Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU vs Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO CPU

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU Air Cooler is priced at $19.82, making it a budget-friendly option for users seeking efficient cooling solutions. This cooler features a sleek design with ARGB lighting and five heat pipes, which contribute to its effective heat dissipation capabilities. Weighing in at 0.64kg and with dimensions of 120x73x148mm, it is designed to fit into medium-sized computer cases, ensuring compatibility with various setups.

The cooler's S-FDB bearings ensure a long service life, rated at up to 20,000 hours. The TL-C12CW-S PWM fan operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, generating an airflow of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A). This combination of features makes the Assassin King a solid choice for users looking for a blend of performance and aesthetics without breaking the bank.

Overview of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO CPU Air Cooler is significantly more expensive at $56.90, but it offers advanced features that justify the price. This cooler stands out with its dual-tower design, seven heat pipes, and dual 120mm PWM fans. The overall dimensions are 125x135x160mm, allowing it to fit in most ATX cases while providing superior performance.

With a fan speed of 2150 RPM, it achieves an airflow of 69 CFM and operates quietly at a maximum noise level of 27 dB(A). The integrated ARGB magnetic display panel not only adds visual appeal but also provides real-time monitoring of CPU and GPU temperatures. For users looking for cutting-edge technology and aesthetics, the Phantom Spirit offers a compelling option.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO outperforms the Assassin King 120 SE. The Phantom Spirit's dual fans and seven heat pipes provide better thermal management, achieving a fan speed of 2150 RPM compared to the Assassin King's 1550 RPM. This enhanced airflow of 69 CFM, versus the 66.17 CFM from the Assassin King, means the Phantom Spirit can dissipate heat more effectively.

The difference in cooling performance is also reflected in the noise levels, with the Phantom Spirit being slightly noisier at 27 dB(A), compared to the Assassin King’s quieter operation at 25.6 dB(A). However, the performance gains may justify the slight increase in noise for users who prioritize cooling efficiency in high-performance setups.

Design and Aesthetics

While both coolers feature ARGB lighting, the design elements differ significantly. The Assassin King 120 SE showcases a clean white aesthetic that is appealing in its simplicity, making it a great fit for builds focused on a minimalist look. Its height of 148mm allows it to fit comfortably in a variety of cases.

On the other hand, the Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO features a more complex design with a dual-tower structure and an innovative magnetic ARGB display panel. This display not only looks great but also adds functionality, allowing users to monitor their system's performance in real-time. The overall height of 160mm may limit case compatibility for some users, but the enhanced visual appeal and advanced features make it a standout choice.

Installation and Compatibility

Both coolers are designed for easy installation and compatibility with a wide range of CPU sockets. The Assassin King supports Intel sockets 1150, 1151, 1200, 1700, and AMD AM4, making it versatile across different platforms. Its included mounting plates ensure a straightforward installation process, which is beneficial for users who may not have extensive experience with PC building.

The Phantom Spirit also offers broad compatibility with similar socket types, including AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA 1150, 1151, 1200, and 1700. The installation process is made easier with dual platform installation clips, although it requires the use of the motherboard's original backplane for AMD installations. Users may find the installation instructions helpful, especially for the more complex setup of this cooler.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two coolers is significant, with the Assassin King priced at $19.82 and the Phantom Spirit at $56.90. This places the Phantom Spirit at about 187% higher than the Assassin King. For budget-conscious consumers, the Assassin King offers excellent value without sacrificing too much performance, making it an attractive option for entry-level builds or users not heavily overclocking their CPUs.

In contrast, those willing to invest more in their cooling solution will find the additional features and performance of the Phantom Spirit to be worth the price. The advanced cooling technology and aesthetic enhancements make it a premium choice for gamers and enthusiasts seeking the best performance from their systems.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU Air Cooler and the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO CPU Air Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable and efficient cooler that provides decent performance at a low price, the Assassin King is a great option.

However, if you desire advanced features, superior cooling performance, and a visually striking design, the Phantom Spirit justifies its higher price tag. For those who are serious about their PC builds and willing to invest in quality cooling, the Phantom Spirit is the clear winner.