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

Overview of Thermalright PS120SE

The Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler is priced at $35.90, making it a solid option for users looking for robust cooling performance. Featuring seven heat pipes and dual 120mm TL-C12B V2 PWM fans, this cooler supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851. The PS120SE is designed for CPUs with a thermal design power (TDP) of up to 280W, which indicates its capability to handle high-performance processors efficiently.

The cooler’s AGHP 4.0 technology enhances heat transfer through a design that allows for both vertical and horizontal orientations. Additionally, it boasts a noise level of 25.6 dB(A), ensuring a relatively quiet operation. The overall dimensions are 125(L)x135(W)x154(H)mm, with a weight of 0.9 kg, which fits well in most PC cases.

Overview of Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE

The Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at $32.90, making it about 17% cheaper than the Thermalright PS120SE. This cooler features six heat pipes and dual 120mm TL-C12C PWM fans, designed to provide impressive cooling while maintaining compatibility with a variety of CPU sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851.

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE’s design incorporates AGHP technology, which enhances heat transfer efficiency. With a noise level also capped at 25.6 dB(A), it operates quietly, similar to the PS120SE. Its dimensions are slightly taller at 125(L)x135(W)x155(H)mm, allowing for a bit more height, which could potentially increase compatibility with certain setups.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, both coolers are designed to handle high TDPs effectively. The Thermalright PS120SE can manage a TDP of up to 280W, facilitated by its seven heat pipes and dual 120mm fans. This design allows it to dissipate heat efficiently, making it suitable for high-performance CPUs.

On the other hand, the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE, while slightly lower in heat pipe count with six, is still capable of delivering excellent cooling due to its dual tower heatsink configuration. Its heat pipes are directly soldered to the copper base for efficient heat exchange. Both coolers provide a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, ensuring that they can maintain optimal temperatures even under load.

Compatibility and Installation

When it comes to compatibility, both coolers support major CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700, 1150, 1151, 1200, and AMD AM4/AM5. The Thermalright PS120SE includes mounting plates for various CPU socket types, making installation straightforward.

Similarly, the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE features an SS2 installation system that enhances compatibility with a broader range of motherboards. However, it requires the original motherboard's built-in backplate for installation on AM4 and AM5 systems, which may be a consideration for users planning to upgrade or change their motherboard.

Design and Aesthetics

The design aesthetics of both coolers reflect a modern gaming-oriented look. The Thermalright PS120SE features an anodized black frosted top and finely carved pure copper base, providing a premium appearance that fits well in most builds. Its aluminum fins maximize heat dissipation area, contributing to both form and function.

Conversely, the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE sports a brushed black top cover and nickel-plated heat pipes. Its offset asymmetric layout not only adds visual interest but also improves compatibility with graphics cards and motherboards. The overall look is sleek and professional, appealing to gamers and PC builders alike.

Noise Levels and Operation

Both coolers operate at a noise level of 25.6 dB(A), ensuring a quiet computing experience. The Thermalright PS120SE achieves this noise level with its TL-C12B V2 PWM fans, which function efficiently to maintain low noise while providing effective cooling.

The Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE utilizes TL-C12C fans that offer similar performance characteristics. The use of PWM controls in both products allows for dynamic fan speed adjustments based on temperature, further optimizing noise levels during operation. This makes both coolers excellent choices for users who prioritize a quiet environment.

Price and Value Proposition

With the Thermalright PS120SE priced at $35.90 and the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE at $32.90, the latter presents a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential performance features. The approximately 17% price difference could influence budget-conscious consumers looking for effective cooling solutions.

Both coolers offer substantial value in their respective price ranges, but the Peerless Assassin 120 SE may appeal to those looking for high performance at a lower entry cost. Additionally, the longer-term operational cost may be similar given their comparable specifications.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright PS120SE and the Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require higher TDP support and appreciate the additional heat pipe, the PS120SE may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for a more cost-effective solution that still delivers excellent performance, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE stands out as a strong contender. Both coolers are capable of quiet operation, competitive cooling performance, and compatibility across a range of systems, making either option a solid investment for your PC build.