Compare: NH-U12S chromax.Black vs Phantom Spirit 120 SE

Design and Aesthetics:

NH-U12S chromax.Black

The NH-U12S chromax.Black features a single-tower design with a slim aluminum heatsink and a single 120mm NF-F12 PWM fan. This design ensures efficient heat dissipation while maintaining compatibility with various system configurations, including those with tall RAM modules. Aesthetically, the NH-U12S chromax.Black adopts a black color scheme, providing a sleek and modern appearance that complements various build themes.

Phantom Spirit 120 SE

The Phantom Spirit 120 SE looks a lot like the Peerless Assassin 120 SE, with a cool and stylish design. It has a big aluminum heatsink, all-black fans, and a black top radiator. The white Thermalright logo really pops on the black background. The two 120mm fans make sure your computer stays cool and runs smoothly. This sleek look is perfect for many computer builds, and it's a popular choice for people who want a great cooler without spending too much money. Plus, you can get this cooler in different styles.

Install Notes:

NH-U12S chromax.Black

The NH-U12S features Noctua's SecuFirm2 mounting system, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets and offering a straightforward installation process, typical of Noctua coolers. Clear instructions, high-quality components, and a tube of their premium NT-H1 thermal compound make it an easy and user-friendly experience, even for beginners. The cooler uses the original AMD backplate for AMD installations. However, one downside is that the cooler may stick to your CPU, and due to the screw setup, you can't slide the cooler off the CPU like with some other brands. Overall, the NH-U12S offers a relatively hassle-free installation process.

Phantom Spirit 120 SE

This cooler installation is very similar to Noctua's typical installation, which is one of the easier installation setups. However, it also faces similar issues regarding uninstalling this cooler, where the cooler is unable to slide/twist off the cooler to break the thermal paste seal. This might be necessary if the thermal paste has a strong hold between the cooler and the CPU.

Cooling Performance:

NH-U12S chromax.Black

The performance of the NH-U12S is commendable due to its five heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU and into the large fin array of the heatsink. It is suitable for a wide range of processors, including high-end models with high TDPs. While it may not offer the same level of cooling performance as its bigger sibling, the NH-U12A, the NH-U12S still provides reliable cooling under various workloads and can handle moderate levels of overclocking under certain CPUs.

Phantom Spirit 120 SE

The Phantom Spirit 120 SE shows off amazing performance, competing with Noctua coolers of the same size. Its seven heat pipes help move heat from the CPU to the large heatsink fins, keeping your computer cool. It works well with many types of processors, even powerful ones with high heat output. This cooler can handle tough tasks and serious overclocking for some CPUs, making it a popular choice for keeping your computer cool and running smoothly.

Noise Performance:

NH-U12S chromax.Black

One of the standout features of the NH-U12S is its quiet operation. The included 120mm NF-F12 PWM fan is designed for optimal airflow and low noise levels. Noctua fans are well-known for their excellent acoustic performance, and the NH-U12S is no exception. Users can expect quiet cooling even during normal computer use.

Phantom Spirit 120 SE

The Phantom Spirit 120 SE is known for being pretty quiet while it keeps your computer cool. It comes with two 120mm TL-C12B PWM fans that are made for great airflow and low noise. Even though it might be a bit louder than some other coolers of the same size, its excellent cooling performance makes it a strong choice for your computer setup.

Summary:

NH-U12S chromax.Black

The Noctua NH-U12S is a reliable and efficient air cooler that offers excellent cooling capabilities and quiet operation. Its single-tower design and slim profile make it compatible with various system configurations, and its exceptional build quality ensures long-lasting performance. For users seeking a dependable cooling solution for their systems, the NH-U12S is a great choice.

Phantom Spirit 120 SE

The Phantom Spirit 120 SE is a stylish and high-performing cooler with a sleek design featuring a large aluminum heatsink, all-black fans, and a black top radiator. It has two 120mm fans that ensure your computer stays cool and runs smoothly, and it's compatible with various types of processors. With its seven heat pipes and ability to handle tough tasks and overclocking, the Phantom Spirit 120 SE is an attractive choice for computer enthusiasts of all ages who want a top-notch cooler without spending a fortune. Plus, it's available in different styles to match your preference.