Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 CPU Air Cooler, 6 Heat Pipes, Dual 120mm TL-C12 PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1700/115X/1851/1200/2011/2066 (PA120
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AI Verdict
This 245W TDP air cooler with dual 120mm PWM fans and 6 heat pipes offers high cooling capacity for its budget price band.
This cooler is a strong fit for users seeking high-performance air cooling for CPUs up to 245W TDP, especially given its budget price. Its dual-tower design and 6 heat pipes deliver cooling capacity typically found in more expensive options. However, potential RAM clearance and installation challenges mean users should be prepared for some adjustments.
If you need guaranteed RAM clearance with tall modules and easier installation, look for coolers with a single tower design or a smaller footprint, or consider low-profile RAM.
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Pros
- Dissipates up to 245 watts, suitable for demanding CPUs.
- Features 6x6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology for consistent performance regardless of orientation.
- Offset asymmetric layout allows for installation with a graphics card in the first PCIe slot.
- Includes two 120mm TL-C12 PWM fans with a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM each.
- Compatible with a wide range of Intel (LGA 1700/115X/1200/2011/2066) and AMD (AM4/AM5) sockets.
- Effective heat dissipation area of 9600cm² due to full electroplating reflow welding process.
Cons
- Some users report fans can be noisy, producing a high-pitched whirring or humming sound at default speeds.
- Tall RAM modules (like G.Skill Trident Z5) can cause clearance issues with the front fan, requiring it to be moved up or to the back.
- Installation can be challenging for some, with reports of difficulty aligning screws or needing significant downward pressure.
- The cooler's large dimensions (125x135x157mm) may lead to case side panel clearance issues in smaller enclosures.
- Stock fans may be perceived as lower quality compared to premium alternatives, leading some to consider fan swaps.
Dimension Scores
The cooler is rated for a 245W TDP and features 6 heat pipes with AGHP technology and a 9600cm² heat dissipation area, placing it among the top air coolers for thermal performance.
While specified at ≤25.6dB(A) maximum, multiple user reports indicate noticeable noise, including whirring and humming, at default fan speeds or under load, which is average for its category.
Constructed from aluminum and copper with a full electroplating reflow welding process, it offers a robust build, though some users perceive the fans as less premium than high-end alternatives.
The dual PWM fans connect via a 4-pin connector, which is standard, but the sheer size of the cooler and its fans can make routing fan cables around it slightly more involved than with smaller coolers.
Best For
- Users building a high-performance desktop with a 245W TDP CPU on a budget.
- Gaming rigs where CPU temperatures need to be managed under heavy loads without breaking the bank.
- Mid-tier to high-end PC builds where an air cooler is preferred over an AIO for reliability and cost.
- Overclocking enthusiasts looking for effective cooling performance without a premium price tag.
Not Recommended For
- Small form factor (SFF) PC cases due to its 157mm height and potential RAM clearance issues.
- Users prioritizing absolute silence, especially at higher fan RPMs.
- First-time builders who might struggle with the reported installation difficulties.
Watch Out For
- The front 120mm fan often needs to be shifted upwards or relocated to the rear of the heatsink to clear tall RAM modules, potentially impacting case side panel closure.
- Some users experience a high-pitched whirring or humming noise from the fans, particularly at default fan curves, which can be distracting.
- Mounting the cooler can be frustrating, with reports of screws not reaching or requiring excessive force to seat properly, leading to concerns about motherboard damage or improper contact.
- Despite its 25.6dB(A) noise level specification, some users find the cooler 'super noisy' when fans ramp up to 1100-1200 RPM, especially at idle with certain CPUs.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B09S35X72H |
| Brand | Thermalright |
| Voltage | 12 |
| Wattage | 245 watts |
| Material | Aluminum,Silicone,Aluminium,Metal |
| Item Weight | 2 pounds |
| Noise Level | 25.6 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | Thermalright |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 66.17 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Item model number | PA120-D2 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 4.92"L x 5.31"W x 6.18"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1500 RPM |
What Buyers Say
The biggest takeaway from users is the sheer cooling power you get for the price, often rivaling much more expensive coolers. However, this performance comes with some common headaches: the fans can get loud, especially with fluctuating CPU loads, and you'll probably have to mess with the front fan to make room for your RAM. Installation isn't always a breeze either, with several people struggling to get the mounting screws to catch properly. It's a powerhouse, but expect to put in a little extra effort.
“Dude, this thing cools my 7800X3D like a champ, but seriously, the fans can get annoying sometimes, and I had to fight it to get it mounted right and clear my RGB RAM. Still, for the price? Can't really complain too much.”
Common Praise
- Keeps high-TDP CPUs like the Ryzen 7800X3D under 70°C during gaming, even with some overclocking.
- Provides cooling performance comparable to or exceeding coolers that cost significantly more.
- The offset design allows for clearance with the first PCIe slot, preventing interference with graphics cards.
- Comes with all necessary metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms, making it widely compatible.
- Effective at maintaining low temperatures even under heavy workloads.
Common Complaints
- Fans produce a 'super noisy' or 'high-pitched whirring sound' at certain RPMs, particularly noticeable at idle.
- The front fan frequently interferes with tall RAM modules, forcing users to adjust its position or move it to the back.
- Installation can be frustrating, with reports of screws being difficult to align or requiring excessive downward pressure to secure.
- Some users find the stock fans to be of lower quality, considering replacements with quieter alternatives like Arctic P12s or Noctua fans.
- The cooler's large size can cause clearance issues with case side panels, especially if the front fan is raised for RAM clearance.
Ownership Tips
- Adjusting fan curves in BIOS or with third-party software can help mitigate the reported noise issues.
- For systems with tall RAM, moving the front fan to the back of the second heatsink tower is a common workaround, potentially impacting aesthetics or overall airflow slightly.
- Applying even pressure and alternating screw turns during installation is crucial to avoid mounting difficulties and ensure proper contact.
- Consider purchasing aftermarket fans if noise is a significant concern, as the stock fans are often cited as the primary source of noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this cooler fit in my PC case?
The cooler measures 125(L)x135(W)x157(H)mm. You need to check your case's CPU cooler clearance specification, as its 157mm height can be a tight fit in some mid-tower or smaller cases.
Does it have RAM clearance issues?
Yes, with tall RAM modules, the front fan may obstruct the RAM slots. Many users mitigate this by sliding the fan up or moving it to the back of the heatsink, which can affect overall cooler height or aesthetics.
How loud are the fans?
The fans are rated at ≤25.6dB(A) at their maximum speed of 1500 RPM. However, some users report a noticeable whirring or humming sound, particularly when the fans ramp up under load or at certain RPMs.
Is installation difficult?
Some users have reported difficulties with installation, specifically with screws not aligning easily or requiring significant downward pressure to secure the heatsink to the mounting brackets.
What CPUs is it compatible with?
It supports a wide range of Intel sockets including 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/2011/2066/1700/17XX, and AMD sockets AM4/AM5.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at CPU coolers, you're essentially trying to get rid of the heat your processor generates. The bigger the cooler and the more heat pipes it has, generally the better it can pull that heat away. Fans then blow that heat off the fins. You need to make sure it fits in your case and doesn't block your RAM or other components.
TDP (Thermal Design Power)
This number tells you the maximum amount of heat, in watts, the cooler is designed to dissipate. If your CPU generates more heat than the cooler can handle, your CPU will get too hot and slow down. A higher TDP rating on the cooler means it can handle hotter, more powerful CPUs.
Heat Pipes
These are copper tubes filled with a liquid that vaporizes at the hot end (touching the CPU) and condenses at the cool end (in the heatsink fins), efficiently transferring heat. More heat pipes, especially thicker ones, generally mean better heat transfer and cooling performance.
Fan Speed (RPM) & Noise Level (dB(A))
Fan speed (Revolutions Per Minute) indicates how fast the fan spins, directly impacting airflow and cooling. However, higher RPM usually means more noise, measured in decibels (dB(A)). You want a balance where the fan moves enough air to cool your CPU without sounding like a jet engine.
Dimensions (L x W x H)
These measurements are critical for physical compatibility. The height (H) is especially important to ensure the cooler fits inside your PC case without hitting the side panel. The width and length can impact RAM clearance and motherboard component access.
Alternatives
If this cooler doesn't fit your needs, look for single-tower air coolers for better RAM and case clearance, or consider liquid coolers (AIOs) for maximum cooling in compact spaces, though they typically cost more and introduce pump noise.
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