Tom's Hardware reviewed the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE as an updated version of the popular Peerless Assassin, noting it includes an extra heat pipe and improved design elements. The cooler offers flexible airflow direction with regular and reverse fan modes, and features clean aesthetics that integrate well with case cable management. While it's priced competitively and outperforms the Peerless Assassin in some areas, only the 120 SE variant was tested, and no white or matte black finishes are currently available. This cooler is best suited for users seeking a high-performing air cooler with good build quality and aesthetic integration.
Full review
Cooling performance on Intel CPUs
Tom's Hardware tested the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE on an Intel Core i7-13700K and found it delivered excellent thermal performance. The cooler maintained CPU temperatures under 70°C during sustained stress testing at 100% load. This result was achieved with the standard fan configuration and without any overclocking. The test environment was a typical gaming PC with a mid-range case, and the Phantom Spirit was installed with standard thermal paste. The performance was consistent with expectations for a 120mm air cooler in this class, and the cooler's design allowed for efficient heat dissipation. The test was conducted using a standard CPU stress tool to ensure accurate and repeatable results. The cooler's ability to maintain low temperatures under load is particularly important for users running demanding applications or games that push the CPU to its limits.
The Phantom Spirit 120 SE demonstrated that it can effectively manage heat generated by high-performance processors. During the test, the cooler's six heat pipes and optimized fin design worked together to provide a stable thermal solution. The test setup included a standard PC case with adequate airflow, and the cooler was installed with the recommended torque specifications. The results showed that the Phantom Spirit 120 SE is capable of handling thermal loads that would challenge many other coolers in its price range. The cooler's performance was consistent across multiple tests, with no significant temperature spikes or thermal throttling observed during the duration of the stress test. This level of performance makes it a strong contender for users who require reliable cooling for intensive computing tasks.
AMD compatibility and performance
TechPowerUp conducted tests on the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE using an AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D processor and found that it performed well under load. The cooler maintained temperatures below 75°C during sustained performance testing, which is a solid result for a 120mm air cooler. The test was performed with standard thermal paste and typical case airflow conditions. The cooler's design allows for good clearance with high-end AMD processors, and the installation process was straightforward for users familiar with AMD socket types. The test confirmed that the cooler's performance is consistent across different CPU architectures, making it a versatile choice for both Intel and AMD builds. The cooler's ability to manage heat from AMD's high-core-count processors was particularly impressive, as these CPUs generate significant thermal output under load.
During the AMD-specific testing, the Phantom Spirit 120 SE demonstrated its ability to handle the thermal demands of modern processors. The cooler's heat pipe configuration and fan design worked effectively to dissipate heat generated by the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. The test environment included a standard PC case with adequate ventilation, and the cooler was installed using the provided mounting hardware. The results showed that the Phantom Spirit 120 SE can maintain stable temperatures even when pushing the limits of AMD's latest processors. The cooler's performance was consistent with expectations for its class, and it provided reliable thermal management for users running demanding applications or gaming at high resolutions.
Fan quality and acoustics
These improvements resulted in a quieter operation compared to previous Thermalright models. The reviewer tested the cooler across a range of RPM settings and found that it remained extremely quiet even at higher speeds. The acoustical profile was described as smooth and consistent, with no noticeable noise spikes or irregularities. The fan's performance was particularly impressive at lower RPM settings, where it provided adequate airflow without generating excessive noise. The reviewer also mentioned that the fan's design allows for both regular and reverse airflow, which can be useful for custom PC builds where airflow direction is a consideration.
The Phantom Spirit 120 SE's fans were tested across a range of operating conditions, and the results showed consistent performance. The reviewer noted that the fans were capable of maintaining quiet operation even under high load conditions. The updated motor design and bearing system contributed to the cooler's overall acoustic quality. The fan's ability to provide adequate airflow while remaining whisper-quiet was a key selling point for users who prioritize noise reduction. The reviewer also highlighted that the fans were easy to install and did not require any special tools or modifications to the case. The fan's performance was consistent with the cooler's overall design philosophy, which emphasizes efficiency and user-friendliness.
Installation and mounting
The installation process for the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE was described as straightforward by a YouTube reviewer who tested the cooler extensively. The cooler comes with a comprehensive mounting kit that includes color-coded spacers for both Intel and AMD sockets. The reviewer noted that the installation was simple and did not require any special tools or modifications to the case. The mounting hardware was well-designed and allowed for secure attachment to the CPU. The reviewer also mentioned that the cooler's design accommodates different types of CPU sockets, making it a versatile choice for users with various processor types. The installation process was completed without any issues, and the cooler was securely mounted to the CPU without any wobbling or instability.
The mounting kit provided with the Phantom Spirit 120 SE was praised for its quality and ease of use. The reviewer noted that the color-coded spacers made it easy to identify the correct mounting configuration for different CPU types. The installation process was described as quick and efficient, with no complications or delays. The cooler's design allows for easy access to the mounting points, and the hardware was well-suited for the task. The reviewer also mentioned that the cooler's profile was compatible with most standard PC cases, making it a practical choice for users who want a reliable cooling solution without extensive modifications to their build. The mounting process was completed without any issues, and the cooler was securely attached to the CPU.
Design and build quality
The Phantom Spirit 120 SE features a design that emphasizes both performance and aesthetics. The cooler's fin arrangement differs from previous Thermalright models, with a sectioned step-back profile that improves airflow and reduces back pressure. The reviewer noted that the cooler's profile is clean and modern, making it suitable for custom PC builds where appearance matters. The cooler's construction was described as solid and well-made, with attention to detail in the manufacturing process. The reviewer also mentioned that the cooler's fans are designed to work in both intake and exhaust modes, which adds flexibility to the build. The overall design of the cooler reflects Thermalright's approach to balancing performance with user-friendly features.
The build quality of the Phantom Spirit 120 SE was noted as being solid and reliable by a YouTube reviewer who tested the cooler extensively. The cooler's materials were described as high-quality, with no signs of flimsiness or poor construction. The reviewer also mentioned that the cooler's design allows for easy cleaning and maintenance, which is important for long-term use. The cooler's profile was described as sleek and modern, with a clean appearance that fits well in most PC builds. The reviewer noted that the cooler's components are well-aligned and do not interfere with other hardware in the system. The overall design of the cooler reflects Thermalright's attention to both performance and user experience.
Value proposition in the market
The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE is positioned in a competitive market segment where it competes with other high-performance air coolers. The reviewer who purchased the cooler for $42 noted that it offered excellent value compared to similar products in the same price range. The cooler's performance was described as being on par with more expensive alternatives, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. The reviewer also mentioned that the cooler's features, such as the updated fan design and improved heat pipe configuration, justify its price point. The Phantom Spirit 120 SE was noted as being a strong contender in the mid-range cooling market, offering performance that rivals more expensive models. The reviewer's assessment was that the cooler provides good value for money, especially for users who want reliable cooling without breaking the bank.
In terms of market positioning, the Phantom Spirit 120 SE was evaluated as a strong value proposition for users seeking reliable cooling performance. The reviewer noted that the cooler's price point was competitive with other high-end air coolers, and its performance justified the cost. The cooler's ability to deliver consistent thermal performance across different CPU types was highlighted as a key strength. The reviewer also mentioned that the cooler's design and features make it suitable for both casual and enthusiast users. The Phantom Spirit 120 SE was described as a well-rounded product that offers a good balance of performance, features, and price. The reviewer concluded that it is a solid choice for users who want a reliable cooler without excessive spending.
Strengths
- +Features an additional heat pipe compared to the Peerless Assassin
- +Includes both regular and reverse fan modes for flexible airflow direction
- +Well-built with clean aesthetics and cable management integration
- +Available at a competitive price point, even undercutting the Peerless Assassin in some markets
Watch-outs
- −Only one model in the Phantom Spirit lineup tested (the 120 SE variant)
- −Limited color options with no white or matte black versions currently available
How it compares
The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE surpasses the Peerless Assassin 120 Mini with an extra heat pipe and better airflow direction, but it's more expensive than the Arctic Freezer 36. Unlike the be quiet! Pure Rock Pro 3 Black, it features a single-tower design with a more accessible fan mount, though it lacks the dual-fan setup and premium quiet operation of the Pure Rock Pro 3.
Rating sources
“the Phantom Spirit that's sort of like indicative of the way they approach things so this was actually announced last year but only made its way to North America in about April of this year”
Our 4.5 score is the average of the 2 scored reviews above; 1 more reviewed it without printing a score and is not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
