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 Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE at 6.8/10.
The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO leads on cooling and value.
The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE leads on compatibility and fit.
They score the same on noise and build and installation.
The biggest difference is compatibility and fit, where the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE scores 7/10 to the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO's 4/10.
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
The Phantom Spirit 120 SE is for builders who want a dual-tower air cooler for a current Intel or AMD desktop CPU on a modest budget. It suits mainstream and gaming systems, including Ryzen 7 7800X3D builds, where one owner reports around 65c under load. It is a less obvious choice for anyone who wants near-silent running under sustained heavy load.
Typically about £24.87 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 | Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO | Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling | 35% | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Noise | 25% | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Compatibility and fit | 15% | 4/10 | 7/10 |
| Value | 15% | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Build and installation | 10% | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Overall | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 |
| Spec | Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO | Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE |
|---|---|---|
| Type (tower air cooler, low-profile air, or AIO liquid with radiator size) | Dual-tower air cooler | Tower air cooler, dual-tower |
| Supported sockets (e.g. AM5, AM4, LGA1851, LGA1700) | Intel LGA115X/1200/1700/1851/2011/2066, AMD AM4/AM5 | Intel LGA115X/1200/1700/1851; AMD AM4/AM5 |
| Height in mm (air coolers) or radiator size in mm (AIO) | 157 mm | 154 mm |
| Rated cooling capacity (W TDP) | not listed | 280 W (retailer figure, not manufacturer-published) |
| Fans included and their size | 2 x TL-K12 120 x 120 x 25 mm PWM, 4-pin, ARGB connector, 2150 RPM max, 69 CFM max | 2 x TL-C12B V2 PWM, 120 x 120 x 25 mm, 1500 RPM ±10%, 66.17 CFM max, 1.53 mm H2O max, S-FDB bearing, 4-pin PWM |
| Noise level (dBA) | 27 dBA rated fan noise | 25.6 dBA (fan rating, manufacturer) |
| Warranty (years) | 5 years | 12 months |
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