Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This thermalright assassin spirit 120 evo CPU cooler review examines a compact air cooling solution designed for modern processors. The unit measures 156 mm in height, allowing it to fit inside many standard computer cases. It utilizes four 6 mm heat pipes to transfer heat away from the CPU efficiently. The cooler includes a 120 mm PWM fan that reaches speeds up to 2000 RPM. This combination of dimensions and fan speed defines its performance profile. We look at how these specifications translate to real-world cooling capabilities for your system.
What stands out
- Four 6 mm heat pipes use AGHP technology to manage heat direction.
- Seiko HDT direct touch copper base ensures solid contact with the CPU.
- 120 mm PWM fan operates at up to 2000 RPM for strong airflow.
- 5V 3-pin ARGB lighting synchronizes with compatible motherboards.
- Supports Intel LGA 1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets.
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this cooler if you need a reliable air solution for mid-range CPUs. The 156 mm height fits most standard ATX cases, making it a practical choice for builders who want to avoid clearance issues. The included PWM fan provides adjustable speeds, letting you balance noise and cooling. If you are using an Intel LGA 1700 or AMD AM5 platform, the included mounting hardware simplifies installation. It suits users who want straightforward performance without complex liquid cooling setups.
Who should skip it
You might want to look elsewhere if you require a low-profile design for small form factor cases. This cooler stands 6.14 inches tall, which exceeds the space in many mini-ITX builds. If you are building a silent PC, the 2000 RPM fan speed may generate noticeable noise under load. Users seeking extensive lighting customization beyond basic ARGB synchronization will find the options limited. Additionally, if your case has strict CPU cooler height restrictions under 156 mm, this unit will not fit.
Verdict: The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO offers solid cooling performance through its four heat pipes and high-speed fan. It is a practical choice for standard ATX cases with compatible CPU sockets.
Key specs explained for you
Size: 156 mm height
This height determines whether the cooler fits inside your computer case. A 156 mm profile allows the unit to clear most standard mid-tower chassis. You should measure the clearance between your RAM slots and the case lid before purchasing. Taller coolers offer more fin surface area but may block memory modules or require a larger case. This dimension is a critical constraint for compact builds.
4x 6mm heat pipes
Four copper heat pipes transfer heat from the CPU base to the aluminum fins. The 6 mm diameter provides a substantial surface area for thermal conduction. This configuration helps move heat away from the processor core efficiently. You will notice better stability under load compared to models with fewer or thinner pipes. This spec is standard for effective air cooling in modern desktop systems.
2000 RPM fan speed
The included fan spins at up to 2000 revolutions per minute. This speed generates moderate airflow to push air through the fins. You can expect noticeable noise at maximum speed, but it ensures strong cooling performance. Lower speeds will be quieter but move less heat. This rating helps you balance acoustic comfort against thermal efficiency when configuring your system fan curves.
LGA 1700, LGA 1200, AM4, AM5 sockets
This cooler supports major Intel and AMD processor platforms. It includes mounting hardware for both current and previous generations of CPUs. You can use this unit on newer AM5 motherboards or older LGA 1200 systems. This broad compatibility makes it a flexible choice for upgrades. Always verify that your specific motherboard model supports the included mounting brackets for your chosen socket type.
Design and build quality
According to the listing, the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO uses an all-aluminium fin stack. This material choice maximizes the heat dissipation surface area for its size. The base features a Seiko HDT direct touch copper design. Copper conducts heat faster than aluminium, helping move thermal energy from the CPU to the heat pipes. The listing specifies four 6 mm heat pipes that use AGHP technology. This upgraded third-generation design aims to reduce the negative effects of gravity when the pipes run vertically or horizontally. This layout ensures consistent heat transfer regardless of your case orientation.
The cooler stands 156 mm (6.14 inches) tall. This height allows it to fit inside many standard mid-tower cases without blocking RAM modules. The fan measures 120 mm in width and 73 mm in depth. You can mount this unit on Intel LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and 1851 sockets, as well as AMD AM4 and AM5 platforms. The listing notes that specific mounting plates or fasteners are included for these different CPU slots.
The top cover features an anodic black brushed finish. This process gives the cooler a distinct visual appearance. The fan supports 5V 3-pin ARGB synchronization with your motherboard. You can link multiple fans to avoid using too many motherboard headers. The listing indicates the fan uses S-FSB bearings, which are designed for a long service life. This construction suggests a focus on durability and steady airflow over time.
Installation and daily operation
Setting up this cooler involves matching the mounting hardware to your specific CPU socket. The listing confirms support for Intel LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and 1851, as well as AMD AM4 and AM5. You will receive the corresponding mounting plates or fasteners for these platforms. Follow the included tutorial to attach the bracket securely. The unit stands 156 mm tall, so you must verify that your case side panel closes properly after installation.
Daily use begins with connecting the PWM fan header to your motherboard. This allows the system to control the fan speed automatically. The fan reaches a maximum of 2000 RPM. This speed provides efficient airflow while keeping noise levels manageable for most users. The S-FSB bearing design suggests a long service life, meaning you can rely on steady performance over time without worrying about mechanical failure.
If you want lighting, connect the 5V 3-pin ARGB cable to your motherboard. This synchronizes the 1600W color soft light effect with other compatible components. You can also link multiple fans together to avoid using too many motherboard headers. The top cover features an anodic black brushed finish. This design choice gives the cooler a clean look that fits well inside most cases. The AGHP technology ensures the heat pipes work effectively regardless of whether your case is oriented vertically or horizontally. This makes the cooler adaptable to different build layouts.
Before buying this cooler
Before you buy the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO, verify your case clearance. The 156 mm height fits most mid-towers, but measure from your RAM slots to the side panel. Check your motherboard for a 5V 3-pin ARGB header. The fan syncs with this specific port for lighting effects. If your board lacks this header, you will not get synchronized RGB. You also need to ensure your CPU socket matches the listed compatibility. The cooler supports Intel LGA 1150 through 1851 and AMD AM4 and AM5. This model sits alongside other compact air coolers in our guide. It offers a single 120 mm fan profile, making it a space-saving option compared to larger dual-tower units. It does not include a hub for daisy-chaining ARGB, so check your available headers. The fan uses PWM for speed control, which you can adjust in your BIOS. This setup provides efficient cooling for standard processors without excessive bulk.
Check before you buy
- Measure RAM-to-side-panel clearance for 156 mm height
- Confirm motherboard has 5V 3-pin ARGB header
- Verify CPU socket matches LGA or AM list
- Check available ARGB headers for fan sync
The product at a glance
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO
Best for: Standard gaming builds with ARGB lighting needs
- 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
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The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is a single 120mm air cooler built for Intel and AMD sockets. It uses four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology and a direct-touch copper base. The included PWM fan reaches 2000 RPM. You get 5V 3-pin ARGB lighting for motherboard sync. The aluminum fin stack stands 156mm tall, fitting most mid-tower cases.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- Seiko HDT direct-touch copper base
- 2000 RPM PWM fan for active cooling
- 5V 3-pin ARGB motherboard synchronization
Cons
- Single 120mm fan limits peak heat dissipation
- 156mm height may block tall RAM modules
- No software control for fan curves or lighting
Good fit if
- You need a budget-friendly cooler for standard desktop builds
- You want ARGB lighting that syncs with your motherboard
- You have a mid-tower case with 156mm clearance
Skip if
- You require dual-tower cooling for high-end overclocking
- You have very tall RAM sticks that exceed 156mm
- You prefer silent operation below 2000 RPM speeds
Verdict: The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Air Cooler fits users who want reliable single-fan performance with customizable lighting. It is a solid choice for standard gaming PCs that do not demand extreme thermal headroom.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Features | Fan |
| Dimensions | 4.72 × 2.87 × 6.14 inches |
| Size | 4 Heatpies |
| Color | AS120 EVO |
| Model | AS120 EVO |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO support AMD AM5 sockets?
Yes, this cooler supports the AMD AM5 platform. The product data lists compatibility with AM4 and AM5 sockets alongside Intel LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, and LGA 1151. This broad socket support makes it a versatile option for both current and older generations of processors.
What is the physical height of this CPU cooler?
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO has a height of 6.14 inches, which converts to approximately 156 mm. This dimension is critical for ensuring the unit fits within your computer case without obstructing RAM modules. You should measure the space between your memory slots and the case side panel before installation.
Does this cooler feature addressable RGB lighting?
Yes, the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO includes ARGB lighting. This allows for customizable color effects that sync with compatible motherboard headers. It is designed to fit users who want reliable single-fan performance combined with aesthetic customization for their gaming builds.
How many heat pipes does the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO use?
This cooler utilizes four heat pipes to transfer heat away from the CPU. The listing specifies these are 6 mm pipes. These pipes connect the copper base to the aluminum fin stack, helping to dissipate thermal energy efficiently across the surface area of the fins.
Is this cooler suitable for high-end gaming PCs?
The product is described as a solid choice for standard gaming PCs that do not demand extreme thermal headroom. It is best for users seeking reliable single-fan performance. If your build involves heavy overclocking or extreme thermal loads, you might need a larger dual-tower solution instead.
What are the dimensions of the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO?
The unit measures 4.72 inches in length, 2.87 inches in width, and 6.14 inches in height. These compact dimensions allow it to fit inside many standard mid-tower cases. The narrow width also helps avoid interference with RAM sticks or other components on the motherboard.
Which Intel sockets are compatible with this air cooler?
The cooler supports multiple Intel LGA sockets, including LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, and LGA 1151. This wide range of compatibility ensures it works with a variety of Intel processors, from newer 14th and 15th generation chips to older 10th and 11th generation models.