TR-Phantom Spirit 120 SE CPU Air Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Overview of TR-Phantom Spirit 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

The TR-Phantom Spirit 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is priced at £29.09, showcasing a robust design aimed at delivering efficient cooling performance. With a height of 154mm, it is compatible with a variety of chassis models, supporting Intel sockets LGA1700, LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200 and AMD sockets AM4 and AM5. This cooler utilizes advanced AGHP technique with a configuration of seven 6mm heatpipes, allowing it to handle a thermal design power (TDP) range from 105W to 280W. Its dual PWM fans can reach a speed of 1500 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A), ensuring a quiet operation even under load.

Overview of Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler

On the other hand, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is considerably more affordable at £16.29. This cooler features a slightly lower height of 148mm, making it suitable for medium-sized computer cases. It also supports a wide range of sockets, including Intel’s LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1200, LGA1700, and AMD’s AM4 and AM5. The cooler employs a similar AGHP technique with four 6mm heatpipes and includes PWM fans that operate at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, yielding the same airflow of 66.17 CFM and a comparable noise level of 25.6 dB(A), ensuring an efficient and quiet cooling solution.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, both the TR-Phantom Spirit 120 SE and the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB boast impressive specifications. The TR-Phantom Spirit is designed to handle a wider TDP range of 105W to 280W, making it more suitable for overclocked systems or high-performance CPUs. Conversely, the Assassin X120 SE, with its TDP handling implied by its design, is more geared towards mid-range systems. The dual PWM fans of the TR-Phantom spin at a slightly lower maximum speed of 1500 RPM compared to the Assassin’s 1550 RPM; however, both models achieve the same airflow and noise level, indicating that the cooling abilities could be comparable in typical use scenarios.

Build Quality and Materials

The build quality of both coolers reflects their respective brands' commitment to durability and performance. The TR-Phantom Spirit utilises an anodised black frosted top with a finely carved pure copper base, enhancing thermal conductivity. It also features S-FDB bearings designed for a long service life of up to 20,000 hours. The Assassin X120 SE, while also utilising high-quality materials such as industrial strength PBT and PC, emphasises its long lifespan with similar S-FDB bearings. Both coolers are designed to withstand extended use, but the TR-Phantom Spirit’s higher-end materials may offer marginally better performance under sustained heavy loads.

Aesthetics and Design

When it comes to aesthetics, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE stands out with its colourful ARGB lighting effects, appealing to users who prioritise visual flair in their builds. The TR-Phantom Spirit, while not featuring RGB lighting, has a sleek and understated design that might appeal to those who prefer a more classic look. The choice between these two will largely depend on personal preference—whether one desires the additional visual impact of RGB or the subtle elegance of a traditional design.

Compatibility and Installation

Both coolers offer excellent compatibility with various CPU sockets, making them versatile choices for different builds. The TR-Phantom Spirit supports a comprehensive list of Intel and AMD sockets and comes with the necessary mounting plates and fasteners for a straightforward installation process. Similarly, the Assassin X120 SE also provides all required components for installation across a wide range of platforms. The slight difference in dimensions may affect compatibility with certain cases, but both coolers are designed to fit well within standard ATX cases.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical consideration for many PC builders, and both the TR-Phantom Spirit and Thermalright Assassin X120 SE excel in this regard. Both coolers operate at a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), which is commendably quiet for air coolers. Users can expect efficient cooling without the annoyance of excessive noise, making both options suitable for quiet builds, whether used in gaming or professional applications.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the TR-Phantom Spirit 120 SE and the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB, the choice largely hinges on budget and specific cooling needs. The TR-Phantom, priced at £29.09, offers superior TDP handling and potentially better performance for high-demand systems along with an elegant design, making it ideal for enthusiasts and gamers aiming for peak performance. However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution without compromising on cooling efficiency, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE at £16.29 provides excellent value with its ARGB aesthetics and reliable performance. Ultimately, both coolers are commendable in their own right, catering to different user preferences and requirements.