Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, vs Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO CPU

Price Comparison

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE is priced at $49.99, while the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO costs $56.90. This makes the Peerless Assassin about 17% cheaper than its competitor. The price difference may influence your decision, especially if you are looking to stick to a budget. While the price of the Peerless Assassin is appealing, the additional features of the Phantom Spirit might justify its higher cost for some users.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the Phantom Spirit boasts a fan speed of 2150 RPM, compared to the 1550 RPM of the Peerless Assassin. This difference in speed contributes to the Phantom Spirit's higher air volume of 69 CFM versus the 66.17 CFM produced by the Peerless Assassin. If you prioritize cooling efficiency and want to ensure your CPU maintains lower temperatures, the Phantom Spirit may have the edge due to its enhanced fan capabilities.

Fan Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A), while the Phantom Spirit's noise level can reach up to 27 dB(A). Although the difference is minimal, the Peerless Assassin may be the better option for those who value a quieter operation, especially in a noise-sensitive environment. Even though both coolers are relatively quiet, the slight advantage of the Peerless Assassin could sway your choice if sound is a priority.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Phantom Spirit includes a magnetic attraction digital screen top cover, which adds a modern touch to its appearance. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin is designed with a more straightforward aesthetic. The Phantom Spirit also features ARGB lighting, enhancing its visual appeal for gamers and PC builders looking for a stylish setup. If aesthetics are important to you, the Phantom Spirit will likely be the more attractive option.

Compatibility

Both coolers offer wide compatibility with various CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5. However, the Phantom Spirit supports a slightly broader range of sockets due to its compatibility with LGA 1851 as well. This could be a deciding factor for users with specific motherboard requirements. If you need a cooler that works with a variety of setups, the Phantom Spirit's enhanced compatibility could be beneficial.

Installation Process

The installation process for both coolers is designed to be user-friendly, with both products including mounting plates for their respective CPU platforms. However, users must note that installation for AMD platforms requires the use of the original motherboard backplane, which is not included with either product. While both coolers are designed for easy installation, the Peerless Assassin's instructions may be simpler for those new to cooler installation.

Brand Reputation

Thermalright has over 20 years of experience in the cooling market and has established a solid reputation for quality and performance. Both products come from the same brand, ensuring a level of reliability and support. However, the specific model features and user reviews can vary, so checking customer feedback on each product can provide valuable insight into their real-world performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE and the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a more economical option that still delivers solid cooling performance, the Peerless Assassin is an excellent choice at $49.99. However, if you want advanced features like higher fan speed, improved aesthetics, and slightly better cooling capabilities, the Phantom Spirit at $56.90 may be worth the extra investment. Assess your priorities in terms of price, noise levels, and design to make the best decision for your setup.