Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 CPU Air vs Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black CPU

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 and Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 is priced at $35.90, making it about 10% cheaper than the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black, which retails for $39.90. Both coolers are designed for effective CPU cooling, but they differ in features that may influence your purchasing decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin features a double-tower structure with dual PWM fans and six heat pipes, designed for optimal heat dissipation. Its anodized matte top sheet combined with an aluminium heatsink cover offers a sleek aesthetic. In contrast, the Phantom Spirit employs a similar double-tower design but incorporates seven heat pipes and a blackened nano coating for enhanced thermal performance. This difference in heat pipe count suggests that the Phantom Spirit may provide slightly better cooling efficiency under load.

Cooling Performance

The Peerless Assassin is equipped with dual PWM fans that can reach speeds of up to 2000 RPM, delivering an impressive airflow of 70.84 CFM. Meanwhile, the Phantom Spirit's dual TL-C12B V2 PWM fans operate at a lower maximum speed of 1500 RPM, offering an airflow of 66.17 CFM. Though the Peerless Assassin may have a slight edge in raw performance, the Phantom Spirit's lower noise level of 25.6 dB(A) could be appealing to users prioritizing quieter operation.

Heat Pipe Technology

Both coolers utilize AGHP (Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe) technology, but the Peerless Assassin boasts six heat pipes while the Phantom Spirit has seven. The additional heat pipe in the Phantom Spirit could potentially enhance its cooling capabilities by increasing surface area for heat dissipation. This design choice may be particularly beneficial for users with high-performance CPUs that generate more heat.

Compatibility and Installation

Both the Peerless Assassin and the Phantom Spirit are compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1851/1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200 and AMD AM4/AM5. Each cooler comes with mounting accessories to facilitate installation. However, both require the original backplate of the motherboard for AMD installations, which might be a consideration for some users.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 29.8 dB(A), whereas the Phantom Spirit offers a quieter experience with a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). For users who prioritize a silent PC environment, the Phantom Spirit may be the more appealing option due to its quieter operation, despite its slightly lower cooling performance.

Price Analysis

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin is priced at $35.90, while the Phantom Spirit costs $39.90, making the Peerless Assassin about 10% less expensive. For budget-conscious consumers, this price difference may be a key factor when choosing between the two products. However, if the additional features of the Phantom Spirit justify the price increase for you, it could be worth the investment.

User Experience and Aesthetic Appeal

Both coolers feature a visually appealing design, but the blackened anodized finish of the Phantom Spirit may attract users looking for a more modern aesthetic. The Peerless Assassin, with its sleek aluminium finish, also has its charm. Ultimately, the choice between them may come down to personal preference regarding appearance and brand loyalty.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE V3 and the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution with strong cooling performance, the Peerless Assassin at $35.90 is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a quieter operation and are willing to pay a bit more for potentially better cooling efficiency with the Phantom Spirit at $39.90, then that might be the better option for you.