Compare: Hyper H412R vs Frost Spirit 140

Design and Aesthetics:

Hyper H412R

The Hyper H412R features a compact design with a single-tower aluminum heatsink and a 92mm PWM fan. The cooler's small size makes it compatible with a wide range of PC cases, including smaller form factors like mini-ITX and micro-ATX builds. The overall look of the Hyper H412R is relatively simple, with a predominantly black and white color scheme.

Frost Spirit 140

The Frost Spirit looks very similar to the Frost commander and is a sleek CPU cooler with a design reminiscent of the Peerless Assassin 120. This cooler features a dual-tower heatsink with 4 large heat pipes with the heat pipe ends are hidden from view. Sporting gray and silver tones, the Thermalright logo shows on the top of the heatsink. Despite its larger radiator, the Frost Spirit uses a single 120mm fan in front and a 140mm fan between the heatsinks, giving it a distinct, asymmetrical look.

Install Notes:

Hyper H412R

The Hyper H412R is compatible with a range of Intel and AMD sockets, and it comes with the necessary mounting hardware. The installation process is relatively straightforward and easier than some other Cooler Master models. However, as with any cooler installation, it's essential to carefully follow the instructions and ensure proper mounting for optimal cooling performance.

Frost Spirit 140

The cooler installation is quite similar to Noctua's easy setup and is identical to the Frost Commander's setup. However, during installation, securing the fans to the heatsink requires more effort (relative to the Phantom Spirit or Peerless Assassin), which is due to the metal securing the fans requiring much more effort to place. For this reason, it's also a lot easier to slightly bend the heatsink fins, but this can be fixed by bending it back with a credit card.

Additionally, like Noctua coolers, the Frost Spirit faces challenges in uninstalling when trying to break the thermal paste seal between the cooler and CPU, as it doesn't easily slide or twist off. This can be an issue if the thermal paste forms a strong bond.

Cooling Performance:

Hyper H412R

The performance of the Hyper H412R is suitable for most mainstream CPUs and everyday tasks. It has four direct contact heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU to the heatsink. While the cooler may not be the best choice for high-end CPUs with high TDPs or extreme overclocking scenarios, it provides adequate cooling for most use cases at its price point.

Frost Spirit 140

The Frost Spirit delivers impressive performance for its size, rivaling Noctua's offerings. Capable of cooling some of the more powerful CPUs without being overly bulky, this cooler can also manage overclocking for specific CPUs. As a result, the Frost Spirit is a strong contender for a wide variety of computer setups.

Noise Performance:

Hyper H412R

The 92mm PWM fan included with the Hyper H412R is designed for quiet operation while maintaining good airflow. It may not be the quietest fan available, but it generally offers a good balance between cooling performance and noise levels, especially considering its budget-friendly price.

Frost Spirit 140

The Frost Spirit excels in providing an impressively silent operation, setting it apart from its sibling, the Frost Commander 140. The lower fan RPM of this cooler plays a substantial role in reducing noise levels when compared to the Frost Commander. Furthermore, it boasts a noise profile that can be likened to that of the NH-D15, making it an optimal selection for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment.

Summary:

Hyper H412R

The Hyper H412R is an affordable and compact air cooler that's well-suited for mainstream CPUs and budget builds. Its small size, decent cooling performance, and quiet operation make it an attractive option for those looking for a cost-effective and space-saving cooling solution.

Frost Spirit 140

The Frost Spirit CPU cooler offers a sleek design resembling the Frost Commander and Peerless Assassin 120. It requires extra effort to secure the fans to the heatsink due to the metal's firm placement. Despite its larger radiator, the Frost Spirit maintains a compact size with a single 120mm front fan and a 140mm fan between the heatsinks. It delivers impressive performance, rivaling Noctua's offerings, and is capable of effectively cooling powerful CPUs and managing overclocking. Notably, it stands out for its remarkably quiet operation, surpassing the noise levels of the Frost Commander 140, with a noise profile similar to the NH-D15. Overall, the Frost Spirit is a stylish, powerful, and quiet CPU cooler suitable for various computer setups.