Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Air Coolers Under $100

Deepcool AK620 vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Deepcool AK620 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.4). The gap is mostly about budget-conscious builders seeking metrics display — read the strengths below before deciding.

Deepcool AK620
Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Air Coolers Under $100
Deepcool AK620
$69

The DeepCool AK620 G2 Digital NYX delivers solid cooling performance for mid-range CPUs, effectively managing high TDP processors like the Intel Core i5 12600KF when overclocked to 5GHz. TechPowerUp and Tom's Hardware reviewers praised its dual tower design with 6 heat pipes and improved powder-coated finish. The digital display provides comprehensive system metrics, though some users noted the fan noise levels during intensive use. While it offers good value, Reddit users in r/buildapc reported mixed experiences with the display's information hierarchy. This cooler is ideal for budget-conscious builders seeking reliable performance, but those prioritizing silence may want to consider alternatives.

Strengths
  • Effective cooling performance handling Intel Core i5 12600KF overclocked to 5GHz with maximum temps around 96°C
  • Dual tower design with 6 heat pipes and sawtooth aluminum fins for efficient heat dissipation
  • Digital display shows CPU temperature, usage, power, and frequency with customizable DeepCreative UI
Watch-outs
  • Fan noise reaches 41-43dB during aggressive cooling and overclocking scenarios
  • Display shows CPU speed, usage, power and temperature but application shows fan speed instead
  • Includes only basic mounting accessories without rubber sleeves like newer models
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120
Ranked #2 in Best Air Coolers Under $100
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120
$29

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 delivers impressive cooling performance at an affordable price point, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious builders. Tom's Hardware praised its 'incredible, affordable air cooling performance,' while PC Gamer noted its solid build quality and quiet operation. However, some reviewers cautioned that it may not handle extreme overclocking scenarios as well as more premium options. This cooler is ideal for mainstream users seeking reliable cooling without breaking the bank, but enthusiasts pushing high-end CPUs might want to consider more robust alternatives.

Strengths
  • Excellent cooling performance for an affordable air cooler
  • Quiet operation under typical loads
  • Solid build quality with durable materials
Watch-outs
  • May struggle with very high-end CPUs under extreme overclocking
  • Limited RGB lighting options

How they stack up

Deepcool AK620

The Deepcool AK620 offers a unique digital display feature that sets it apart from competitors like the Noctua NH-U12S redux and Scythe Fuma 2, but its fan noise levels exceed those of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 and be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5. It's more affordable than the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO but lacks the advanced heat pipe technology and build quality of the premium models.

Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 provides excellent value for budget builds, matching the cooling performance of the Noctua NH-U12S redux and Scythe Fuma 2 at a lower price point. It's more affordable than the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO and be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5, but lacks the advanced heat pipe technology and build quality of the premium models.

Specs side-by-side

SpecDeepcool AK620Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120
Cooler TypeAir CoolerAir Cooler
Fan Size9-bladed with fluid dynamic bearing120mm
Heat Pipes6 x 6mm6
TDP Rating260W180W
Noise Level27.3 dBA22-30 dBA
Height165mm145mm
InterfaceLGA1700, AM5, AM4, LGA1200, LGA115x, AM3/AM2+PWM
CompatibilityIntel LGA1700/1200/115x, AMD AM5/AM4/AM3/AM2+LGA 1700, AM5, AM4, LGA 1200, sTRX4
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