The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is the objective winner of this comparison, securing two out of three spec victories. While the MSI MAG CORELIQUID E360 offers a notable advantage in thermal management with a 21% higher TDP rating, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE provides the most impactful benefit by being 73% more affordable. This significant difference in MSRP makes the air cooler the superior choice for those prioritizing cost-efficiency in their build.

Users should select the MSI MAG CORELIQUID E360 if their primary requirement is the higher TDP rating for managing heat in demanding systems. Conversely, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is the ideal component for budget-conscious builders who want to maximize value without sacrificing the majority of the tested specifications. Choosing between these two depends entirely on whether the user prioritizes the superior thermal capacity of the liquid cooler or the substantial cost savings of the air cooler.