Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini White CPU Cooler, 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, with 120mm PWM Fan, 1500RPM Speed, for AMD:AM4 AM5/Intel LGA 1851/1700/1150/1151/1200/2011,PC Cooler
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AI Verdict
This is a 135mm tall dual-tower air cooler with a 120mm PWM fan, 6x6mm heat pipes, and a 25.6dB(A) noise level, designed for compact PC builds.
This cooler is a strong fit for compact PC builds due to its 135mm height, allowing it to fit into many Small Form Factor cases that cannot accommodate larger coolers. Its dual-tower design with 6x6mm heat pipes and a 120mm fan provides substantial cooling capacity for its size.
If this cooler's 135mm height is too much, look for single-tower coolers or low-profile options under 130mm.
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Pros
- The 135mm height makes it suitable for smaller form factor cases that can't fit taller coolers.
- Features 6x6mm AGHP 4th generation heat pipes for efficient heat transfer regardless of orientation.
- The 120mm PWM fan operates at 1500rpm ±10% with a maximum airflow of 66.87CFM.
- Includes an S-FDB bearing fan, rated for an industrial life of up to 20,000 hours.
- Compatible with a wide range of sockets including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1851/1700/1150/1151/1200/2011.
- Installation is generally straightforward on both AMD and Intel platforms.
Cons
- The 135mm height might still cause RAM clearance issues with tall memory modules, especially those with large RGB heat spreaders.
- While quiet at idle, the fan can become audible under heavy CPU loads.
- Only includes one 120mm fan, which might limit peak cooling performance compared to dual-fan configurations.
- The dual-tower design, even in its 'mini' form, can be bulky inside very cramped cases.
Dimension Scores
The dual-tower design with 6x6mm AGHP heat pipes and a 120mm fan provides strong heat dissipation for its compact size.
The 120mm PWM fan has a specified maximum noise level of 25.6dB(A), which is relatively quiet for its airflow capacity.
It features a copper base, aluminum fins, and an S-FDB bearing fan, indicating durable construction.
The single 4-pin PWM fan connector simplifies wiring, but the fan clips are standard and don't offer specific cable routing features.
Best For
- Small Form Factor (SFF) PC builds requiring a powerful air cooler under 140mm in height.
- Users running mid-range to high-end CPUs who prioritize air cooling over liquid cooling in compact systems.
- Quiet PC builds where the CPU is not constantly under maximum load.
Not Recommended For
- Extremely compact ITX cases with very limited CPU cooler height clearance (e.g., under 130mm).
- Users with tall RAM modules who do not want to adjust fan placement or risk interference.
- Enthusiasts pushing extreme overclocks on high-TDP CPUs, where a larger cooler or AIO might be more suitable.
Watch Out For
- RAM clearance can be an issue; some users report needing to adjust the fan position or being unable to use tall RAM sticks due to the 135mm cooler height.
- The fan, while having a low stated noise level of 25.6dB(A), can be heard spinning up under heavy CPU loads.
- Despite being a 'mini' version, its dual-tower design and 125mm depth can still be a tight squeeze in some SFF cases.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 755225219637 |
| ASIN | B0CQQ9WSBG |
| Brand | Thermalright |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 12 watts |
| Material | Copper |
| Item Weight | 2.86 pounds |
| Noise Level | 25.6 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | Thermalright |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 66.87 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Item model number | PA120 MINI WHITE |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 4.72"L x 0.98"W x 4.72"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1500 RPM |
What Buyers Say
People are really digging this cooler for its ability to keep CPUs cool in smaller cases, which is a huge win for SFF builds. Many are surprised by how much cooling power you get from something that's only 135mm tall, especially when compared to bigger, more expensive options. The installation process gets a thumbs-up for being pretty straightforward, which isn't always the case with CPU coolers. However, a few folks have mentioned that if you've got really tall RAM sticks, you might have to do some fan adjusting to make everything fit. And while it's quiet most of the time, you'll definitely hear the fan kick in when your CPU is working hard.
“Dude, this mini cooler is a beast for my ITX build, keeps my CPU chill but man, those RAM sticks were a pain to get in with the fan on. Still worth it though.”
Common Praise
- The 135mm height fits into many compact PC cases.
- Provides effective cooling for its size, often outperforming expectations.
- Installation process is described as simple and user-friendly.
- Comes with all necessary mounting hardware for various sockets.
Common Complaints
- Tall RAM modules can interfere with the fan, requiring repositioning or alternative RAM.
- Fan noise becomes noticeable under heavy CPU load, despite being quiet at idle.
- The cooler's depth of 125mm can still be a tight fit in some very narrow cases.
Ownership Tips
- The white aesthetic looks clean in matching builds, but the black heat pipes are still visible.
- The included thermal paste is adequate for initial use, but some users opt for aftermarket paste for slightly better performance.
- The fan clips are secure but can be a bit fiddly to attach during installation.
- Even with its 'mini' designation, the cooler has a noticeable presence in smaller cases, so plan your build carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dimensions of this cooler?
The heatsink itself is 135mm high, 125mm deep, and 110mm wide. With the fan attached, the overall dimensions will be slightly larger.
Will this cooler fit in my Small Form Factor (SFF) case?
It's designed for SFF cases with its 135mm height, but you'll need to check your case's maximum CPU cooler clearance to ensure it fits.
Is this cooler compatible with AMD AM5 processors?
Yes, it supports AMD AM5 sockets, as well as AM4 and various Intel LGA sockets.
Does it come with thermal paste?
Yes, Thermalright coolers typically include thermal paste in the accessory package.
How noisy is the fan?
The included 120mm PWM fan has a maximum noise level of 25.6dB(A) at its full speed of 1500rpm.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at CPU coolers, especially for smaller builds, you need to think about height first. This cooler is 135mm tall, which is a sweet spot for many compact cases, but always double-check your case's maximum clearance. Also, consider your RAM; if you have tall heat spreaders, you might run into fitment issues with the fan. Don't just look at the fan speed; the bearing type and noise level are also important for long-term use and quiet operation.
135mm Height
This is crucial for Small Form Factor (SFF) PC cases. Many SFF cases have a strict height limit for CPU coolers, and 135mm allows this cooler to fit where larger 155mm+ coolers cannot. Think of it like trying to fit a tall book on a short shelf – if it's too tall, it just won't go in.
6x6mm Heat Pipes with AGHP Technology
Heat pipes transfer heat away from your CPU to the fins. More heat pipes, especially 6mm ones, mean more pathways for heat to escape. AGHP (Anti-Gravity Heat Pipe) technology helps ensure these pipes work efficiently even if your PC isn't perfectly upright, which is a smart design for consistent cooling.
S-FDB Bearing Fan (1500rpm, 25.6dB(A))
The fan is what moves air through the cooler's fins. S-FDB (Fluid Dynamic Bearing) means it's designed for quiet operation and a long lifespan (20,000 hours). The 1500rpm speed indicates its cooling power, while 25.6dB(A) is the maximum noise level, telling you how loud it can get when working hard.
Alternatives
If you need something even shorter, look for low-profile coolers under 130mm; if you have more space and want maximum air cooling, consider dual-fan, dual-tower coolers over 150mm tall.
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