The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler excels in keeping noise levels low

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler is an outstanding air cooler with a reputation for efficient cooling and an affordable price. Let’s dive into the specifics and performance of this cooler to understand why it’s a popular choice among PC builders.

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Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE comes with a robust and sleek design. It measures 125mm (L) x 135mm (W) x 155mm (H), which is compact yet efficient. The cooler features 6 pure copper heat pipes treated with AGHP (Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe) technology to combat gravity-induced heat transfer issues, making it versatile for both vertical and horizontal installations. The copper pipes and the large aluminum heat sink work together to dissipate heat effectively, ensuring high thermal performance even with demanding CPUs.

The build quality is notable, especially at this price point. The electroplating reflow welding process used in the construction adds to its durability, making it a solid option for long-term use. Additionally, the cooler is designed to leave enough room for RAM clearance, which is particularly useful for compact builds.

Cooling Performance

Cooling is where the Peerless Assassin 120 SE shines. With its dual-tower design and two 120mm PWM fans, the cooler can manage high heat loads effortlessly. The fans run at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, delivering a strong 66.17 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) airflow, ensuring optimal cooling performance. Despite the powerful airflow, the fans maintain a low noise level, with a maximum noise of 25.6 dB(A), making it an excellent option for users who want high performance without the noise.

The cooler is equipped with 6x6mm heat pipes that work in tandem with the copper base to transfer heat away from the CPU efficiently. The AGHP technology optimizes heat transfer by addressing the inverse gravity effect, further enhancing the cooling capabilities. Whether you’re overclocking or running demanding applications, the Peerless Assassin 120 SE ensures that your CPU stays cool under pressure.

Compatibility

This cooler offers broad compatibility across both Intel and AMD platforms. It supports Intel LGA 115X/1200/1700/17XX and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets, making it a versatile choice for various builds. One minor note is that when installing on an AMD platform, the cooler requires the use of the motherboard’s original built-in backplate, which is not included in the box. This isn’t an issue for most users but something to keep in mind when planning your build.

Noise and Fan Control

Despite its high performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE excels in keeping noise levels low. With its 4-pin PWM fans, users can adjust the fan speeds dynamically, ensuring that the cooler only ramps up when necessary. The 25.6 dB(A) noise level at maximum fan speed is impressively quiet for a cooler of this size and performance level. Whether you’re gaming, working, or overclocking, this cooler provides an excellent balance of performance and noise control.

Installation

One of the key advantages of the Peerless Assassin 120 SE is its straightforward installation process. Thermalright includes all necessary mounting hardware, and the provided instructions make the setup relatively simple. However, as mentioned earlier, AMD users need to be mindful of the need for the original motherboard backplate during installation. Once mounted, the cooler feels secure, and the adjustable mounting system allows for a perfect fit.

Pricing and Value for Money

At just $34.90, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE offers incredible value. It competes with high-end coolers that are often twice its price, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious builders who don’t want to compromise on performance. Considering its high cooling efficiency, low noise levels, and robust build quality, it’s hard to find a better-performing air cooler in this price range.

Verdict

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to upgrade their cooling system. It combines excellent cooling performance, quiet operation, and an affordable price. Whether you’re building a new PC or upgrading your current system, this cooler is sure to keep your CPU running cool and quiet, even under heavy loads. Its wide compatibility, AGHP technology, and efficient dual-fan design make it stand out as one of the best CPU coolers in its class.

With its low price tag, powerful cooling, and low noise operation, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is a solid investment for gamers, overclockers, and professionals who need reliable performance without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a high-performance cooler on a budget, this is one of the best options on the market today.

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