Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE White ARGB CPU vs Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler,7×

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 an attractive option for budget-conscious builders. This cooler features five heat pipes and a PWM fan capable of running at speeds of 1550 RPM, providing efficient cooling while maintaining a low noise level of 25.6 dB(A). The cooler's dimensions are 120(L)x73(W)x148(H)mm, making it suitable for medium-sized cases. The integration of ARGB lighting adds a visual flair, appealing to those who enjoy aesthetic enhancements in their builds. With a weight of 0.64kg, it is relatively lightweight, ensuring easy installation.

Overview of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler

On the other hand, the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler comes at a higher price of $46.90, representing about 136% more than the Assassin King. This cooler features seven heat pipes and dual PWM fans that can reach speeds of 2150 RPM, offering superior cooling performance. Its dimensions are larger at 125(L)x135(W)x157(H)mm, which may require more space in your case. The Phantom Spirit's design includes a precision micro-engraved copper base and a frosted finish, enhancing both performance and aesthetics. The noise level peaks at 27 dB(A), slightly higher than the Assassin King, but still within a reasonable range for a high-performance cooler.

Cooling Performance Comparison

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO stands out with its dual fan setup and higher RPM capability, providing an air flow of 69 CFM compared to the Assassin King's 66.17 CFM. This translates to potentially better thermal management under load, which is crucial for high-performance CPUs. The additional heat pipe in the Phantom Spirit further enhances its heat dissipation efficiency, making it a better choice for overclockers or those who run demanding applications. Conversely, the Assassin King, while less powerful, still offers solid cooling performance for budget builds or less demanding setups.

Noise Levels and Fan Efficiency

In terms of noise levels, the Thermalright Assassin King is quieter, operating at a maximum of 25.6 dB(A) compared to the Phantom Spirit's 27 dB(A). For users sensitive to noise, this could be a deciding factor. The Assassin King's fan operates at a slightly lower RPM, which contributes to its quieter performance. However, the Phantom Spirit's dual fans, while marginally louder, provide better cooling efficiency, making them ideal for gaming or intensive tasks where performance outweighs the need for silence. Both fans utilize PWM technology, allowing for dynamic speed adjustments based on temperature, which helps maintain a balance between cooling and noise.

Aesthetic Appeal and Design

Aesthetically, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE boasts colorful ARGB lighting, appealing to gamers and PC builders who prioritize visual customization. Its sleek white design complements many build themes. In contrast, the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO features a more refined, anodized black frosted finish that exudes elegance and sophistication. While it lacks RGB lighting, its design is functional, maximizing heat dissipation area with its twin towers and finely carved copper base. The choice between these coolers may come down to personal preference regarding aesthetics, as both offer unique visual characteristics.

Compatibility and Installation

Compatibility is crucial when selecting a CPU cooler, and both the Thermalright Assassin King and Phantom Spirit support a wide range of sockets. The Assassin King is compatible with Intel's LGA1700/1150/1151/1200/1851 and AMD's AM4 platforms, while the Phantom Spirit matches these sockets plus additional support for Intel's 2011 and 2066. Installation for both coolers involves using provided mounting plates and fasteners, ensuring that they can be securely fitted to various motherboards. Given the slight differences in dimensions, users with smaller cases may find the Assassin King easier to install, while the Phantom Spirit's larger size may be a consideration for those with more spacious setups.

Price Comparison and Value

The Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE is priced at $19.82, making it about 57% cheaper than the Phantom Spirit, which retails for $46.90. For budget-oriented users or those building mid-range systems, the Assassin King presents a compelling value proposition, offering decent performance without breaking the bank. However, for users seeking top-tier cooling performance, especially in high-demand scenarios, the Phantom Spirit justifies its higher price with superior specs and enhanced cooling capabilities. Ultimately, the value derived from each cooler will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE and the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with decent cooling performance and a visually appealing design, the Assassin King is an excellent choice at $19.82. However, if you require superior cooling for overclocking or high-demand tasks, the Phantom Spirit, priced at $46.90, offers enhanced performance and efficiency worth the investment. Ultimately, both coolers have their merits, and the right choice will depend on your unique requirements and preferences.