Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler

Overview of Thermalright CPU Coolers

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright AXP90 X47 Full Low Profile CPU Cooler are two competitive offerings from a reputable brand that has over 20 years of experience in the market. Both coolers are designed to provide effective thermal management for CPUs, but they cater to different use cases and preferences. The Phantom Spirit is priced at C$46.71, while the AXP90 X47 comes in slightly cheaper at C$43.39.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit features a double tower design with dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 154mm. The use of anodized black frosted top pieces and finely carved pure copper base technology ensures a high-quality build. In contrast, the AXP90 X47 has a much lower profile, measuring 94.5mm x 95mm x 47mm, making it ideal for compact builds like HTPCs and ITX systems. Both coolers employ advanced AGHP technology to enhance heat dissipation, but the height difference means that the Phantom Spirit is better suited for larger cases, while the AXP90 X47 excels in smaller setups.

Cooling Performance

The Phantom Spirit boasts an impressive heat dissipation capacity due to its larger surface area and advanced cooling technologies. It utilises a 7x6mm heatpipe configuration that maximises heat transfer efficiency. On the other hand, the AXP90 X47, despite its compact size, employs 4x6mm heat pipes and a 92mm PWM fan that operates at speeds up to 2700 RPM, providing a maximum airflow of 42.58 CFM. While both coolers are designed to handle significant thermal loads, the Phantom Spirit is likely to perform better under heavy workloads due to its larger size and design.

Noise Levels

Noise output is a critical factor for many users, especially those building quiet systems. The AXP90 X47 operates at a noise level of 22.4 dB(A), making it a remarkably quiet option for users concerned about sound. The Phantom Spirit does not provide explicit noise level specifications, but typically larger coolers can operate more quietly while maintaining performance. Therefore, if silence is a priority, the AXP90 X47 might be the better choice, especially for compact builds where space is limited.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer broad compatibility with a range of Intel and AMD CPU sockets. The Phantom Spirit supports Intel sockets LGA1851/1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200 and AMD AM4/AM5. Similarly, the AXP90 X47 is compatible with Intel LGA1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets. This makes either cooler a viable option for most modern builds. However, the installation process for both coolers can vary, with the Phantom Spirit noting the importance of using the original motherboard backplane for AMD installations.

Thermal Management Technology

Both coolers incorporate advanced thermal management technologies to enhance their performance. The Phantom Spirit utilises an upgraded AGHP technique and a finely carved copper base, which increases the effective heat dissipation area. This results in a cooling efficiency that can handle demanding workloads. The AXP90 X47, while smaller, also employs AGHP technology, coupled with a secondary welding process for enhanced cooling performance. This means that while both coolers are effective, the Phantom Spirit is tailored for users who need maximum cooling capability.

User Experience and Installation

When it comes to user experience, both coolers are designed with user-friendly installation in mind. The Phantom Spirit comes with various mounting plates and fasteners for different CPU slot platforms, along with installation instructions to guide users. The AXP90 X47 also includes metal mounting fasteners and installation resources, making it easy to set up. However, users may find the installation of the Phantom Spirit more complex due to its larger size and additional components.

Price Comparison

The Phantom Spirit is priced at C$46.71, while the AXP90 X47 is available for C$43.39. While the price difference is not substantial, it may influence budget-conscious buyers. The AXP90 X47 offers good value for its size and performance, especially for those looking for a low-profile solution. In contrast, the Phantom Spirit, while slightly more expensive, may justify its price with superior cooling performance and build quality.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black and the AXP90 X47 ultimately depends on your specific needs and system requirements. If you are looking for superior cooling performance and have the space for a larger cooler, the Phantom Spirit is the better choice. However, if you are building a compact system and prioritise low noise levels, the AXP90 X47 is an excellent option that offers solid performance at a lower price point. Both coolers are reliable, but your decision should reflect your individual cooling needs and case compatibility.