Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air vs Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black CPU

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE

The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler is priced at $17.90, making it an economical choice for those looking to enhance their cooling system. This cooler incorporates four heat pipes and a TL-C12C PWM fan, designed to provide efficient cooling while maintaining low noise levels. Its compact dimensions of 125mm x 71mm x 148mm make it suitable for medium-sized cases, ensuring it won’t take up too much space while delivering solid performance.

The Assassin X120 is engineered with AGHP technology, which helps mitigate the inverse gravity effect for optimal heat dissipation regardless of orientation. It supports a variety of CPU sockets, including AMD's AM4 and AM5, as well as multiple Intel sockets, making it a versatile choice for many builds. The combination of an aluminum heatsink cover and metal fasteners promises durability and effective installation.

Overview of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black is positioned at a higher price point of $39.90, approximately 122% more expensive than the Assassin X120. However, this cost is justified by its advanced features, including dual TL-C12B V2 PWM fans and a double tower design that utilizes seven heat pipes for enhanced heat dissipation. With dimensions of 125mm x 135mm x 154mm, it provides a larger surface area for cooling, making it a strong contender for high-performance systems.

This model also uses upgraded AGHP technology to improve cooling efficiency and longevity. Its attractive black design, combined with high-quality materials like an anodized black frosted top and finely carved pure copper base, not only looks great but enhances thermal conductivity. Compatibility with both AMD and Intel sockets makes it a flexible option for various builds.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black excels with its dual fan setup, potentially leading to better thermal management, especially under load. The seven heat pipes work synergistically with the dual fans to maximize airflow and cooling efficiency. This cooler boasts a maximum airflow of 66.17 CFM, similar to the Assassin X120, but the presence of two fans allows for more effective heat dissipation.

Conversely, the Assassin X120, while equipped with a single fan, still delivers a respectable airflow of 66.17 CFM at a noise level of just 25.6 dB(A). It’s quieter than many competitors in its price range. However, if you are aiming for top-tier cooling performance, the Phantom Spirit's design offers superior cooling capabilities, especially for overclocked systems.

Noise Levels

Both coolers are designed to operate quietly, with noise levels capped at 25.6 dB(A). This makes them suitable for users who prefer a quieter computing environment. The Assassin X120 achieves this with its single PWM fan, which runs at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM. Its efficient airflow design ensures it remains effective without becoming noisy.

On the other hand, the Phantom Spirit employs two fans that run at a slightly lower maximum speed of 1500 RPM each. Despite having two fans, the cooling configuration remains quiet, allowing users to maintain a peaceful workspace. Therefore, while both options are quiet, the single fan of the Assassin may provide a slight edge in terms of minimal noise output.

Build Quality and Design

When comparing build quality, the Phantom Spirit stands out with its premium materials, including a finely carved copper base and black anodized aluminum fins. This not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also enhances its thermal performance. The attention to detail in the design, including the memory cut corner avoidance, indicates a focus on effective cooling without compromising other components.

The Assassin X120's construction, while solid, uses more standard materials but still ensures good quality and durability. The aluminum heatsink cover and metal fasteners contribute to its reliability. Both coolers are designed for ease of installation, with included mounting hardware for various CPU sockets, but the Phantom Spirit’s dual tower design may require a bit more space and careful installation.

Compatibility

In terms of compatibility, both coolers support a wide range of CPU sockets. The Assassin X120 is compatible with Intel sockets 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and AMD’s AM4 and AM5. This extensive compatibility makes it a flexible choice for many builds.

The Phantom Spirit also supports a similar range of sockets, including Intel's LGA1851, 1700, and various 115X models, as well as AMD’s AM4 and AM5. This ensures that users can easily integrate either cooler into their systems without worry. Both products come with the necessary mounting plates and fasteners, making installation straightforward.

Price Comparison

The Assassin X120 is priced at $17.90, offering a budget-friendly option for those who want decent cooling without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Phantom Spirit is priced at $39.90, which is about 122% more expensive. This price difference reflects the additional features and enhanced cooling capabilities of the Phantom Spirit, including its dual-fan setup and larger heat dissipation area.

While the Assassin X120 provides excellent value for its price, the Phantom Spirit's higher cost may be justified for users seeking superior cooling performance, particularly in high-demand scenarios such as gaming or intensive computing tasks.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE and the Phantom Spirit 120 SE Black largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an economical solution that offers solid performance for everyday computing, the Assassin X120 is an excellent choice at just $17.90. It provides adequate cooling for most users while remaining whisper-quiet.

However, if you require superior cooling performance for high-end gaming or overclocking, the Phantom Spirit, despite its higher price of $39.90, is worth the investment. Its advanced features, dual fans, and enhanced heat dissipation capabilities make it a more robust solution for demanding applications. Ultimately, your choice should align with your cooling requirements and budget.