Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler vs upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler 45mm Height - 6 Heat Pipes

Overview of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO and upHere H45K6

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO and upHere H45K6 are both designed to deliver efficient CPU cooling, but they cater to different needs and build types. The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO is priced at C$56.51, while the H45K6 is more budget-friendly at C$49.99, making it essential to evaluate their features and compatibility for your specific setup.

The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO boasts advanced cooling technology with a strong reputation from Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years in the market. In contrast, the upHere H45K6 is engineered for ultra-compact builds, making it ideal for users with limited space in Mini ITX cases. Each cooler presents unique advantages depending on your system's requirements.

Design and Size Comparison

The design and size of these CPU coolers significantly impact their compatibility and installation. The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO measures 125mm x 135mm x 157mm, making it a larger option for those with sufficient space in their cases. Its robust design incorporates high-quality aluminum and copper elements, ensuring effective heat dissipation.

On the other hand, the upHere H45K6 is designed specifically for compact builds, with a height of just 45mm. This ultra-compact design allows it to fit seamlessly in Mini ITX cases without obstructing RAM or other components. The choice between these coolers will largely depend on the available space in your build and your cooling needs.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, both products deliver reliable results, but their methodologies differ. The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO utilises a 7x6mm heatpipe design with AGHP technology, ensuring up to 20000 hours of service life with effective heat dissipation. Its fan operates at a high speed of 2150 RPM, which helps quickly expel heat from the CPU.

In contrast, the upHere H45K6 features six Φ6mm heat pipes, providing efficient cooling with a total thermal dissipation capability of 150W TDP. Its slim 90mm fan operates between 800-2800 RPM, pushing 35.34 CFM of airflow while maintaining a low noise level of ≤27 dB(A). This balance of performance and quiet operation makes the H45K6 an attractive option for silent builds.

Compatibility with CPU Sockets

Compatibility is a crucial factor when choosing a CPU cooler, and both options cater to a wide range of CPU sockets. The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO does not specify its socket compatibility in the provided information, but its larger size may limit its use in smaller cases.

Conversely, the upHere H45K6 is explicitly designed for universal hardware compatibility, supporting Intel LGA 1851/1700/115x/1200/2011/2066 and AMD AM5/AM4/AM3 sockets. This broad compatibility ensures that it can fit into various builds without causing interference with RAM or motherboard components, making it a more flexible option for users with different systems.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are an important consideration for many users, especially in quiet environments. The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO does not provide specific information on its noise levels, but its high-speed fan could potentially generate noticeable sound under load.

In contrast, the upHere H45K6 is designed with a quiet operation in mind. Its 90mm fan operates at a maximum noise level of just ≤27 dB(A), which is ideal for users who prioritise a silent computing experience. If noise reduction is a key factor for your setup, the H45K6 might be the better choice.

Installation and Ease of Use

The installation process can influence the overall user experience, and both coolers offer different levels of convenience. The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO features a more complex design, which may require additional steps for installation due to its size and components.

In contrast, the upHere H45K6 is designed for ease of installation, boasting a tool-free setup that can be completed in under 5 minutes. This user-friendly approach makes it a great option for those who may not be as experienced with computer hardware or for users who want a hassle-free installation process.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetic considerations can also play a role in choosing a CPU cooler, especially for custom builds with transparent cases. The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO features a visually striking design with ARGB lines surrounding its fan, adding a touch of flair to your setup.

While the upHere H45K6 focuses primarily on functionality, its low-profile design allows it to blend seamlessly into compact builds without attracting too much attention. If aesthetics are a priority, the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO offers a more visually appealing option, while the H45K6 prioritises practicality.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO and the upHere H45K6 depends on your specific needs and build type. If you have ample space and are looking for a cooler with robust performance and aesthetic appeal, the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO at C$56.51 could be the right choice. However, if you’re building a compact Mini ITX system and need a cooler that offers efficient performance, quiet operation, and easy installation at a lower price of C$49.99, the upHere H45K6 is likely the better option.