Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›
all judged against CPU coolers at a similar priceThe Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE scores 7.8/10 overall, ahead of the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 at 6.8/10.
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 leads on build and installation.
The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE leads on cooling and value.
They score the same on noise and compatibility and fit.
The biggest difference is value, where the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE scores 9/10 to the NZXT Kraken Elite 360's 5/10.
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 is for builders who want a 360 mm AIO on a current Intel or AMD platform. It suits people who want low temperatures under heavy load and a simple install. It is less suited to buyers watching the budget closely.
Typically about £279.95 in the UK when we researched itSearch Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details
The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is for builders who want strong air cooling on a tight budget. It suits Intel and AMD desktop owners on current sockets who would rather not pay for liquid cooling. It asks for some patience at install time and a case with room for a 155 mm tower.
Typically about £25.41 in the UK when we researched itSearch Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details
| Criterion | Weight | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling | 35% | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Noise | 25% | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Compatibility and fit | 15% | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Value | 15% | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Build and installation | 10% | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Overall | 6.8/10 | 7.8/10 |
| Spec | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 | Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE |
|---|---|---|
| Type (tower air cooler, low-profile air, or AIO liquid with radiator size) | Liquid AIO with 360 mm radiator | Dual-tower air cooler |
| Supported sockets (e.g. AM5, AM4, LGA1851, LGA1700) | Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, 115X; AMD AM5, AM4 | Intel 115X/1200/1700/1851; AMD AM4/AM5 |
| Height in mm (air coolers) or radiator size in mm (AIO) | Radiator 401 × 120 × 27 mm; pump cap 93.5 mm diameter × 65 mm high | 155 mm (L125 × W110 × H155 mm) |
| Fans included and their size | Elite 360: 3 × F120P (2024) 120 mm static-pressure fans, 500–2,000 ±200 RPM, 30 dBA each. Elite 360 RGB: 1 × F360 RGB Core fan containing three 120 mm fans, 500–2,400 ±250 RPM, 30.0 dBA per fan | Two TL-C12C 120 × 120 × 25 mm 4-pin PWM fans, 1550 RPM ±10%, 66.17 CFM max, 0.20 A each |
| Noise level (dBA) | Elite 360 RGB: 33.88 dB stated by manufacturer; PCGamesN lists 34 dBA | 25.6 dBA (rated, per fan spec) |
| Warranty (years) | 6 years | Premium dual-tower air cooler series (including Peerless Assassin): 3–6 year limited warranty; no figure stated for this model |
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