Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 White ARGB CPU Air Cooler,6 Heat Pipes,TL-C12W-S PWM Fan,Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology,for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1700/115X/1200/2011/1851
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AI Verdict
This 245W TDP air cooler with dual 120mm ARGB fans is for builders needing high cooling performance on a budget.
This cooler is a strong fit for users needing substantial air cooling for CPUs up to 245W TDP, especially considering its dual 120mm fans and AGHP heat pipe technology. Its compatibility with current Intel and AMD sockets makes it a relevant choice for many modern builds.
If 245W TDP isn't enough, look for coolers with higher wattage ratings or consider a 240mm or 360mm AIO liquid cooler.
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Pros
- Dissipates up to 245W of heat, suitable for high-performance CPUs.
- Includes two 120x120x25mm PWM fans, each moving 66.17 CFM of air.
- Features an offset asymmetric layout, providing clearance for memory modules.
- Equipped with 6x6mm heat pipes utilizing AGHP technique for efficient heat transfer regardless of orientation.
- Fans produce a maximum noise level of 25.6dB(A), contributing to quiet operation.
- ARGB lighting is motherboard-controllable for synchronized effects.
Cons
- At 157mm tall, it might not fit in all PC cases, especially narrower mid-towers.
- Installation can be challenging due to its large size, potentially obstructing motherboard screws or ports.
- The 1.02kg weight requires careful handling during installation and can stress some motherboard mounting points.
- Only supports 4-pin fan connectors, limiting control options for older motherboards without PWM headers.
Dimension Scores
It handles a 245W TDP with 6 heat pipes and dual 66.17 CFM fans, placing it well above average for air coolers.
With a maximum noise level of 25.6dB(A) at 1500rpm, the fans operate quietly for their airflow output.
The cooler features a full electroplating reflow welding process, aluminum heatsink, and copper heat pipes/base, indicating robust construction.
It uses standard 4-pin PWM fan connectors, which are common, but the dual fans mean two cables to manage.
Best For
- Gaming PCs with high-TDP CPUs requiring effective air cooling.
- Systems where quiet operation is prioritized, with a maximum noise level of 25.6dB(A).
- Builds needing ARGB lighting synchronized with other components.
- Users with Intel LGA 1700/115X/1200/2011/1851 or AMD AM4/AM5 sockets.
Not Recommended For
- Small form factor (SFF) PC builds due to its 157mm height.
- First-time builders who might struggle with the large cooler's installation process.
- Users who prefer liquid cooling solutions for extreme overclocking.
Watch Out For
- The cooler's 125(L)x135(W)x157(H)mm dimensions can make accessing motherboard screws difficult after mounting.
- Installing the heatsink and fans after the motherboard is in the case can be problematic, as reported by users.
- The 1.02kg weight means securing it properly is crucial to prevent motherboard flex or damage.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B09S38B3JV |
| Brand | Thermalright |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 245 watts |
| Material | Aluminum, Metal |
| Item Weight | 2 pounds |
| Noise Level | 25.6 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | Thermalright |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Air Flow Capacity | 66.17 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Item model number | PA120 White ARGB-D2 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 6.18"L x 5.31"W x 4.92"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1150 RPM |
What Buyers Say
People are genuinely surprised by how much cooling power this thing packs for the price. Many users report significant drops in CPU temperatures, even on demanding processors. The quiet operation of the fans is a recurring highlight, making it a favorite for those who hate noisy systems. The ARGB lighting is also a hit, especially since it syncs with motherboards, giving builds a cohesive look. However, a consistent complaint is its sheer size, which can make installation a bit of a puzzle, sometimes blocking access to motherboard components.
“Dude, this cooler is a beast for the money, my CPU temps dropped like 20 degrees, but seriously, measure your case first, this thing is HUGE and a pain to install if you're not careful.”
Common Praise
- CPU temperatures drop significantly after installation.
- Fans operate quietly, even under load, at 25.6dB(A) max.
- ARGB lighting effects are soft and motherboard-controllable.
- The cooler effectively handles high-TDP CPUs up to 245W.
- Offset design provides clearance for RAM modules.
Common Complaints
- The cooler's large dimensions (125x135x157mm) can interfere with case side panels.
- Installation can be tricky, with the cooler potentially blocking motherboard screws or ports.
- The weight of 1.02kg makes it feel substantial and requires careful handling.
Ownership Tips
- After a few weeks, the fans remain quiet, even during extended gaming sessions.
- The white finish and ARGB lighting hold up well, no discoloration or dead LEDs reported.
- The cooler's size, while a challenge during initial build, means less dust buildup on the heatsink fins over time compared to smaller coolers.
- The mounting hardware feels secure once installed, despite the initial installation difficulties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this cooler fit in my PC case?
The cooler measures 157mm in height, so you'll need to check your case's maximum CPU cooler clearance to ensure it fits.
Is this cooler compatible with Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets?
Yes, it supports both Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets, along with a range of older Intel and AMD platforms.
How loud are the fans?
The included TL-C12W-S PWM fans have a maximum noise level of 25.6dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler of this performance.
Does it come with thermal paste?
User feedback indicates it typically includes thermal paste, adding to its value.
Can I control the ARGB lighting?
Yes, the ARGB lighting is designed to be controlled and synchronized via your motherboard's software.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at CPU air coolers, you need to think about how much heat your CPU generates, how much space you have in your case, and how much noise you can tolerate. A cooler's job is to move heat away from your CPU so it doesn't overheat and slow down. Bigger coolers usually mean better heat dissipation, but they also take up more room. Fan speed and design impact both cooling performance and noise levels.
TDP (Thermal Design Power)
This number, like the 245W on this cooler, tells you the maximum amount of heat in watts the cooler can effectively dissipate. Your CPU also has a TDP, and you want your cooler's TDP to be equal to or higher than your CPU's to prevent overheating, like matching a car's engine size to its towing capacity.
Dimensions (Height)
The height, 157mm for this model, is crucial because it determines if the cooler will physically fit inside your PC case without hitting the side panel. It's like checking if a tall piece of furniture will fit through your doorway.
Noise Level (dB(A))
Measured in decibels, this tells you how loud the cooler's fans will be. A lower number, like 25.6dB(A), means a quieter system, which is important if your PC is in a living area or you prefer silence, similar to how you'd choose a quiet refrigerator.
Alternatives
If this cooler is too large, look for single-tower air coolers or low-profile air coolers with a height under 150mm. If you need even more cooling, search for 240mm or 360mm AIO liquid coolers.
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