Looking Beyond the Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The thermalright thermalrlght assassin spirit 120 evo CPU cooler offers solid single-fan cooling with ARGB synchronization. Its 156 mm height and four 6mm heat pipes provide reliable heat transfer for modern sockets like AM5 and LGA1700. This model suits users who want efficient airflow in standard cases without excessive noise.
However, you might prefer a different specification or aesthetic. Some builders need a white finish for themed builds, while others require dual fans for quieter operation. Others may prioritize a lower profile for tight RAM clearance. The 6 alternatives listed here share overlapping specs with the original. Each option matches the core cooling requirements while offering distinct features like varied lighting, fan counts, or color options. You can compare these choices to find the best fit for your specific case dimensions and visual preferences.
Our top pick: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO ARGB Cooler.
How these alternatives compare
Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB swaps the black finish for a white chassis, fitting white-themed AM5 builds. It shares the four 6mm heat pipes and ARGB sync found on the EVO model. The dimensions shift slightly to 4.92 by 5.83 inches, which may alter clearance in tight cases. You get LGA 1851 support alongside AM5 and LGA1700, ensuring future-proofing. If your case color scheme demands white components, this version delivers the same cooling foundation with a distinct aesthetic. It sacrifices the black brushed top cover seen on the EVO but retains the 120mm fan performance.
Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB CPU Cooler
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB V2 offers standard RGB lighting instead of the EVO’s ARGB synchronization. This cooler maintains the four heat pipe configuration and supports the same modern sockets, including AM5 and LGA1700. Its dimensions are 4.92 by 5.83 inches, providing a familiar footprint. You trade the customizable color effects for a simpler lighting setup, which may appeal to users who prefer consistency over dynamic patterns. The fan speed and noise profile remain practical for quiet builds. If you need reliable cooling without the complexity of addressable RGB control, this model provides a straightforward alternative with comparable thermal performance.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dual Fan Cooler
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 V2 Plus adds a second fan to the design, moving from a single 120mm unit to a dual-fan setup. This change increases the width to 3.86 inches while keeping the height at 6.06 inches. It retains the four heat pipes and socket compatibility with AM5 and LGA1700. You gain improved airflow and heat dissipation capacity, making it better for higher thermal loads. The trade-off is the need for more case width and potential RAM clearance issues. If your chassis allows for the wider profile, this dual-fan version offers superior cooling potential compared to the single-fan EVO model.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus focuses on quiet operation and practical compatibility. It features four heat pipes and supports AM5, LGA1700, and other standard sockets. The dimensions are 4.92 by 5.83 inches, similar to other X series models. Unlike the EVO, this version lacks ARGB lighting, prioritizing function over form. It offers a clean look suitable for users who do not need lighting synchronization. The fan profile is tuned for lower noise levels, making it ideal for quiet builds. If you prefer a no-frills cooler that fits well in medium cases without RAM interference, this model provides solid thermal performance without the visual extras.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler presents a black-themed variant of the EVO design. It maintains the 156 mm height and four 6mm heat pipes, ensuring identical thermal performance and socket compatibility with AM5 and LGA1700. The dimensions remain 2.87 by 6.14 inches, fitting the same case constraints. You choose this version if you prefer a uniform dark aesthetic over the standard black brushed finish. It lacks ARGB lighting, focusing on a stealthy appearance. For users building compact systems with tall RAM sticks, this cooler offers the same reliable heat transfer in a cohesive dark color scheme, making it a practical choice for understated builds.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO ARGB Cooler
Best for: AM5 and LGA1700 builds with ARGB
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA17XX, LGA1200
- Cooler Height
- 156mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Lighting
- ARGB
View on Amazon: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO ARGB Cooler
This air cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan to move 68.9 CFM of air. The 2000 RPM fan speed provides strong cooling while keeping noise under 28.2 dB. It features ARGB lighting that syncs with motherboards. The 156mm height fits most cases. It supports AM4, AM5, and LGA1700 sockets for modern builds.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- 2000 RPM fan speed for high airflow
- ARGB lighting syncs via 5V 3-pin
- Noise level stays under 28.2 dB
Cons
- 156mm height may block tall RAM sticks
- Fan speed is fixed at 2000 RPM
- No mention of fan curve customization
Good fit if
- You need ARGB lighting for your build
- You use AM4, AM5, or LGA1700 sockets
- You want a 120mm single-fan cooler
Skip if
- You require a 140mm fan for extra airflow
- You have very tall RAM sticks
- You need a dual-fan configuration
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO delivers solid cooling with ARGB sync for users who prefer a single 120mm fan. It fits well in standard cases with modern sockets.
Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB
Best for: White AM5 builds with mid-tower cases
- 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
This white air cooler features a 120 mm fan and four 6mm heat pipes. It supports sockets like AM5 and LGA 1700. The fan runs at 1550 RPM with ARGB lighting. It handles up to 225W TDP. It suits users who want a clean white build with reliable cooling for mid-sized cases.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- 120 mm PWM fan with ARGB lighting
- Supports AM5 and LGA 1851 sockets
- Handles TDP ratings up to 225W
Cons
- 148 mm height may not fit small cases
- Fan speed capped at 1550 RPM
- No mention of included thermal paste
Good fit if
- You need a white cooler for an AM5 build
- You want ARGB lighting effects
- You have a mid-sized case with 148 mm clearance
Skip if
- You require a cooler under 148 mm tall
- You need a fan speed above 1550 RPM
- You prefer a black or non-ARGB design
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ARGB White offers solid cooling for white-themed builds on modern sockets. It fits users prioritizing aesthetics and AM5 compatibility over maximum airflow.
Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB CPU Cooler
Best for: Quiet builds with standard RGB needs
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA1851, LGA1200
- Cooler Height
- 148mm
- Heat Pipes
- 4
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Fan Speed
- 1550 RPM
- Lighting
- RGB
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 is a 120mm air cooler with four 6mm heat pipes and a 148mm height. It uses a 1550 RPM PWM fan that delivers 66.17 CFM of airflow while staying under 25.6 dB. The RGB lighting shares a single interface with the fan power. This unit fits AM4, AM5, and modern Intel sockets. It suits users who want quiet operation and standard RGB in a compact build.
Pros
- Four 6mm copper heat pipes for efficient heat transfer
- S-FDB bearings reduce fan noise and extend lifespan
- 1550 RPM PWM fan provides 66.17 CFM airflow
- RGB lighting integrates with the fan power interface
Cons
- 1550 RPM max speed is lower than 1850+ RPM competitors
- 148mm height may block tall RAM modules
- Single RGB interface limits lighting customization
Good fit if
- You need a quiet cooler under 26 dB
- You want standard RGB without extra controllers
- You have a mid-size case with 148mm clearance
Skip if
- You require high airflow above 1600 RPM
- You have tall RAM that exceeds 148mm height
- You need multi-zone RGB lighting control
Verdict: The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE V2 RGB offers reliable cooling for standard builds. It fits users who prioritize low noise and simple RGB integration over maximum fan speed.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dual Fan Cooler
Best for: Quiet cooling in medium-sized cases
- 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
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 V2 Plus is a dual-fan air cooler designed for efficient cooling with low noise. It features four 6mm heat pipes using AGHP technology to manage heat in various orientations. The unit includes two 120mm PWM fans with speeds up to 1500 RPM and noise levels at or below 25.6 dB. It fits AM4, AM5, and LGA1700 sockets within a 154mm height limit.
Pros
- Dual PWM fans for enhanced cooling performance
- Four 6mm heat pipes with AGHP technology
- Low noise operation at 25.6 dB or less
- Compatible with AM4, AM5, and LGA1700 sockets
Cons
- Cooler height of 154mm may not fit all cases
- Fan speed capped at 1500 RPM for quietness
- No ARGB lighting mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a quiet cooling solution for your CPU
- You have a medium-sized case with 154mm clearance
- You use AM5 or LGA1700 motherboards
Skip if
- You require RGB lighting for your build
- Your case has less than 154mm CPU cooler clearance
- You need fans that exceed 1500 RPM for maximum airflow
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 V2 Plus offers reliable dual-fan cooling with quiet operation for users prioritizing low noise. It is a solid choice for AM5 and LGA1700 builds where case height allows for its 154mm profile.
Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus
Best for: quiet cooling in medium cases
- 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
This air cooler uses four 6mm heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan to move up to 66.17 CFM of air. The dual-fan setup helps keep noise levels at or below 25.6 dB. It fits most Intel and AMD sockets and stands 5.83 inches tall. You get efficient cooling in a compact design that suits medium-sized cases.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes for direct heat transfer
- Dual PWM fans provide up to 66.17 CFM airflow
- S-FDB bearings reduce noise and extend fan life
- Compatible with AM5 and LGA 1700 sockets
Cons
- Height of 148mm limits RAM clearance
- No RGB lighting included in this model
- Single fan speed setting on the included fan
Good fit if
- You need a quiet cooler for medium cases
- You want reliable cooling without extra features
- You use standard height RAM modules
Skip if
- You require RGB lighting for your build
- You have tall RAM sticks that block the fins
- You need a cooler under 140mm in height
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus offers solid cooling performance for users who prioritize quiet operation and compatibility over aesthetics. It is a practical choice for standard builds where RAM clearance is not a concern.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO
Best for: compact cases with tall RAM sticks
- 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
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is an all-aluminium air cooler measuring 156 mm in height. It uses four 6 mm heat pipes with a direct-touch copper base to transfer heat. The included PWM fan spins up to 2000 RPM. A skewed design helps it clear tall RAM sticks. This cooler supports Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets.
Pros
- Four 6 mm heat pipes with direct-touch copper base
- Skewed memory avoidance design for easier RAM clearance
- Supports Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets
- Anodic black brushed top cover
Cons
- No ARGB lighting on the standard D6 model
- All-aluminium fin construction
- Fan speed capped at 2000 RPM
Good fit if
- You need a low-profile cooler under 156 mm
- You have tall RAM sticks that block standard coolers
- You use an LGA 1700 or AM5 socket
Skip if
- You require ARGB lighting effects
- You need a cooler taller than 156 mm
- You prefer copper fins for maximum surface area
Verdict: The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is a practical air cooler for users who need a compact 156 mm height and reliable heat transfer from its four heat pipes. It fits well in cases with tight RAM clearance.
Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler
Best for: Quiet, dark-themed standard builds
- 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
This is a 120mm single-tower air cooler with a dark finish. It uses four 6mm heat pipes and a 120mm PWM fan running at 1850 RPM. The fan moves 70.4 CFM of air while staying under 27 dB. It fits Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 sockets. You get solid cooling performance in a compact 156mm height package.
Pros
- Four 6mm heat pipes with direct touch copper base
- 120mm PWM fan delivers 70.4 CFM airflow
- Quiet operation at 27 dB or less
- Supports modern Intel and AMD sockets
Cons
- Single 120mm fan limits max cooling potential
- 156mm height may block tall RAM sticks
- No ARGB lighting included
Good fit if
- You need a quiet cooler for daily use
- You have a standard ATX mid-tower case
- You want a dark aesthetic without extra lights
Skip if
- You require extreme overclocking headroom
- You have very tall RAM modules
- You want RGB lighting effects
Verdict: Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO Dark provides reliable cooling for standard builds. It is a practical pick for users who prioritize quiet operation and a clean look over flashy aesthetics.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO ARGB Cooler | Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB | Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB CPU Cooler | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dual Fan Cooler | Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO | Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socket Compatibility | AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA17XX, LGA1200 | AM4, AM5, LGA 115X, 1200, 1700, 1851 | AM4, AM5, LGA1700, LGA1851, LGA1200 | AM4, AM5, LGA1700, 1150, 1151, 1200 | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Cooler Height | 156mm | 148 mm | 148mm | 154mm | 148mm | 156 mm | 156mm |
| Heat Pipes | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Fan Size | 120mm | 120 mm | 120mm | 120mm | 120mm | 120 mm | 120mm |
| TDP Rating | not specified | 125-225 W | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Fan Speed | 2000 RPM | 1550 RPM | 1550 RPM | 1500 RPM ± 10% | 1550RPM | 2000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Lighting | ARGB | ARGB | RGB | not specified | not specified | ARGB | not specified |
| Color | AS120 EVO | White | not specified | not specified | AX120R SE PLUS | not specified | not specified |
| Features | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan | Fan |
| Dimensions | 4.72 × 2.87 × 6.14 inches | 5.83 × 4.92 × 2.8 inches | 4.92 × 2.8 × 5.83 inches | 4.72 × 3.86 × 6.06 inches | 4.92 × 3.78 × 5.83 inches | 4.72 × 2.87 × 6.14 inches | 2.87 × 6.14 × 4.72 inches |
| Weight | not specified | 1 pounds | 3.53 ounces | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Size | not specified | 4 Heat pies | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Model | not specified | AX120 SE ARGB WHITE-D2 | AX120 SE V2 | AS120 V2 PLUS | AX120R SE PLUS D6 | AS120 EVO D6 | AS120 EVO DARK |
Frequently asked questions
Which Thermalright cooler is best for AM5 and LGA1700 builds with ARGB?
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO ARGB Cooler is the best overall choice for these modern sockets. It features four heat pipes and a single 120mm fan for solid cooling performance. The integrated ARGB sync allows you to match your system’s lighting. Its dimensions are 2.87 inches wide, 6.14 inches high, and 4.72 inches long, fitting well in standard cases while providing reliable heat transfer.
What is the best white ARGB option for AM5 builds?
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 White ARGB is the top pick for white-themed AM5 builds. It includes four heat pipes and ARGB lighting to complement your chassis aesthetics. The unit measures 4.92 inches wide, 2.8 inches high, and 5.83 inches long. It weighs one pound and offers solid cooling for users who prioritize visual appeal alongside compatibility with modern processors and mid-tower case constraints.
Which Thermalright cooler is best for quiet builds with standard RGB?
The Thermalright Assassin X 120 RGB CPU Cooler is the best budget option for quiet operations. It features four heat pipes and standard RGB lighting for simple integration. The model measures 2.8 inches wide, 5.83 inches high, and 4.92 inches long. It weighs 3.53 ounces. This cooler prioritizes low noise levels and reliable cooling over maximum fan speed, making it a practical choice for standard builds.
Which Thermalright cooler is best for quiet cooling in medium-sized cases?
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dual Fan Cooler is the best premium choice for quiet cooling. It uses a dual-fan setup with four heat pipes to ensure reliable performance. The model measures 3.86 inches wide, 6.06 inches high, and 4.72 inches long. It is designed for AM5 and LGA1700 builds where case height allows for its 154mm profile, offering low noise operation for users who value silence.
Which Thermalright cooler is good for quiet cooling in medium cases?
The Thermalright Assassin X 120R SE Plus is an also great option for quiet cooling in medium cases. It features four heat pipes and focuses on solid performance rather than aesthetics. The unit measures 3.78 inches wide, 5.83 inches high, and 4.92 inches long. It is a practical choice for standard builds where RAM clearance is not a concern, providing reliable heat transfer for AM5 and LGA1700 sockets.
Which Thermalright cooler fits compact cases with tall RAM sticks?
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 EVO is an also great pick for compact cases with tall RAM sticks. It has a compact 156 mm height and four heat pipes for reliable heat transfer. The model measures 2.87 inches wide, 6.14 inches high, and 4.72 inches long. It fits well in cases with tight RAM clearance, offering efficient airflow for AM5 and LGA1700 builds without interfering with memory modules.
Which Thermalright cooler is best for quiet, dark-themed standard builds?
The Thermalright Assassin Spirit 120 Dark Air Cooler is the best choice for quiet, dark-themed standard builds. It features four heat pipes and a fan for reliable cooling. The model measures 6.14 inches wide, 4.72 inches high, and 2.87 inches long. It is a practical pick for users who prioritize quiet operation and a clean look over flashy aesthetics, fitting well in AM5 and LGA1700 systems.