Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 CPU Cooler vs Thermalright PS120SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 and PS120SE ARGB

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 is priced at C$47.90, while the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB comes in at a higher C$63.68. Both coolers are designed for effective CPU cooling, but they target slightly different user preferences and needs. The Phantom Spirit focuses on a robust cooling performance, while the PS120SE ARGB adds a visual flair with its RGB lighting features.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring a height of 157mm and a powerful aluminum heat sink. Its anodized black frosted top and finely carved pure copper base help maximise heat dissipation. On the other hand, the PS120SE ARGB is slightly shorter at 154mm, yet still offers a high-quality build with similar materials. The standout feature here is the PS120SE's LED lighting, which provides 17 different modes of illumination, allowing for a more customizable user experience.

Cooling Performance

Both coolers employ the AGHP technique, featuring a 7x6mm heatpipe design that enhances cooling efficiency. The Phantom Spirit boasts a weight of 0.945kg, which contributes to its heat dissipation capabilities. Although specific cooling performance metrics like thermal performance under load aren’t provided, both coolers are engineered for optimal airflow and heat dissipation. The PS120SE has a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, which suggests it may perform slightly better under high-stress scenarios, especially with its dual PWM fans.

Compatibility

Compatibility is essential for CPU coolers, and both the Phantom Spirit and PS120SE are designed to support a variety of Intel and AMD sockets. The Phantom Spirit supports a wide range of Intel sockets, including LGA1700 and LGA2011, as well as AMD's AM4 and AM5. Similarly, the PS120SE offers compatibility with Intel's LGA1700 and LGA1200, among others, and also supports AMD's AM4 and AM5 sockets. This ensures that both coolers cater to a broad audience of gamers and PC builders.

Noise Levels

Noise can be a critical factor for PC enthusiasts, especially for those who prefer a quiet environment. The Phantom Spirit utilises S-FDB bearings to mitigate noise and vibration, but specific decibel ratings are not provided. The PS120SE, however, claims a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is relatively quiet for a cooler with dual fans. This suggests that while both coolers aim for low noise operation, the PS120SE may have a slight edge in this aspect.

Installation Process

Both coolers come with mounting plates and fasteners to ensure compatibility with various CPU sockets. The Phantom Spirit has a straightforward installation process and includes instructions to guide users. The PS120SE also provides installation instructions, making it user-friendly for those new to building PCs. With both coolers designed to be compatible with popular CPU sockets, users should find the installation process manageable, regardless of their choice.

Price and Value

At C$47.90, the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 is positioned as an affordable option for users seeking effective CPU cooling without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Thermalright PS120SE ARGB is priced at C$63.68, reflecting its additional features like RGB lighting and dual fans. The difference in price may be justified for users who value aesthetics and want a cooler that enhances the visual appeal of their build, while the Phantom Spirit offers excellent value for those prioritizing performance at a lower cost.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 and the PS120SE ARGB ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution that delivers solid cooling performance, the Phantom Spirit is an excellent choice at C$47.90. Conversely, if you want not only effective cooling but also an eye-catching aesthetic with customizable RGB lighting, the PS120SE ARGB at C$63.68 may be worth the investment. Consider your budget and preferences carefully to make the best decision for your build.