Looking Beyond the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Black? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The thermalright assassin spirit 120 evo black CPU cooler alternatives list helps you find options that match its 120mm form factor and ARGB lighting. This cooler offers reliable performance with four heat pipes and a 2000 RPM fan. It supports modern sockets like AM5 and LGA1700. Its 156mm height fits most mid-tower cases. However, you might need a different specification for your build. Some users prefer a white color for aesthetic consistency. Others require a lower profile for small form factor cases. You may also want a digital display for real-time monitoring. These alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original product. They provide similar cooling capabilities while addressing specific needs. The list includes options with varying heights, colors, and features. Each alternative maintains compatibility with current CPU platforms. This ensures you can upgrade without losing socket support. The selection focuses on practical differences rather than brand loyalty. You can compare dimensions and airflow rates directly. This approach helps you identify the best fit for your chassis. The goal is to provide clear, spec-based comparisons for your decision.
Our top pick: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Black ARGB Cooler.
How these alternatives differ
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO adds support for the latest LGA 1851 socket, which the Black ARGB version lacks. This makes it a better choice for builders using new Intel platforms. Both models share the same 120mm fan size, 2000 RPM speed, and four heat pipes. The EVO version maintains the ARGB lighting and similar dimensions. If you need future-proof socket compatibility without changing your case size, this model fits. It offers the same cooling profile but with broader hardware support. Choose this if your motherboard uses the newest Intel sockets.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Air Cooler
This option includes a digital display for monitoring system stats, a feature the original Assassin Spirit 120 Black does not have. It retains the four heat pipes and ARGB lighting. The dimensions are slightly different, measuring 4.72 x 4.72 x 5.94 inches. This cooler supports modern sockets including LGA 1851 and AM5. The display requires a USB header on your motherboard. If you want visible telemetry data while keeping a compact 120mm footprint, this is a strong alternative. It trades the original's simplicity for added functionality. Pick this if you value real-time CPU information.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB offers a digital interface that the original cooler lacks. It supports LGA 1851 and AM5 sockets, providing better modern compatibility than the Black version. The cooler measures 4.72 x 4.72 x 5.94 inches. It includes ARGB lighting and four heat pipes for heat transfer. The display adds a unique visual element for your build. If you want to monitor temperatures directly on the cooler, this model is ideal. It maintains similar cooling performance while adding tech features. Choose this if you prefer visible stats over a minimalist design.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black
This variant features a digital display and supports LGA 1851 and AM5 sockets, unlike the original. It measures 4.72 x 5.94 x 5.94 inches, which is taller than the Assassin Spirit 120 Black. The cooler includes ARGB lighting and four heat pipes. The added height may affect RAM clearance in smaller cases. If you need modern socket support and a display, this is a suitable choice. It offers similar cooling capabilities with extra features. Consider this if your case has sufficient height. It is best for users who want visible data and newer platform compatibility.
Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler
The Thermalright AXP90 X36 is a low-profile cooler designed for ITX builds. It stands only 36mm tall, significantly shorter than the 156mm Assassin Spirit 120 Black. This makes it ideal for small form factor cases with height restrictions. It supports AM5 and LGA 1700 sockets. The cooler lacks ARGB lighting and uses a different mounting system. If you are building a compact PC, this is the practical choice. It sacrifices airflow capacity for size reduction. Choose this if your case cannot accommodate a standard 120mm tower cooler. It is the best option for tight spaces.
Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB offers a white aesthetic, contrasting with the black original. It supports LGA 1851 and AM5 sockets, providing better modern compatibility. The cooler measures 5.83 x 4.92 x 2.8 inches. It includes four heat pipes and ARGB lighting. The white color helps match white-themed builds. If you want a similar cooling profile with a different look, this is a good alternative. It maintains the 120mm fan size and similar performance. Choose this if your build theme requires white components. It offers the same functionality with a distinct visual style.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Black ARGB Cooler
Best for: Standard mid-tower cases with 120mm fans
- 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
This 120mm air cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP 4th generation technology to manage heat effectively in vertical or horizontal orientations. The included TL-S12-S PWM fan spins up to 2000 RPM, delivering 68.9 CFM of airflow while staying under 28.2 dB. It features an all-aluminum fin stack and a copper base. The unit stands 156 mm tall, fitting most mid-tower cases. It supports modern Intel and AMD sockets.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP 4th generation technology
- PWM fan reaches 2000 RPM for strong airflow
- ARGB lighting on the fan hub
- Compatible with LGA1700 and AM5 sockets
- Low noise level capped at 28.2 dB
Cons
- 156 mm height may block tall RAM modules
- Single fan limits cooling capacity compared to dual-tower designs
- Aluminum fin stack conducts heat less efficiently than copper
Good fit if
- You need a compact 120mm cooler for standard cases
- You want ARGB lighting without complex software
- You use modern Intel or AMD processors
Skip if
- You require liquid cooling for extreme overclocking
- Your RAM sticks exceed 156 mm in height
- You prefer dual-tower air coolers for maximum performance
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Black offers reliable 120mm cooling with modern socket support. It fits users who want a straightforward, quiet cooler with ARGB accents.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO
Best for: Standard ATX builds needing ARGB
- 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 featuring four 6mm heat pipes and a 2000 RPM PWM fan. It uses AGHP technology to manage heat in various orientations. The unit includes ARGB lighting synchronized via a 5V 3-pin header. It fits Intel LGA 1700/1851 and AMD AM5 sockets. This cooler suits users seeking reliable cooling with aesthetic customization.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- 2000 RPM PWM fan for efficient airflow
- 5V 3-pin ARGB lighting support
- Compatible with LGA 1700 and AM5 sockets
Cons
- 156mm height may not fit small cases
- Single 120mm fan limits cooling potential
- Aluminum fin stack reduces heat capacity
Good fit if
- You need compatibility with LGA 1700 or AM5
- You want ARGB lighting on a budget
- You have a mid-tower case with 160mm clearance
Skip if
- You use a compact ITX case with low clearance
- You require liquid cooling for extreme overclocking
- You prefer silent operation below 2000 RPM
Verdict: The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO delivers solid 120mm cooling with modern socket support. It fits standard ATX builds where RGB lighting and direct-touch heat pipes matter.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Air Cooler
Best for: budget builds wanting a digital display
- 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 cooler combines a 120mm PWM fan with a digital display on the top cover. It uses four 6mm heat pipes and reaches 2000 RPM for steady cooling. The unit stands 151 mm tall, fitting most cases. You get ARGB lighting synchronized via a 5V 3-pin header. It supports AM4, AM5, and LGA 1700 sockets.
Pros
- 2000 RPM PWM fan speed
- 4x6mm AGHP heat pipes
- Digital screen with software control
- 151 mm height fits most cases
- 5V 3-pin ARGB synchronization
Cons
- Requires motherboard 9-pin USB header for display
- Only four heat pipes
- Digital screen needs specific TRCC software
Good fit if
- You want a digital display on your cooler
- You need ARGB lighting sync
- You prefer a black finish
Skip if
- Your case has less than 151 mm CPU clearance
- You do not have a free 9-pin USB header
- You prefer no lighting effects
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB offers a unique display and solid airflow for users who want visible tech features. It fits well in standard mid-tower cases where you can use the motherboard USB header.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB
Best for: Users wanting visible CPU stats on the cooler
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1700/1851/1150/1151/1200
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Tower Design
- Single-Tower
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Lighting
- ARGB
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Affiliate link
This single-tower air cooler combines a 120mm PWM fan running at 2000 RPM with four 6mm heat pipes. It features a digital LCD top cover that displays CPU temperature, usage, and GPU data via TRCC software. It supports AM4, AM5, and LGA 1700/1851 sockets. You get practical monitoring and solid airflow in a compact 4.72-inch width design.
Pros
- Digital LCD top cover shows real-time CPU and GPU metrics
- 4th generation AGHP heat pipes prevent anti-gravity issues
- 2000 RPM PWM fan adjusts speed automatically
- Supports latest Intel 14/15th Gen and AMD Ryzen 7000 sockets
Cons
- Single-tower design with only four heat pipes
- Requires TRCC software for full digital display functionality
- 2000 RPM fan speed may be louder than quieter alternatives
Good fit if
- You want real-time temperature readings on the cooler itself
- You have an AM5 or LGA 1851 motherboard
- You prefer a black ARGB aesthetic
Skip if
- You need dual-tower cooling for high-end chips
- You want silent operation below 2000 RPM
- You prefer hardware-only controls without software
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB fits users who value visible system stats and modern socket support. It delivers adequate cooling for mid-range builds while adding a unique digital interface.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black
Best for: Users wanting a digital display and modern sockets
- Socket Compatibility
- LGA1700/1851/1200/1150/1151, AM4/AM5
- Cooler Height
- 151mm
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Lighting
- ARGB
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black Affiliate link
This 120mm air cooler features a 2000 RPM PWM fan and a 151mm height. It includes a digital screen powered by a 9-pin USB interface and supports ARGB lighting. The aluminum heatsink uses AGHP 4th Technology. It fits Intel LGA 1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets. You get quiet operation at 29.8 dB and strong airflow for its size.
Pros
- 2000 RPM fan speed for high airflow
- Digital screen with software control via 9-pin USB
- Supports latest Intel LGA 1851 and AMD AM5 sockets
- 151mm height fits most standard cases
Cons
- Requires motherboard 9-pin USB header for screen
- 151mm height may block tall RAM modules
- Single 120mm fan limits heat dissipation vs larger coolers
Good fit if
- You want a digital display on your cooler
- You use modern Intel or AMD platforms
- You prefer black ARGB aesthetics
Skip if
- Your RAM is taller than 151mm
- Your motherboard lacks a 9-pin USB header
- You need passive cooling without fans
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black is a solid mid-range option for users who value visible tech and modern socket support. It suits builders who want a screen and do not have tall RAM.
Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler
Best for: ITX builds with 36mm CPU clearance
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA1700, 115X, 1200, 1851
- Cooler Height
- 36mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Tower Design
- Low-Profile
- Fan Size
- 92mm
- System Type
- ITX
View on Amazon: Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler Affiliate link
This low-profile air cooler stands 36mm tall, making it ideal for small form factor builds. It uses four 6mm heat pipes and a 92mm PWM fan to move heat away from the CPU. The unit supports AM4, AM5, LGA1700, and older Intel sockets. You get a compact solution that fits where standard towers cannot. The design relies on secondary reflow soldering for heat transfer efficiency.
Pros
- 36mm total height fits tight cases
- Supports AM5 and LGA1700 sockets
- 4x6mm heat pipes for heat transfer
- 92mm PWM fan included
Cons
- Limited to 36mm height restricts radiator use
- 92mm fan may spin faster than 120mm fans
- No ARGB lighting features listed
Good fit if
- You are building an ITX case
- You need AM5 socket support
- You have a 36mm CPU clearance limit
Skip if
- You need RGB lighting effects
- You have a standard ATX mid-tower case
- You require a 120mm fan for lower noise
Verdict: Thermalright AXP90 X36 Low Profile Cooler is a practical option for ITX builders who need to stay under 36mm. It works well for AM5 and LGA1700 CPUs where space is tight.
Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB
Best for: White builds with AM5 or LGA 1851
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 115X, 1200, 1700, 1851
- Cooler Height
- 148 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- TDP Rating
- 125-225 W
- Fan Speed
- 1550 RPM
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB Affiliate link
This white air cooler features a 120mm fan and four heat pipes for efficient cooling. The TL-C12CW-S fan delivers up to 66.17 CFM of airflow while maintaining noise levels at or below 25.6 dB. It supports modern sockets including AM5 and LGA 1851. The 148mm height fits most mid-size cases. You get ARGB lighting and S-FDB bearings for durability. It is a solid choice for builds that need a clean aesthetic without sacrificing cooling performance.
Pros
- White ARGB lighting for aesthetic builds
- 120mm fan with up to 66.17 CFM airflow
- 4 heat pipes with AGHP technology
- Supports AM5 and LGA 1851 sockets
- Low noise level of 25.6 dB
Cons
- 148mm height may not fit small cases
- Only 4 heat pipes compared to competitors
- Fan speed capped at 1550 RPM
Good fit if
- You want a white CPU cooler for your build
- You need support for AM5 or LGA 1851 sockets
- You prefer quiet operation under 26 dB
Skip if
- You have a case with less than 148mm cooler clearance
- You need more than 4 heat pipes for extreme loads
- You prefer a black color scheme
Verdict: Thermalright AssassinX120 SE ARGB White fits users who need a white aesthetic with solid cooling for modern AM5 and LGA 1851 platforms. It is best for mid-size cases where height clearance allows.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Black ARGB Cooler | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO | Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Air Cooler | Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB | Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB Black | Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler | Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | LGA1700/1150/1151/1200, AM4, AM5 | not stated | AM4, AM5, LGA 1700/1851/1150/1151/1200 | AM4, AM5, LGA 1700/1851/1150/1151/1200 | LGA1700/1851/1200/1150/1151, AM4/AM5 | AM4, AM5, LGA1700, 115X, 1200, 1851 | AM4, AM5, LGA 115X, 1200, 1700, 1851 |
| Cooler Height | 156 mm | 156 mm | 151 mm | not stated | 151mm | 36mm | 148 mm |
| Heat Pipes | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | not stated | 4 | 4 |
| Tower Design | not stated | not stated | not stated | Single-Tower | not stated | Low-Profile | not stated |
| Fan Size | 120mm | 120 mm | not stated | 120 mm | 120mm | 92mm | 120 mm |
| TDP Rating | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 125-225 W |
| Fan Speed | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM | not stated | 1550 RPM |
| Lighting | ARGB | ARGB | ARGB | ARGB | ARGB | not stated | ARGB |
| System Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | ITX | not stated |
| Color | Black | AS120 EVO | Black | Black | Black | Black | White |
| Features | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan |
| Dimensions | 4.72 × 2.87 × 6.14 inches | 4.72 × 2.87 × 6.14 inches | 0.39 × 0.39 × 0.39 inches | 4.72 × 4.72 × 5.94 inches | 5.94 × 4.72 × 5.94 inches | 3.72 × 3.74 × 1.42 inches | 5.83 × 4.92 × 2.8 inches |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | 3.53 ounces | not stated | not stated | 15.8 ounces | 1 pounds |
| Model | AS120 EVO | AS120 EVO | AX120R D ARGB BLACK | not stated | not stated | AXP-90 X36 Black | AX120 SE ARGB WHITE-D2 |
| Size | not stated | 4 Heatpies | not stated | not stated | not stated | Height 36mm | 4 Heat pies |
If you want different airflow specs, you can compare options in best thermalright case fans for CPU Cooler.
Frequently asked questions
Which Thermalright cooler supports the LGA 1851 socket?
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO and the Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB models support the LGA 1851 socket. The standard Assassin Spirit 120 Black ARGB version does not list this compatibility. You should choose the EVO or Digital variants if you are building with the latest Intel processors.
What is the best low-profile option for ITX builds?
The Thermalright AXP90 36mm Low-Profile Cooler is the best choice for ITX cases. It has a height of 1.42 inches, which fits builds with strict 36mm clearance limits. This model supports AM5 and LGA 1700 sockets, making it practical for compact modern systems where space is tight.
Which cooler features a digital display for CPU stats?
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB series includes a unique digital display. This feature allows you to view visible system stats directly on the cooler. It connects via a motherboard USB header, adding a tech-focused element to your build while providing solid airflow for mid-range processors.
Are there white alternatives to the black Assassin Spirit 120?
Yes, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB is a white alternative. It offers a clean aesthetic for white-themed builds while maintaining support for modern sockets like AM5 and LGA 1851. It includes four heat pipes and an ARGB fan to match your system's lighting scheme.
How tall is the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO?
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO has a height of 6.14 inches. This dimension is important for checking clearance against your RAM modules. It also measures 2.87 inches in width and 4.72 inches in length, fitting standard mid-tower cases with typical 120mm fan mounts.
Does the Assassin X 120R Digital weigh more than the standard model?
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R Digital ARGB weighs 3.53 ounces. The data does not provide a weight for the standard Assassin Spirit 120 EVO for direct comparison. You should check your case specifications to ensure the mounting hardware can support the cooler's mass on your motherboard.