Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is a dual-tower air cooler built for high-performance desktops. It uses six pure copper heat pipes and a 157mm height to manage heat efficiently. This design supports modern LGA1700 and AM5 sockets, making it a strong choice for users who prioritize thermal performance over aesthetic lighting. The offset layout also helps with graphics card clearance, which is a practical benefit for standard mid-tower cases.
If you need alternatives to the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black, you might look for different specifications. Some users prefer a smaller footprint for compact cases or low-noise operation. Others may want ARGB lighting or a different brand. We selected 6 similar picks because their specs overlap with the original. These options share key features like dual-tower designs and six heat pipes. This list helps you find a cooler that matches your specific case size, socket type, and cooling needs without sacrificing performance.
Our top pick: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black Dual Tower.
How each alternative compares
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black Cooler
This Peerless Assassin variant shares the same dual-tower and six-heat-pipe architecture as the original. It offers identical cooling capacity for LGA1700 and AM5 platforms. The primary difference is the inclusion of a fan in its feature set, ensuring you get the necessary airflow components out of the box. Its dimensions remain consistent at roughly 157mm in height. You should pick this version if you need a complete package without sourcing fans separately. The thermal performance remains identical to the base model. It is a straightforward alternative for builders who want the same robust heat dissipation with guaranteed fan inclusion.
Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo Dual-Tower Air Cooler
The Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo also uses a dual-tower design with six heat pipes, matching the original’s thermal structure. However, it adds ARGB lighting, which the original lacks. This cooler is heavier at 2.78 pounds and slightly taller at 157mm. It supports the same modern sockets, including AM5 and LGA1851. You might choose this if you want visible lighting effects in your build. The copper construction provides solid heat transfer. It is a premium option for users who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. The added weight and size may require checking case clearance, but it offers a similar cooling profile with visual enhancements.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black
This mini version retains the six-heat-pipe design but reduces the overall footprint. It is shorter in width and height compared to the full-sized original. This compact form factor makes it ideal for smaller cases where the 157mm height of the original might cause clearance issues. It still supports AM5 and LGA1851 sockets. You should select this if you need lower noise levels and better RAM clearance. The trade-off is reduced raw peak airflow due to the smaller size. It is a practical choice for users who prioritize fitment and quiet operation over maximum thermal headroom in a dense chassis.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black
Another mini variant, this model also features six heat pipes and 120mm fans. It shares the compact dimensions of the other mini version, offering better compatibility with tight cases. The weight is significantly lower at 3.53 ounces, making installation easier. It supports the same broad range of sockets, including AM5 and LGA1851. You should pick this if you need modern socket support without the bulk of a standard dual-tower. It sacrifices some raw cooling potential for size efficiency. This is a solid choice for builders who value low noise and compact dimensions over maximum airflow capabilities.
upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler
The upHere dual-tower cooler also uses six heat pipes and 120mm fans, matching the original’s core cooling components. It supports AM5 and LGA1851 sockets, ensuring compatibility with modern hardware. This model focuses on quiet cooling, lacking the visual flair of higher-end alternatives. It is a straightforward option for users who prioritize thermal efficiency without extra features. You should choose this if you want a reliable, no-nonsense cooling solution. It offers similar heat dissipation capabilities to the original. The design is functional and aimed at users who value performance and silence over aesthetic additions or complex mounting systems.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black
This mini version features six heat pipes and a compact design, similar to other mini variants. It is designed for cases with height constraints, offering better RAM clearance than the original. It supports AM5 and LGA1851 sockets, ensuring modern compatibility. The narrower profile makes it suitable for builds where space is limited. You should pick this if you need reliable cooling in a tight chassis. It trades some raw thermal performance for size efficiency. This is a practical choice for users who prioritize fitment and socket compatibility over maximum cooling headroom. It delivers steady performance in standard builds where case height is a primary concern.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black Dual Tower
Best for: High-performance desktops with LGA1700 or AM5
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA115X/1851/1700/2011, AM4/AM5
- Cooler Height
- 157mm
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550rpm±10%
View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black Dual Tower
The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black is a dual-tower CPU air cooler designed for high-performance thermal management. It features six 6mm heat pipes and two 120mm PWM fans that reach 1550 RPM. The cooler stands 157mm tall and weighs 1.02kg. It supports Intel LGA1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets. This cooler suits users needing strong cooling for modern processors.
Pros
- Dual-tower design with 9600cm² effective heat dissipation area
- Six 6mm pure copper heat pipes with AGHP technology
- Dual 120mm PWM fans providing up to 66.17 CFM airflow
- Low noise level of 25.6 dB(A) at maximum speed
- Compatible with Intel LGA1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets
Cons
- 157mm height may conflict with tall RAM modules
- 1.02kg weight adds significant load to the motherboard
- No mention of RGB lighting or software control in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a dual-tower cooler for high-TDP CPUs
- You use Intel LGA1700 or AMD AM5 platforms
- You prefer silent operation under 26 dB(A)
Skip if
- Your case supports coolers no taller than 150mm
- You require RGB lighting synchronization features
- You are building in a compact ITX case
Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black delivers robust cooling through its dual-tower and six-heat-pipe design. It fits users with LGA1700 or AM5 systems who prioritize thermal performance over aesthetics.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black Cooler
Best for: LGA 1700 and AM5 cooling performance
- Cooler Height
- 157 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- TDP Rating
- 245 W
- Fan Speed
- 1500 RPM
View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black Cooler
This dual-tower air cooler features six 6mm copper heat pipes and two 120mm PWM fans. It supports sockets like LGA 1700 and AM5 with a 245W TDP rating. The offset design clears the first GPU slot. You get strong cooling performance for modern processors without needing complex setup. It fits most standard cases.
Pros
- Six 6mm pure copper heat pipes with AGHP technology
- Dual 120mm PWM fans with 66.17 CFM airflow
- Supports LGA 1700, LGA 1851, AM4, and AM5 sockets
- Offset design allows clearance for first GPU slot
Cons
- 157 mm height may not fit small cases
- Fans are not addressable RGB
- Aluminum heatsink fins instead of all-copper
Good fit if
- You need reliable cooling for LGA 1700 or AM5
- You have a mid-tower case with 160 mm clearance
- You want strong performance without RGB lighting
Skip if
- Your case height limit is under 157 mm
- You require ARGB fan synchronization
- You use a socket not listed in compatibility
Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black delivers efficient cooling for LGA 1700 and AM5 systems. It suits builders who prioritize thermal performance and GPU clearance over aesthetic lighting.
Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo Dual-Tower Air Cooler
Best for: high-end gaming PCs with ARGB lighting
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1200, LGA 1700, LGA 1851
- Cooler Height
- 157mm
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 2,050 RPM
View on Amazon: Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo Dual-Tower Air Cooler
The Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo Black uses a dual-tower design with six copper heat pipes to handle high-end processors. It includes two 120mm fans that reach 2,050 RPM for strong airflow. The unit stands 157mm tall, fitting most mid-tower cases. Dual-loop ARGB lighting adds visual appeal. This cooler suits users building for AMD Ryzen 9 or Intel Core i7 who want premium aesthetics.
Pros
- Six copper heat pipes for efficient heat transfer
- Dual-tower heatsink doubles surface area
- Fans adjust from 650 to 2,050 RPM via PWM
- Dual-loop ARGB lighting with 50% larger rings
- Simplified brackets for AM5 and LGA 1851 installation
Cons
- 157mm height may block tall RAM sticks
- 2.78 pounds adds significant weight to the motherboard
- ARGB requires motherboard header connection
Good fit if
- You need strong cooling for high-end CPUs like Ryzen 9 or Core i7
- You want a black cooler with visible ARGB lighting
- Your case supports coolers up to 157mm tall
Skip if
- You have a small form factor case with low clearance
- You prefer silent operation below 650 RPM fan speeds
- You are building for a socket not listed in the compatibility data
Verdict: Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo Black delivers robust cooling for power users through its dual-tower structure and six heat pipes. It fits best in standard mid-tower cases where its 157mm height and 2.78-pound weight are manageable.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black
Best for: Compact cases and low-noise builds
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1500 RPM
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- System Type
- Desktop
View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black
This dual-tower air cooler uses six heat pipes to move heat from the base to the aluminum fins. It includes a 120mm fan that moves 66.87 CFM of air at a maximum speed of 1500 RPM. The unit measures 4.33 inches in width and 5.31 inches in height. It supports modern Intel and AMD sockets. It suits users who need a compact cooling solution for smaller cases.
Pros
- Dual-tower design with 48 aluminum fins per side
- Six pure copper heat pipes for efficient heat transfer
- 120mm fan with S-FDB bearing for 20,000-hour life
- Quiet operation at 25.6 dB(A) max noise level
Cons
- Smaller 120mm fan compared to 140mm alternatives
- Lower maximum fan speed of 1500 RPM
- Narrower 4.33-inch width may limit RAM clearance
Good fit if
- You have a compact case with strict width limits
- You use an AM5 or LGA 1700/1851 socket
- You prefer low noise under normal loads
Skip if
- You need a 140mm fan for maximum airflow
- You have tall RAM that blocks wide coolers
- You require RGB lighting on the fans
Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 MINI Black offers solid cooling in a narrow frame. It fits users who prioritize low noise and compact dimensions over raw peak airflow.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black
Best for: Small cases needing modern socket support
- Cooler Height
- 135 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1500 RPM
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black
This compact air cooler uses six heat pipes with AGHP technology to manage heat in tight spaces. It includes a 120mm PWM fan that reaches 1500 RPM for 66.87 CFM airflow. The 135 mm height fits smaller cases where larger dual-tower coolers will not. It supports modern Intel and AMD sockets for straightforward installation.
Pros
- Six 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- 120mm PWM fan with 66.87 CFM airflow
- Compact 135 mm height for small cases
- Supports LGA 1700, 1851, and AM5 sockets
Cons
- Single 120mm fan limits peak cooling capacity
- Aluminum fin stack offers less thermal mass than copper
- Shorter height reduces compatibility with tall RAM sticks
Good fit if
- You have a small form factor case
- You need support for modern LGA 1851 or AM5 sockets
- You prefer a low-profile black cooler
Skip if
- You require dual-fan cooling performance
- You have tall RAM that blocks the fan
- You need a copper base for extreme loads
Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black fits users with small cases who need modern socket support without the bulk of a dual-tower design.
upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler
Best for: Quiet cooling on AM5 and LGA platforms
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1600 RPM
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1150
- Color
- Black
The upHere CPU Air Cooler uses a dual-tower design with six 6mm heat pipes to manage heat. It includes two 120mm fans running at 1600 RPM, delivering 68.2 CFM of airflow with noise below 25.6 dB. This black cooler supports AM5, AM4, and Intel LGA sockets. It offers memory clearance and easy installation without removing the motherboard.
Pros
- Dual-tower structure with six 6mm heat pipes
- Dual 120mm fans provide 68.2 CFM airflow
- Noise level stays below 25.6 dB at max speed
- Supports AM5, AM4, and multiple Intel sockets
- Non-disassembly fan design aids installation
Cons
- Maximum fan speed is limited to 1600 RPM
- Does not include RGB lighting on the black version
- Single 4-pin PWM connector for power
Good fit if
- You need a cooler that fits under standard cases with tall RAM
- You want quiet operation under 26 dB
- You are building on an AM5 or LGA 1700 socket
Skip if
- You require RGB lighting effects
- You need fan speeds above 1600 RPM
- You prefer a single-tower low-profile design
Verdict: The upHere 120mm Dual Tower CPU Air Cooler is a solid choice for users prioritizing quiet cooling on modern sockets. It delivers efficient heat dissipation without the noise or visual flair of higher-end models.
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black
Best for: Compact cases with tall RAM modules
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200
- Cooler Height
- 135mm
- Heat Pipes
- 6
- Tower Design
- Dual-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- System Type
- Desktop
View on Amazon: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black
This dual-tower air cooler uses six 6mm heat pipes to move heat from a copper base to aluminum fins. The 135mm height allows it to fit inside most cases without blocking tall RAM sticks. It supports modern Intel and AMD sockets. You get strong cooling performance in a compact footprint that balances size and thermal output for standard desktop builds.
Pros
- Six 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- Dual-tower design with 48 aluminum fins per side
- 135mm height reduces RAM clearance issues
- Supports LGA1700, LGA1851, AM4, and AM5
Cons
- Smaller dual-tower design compared to full-size peers
- Aluminum fin construction limits peak heat capacity
- No included software for fan curve control
Good fit if
- You need a cooler that fits in mid-tower cases
- You use modern Intel or AMD processors
- You want a black aesthetic for your build
Skip if
- You require liquid cooling for extreme overclocking
- You have a case with less than 135mm clearance
- You prefer RGB lighting effects
Verdict: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 MINI Black delivers reliable cooling for standard builds where case height is a constraint. It is a solid choice for users who prioritize RAM clearance and socket compatibility over maximum thermal headroom.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black Dual Tower | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black Cooler | Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo Dual-Tower Air Cooler | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black | upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA115X/1851/1700/2011, AM4/AM5 | not specified | AM4, AM5, LGA 1200, LGA 1700, LGA 1851 | not specified | not specified | not specified | AM4, AM5, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200 |
| Cooler Height | 157mm | 157 mm | 157mm | not specified | 135 mm | not specified | 135mm |
| Heat Pipes | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Tower Design | Dual-Tower | Dual-Tower | Dual-Tower | Dual-Tower | not specified | Dual-Tower | Dual-Tower |
| Fan Size | 120mm | 120 mm | 120mm | 120mm | 120mm | 120mm | 120mm |
| TDP Rating | not specified | 245 W | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Fan Speed | 1550rpm±10% | 1500 RPM | 2,050 RPM | 1500 RPM | 1500 RPM | 1600 RPM | not specified |
| Lighting | not specified | not specified | ARGB | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| System Type | not specified | not specified | not specified | Desktop | not specified | not specified | Desktop |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Material | not specified | Aluminum | Copper | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Features | not specified | Fan | Fan | not specified | Fan | Fan | not specified |
| Dimensions | 2.43 × 2.09 × 1.94 inches | 4.92 × 5.28 × 6.24 inches | 7.9 × 5.9 × 6.3 inches | 4.92 × 4.33 × 5.31 inches | 4.33 × 5.31 × 4.92 inches | not specified | 4.72 × 0.98 × 4.72 inches |
| Weight | not specified | 2 pounds | 2.78 pounds | not specified | 3.53 ounces | not specified | not specified |
| Model | PA120SE BLACK | PA120 Black-D2 | RR-D6BB-20PA-R1 | PA120 MINI BLACK D6 | PA120 MINI BLACK | D6SEK-US | not specified |
| Size | not specified | not specified | 6.2" x 5.4" | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
Frequently asked questions
Which CPU sockets are supported by the Peerless Assassin 120 Black alternatives?
Most alternatives in this list support AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, and LGA 1151 sockets. The top picks specifically highlight compatibility with modern LGA1700 and AM5 platforms. You should verify your motherboard socket type before purchasing to ensure a proper fit for your system.
Do these air coolers include fans with the purchase?
Yes, several models in this list explicitly include a fan in their feature set. The Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo and various Thermalright Mini variants are listed with fan features. This means you receive a complete cooling solution without needing to buy a separate fan for installation.
Are there options for small form factor builds?
The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black is designed for compact cases and low-noise builds. It offers a narrower frame compared to standard dual-tower models. This makes it suitable for users who need modern socket support without the bulk of a larger cooling solution.
How many heat pipes do these coolers use?
All listed alternatives utilize six heat pipes for heat dissipation. This includes the main Thermalright Peerless Assassin models, the Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo, and the upHere Dual Tower. The six-heat-pipe design is a common standard across these products for efficient thermal transfer.
Which option is best for high-end gaming PCs with lighting?
The Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo is noted for its ARGB lighting capabilities. It features a dual-tower structure and copper construction for robust cooling. This model fits best in standard mid-tower cases where its height and weight are manageable, appealing to users who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance.
What is the maximum height for the standard Peerless Assassin models?
The standard Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Black models have a height of 157mm, which is approximately 6.18 inches. The Cooler Master Hyper 622 Halo is slightly taller at 157mm as well. You must check your case specifications to ensure it can accommodate these dimensions.
Are there budget-friendly alternatives to the main model?
The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 Mini Black is identified as the best budget option. It delivers solid cooling performance in a compact form factor. This model is ideal for users who prioritize low noise and compact dimensions over raw peak airflow capabilities.
Which cooler is best for quiet operation?
The upHere Dual Tower 120mm CPU Cooler is recommended for quiet cooling on AM5 and LGA platforms. It delivers efficient heat dissipation without the noise associated with higher-end models. This makes it a solid choice for users who prioritize low acoustic output in their builds.




