Looking Beyond the Level Play 120mm 4-Heatpipe ARGB Cooler? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Alternatives to the Level Play CA4

upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler

The upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler shares the same socket support as the Level Play CA4, covering AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, and AM4. It targets quiet builds for modern platforms. Its physical dimensions are slightly different, measuring 6.1 inches in height and 5.12 inches in length. The Level Play unit is taller at 152mm but has a wider base. Both use 120mm fans and ARGB lighting. You might choose the upHere model if your case has specific clearance constraints that differ from the Level Play’s footprint. It offers similar socket versatility with a distinct form factor that may suit low-profile RAM or open airflow cases better than the Level Play design.

Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Black ARGB Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Black ARGB Cooler provides broad socket compatibility, including older LGA 1200 and LGA 1151, which the Level Play CA4 does not list. It measures 6.14 inches in height and 4.72 inches in length. The Level Play CA4 is taller at 152mm but slightly wider. Both coolers feature ARGB lighting and 120mm fans. The Thermalright option is a practical choice if you need support for legacy Intel sockets alongside modern AMD and Intel platforms. It fits standard cases well. You should pick this alternative if your build includes older hardware or if you prefer a slightly shorter cooler height, though you will lose the specific direct-contact heat pipe design found in the Level Play model.

Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO

The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO includes four heat pipes, matching the Level Play CA4’s configuration. It supports a wide range of sockets, including LGA 1200 and LGA 1151, which are absent from the Level Play specs. Its dimensions are 6.14 inches high and 4.72 inches long. The Level Play CA4 is taller and wider. Both units offer ARGB lighting and 120mm fans. This Thermalright model is a solid option for quiet mainstream cooling in standard cases. You might prefer it if you need backward compatibility with older motherboards. It provides steady performance for mid-range CPUs, though it lacks the 200W TDP rating explicitly stated for the Level Play cooler.

Jonsbo 92mm ARGB Mini Tower Cooler

The Jonsbo 92mm ARGB Mini Tower Cooler is significantly smaller than the Level Play CA4. It measures 5.1 inches in height and 3.6 inches in length, making it ideal for small form factor cases. The Level Play CA4 is a 120mm cooler with a 152mm height. Both support modern sockets like AM5 and LGA 1851. The Jonsbo unit uses a 92mm fan, which may result in higher noise levels at peak speeds compared to the Level Play’s 120mm fan. You should choose the Jonsbo model if space is your primary constraint. It offers adequate cooling for mid-range processors in tight builds, sacrificing the airflow volume of the larger Level Play design.

Thermalright Assassin X 120 Digital ARGB

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 Digital ARGB features a unique digital display for CPU temperature monitoring, a feature the Level Play CA4 does not have. It supports AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1200, and AM4. Its height is 5.94 inches, slightly shorter than the Level Play’s 152mm. Both coolers include ARGB lighting and 120mm fans. The Thermalright model prioritizes visible thermal data over maximum heat dissipation capacity. You might pick this alternative if you want real-time temperature readings on the cooler itself. It is a practical choice for mid-range builds where screen visibility matters, though it may not match the Level Play’s 200W TDP rating for high-end CPUs.

Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Air Cooler also includes a digital display for temperature readouts, unlike the Level Play CA4. It supports AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, and older sockets. The Level Play CA4 is taller at 152mm, while this Thermalright model is shorter. Both use 120mm fans and ARGB lighting. The Thermalright cooler offers high fan speed and visible hardware feedback. You should consider this option if you value clear temperature readings without external monitors. It suits builders who want digital data, though it lacks the direct-contact heat pipe design and 200W TDP rating specified for the Level Play Combat CA4.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Level Play 120mm 4-Heatpipe ARGB Cooler

Best for: compact cases with modern sockets

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1851

Cooler Height

152mm

Heat Pipes

4

Fan Size

120mm

TDP Rating

200W

Fan Speed

1800 RPM ± 10%

View on Amazon: Level Play 120mm 4-Heatpipe ARGB Cooler Affiliate link

The Level Play Combat CA4 is a compact 120mm air cooler rated for 200W TDP. It uses four direct-contact copper heat pipes and a PWM fan reaching 1800 RPM. The unit features ARGB Gen 2 lighting and supports AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, and LGA 1851 sockets. It suits builders needing efficient cooling in tight spaces with modern socket support.

Pros

• Four direct-contact copper heat pipes for efficient heat transfer.
• Supports modern Intel LGA 1851 and AMD AM5 sockets.
• PWM fan reaches 1800 RPM with 53 CFM airflow.
• Includes brackets for push-pull fan configuration upgrade.

Cons

• Single 120mm fan limits maximum cooling potential compared to dual-fan designs.
• Requires motherboard software for ARGB synchronization.
• Second fan not included for push-pull setup.

Good fit if

• You need support for the latest LGA 1851 or AM5 sockets.
• You are building in a case with limited CPU cooler height.
• You want a single-fan solution with direct-contact heat pipes.

Skip if

• You require a dual-fan design for extreme thermal loads.
• You need a cooler taller than 152mm.
• You are using an older socket like LGA 115x without adapters.

Verdict: Level Play Combat CA4 120mm Air Cooler is a practical choice for modern builds requiring LGA 1851 or AM5 support. It fits well in compact cases where height is restricted.

2 Best premium

upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler

Best for: quiet AM5 or LGA 1700 builds

Socket Compatibility

AM5/AM4, LGA 1851/1700/1200/1155/1156

Cooler Height

6.1 inches

Heat Pipes

4

Fan Size

120mm

Fan Speed

1650rpm ±10%

Lighting

ARGB

View on Amazon: upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler Affiliate link

This upHere cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes and a 120mm fan to manage CPU temperatures. It reaches 1650rpm for 68.2CFM airflow while staying under 26dB. The design includes ARGB lighting and fits AM5, AM4, and LGA 1700 sockets. Its 6.1-inch height requires clearance for tall RAM modules. It suits users seeking quiet operation and basic RGB aesthetics for standard desktop builds.

Pros

• Four 6mm direct-contact heat pipes for efficient heat dissipation
• Quiet operation with noise levels below 26dB at max speed
• ARGB lighting for visual customization
• Supports AM5 and LGA 1700 sockets for modern platforms

Cons

• 6.1-inch height may block tall RAM modules
• No PWM speed control mentioned, relying on 12V fixed input
• Single fan configuration limits total airflow compared to dual-fan designs

Good fit if

• You need a cooler for AM5 or LGA 1700 processors
• You prioritize quiet operation under 26dB
• You want ARGB lighting in a black finish

Skip if

• You have very tall RAM sticks that exceed clearance
• You require active PWM fan speed control
• You need support for older LGA 115x sockets only

Verdict: upHere 120mm ARGB CPU Air Cooler fits users who need quiet cooling for modern AM5 or LGA 1700 CPUs. It works best for builds with low-profile RAM or open airflow cases.

3 Also great

Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Black ARGB Cooler

Best for: Standard cases with LGA1700 or AM5 CPUs

Socket Compatibility

LGA1700/1150/1151/1200, AM4, AM5

Cooler Height

156 mm

Heat Pipes

4

Fan Size

120mm

Fan Speed

2000 RPM

Lighting

ARGB

View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Black ARGB Cooler Affiliate link

The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is a 120mm air cooler designed for standard ATX cases. It features four 6mm heat pipes using AGHP 4th generation technology to manage heat in various orientations. The included PWM fan spins up to 2000 RPM, providing strong airflow while keeping noise at or below 28.2 dB. It supports modern Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1700 and AM5.

Pros

• Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP 4th generation technology
• PWM fan reaches 2000 RPM for high airflow
• Noise level stays at or below 28.2 dB
• Supports LGA1700 and AM5 sockets

Cons

• 156 mm height may block tall RAM modules
• Aluminum fin stack limits peak heat dissipation
• Single 120mm fan size restricts total cooling surface

Good fit if

• You need a cooler for LGA1700 or AM5 processors
• You have a case that fits 156 mm tall coolers
• You want quiet operation under 28.2 dB

Skip if

• You have tall RAM that exceeds 156 mm clearance
• You need a dual-tower design for high TDP chips
• You prefer a larger 140mm fan for lower noise

Verdict: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO offers solid cooling for mainstream CPUs in compact builds. It fits users who prioritize socket compatibility and quiet performance over maximum heat dissipation capacity.

4 Best budget

Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO

Best for: Quiet mainstream desktop cooling

Cooler Height

156 mm

Heat Pipes

4

Fan Size

120 mm

Fan Speed

2000 RPM

Lighting

ARGB

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151

View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Affiliate link

The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is a 120mm air cooler with four 6mm heat pipes and a 2000RPM PWM fan. It uses AGHP technology to manage heat in various orientations. The unit includes ARGB lighting that syncs with 5V 3-pin motherboards. It supports modern sockets like LGA 1700 and AM5. This cooler suits users who want quiet operation and reliable cooling for standard desktop builds.

Pros

• Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
• 2000RPM PWM fan for efficient cooling
• 5V 3-pin ARGB synchronization
• Supports LGA 1700 and AM5 sockets
• 156mm height fits most chassis

Cons

• Single 120mm fan limits max airflow
• Aluminum fin stack has lower thermal mass
• No included fan hub for daisy-chaining

Good fit if

• You need a quiet cooler for office PCs
• You have a mid-tower case with 156mm clearance
• You want ARGB lighting without extra hubs

Skip if

• You require dual-fan 140mm performance
• You have a small form-factor case under 150mm
• You need digital temperature display features

Verdict: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO delivers steady cooling for mainstream CPUs in standard cases. It is a solid option for builders prioritizing quiet operation and basic RGB sync over raw thermal headroom.

5 Best copper

Jonsbo 92mm ARGB Mini Tower Cooler

Best for: small form factor cases

Socket Compatibility

LGA1851/1700/1200/115X, AM4/AM5

Cooler Height

130mm

Heat Pipes

4

Tower Design

Tower

Fan Size

92mm

Lighting

ARGB

View on Amazon: Jonsbo 92mm ARGB Mini Tower Cooler Affiliate link

The Jonsbo CR1400 EVO is a compact tower air cooler designed for small form factor builds. It features four nickel-plated copper heat pipes and a 92mm PWM fan. The unit stands 130mm tall, ensuring it fits within standard case height limits. It includes ARGB lighting and supports modern Intel and AMD sockets. This cooler suits users prioritizing compact dimensions and quiet operation over maximum thermal headroom.

Pros

• Four nickel-plated copper heat pipes for efficient heat transfer
• Compact 92mm fan design reduces overall cooler height
• 130mm tower height fits most standard cases
• ARGB lighting with integrated top cover design

Cons

• 92mm fan size offers less airflow than standard 120mm fans
• Cooler height is limited to 130mm
• Fan connector is 3-pin PWM only

Good fit if

• You need a cooler that fits in tight cases
• You want ARGB lighting on a budget
• You build with small form factor cases

Skip if

• You require maximum cooling performance for high TDP CPUs
• You prefer standard 120mm fan airflow
• You need 4-pin PWM fan control

Verdict: Jonsbo CR1400 EVO 92mm ARGB Cooler is a compact solution for small builds. It fits cases with height restrictions and provides adequate cooling for mid-range processors.

6 Also great

Thermalright Assassin X 120 Digital ARGB

Best for: Users wanting visible CPU temperature data

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA 1851/1700/115X/1200

Cooler Height

151 mm

Heat Pipes

4

Tower Design

Single-Tower

Fan Size

120 mm

Fan Speed

2000 RPM

View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin X 120 Digital ARGB Affiliate link

This single-tower air cooler features four heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan rated for 2000 RPM. It includes a digital screen top cover that displays CPU temperature, usage, and graphics card data via TRCC software. The unit supports AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA 1700/1851 sockets. It suits users who want real-time thermal monitoring alongside standard air cooling performance.

Pros

• Digital screen displays CPU and GPU metrics
• 4 heat pipes with 2000 RPM PWM fan
• Compatible with Intel LGA 1851 and AM5 sockets

Cons

• Single-tower design limits heat dissipation compared to dual-tower models
• 151mm height may interfere with large RAM modules
• Requires TRCC software for full screen functionality

Good fit if

• You want real-time CPU temperature monitoring
• You have a mid-tower case with 151mm clearance
• You use Intel LGA 1851 or AMD AM5 platforms

Skip if

• You need dual-tower cooling for high TDP CPUs
• You prefer passive monitoring without software
• Your RAM height exceeds 151mm

Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB fits users who value visible thermal data over maximum cooling capacity. It is a practical option for mid-range builds where screen visibility matters more than extreme heat dissipation.

7 Best 4 heat pipes

Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Air Cooler

Best for: Users wanting visible digital temperature readouts

Socket Compatibility

AM4, AM5, LGA 1700/1851/1150/1151/1200

Cooler Height

151 mm

Heat Pipes

4

Fan Speed

2000 RPM

Lighting

ARGB

Color

Black

View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Air Cooler Affiliate link

This air cooler features a 120mm PWM fan that reaches 2000 RPM for steady airflow. It uses four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology to move heat efficiently, even in vertical mounts. The unit includes a digital screen powered by a 9-pin USB connection and ARGB lighting that syncs with your motherboard. Its 151 mm height fits most cases while supporting AM4, AM5, and LGA 1700 sockets.

Pros

• 2000 RPM PWM fan speed
• Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
• Digital screen with 9-pin USB connection
• ARGB lighting synchronization
• 151 mm height for broad case compatibility

Cons

• Requires specific TRCC software for digital screen control
• Digital screen relies on a motherboard USB header
• Fan uses S-FDB bearing which may vary in lifespan

Good fit if

• You want a digital display on your cooler
• You need a 120mm cooler under 151 mm tall
• You use AM4, AM5, or LGA 1700 sockets

Skip if

• You prefer a cooler without a digital screen
• You need a 140mm fan for extra airflow
• You want software-free hardware control

Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB offers a unique digital display and high fan speed for users who value visible hardware feedback. It suits builders who want clear temperature readings without extra external monitors.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions