Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO CPU vs Thermalrlght Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Air

Overview of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO and Peerless Assassin 120 SE

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO is priced at $56.90, whereas the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE comes in at $32.90, making it about 42% cheaper than the Phantom Spirit. Both CPU coolers are designed for effective thermal management and compatibility with a range of CPU sockets, but they have distinct features that may influence your choice depending on your cooling needs and budget.

Cooling Performance

The Phantom Spirit's dual-tower design, combined with two 120mm PWM fans that can reach speeds of 2150 RPM, offers robust cooling performance. With an air pressure of 2.87mm H2O and an airflow rating of 69 CFM, it is built to efficiently dissipate heat from high-performance CPUs. In contrast, the Peerless Assassin features a dual tower configuration as well, but it utilizes six heat pipes and two 120mm TL-C12C PWM fans with a lower maximum RPM of 1550. While its airflow is rated at 66.17 CFM, it operates at a quieter noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A). This makes the Phantom Spirit better for high-performance scenarios, while the Peerless Assassin is quieter and still effective.

Build Quality and Design

The Phantom Spirit boasts a sleek aesthetic with a magnetic ARGB display panel on the top cover, providing real-time monitoring of CPU and GPU temperatures. Its overall height of 160mm makes it compatible with most ATX cases. The Peerless Assassin, on the other hand, has an anodized brushed black top cover and a more traditional design without digital displays. It features an asymmetric layout that enhances compatibility with graphics cards and motherboards. While both coolers exhibit solid build quality, the Phantom Spirit's digital features may appeal more to tech enthusiasts seeking advanced monitoring capabilities.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise, the Peerless Assassin operates at a maximum of 25.6 dB(A), which is significantly quieter than the Phantom Spirit's operational noise level of ≤27 dB(A). Although the difference may seem marginal, the Peerless Assassin's quieter operation could be a deciding factor for users looking to build a silent PC. If you value a more tranquil computing environment, the Peerless Assassin might have the edge.

Compatibility

Both coolers support a wide array of CPU sockets. The Phantom Spirit is compatible with AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA1700, 1851, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, and 1200. Similarly, the Peerless Assassin supports the same AMD and Intel sockets, making them both versatile options for various builds. Installation for either cooler requires the use of the original motherboard backplate for AM4 and AM5 setups, which is not included. Thus, compatibility should not be a significant concern for potential buyers of either cooler.

Fan Technology

The fans on the Phantom Spirit are rated for speeds up to 2150 RPM and provide a substantial airflow of 69 CFM, making it a powerful option for demanding applications. Conversely, the Peerless Assassin's fans operate at a lower speed of 1550 RPM but still deliver a commendable airflow of 66.17 CFM. The difference in fan speeds contributes to the Phantom Spirit's superior cooling capabilities under heavy loads, while the Peerless Assassin's fans prioritize quieter operation, making it suitable for users who prefer a low-noise setup.

Price Comparison

The price difference between these two coolers is substantial, with the Phantom Spirit at $56.90 and the Peerless Assassin at $32.90. This means that the Phantom Spirit is around 73% more expensive than the Peerless Assassin. For budget-conscious consumers or those looking for a balance between performance and cost, the Peerless Assassin offers a compelling value without sacrificing too much in terms of cooling efficiency or compatibility.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, your choice between the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO and the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE should be based on your specific needs and budget. If you require top-tier cooling performance and advanced features like a digital display for monitoring, the Phantom Spirit is worth the higher price. However, if you are looking for a reliable, quieter option at a lower cost, the Peerless Assassin is an excellent choice. Ultimately, both coolers provide solid performance, but the right one for you will depend on your priorities in cooling efficiency, noise levels, and price.