Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dual Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You might be looking for thermalright assassin spirit 120 v2 alternatives if its dual-fan design or 154mm height does not fit your case. The AS120 V2 Plus offers broad socket support and quiet operation with its 1500 RPM fans. It uses four heat pipes and an aluminum fin stack to manage heat efficiently. Some users prefer single-fan models for better RAM clearance or smaller footprints. Others may want ARGB lighting or a white finish to match their build theme. The original cooler lacks these aesthetic options and focuses on pure performance.
We selected 6 similar picks because their specifications overlap with the original product. Each alternative shares key traits like four heat pipes and compatibility with modern AM5 or LGA 1700 sockets. You will find options with different fan speeds, colors, and lighting features. This list helps you compare height, width, and airflow specs side by side. Whether you need a budget choice or a premium quiet cooler, these data-driven comparisons let you choose based on your specific hardware constraints.
Our top pick: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dual Fan Cooler.
How alternatives compare to AS120 V2 Plus
Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB swaps the dual-fan setup for a single 120mm fan with ARGB lighting. It adds white aesthetics and supports the newer LGA 1851 socket, which the AS120 V2 Plus lacks. The cooler is slightly wider at 4.92 inches but shorter at 2.8 inches, making it better for low-profile cases. You gain visual appeal and modern socket compatibility but lose the extra cooling surface area of the second fan. Pick this if your build features white components and you need LGA 1851 support without the bulk of a dual-fan radiator.
Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB CPU Cooler
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB CPU Cooler uses a single fan running at 1550 RPM, compared to the AS120 V2 Plus dual fans. It includes basic RGB lighting and supports LGA 1851 sockets. The design is more compact, with a width of 2.8 inches versus the 3.86 inches of the original. You get simpler installation and lower RAM clearance requirements. However, you sacrifice the dual-fan airflow that helps with sustained thermal loads. This option suits users who prioritize a minimal footprint and simple RGB effects over maximum cooling potential.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus returns to a dual-fan configuration similar to the AS120 V2 Plus but with a different model profile. It maintains four heat pipes and broad socket compatibility including AM5 and LGA 1700. The cooler is slightly narrower at 3.78 inches and shorter at 5.83 inches, improving case fitment. You retain the quiet dual-fan cooling performance but lose the specific 154mm height and dual PWM fan pairing of the original. This is a practical choice if you need dual-fan efficiency in a more compact vertical profile without requiring ARGB lighting.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is a single-fan cooler, differing significantly from the dual-fan AS120 V2 Plus. It features four heat pipes and supports the same major sockets like AM5 and LGA 1700. The cooler is narrower at 2.87 inches and taller at 6.14 inches. You gain better RAM clearance and a slimmer profile but lose the additional airflow from the second fan. This option is ideal for builds where memory clearance is critical or where a single fan provides sufficient cooling for your CPU's thermal design power.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler offers a single-fan design with a dark finish, contrasting the original's dual-fan setup. It supports AM5 and LGA 1700 sockets with four heat pipes. The dimensions are narrower at 2.87 inches but taller at 6.14 inches. You get a discreet aesthetic and improved RAM clearance but sacrifice the cooling capacity of the dual fans. This pick suits users building on modern platforms who prefer a low-profile, dark-colored cooler without the need for RGB lighting or dual-fan performance.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO White ARGB
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO White ARGB combines a single fan with white ARGB lighting, unlike the AS120 V2 Plus. It supports AM5 and LGA 1700 sockets with four heat pipes. The cooler is narrower at 2.87 inches and taller at 6.14 inches. You gain white aesthetics and ARGB control but lose the dual-fan airflow efficiency. This option is best for users building white-themed systems on AM5 or LGA 1700 who want visual flair and are willing to trade some cooling performance for a slimmer, single-fan profile.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dual Fan Cooler
Best for: quiet cooling on modern AMD and Intel CPUs
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA1700, 1150, 1151, 1200
- Cooler Height
- 154mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1500 RPM ± 10%
- Features
- Fan
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dual Fan Cooler Affiliate link
The Thermalright AS120 V2 Plus uses a dual 120mm PWM fan setup to improve cooling efficiency. It features four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology to manage heat in any orientation. The cooler stands 154mm tall and supports major AMD and Intel sockets. This configuration targets users who need quiet operation under 25.6 dB while maintaining strong thermal performance for standard desktop builds.
Pros
- Dual 120mm PWM fans provide 66.17 CFM airflow
- Four 6mm heat pipes use AGHP technology
- Noise level stays at or below 25.6 dB
- Supports AM5, AM4, and LGA1700 sockets
Cons
- 154mm height limits compatibility with small cases
- No RGB lighting included in the design
- Lacks ARGB synchronization features
Good fit if
- You need quiet cooling under 26 dB
- You use AM5 or LGA1700 platforms
- You have a mid-tower case with 154mm clearance
Skip if
- You require ARGB lighting effects
- Your case height is under 154mm
- You need a cooler for SFF builds
Verdict: Thermalright AS120 V2 Plus Dual Fan Cooler delivers reliable thermal performance for mainstream processors. It suits users prioritizing low noise and broad socket support over aesthetic lighting.
Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB
Best for: White themed builds with ARGB lighting needs
- 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 120mm air cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology to manage 125 to 225W TDP loads. The included TL-C12CW-S PWM fan runs up to 1550 RPM and produces ARGB lighting. It measures 148mm in height, fitting medium cases. You get broad socket support for Intel and AMD platforms. This model offers a quiet operation with a noise level of 25.6 dB(A) while providing efficient cooling.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- ARGB lighting effects on the fan
- Quiet operation at 25.6 dB(A)
- Supports AM4, AM5, and Intel LGA sockets
Cons
- Maximum fan speed is only 1550 RPM
- Cooler height is 148mm, limiting case compatibility
- No mention of RGB hub or controller in specs
Good fit if
- You want white ARGB lighting for your build
- You need broad socket compatibility for modern platforms
- You prefer a quiet fan profile under 26 dB
Skip if
- You require fan speeds above 1550 RPM
- Your CPU cooler slot is narrower than 148mm
- You need a cooler with integrated RGB hubs
Verdict: Thermalright AX120 SE ARGB White CPU Cooler is a solid mid-range option for users prioritizing aesthetics and quiet operation. It fits well in builds where case height allows and white components are desired.
Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB CPU Cooler
Best for: quiet operation and simple RGB setups
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA1851, LGA1200
- Cooler Height
- 148mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550 RPM
- Lighting
- RGB
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB CPU Cooler Affiliate link
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 is a budget air cooler with a 120mm fan and four 6mm heat pipes. It reaches 1550 RPM with 66.17 CFM airflow. The 148mm height fits most cases. It supports AM5 and LGA1700 sockets. You get RGB lighting from a single connector. This model suits users who want quiet operation under 25.6 dB.
Pros
- Four 6mm copper heat pipes for efficient heat transfer
- RGB lighting powered by a single interface
- S-FDB bearings for reduced noise and longer life
- 148mm height compatible with many computer cases
Cons
- Lower fan speed of 1550 RPM compared to EVO variants
- Aluminum heatsink material instead of all-copper
- No ARGB control for color customization
Good fit if
- You need a cooler that fits in medium-sized cases
- You want RGB lighting without extra hubs
- You prioritize quiet operation over maximum airflow
Skip if
- You require high airflow for extreme overclocking
- You need full addressable RGB synchronization
- You have a CPU socket older than LGA1150
Verdict: The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 offers reliable cooling for standard builds with its 1550 RPM fan and four heat pipes. It is a practical choice for users who value quiet operation and simple RGB installation.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus
Best for: Standard CPUs needing quiet dual-fan cooling
- Cooler Height
- 148mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550RPM
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Features
- Fan
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus Affiliate link
This Thermalright air cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes and two 120mm PWM fans to move heat from the CPU. The fans reach 1550 RPM with an airflow of 66.17 CFM and noise levels under 26 dB. The aluminum fins and direct-touch heat pipes help transfer heat efficiently. It fits standard sockets like AM5 and LGA 1700. You get a compact 148mm height that works in most mid-size cases.
Pros
- Includes two 120mm PWM fans for improved airflow
- Four 6mm heat pipes with direct-touch base
- Low noise level of 25.6 dB at max speed
- S-FDB bearings for stable fan operation
Cons
- Single 120mm fan size limits total cooling capacity
- No ARGB lighting or software control features
- Aluminum fins have lower thermal mass than copper
Good fit if
- You need a quiet cooler for standard office or home use
- You have a mid-size case with 148mm clearance
- You want reliable cooling without RGB lighting
Skip if
- You require ARGB synchronization for your build
- You have a high-end CPU needing more than 120mm cooling
- You want a taller cooler for better heat dissipation
Verdict: Thermalright AX120R SE Plus Dual Fan Cooler provides steady cooling for standard processors. It suits users who prioritize quiet operation and simple installation over high-end performance or lighting.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO
Best for: standard builds needing reliable cooling without RGB
- Cooler Height
- 156 mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120 mm
- Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Lighting
- ARGB
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, 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 single-tower air cooler. It uses four 6mm heat pipes and a 2000RPM PWM fan. The design includes a skewed layout for RAM clearance. It fits Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets. You get all-aluminum fins and a direct-touch copper base. This model suits users who need reliable cooling without ARGB lighting.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes for efficient heat transfer
- 2000RPM PWM fan for strong airflow
- Skewed memory avoidance design for better compatibility
- Supports Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets
Cons
- No ARGB lighting included in this specific model
- Aluminum fin stack limits peak heat dissipation
- Single fan design restricts airflow compared to dual-tower options
Good fit if
- You need a low-profile cooler for standard cases
- You prefer a non-RGB aesthetic for your build
- You want solid cooling performance for mid-range CPUs
Skip if
- You require addressable RGB lighting effects
- You have a high-TDP CPU needing dual-tower cooling
- You need a cooler taller than 156mm
Verdict: The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Air Cooler offers straightforward cooling for users who prioritize function over flash. It fits well in builds where RAM clearance and basic thermal performance are your main goals.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler
Best for: Quiet, dark-finished builds on LGA 1700 or AM5
- Cooler Height
- 156mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1850 RPM
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
- Features
- Fan
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler Affiliate link
This Thermalright air cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan to manage CPU temperatures. The fan spins up to 1850 RPM, delivering 70.4 CFM of airflow while staying under 27 dB. It fits Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets. The all-aluminum fin stack and direct-touch copper base help transfer heat efficiently. You get a dark, brushed finish that matches modern builds.
Pros
- Four 6mm fully plated heat pipes with direct-touch copper base
- 120mm PWM fan reaches 1850 RPM with 70.4 CFM airflow
- Noise level stays at or below 27 dB
- Compatible with Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets
Cons
- 1850 RPM max speed is lower than the 2000 RPM on the EVO White ARGB alternative
- All-aluminum fin construction may have lower thermal mass than copper-heavy designs
- No ARGB lighting or software control included in the specifications
Good fit if
- You need a quiet cooler that stays under 27 dB
- You prefer a dark, non-ARGB aesthetic for your build
- You have a mid-tower case that fits a 156mm tall cooler
Skip if
- You require RGB lighting or fan synchronization
- You need a fan speed higher than 1850 RPM
- Your CPU cooler slot clearance is less than 156mm
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark offers solid cooling for LGA 1700 and AM5 systems with a focus on low noise. It suits users who want a reliable, dark-finished cooler without the need for RGB lighting.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO White ARGB
Best for: AM5 builds needing white ARGB aesthetics
- Cooler Height
- 156mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Lighting
- ARGB
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1150, LGA 1151
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO White ARGB Affiliate link
This Thermalright cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes and a 120mm fan running at 2000 RPM. It features 5V ARGB lighting and AGHP technology to manage heat in any orientation. The 156mm height fits most cases. You get 68.9 CFM airflow with noise under 28.2 dB. It supports Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets. This white ARGB model suits builds needing bright aesthetics.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- 2000 RPM PWM fan for strong airflow
- 5V 3-pin ARGB lighting support
- Compatible with Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5
Cons
- 156mm height may block tall RAM sticks
- Fan speed is fixed at 2000 RPM max
- Only includes one fan in the package
Good fit if
- You want white ARGB lighting for your build
- You need compatibility with the latest AMD AM5 sockets
- You prefer a cooler with AGHP heat pipe technology
Skip if
- You require a dual-fan setup for maximum cooling
- You have very tall RAM that exceeds 156mm clearance
- You need a cooler with a display or app control
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO White ARGB delivers reliable cooling with 2000 RPM airflow and modern ARGB lighting. It is a solid pick for users building on AM5 or LGA 1700 who prioritize white aesthetics and high-speed single-fan performance.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dual Fan Cooler | Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB | Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB CPU Cooler | Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO White ARGB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | AM4, AM5, LGA1700, 1150, 1151, 1200 | AM4, AM5, LGA 115X, 1200, 1700, 1851 | AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA1851, LGA1200 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Cooler Height | 154mm | 148 mm | 148mm | 148mm | 156 mm | 156mm | 156mm |
| Heat Pipes | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Fan Size | 120mm | 120 mm | 120mm | 120mm | 120 mm | 120mm | 120mm |
| TDP Rating | not stated | 125-225 W | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Fan Speed | 1500 RPM ± 10% | 1550 RPM | 1550 RPM | 1550RPM | 2000 RPM | 1850 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Lighting | not stated | ARGB | RGB | not stated | ARGB | not stated | ARGB |
| Color | not stated | White | not stated | AX120R SE PLUS | not stated | not stated | White |
| Features | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan |
| Dimensions | 4.72 × 3.86 × 6.06 inches | 5.83 × 4.92 × 2.8 inches | 4.92 × 2.8 × 5.83 inches | 4.92 × 3.78 × 5.83 inches | 4.72 × 2.87 × 6.14 inches | 2.87 × 6.14 × 4.72 inches | 4.72 × 2.87 × 6.14 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 1 pounds | 3.53 ounces | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Model | AS120 V2 PLUS | AX120 SE ARGB WHITE-D2 | AX120 SE V2 | AX120R SE PLUS D6 | AS120 EVO D6 | AS120 EVO DARK | AS120 EVO WHITE ARGB |
| Size | not stated | 4 Heat pies | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
If you require different clearance dimensions for your setup, evaluate the specifications listed under orbek 120 alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Assassin X 120 SE ARGB White support the latest LGA 1851 socket?
Yes, it supports LGA 1851. The AS120 V2 Plus does not list this socket in its compatibility chart. The white ARGB model includes AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, and older Intel sockets. This makes it a better choice for new Intel builds.
Which alternative offers the best quiet operation for standard CPUs?
The Assassin X 120R SE Plus is the best premium pick for quiet dual-fan cooling. It provides steady thermal performance without lighting distractions. The AS120 V2 Plus is also designed for low noise. Both models prioritize acoustic comfort over aggressive airflow speeds.
Can I use the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark on an AM5 motherboard?
Yes, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark supports AM5. It also works with LGA 1700 and other common sockets. This cooler focuses on low noise and a dark finish. It is suitable for users who want reliable cooling without RGB lighting elements.
Is there a white ARGB option for AM5 builds in this list?
Yes, the Assassin Spirit 120 EVO White ARGB is ideal for AM5 systems. It features modern ARGB lighting and supports white aesthetics. It offers 2000 RPM airflow for single-fan performance. This model fits well if you prioritize visual appeal alongside thermal efficiency.
How does the Assassin X 120 RGB differ from the AS120 V2 Plus?
The Assassin X 120 RGB is the best budget option with simple RGB installation. It uses a 1550 RPM fan and four heat pipes. The AS120 V2 Plus uses dual fans for potentially higher cooling capacity. The RGB model is lighter and simpler to install.
Do all these coolers use four heat pipes?
Yes, every listed alternative uses four heat pipes. This includes the AS120 V2 Plus, the various Assassin X models, and the Spirit EVO variants. This consistent design helps maintain comparable thermal transfer capabilities across the different form factors and fan configurations.
Which cooler is best for builds where RAM clearance is a priority?
The Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is a solid pick for RAM clearance. Its single-fan design and specific dimensions fit well in compact builds. The AS120 V2 Plus has a wider width due to dual fans. The EVO version offers straightforward cooling without obstructing memory slots.