Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler vs Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler

Brand Overview

Both the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler and the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler are products from Thermalright, a Taiwanese brand known for over 20 years in the cooler market. However, they cater to different needs. The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO, priced at C$56.51, offers a more robust cooling solution, while the AXP90 X47 is designed for compact builds, retailing at a lower price of C$43.39. This price difference is reflective of their intended use cases and specifications.

Cooling Technology

The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO utilises advanced AGHP technology with seven 6mm heat pipes, providing substantial cooling capabilities. Its design allows for effective heat dissipation, contributing to its longevity of up to 20,000 hours. In contrast, the AXP90 X47 employs four 6mm heat pipes and a secondary welding process to enhance its cooling efficiency. While both coolers leverage Thermalright’s AGHP technology, the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO's higher number of heat pipes may lead to superior thermal management in more demanding environments.

Design and Dimensions

The dimensions of the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO are 125mm x 135mm x 157mm, making it a larger unit compared to the AXP90 X47, which measures 94.5mm x 95mm x 47mm. The compact design of the AXP90 X47, sitting at just 47mm in height, makes it ideal for small form factor builds like HTPCs and ITX systems. In contrast, the Phantom Spirit's larger footprint allows for more extensive cooling capabilities, which could be beneficial in high-performance setups where space is less of a concern.

Fan Performance

The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO features a fan capable of reaching speeds of 2150 RPM, which contributes significantly to its cooling performance. This fan not only operates efficiently but also boasts an aesthetically pleasing design with ARGB accents. On the other hand, the AXP90 X47's 92mm PWM fan can reach speeds of up to 2700 RPM, offering higher airflow at 42.58 CFM. However, it operates at a slightly lower noise level of 22.4 dB(A), making it a quieter option in environments where noise is a concern.

Compatibility

Compatibility differs between the two coolers, with the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO being more versatile in terms of potential applications. It does not specify its compatibility in detail, while the AXP90 X47 explicitly supports a range of Intel and AMD CPU sockets, including LGA1700 and AM5. This makes the AXP90 X47 highly adaptable for users who may switch platforms or CPUs in the future. The clarity in compatibility may sway users looking for peace of mind regarding installation.

Build Quality and Materials

Both coolers are constructed with quality materials, but they differ in their primary compositions. The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO features a combination of anodized black frosted aluminum and pure copper for its base, enhancing its cooling efficiency and aesthetic appeal. The AXP90 X47 primarily uses pure copper for its heatsink, which improves heat transfer and oxidation resistance. While both are built to last, the choice of materials may appeal to different users based on their preferences for aesthetics versus raw performance.

Price Comparison

In terms of price, the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO is positioned at C$56.51, while the AXP90 X47 is more budget-friendly at C$43.39. This C$13.12 difference reflects the additional features and larger size of the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO. For users on a tight budget or those with compact builds, the AXP90 X47 offers excellent value without compromising too much on performance. However, for those requiring higher cooling capacity and aesthetic features, the investment in the Phantom Spirit may be justified.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO and the AXP90 X47 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking for superior cooling performance, particularly for high-performance builds, the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO is the better choice, despite its higher price. However, if you require a compact cooler that fits small form factor cases and is more budget-friendly, the AXP90 X47 stands out as an excellent option. Each cooler excels in its category, making your choice contingent on your system requirements and budget constraints.