Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›
all judged against CPU coolers at a similar priceThe Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO scores 7.2/10 overall, ahead of the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 at 6.8/10.
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 leads on noise, compatibility and fit and build and installation.
The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO leads on cooling and value.
The biggest difference is value, where the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO scores 9/10 to the NZXT Kraken Elite 360's 5/10.
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 is for builders who want a 360 mm AIO on a current Intel or AMD platform. It suits people who want low temperatures under heavy load and a simple install. It is less suited to buyers watching the budget closely.
Typically about £279.95 in the UK when we researched itSearch Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details
The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO suits builders who want top-tier air cooling for a high-end CPU without moving to liquid. It works best in a roomy case with low-profile memory. It is a poor match for compact builds or tall RAM kits.
Typically about £42 in the UK when we researched itSearch Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details
| Criterion | Weight | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 | Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling | 35% | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Noise | 25% | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Compatibility and fit | 15% | 7/10 | 4/10 |
| Value | 15% | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Build and installation | 10% | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Overall | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
| Spec | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 | Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO |
|---|---|---|
| Type (tower air cooler, low-profile air, or AIO liquid with radiator size) | Liquid AIO with 360 mm radiator | Dual-tower air cooler |
| Supported sockets (e.g. AM5, AM4, LGA1851, LGA1700) | Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, 115X; AMD AM5, AM4 | Intel LGA115X/1200/1700/1851/2011/2066, AMD AM4/AM5 |
| Height in mm (air coolers) or radiator size in mm (AIO) | Radiator 401 × 120 × 27 mm; pump cap 93.5 mm diameter × 65 mm high | 157 mm |
| Fans included and their size | Elite 360: 3 × F120P (2024) 120 mm static-pressure fans, 500–2,000 ±200 RPM, 30 dBA each. Elite 360 RGB: 1 × F360 RGB Core fan containing three 120 mm fans, 500–2,400 ±250 RPM, 30.0 dBA per fan | 2 x TL-K12 120 x 120 x 25 mm PWM, 4-pin, ARGB connector, 2150 RPM max, 69 CFM max |
| Noise level (dBA) | Elite 360 RGB: 33.88 dB stated by manufacturer; PCGamesN lists 34 dBA | 27 dBA rated fan noise |
| Warranty (years) | 6 years | 5 years |
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