benefits of the Peerless Assassin. For those needing robust cooling capabilities for gaming or heavy multitasking, the higher initial investment may be justified in the long run due to its superior performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 and the Thermaltake Gravity i2 ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you require high-performance cooling for demanding tasks and are willing to invest more, the Peerless Assassin is the clear winner with its superior cooling efficiency and broader compatibility.

However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly solution for low-power Intel processors and prioritize a quieter operation, the Gravity i2 offers excellent value at a fraction of the price. Assess your cooling requirements and budget to make the best choice for your build.