Compare: Hyper H412R vs Peerless Assassin 140

Design and Aesthetics:

Hyper H412R

The Hyper H412R features a compact design with a single-tower aluminum heatsink and a 92mm PWM fan. The cooler's small size makes it compatible with a wide range of PC cases, including smaller form factors like mini-ITX and micro-ATX builds. The overall look of the Hyper H412R is relatively simple, with a predominantly black and white color scheme.

Peerless Assassin 140

The Peerless Assassin 140 shares a similar design with other 140mm coolers from Thermalright, featuring two 140mm heatsinks paired with a 120mm fan at the front and a 140mm fan in the middle. The difference in fan sizes helps reduce RAM clearance issues, which are common with most 140mm air coolers. This model has a polished top and comes in an all-black design, though other color options may be available.

Install Notes:

Hyper H412R

The Hyper H412R is compatible with a range of Intel and AMD sockets, and it comes with the necessary mounting hardware. The installation process is relatively straightforward and easier than some other Cooler Master models. However, as with any cooler installation, it's essential to carefully follow the instructions and ensure proper mounting for optimal cooling performance.

Peerless Assassin 140

The Peerless Assassin 140 CPU cooler features installation components similar to many mainstream Thermalright designs, making it relatively easy to install. However, it encounters a challenge when uninstalling, as it doesn't allow for sliding or twisting to break the thermal paste seal. This can be problematic if the thermal paste creates a strong bond between the cooler and the CPU.

Cooling Performance:

Hyper H412R

The performance of the Hyper H412R is suitable for most mainstream CPUs and everyday tasks. It has four direct contact heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU to the heatsink. While the cooler may not be the best choice for high-end CPUs with high TDPs or extreme overclocking scenarios, it provides adequate cooling for most use cases at its price point.

Peerless Assassin 140

While the cooler offers similar peak performance to its competitors, its main advantage lies in its efficiency at lower RPMs, where it provides slightly better cooling. This translates to a noticeable edge in noise-to-performance ratio compared to smaller coolers, making it quieter under lower loads while still maintaining strong cooling capabilities.

Noise Performance:

Hyper H412R

The 92mm PWM fan included with the Hyper H412R is designed for quiet operation while maintaining good airflow. It may not be the quietest fan available, but it generally offers a good balance between cooling performance and noise levels, especially considering its budget-friendly price.

Peerless Assassin 140

Due to its larger fans, this cooler becomes more audible at higher RPMs. However, because the fans move more air, lower RPMs are generally sufficient for cooling under most moderate CPU loads, allowing for quieter operation without sacrificing performance.

Summary:

Hyper H412R

The Hyper H412R is an affordable and compact air cooler that's well-suited for mainstream CPUs and budget builds. Its small size, decent cooling performance, and quiet operation make it an attractive option for those looking for a cost-effective and space-saving cooling solution.

Peerless Assassin 140

The Peerless Assassin 140 CPU cooler is easy to install, thanks to its design resembling other mainstream Thermalright models, but it presents a challenge during uninstallation as it doesn’t allow for sliding or twisting to break the thermal paste seal. It features two 140mm heatsinks, a 120mm fan at the front, and a 140mm fan in the middle, which helps reduce RAM clearance issues common with larger coolers. While its peak performance is on par with competitors, it excels at lower RPMs, offering better cooling and a superior noise-to-performance ratio compared to smaller coolers. Although more audible at higher RPMs due to its larger fans, the slower speeds still provide sufficient cooling for most moderate CPU loads, ensuring quieter operation without compromising performance.