Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V2 vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black

Design and build quality

The {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} features a twin tower structure with a full electroplating reflow welding process. The main body is sprayed with black paint at the nanoscale, providing an effective heat dissipation area of 9600cm. This construction ensures durability and efficient thermal transfer. The {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} also utilizes a dual tower heatsink design which helps improve heat transfer efficiency. Both coolers are built to offer stronger cooling than basic stock solutions, with metal fasteners included for Intel and AMD platforms to achieve better installation stability.

Cooling architecture

At the core of the {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} is the AGHP technique applied to 6×6mm heat pipes. This technology is designed to solve inverse gravity issues and enhance thermal conductivity. The offset asymmetric layout allows for installation on the first graphics card slot, ensuring the cooler can achieve excellent heat dissipation performance during work without obstruction. The {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} relies on a dual tower CPU cooler structure with 6 heat pipes to help improve heat dissipation for gaming and multitasking. While both utilize six pipes, the {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} provides specific details on the pipe diameter and technique used.

Fan performance and noise

The {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} is equipped with 2 PWM Fans, model TL-C12B. These are standard size PWM fans measuring 120x120x25mm. The fan speed is rated at 1500rpm±10% with a power port of 4pin and voltage of 12V. Crucially, the noise level is specified at ≤25.6dB(A), offering a quiet operating environment. The {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} features dual 120mm PWM fans running up to 1850RPM. This higher speed helps balance airflow and cooling performance across different workloads. However, specific noise decibel levels are not provided in the available data for the {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}}.

Compatibility and installation

Compatibility is a key factor for CPU coolers. The {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} is equipped with metal fasteners of Intel & AMD platform to achieve better installation. The {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} explicitly supports AMD AM4 AM5 and Intel LGA1851 1700 platforms. This makes the {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} a practical upgrade for current mainstream desktop builds, particularly for users with the newest socket generations. The {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} mentions an offset asymmetric layout which is allowed to installation on first graphics card slot, aiding in RAM clearance.

Dimensions and clearance

Physical dimensions are critical for case compatibility. The {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} has CPU Cooler dimensions of 125(L)x135(W)x157(H)mm. The height of 157mm is a standard size for mid-tower cases. The product weight is 1.02kg. The {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} does not list specific dimensions or weight in the provided data. Users should verify case clearance before purchasing the {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}}. The {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} provides clear data for planners ensuring it fits within standard chassis constraints.

Thermal efficiency

Thermal efficiency is driven by the heatsink area and fan combination. The {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} boasts an effective heat dissipation area of 9600cm. The combination of dual fans makes the CPU cool better according to the specifications. The {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} states that the dual tower heatsink design helps improve heat transfer efficiency. It gives this CPU air cooler more stable thermal performance than basic stock cooling solutions. Both units are designed for high-load desktop use, though the {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} offers more granular data on surface area.

Price and value

Value is determined by performance per dollar. The {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} is priced at $38.90. The {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} is listed at $38.99. The price difference is minimal, but the {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} offers verified specifications for noise and airflow at the lower price point. This makes the {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} a strong option for users looking for a CPU air cooler with dependability and confirmed metrics. The {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} remains a competitive option for those prioritizing maximum fan speed potential.

Which one should you buy?

Choosing between the {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} and the {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize verified noise levels, airflow data, and a slightly lower price, the {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} is the recommended choice. It provides detailed specs including 66.17CFM airflow and 25.6dB noise. If you require explicit support for the latest sockets like LGA1851 and AM5 with higher potential fan speeds up to 1850RPM, the {{PRODUCT_B_NAME}} is suitable. Both are capable dual tower coolers from Thermalright, but the {{PRODUCT_A_NAME}} offers more transparency in its technical specifications.