Compare: iCUE H100i Elite Capellix vs Peerless Assassin 140

Design and Aesthetics:

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

The 240mm RGB Fan AIO Liquid Cooler features two 120mm RGB fans. Complemented by its sleek black radiator and tubing, this cooler effortlessly fits into your setup while offering customizable brilliance that complements other components. Thanks to iCUE compatibility, it easily syncs with fellow Corsair RGB products, enabling personalized color schemes and effects, all while maintaining top-tier cooling performance. For those seeking a balanced blend of style and cooling prowess, this cooler stands as a compelling choice.

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:

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

This cooler is relatively easy to install and is a typical iCUE AIO install. This cooler has a standard AIO installation where you must screw the fans onto the radiator. In regards to the pump installation, this AIO has four screws that go into the backplate, where the pump can then be placed and secured with screw caps. To swap the cooler for different CPU mounting systems (AMD/Intel) is relativly easy and doesn't require any screws. However, the corsair logo is secured with four hex screws, so it might require additional work to get the logo in the proper direction. When it comes to RGB setup, this AIO requires the use of the Corsair iCUE Commander CORE RGB HUB. Additionally, the heat pipes pivot at the pump, which allows for a more versatile installation.

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:

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

The iCUE H100i Elite Capellix provides excellent cooling performance that rivals top-tier air coolers such as the NH-D15, this cooler stands out as a cooler that can handle the heat. Perfectly tailored for setups in looking for remarkable cooling efficiency without compromising on noise levels, it does so without the unwieldy dimensions of some of the larger air cooling solutions.

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:

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

This cooler offers impressive noise levels in proportion to its cooling performance. However, owing to its dual-fan setup, it can produce audible noise. This aspect should mainly concern those who plan on pushing their CPU to overclocked limits.

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:

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

This cooler is easily installed with standard iCUE AIO procedures for fans and pump. CPU swaps are straightforward, but adjusting the logo may need extra effort. The 240mm RGB Fan AIO Liquid Cooler seamlessly integrates into setups, with two captivating 120mm RGB fans and a sleek black radiator, offering customizable brilliance via iCUE compatibility. It matches top-tier air coolers' performance, ideal for efficient cooling without noise worries. Audible noise from the dual-fan setup is mainly relevant for aggressive CPU overclocking.

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.