Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler

Overview of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 CPU Cooler is priced at C$47.90 and is designed to provide effective cooling with its innovative features. This cooler measures 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 157mm in height, weighing in at 0.945 kg. It boasts an upgraded AGHP 4th generation technology with a 7x6mm heatpipe system that enhances its cooling efficiency. The materials used include a combination of anodized black frosted top, finely carved pure copper base, and aluminum fins, contributing to its durability and performance.

The Phantom Spirit 120 is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD CPU sockets, including LGA1700 and AM5. Its design allows for easy installation, supported by appropriate mounting plates for different platforms. This cooler is particularly notable for its long service life, rated at up to 20,000 hours, which is complemented by S-FDB bearings that ensure stable operation.

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black CPU Cooler is slightly more affordable at C$46.79. It features a dual tower design with dimensions of 125mm in length, 135mm in width, and 155mm in height, weighing similarly to its competitor. Built with a blackened nano coating and fully electroplated heat pipes, it enhances the effective heat dissipation area significantly. The unique design helps avoid memory interference, making it suitable for various builds.

This cooler is also compatible with both Intel and AMD CPUs, including support for LGA1700 and AM5 sockets. It stands out with its dual PWM fans, which operate at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, providing an impressive airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level below 25.6 dB. The Peerless Assassin's dual fan setup enhances its cooling performance, making it a robust choice for those seeking optimal thermal management.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, both the Phantom Spirit 120 and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black are designed to efficiently dissipate heat from CPUs. The Phantom Spirit focuses on a single tower design with a heatpipe configuration and a large surface area of aluminum fins, promising maximum heat dissipation.

On the other hand, the Peerless Assassin features a dual tower design paired with dual fans, which is likely to provide a stronger airflow and improved cooling efficiency. The dual fans can generate a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, which aids in maintaining lower temperatures during high workloads. This difference in design might result in the Peerless Assassin delivering better cooling under extreme conditions compared to the Phantom Spirit.

Noise Levels and Operation

The Phantom Spirit 120 and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black both prioritize quiet operation, but they achieve this in different ways. The Phantom Spirit does not specify a noise level, but given its construction and S-FDB bearings, it is designed to operate silently over extended periods.

Conversely, the Peerless Assassin has a defined noise level, rated at ≤25.6 dB during operation. This low noise output is achieved through its dual fan setup, which, despite having two fans, manages to keep the sound levels at a minimum. For those concerned with noise in a quiet workspace or gaming setup, the Peerless Assassin may have a slight advantage due to its specifically rated sound levels.

Installation and Compatibility

Both the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 and the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black provide compatibility with popular Intel and AMD CPU sockets, ensuring a wide range of installation options. The Phantom Spirit offers support for LGA1700, LGA2011, and AM4/AM5 sockets, among others, making it versatile for different builds.

The Peerless Assassin likewise supports a similar range of sockets but emphasizes ease of installation with its included metal fasteners. The slightly lower height of the Peerless Assassin, at 155mm compared to the Phantom Spirit's 157mm, may offer an edge in compatibility with tighter chassis setups, particularly for ITX motherboards. Both coolers come with mounting kits and instructions, ensuring users can set them up with relative ease.

Aesthetic and Build Quality

Aesthetically, the Phantom Spirit 120 presents a sleek, black frosted finish that complements modern gaming rigs, while also showcasing its high-quality build with a combination of materials. The anodized top and copper base add a touch of elegance to its functionality.

In contrast, the Peerless Assassin takes on a more aggressive look with its dual tower and blackened nano coating, appealing to users who prefer a bolder design. The use of fully electroplated heat pipes and micro-carved copper base further emphasises its focus on superior heat dissipation. Both coolers exhibit high build quality, but the choice between them may come down to personal preference in aesthetics.

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 is available for C$47.90, while the Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black is slightly cheaper at C$46.79. The price difference of just over one dollar may not significantly impact purchasing decisions, but it does offer a slight advantage to the Peerless Assassin. Buyers should consider the features and performance benefits each cooler offers relative to their price.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE Black ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a proven single tower design with a longer service life and quieter operation, the Phantom Spirit may be the right choice for you. However, if you are looking for superior cooling performance with dual fans and a stylish dual tower design, the Peerless Assassin stands out as a formidable option.

Both coolers provide excellent compatibility and build quality, making either a solid investment for PC builders. The final decision should hinge on which features align best with your cooling requirements and aesthetic preferences.