Review

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is a high-performance air CPU cooler designed to meet the cooling demands of modern processors, making it an ideal choice for both enthusiast builders and casual users alike. It features six copper heat pipes, dual TL-C12C-S PWM fans, and AGHP technology, ensuring efficient heat dissipation while maintaining a low-noise profile.

Design and Build Quality

The Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB stands out with its dual fin-stack tower design, which enhances airflow and cooling efficiency. It is built with an aluminum heatsink cover that not only provides an aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the cooler's thermal performance. Each of the six 6 mm-thick copper heat pipes makes indirect contact with the CPU via a nickel-plated copper base, which effectively conveys heat from the processor to the fin stacks for dissipation [TechPowerUp].

Performance and Compatibility

This cooler is compatible with a wide array of CPU sockets, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1700/1150/1151/1155/1200. It is specifically engineered to handle CPUs with a power rating up to 140 watts, making it more than capable of cooling even high-end processors like Intel's i7 13700K and AMD's Ryzen 7 7800X3D. The subtle design changes in its SE variant, such as the reduced Z-height from 157 mm to 155 mm, improve compatibility with various PC cases [TechPowerUp].

Users have noted that despite these solid specifications, the cooler performs remarkably well, even under heavy workloads. This is attributed to its fans, which operate at speeds of up to 1550 RPM, pushing a peak airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a static pressure of 1.53 mm H₂O. These attributes ensure that the cooler can effectively manage the heat output of CPUs with both lower and higher thermal densities [Tom's Hardware Forum].

RGB Lighting

The incorporation of ARGB lighting adds a visual flair to the Peerless Assassin 120 SE. It is equipped with 3-pin 5V ARGB connectors allowing users to synchronize the lighting effects with other ARGB-enabled components to create a unified aesthetic in their setups. This lighting compatibility is both functional and flexible, catering to users who desire a visually cohesive PC build.

Concluding Thoughts

Overall, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE ARGB is a stellar CPU cooler offering a balance of performance, aesthetics, and price. Priced at under $40, it represents excellent value for those seeking a reliable and effective cooling solution without breaking the bank. It performs admirably across various tests and has been praised for its cooling efficiency and quiet operation [TechPowerUp]. Whether you're upgrading an existing system or building a new rig, this cooler is a compelling option to consider, especially when high performance and low noise levels are imperative.