Thermalright PS120SE CPU Air Cooler, 7 Heat Pipes CPU Cooler,Dual 120mm TL-C12B V2 PWM Fan, AGHP 4.0 Technology, S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4 AM5/Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851, PC Cooler
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AI Verdict
This 280W TDP air cooler with dual 120mm PWM fans and 7 heat pipes is for budget-conscious builders needing serious CPU cooling.
This cooler is a strong fit for users with demanding CPUs, as it's rated for up to 280W TDP and features 7 heat pipes and dual 120mm fans. Its 154mm height makes it compatible with many standard ATX and Micro-ATX cases.
If you are pushing extreme overclocking or have a very hot-running CPU, consider a larger cooler with 140mm fans or a 360mm AIO for even greater thermal headroom.
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Pros
- Handles CPUs with a Thermal Design Power (TDP) up to 280 watts, suitable for high-performance processors.
- Features 7x6mm heat pipes with AGHP 4.0 technology for efficient heat transfer regardless of orientation.
- Equipped with S-FDB bearings, providing an industrial service life of up to 20,000 hours for the fans.
- The 154mm height allows compatibility with a wide range of PC chassis models.
- Includes two 120mm TL-C12B V2 PWM fans, offering controlled fan speeds up to 1500rpm±10%.
- Reported to keep a 7800X3D at 78C peak max load and a 12900K under 83C.
Cons
- Some users have reported high-pitch noises coming from the fans.
- Installation can be somewhat difficult for some users.
- Fans can be loud when operating at their maximum speed of 1500 RPM.
- The product specifications do not mention any integrated RGB lighting.
Dimension Scores
The cooler is rated for a 280W TDP and features 7 heat pipes with AGHP 4.0 technology, demonstrating high cooling capacity for its class.
While rated at ≤25.6dB(A), some users report high-pitch fan noise and increased loudness at the maximum 1500 RPM.
Constructed with aluminum fins, a pure copper base, and S-FDB bearings rated for 20,000 hours, indicating durable components.
It uses standard 4-pin PWM fan connectors and includes fan splitters, but offers no specific integrated cable management features.
Best For
- Builders with high-TDP CPUs like AMD AM5 or Intel LGA1700 who need effective cooling on a budget.
- Users seeking a powerful air cooler that can manage demanding workloads without liquid cooling.
- PC cases with at least 154mm of CPU cooler clearance.
Not Recommended For
- Users who prioritize absolute silence, especially under full CPU load, due to potential fan noise.
- Small form factor (SFF) PC builds with less than 154mm of CPU cooler height clearance.
- Users who require integrated RGB lighting for aesthetic purposes (this model does not have it).
Watch Out For
- Some users report a high-pitch noise from the fans, which can be noticeable during operation.
- Installation can be challenging for some, requiring careful attention to instructions.
- The fans can reach a noise level of up to 25.6dB(A) and potentially louder at their maximum 1500 RPM, which might be audible.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 772467849958 772467849330 772467849262 |
| ASIN | B0BNH1W546 |
| Brand | Thermalright |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 280 watts |
| Material | Aluminum,Copper,Silicone |
| Item Weight | 14.4 ounces |
| Noise Level | 25.6 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | Thermalright |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 66.17 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Item model number | PS120SE |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 5.31"L x 4.92"W x 6.06"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1650 RPM |
What Buyers Say
Many users are genuinely surprised by how well this cooler performs, often noting its ability to keep high-end CPUs like the 7800X3D and 12900K at low temperatures, even under heavy load. While some find the installation straightforward, others mention it can be a bit tricky. There's a recurring comment about the fans, with some users experiencing a high-pitched whine or increased noise when they spin up to their full 1500 RPM.
“Dude, this thing keeps my 7800X3D so chill, I was expecting way worse for the price, but seriously, it's crushing it, even if the fans get a bit whiny sometimes.”
Common Praise
- Keeps a 7800X3D at a peak maximum load temperature of 78C.
- Maintains a 12900K under 83C even when loaded.
- Achieves low idle CPU temperatures, often around 38-40C.
- Includes Thermalright's thermal paste and fan splitters in the package.
Common Complaints
- Some users have reported a high-pitch noise from the fans.
- The installation process can be somewhat difficult for certain users.
- Fans can become noticeably loud when running at their maximum 1500 RPM.
Ownership Tips
- Capable of cooling high-TDP CPUs like the 7800X3D and 12900K effectively, often keeping them below critical temperatures.
- The fans' noise profile can shift from quiet to audible, especially when they ramp up to their full 1500 RPM under load.
- The 154mm height is generally compatible with most mid-tower cases, but it's always worth double-checking your specific case's clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What CPU sockets is the Thermalright PS120SE compatible with?
It supports Intel LGA1700/1150/1151/1155/1156/1200 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets.
What is the height of this CPU cooler?
The cooler has a height of 154mm (6.06 inches), which is important for case compatibility.
What is the maximum noise level of the fans?
The TL-C12B V2 PWM fans have a stated maximum noise level of ≤25.6dB(A).
What is the cooling capacity (TDP) of the PS120SE?
It can handle CPUs with a Thermal Design Power (TDP) ranging from 105W up to 280W.
Does this cooler come with thermal paste?
Yes, the cooler includes Thermalright's thermal paste in the box.
Buying Guide
You're looking at a CPU air cooler, which uses heat pipes and fans to dissipate heat from your processor. Unlike liquid coolers, air coolers are generally simpler to install and have fewer potential points of failure. The key is matching the cooler's heat dissipation capacity (TDP) to your CPU's heat output.
wattage (TDP)
This is the maximum heat your CPU cooler can effectively remove, measured in watts. Think of it like a car's horsepower; a higher number means more cooling power. If your CPU generates 200W of heat, you need a cooler rated for at least 200W to keep it cool and prevent performance throttling.
heat pipes
These copper tubes transfer heat from your CPU's base to the aluminum fins, where fans then blow the heat away. More heat pipes, like the 7 here, generally mean better heat transfer and more efficient cooling, much like more lanes on a highway allow for faster traffic flow.
fan_size
Larger fans, like these 120mm ones, can move more air at lower RPMs compared to smaller, faster fans for the same airflow. This often translates to quieter operation, similar to how a large, slow-moving fan can cool a room more quietly than a small, high-speed desk fan.
Alternatives
If you need quieter operation at maximum load, look for coolers with larger 140mm fans or those specifically advertised for low noise. If your case has limited vertical clearance, search for coolers under 150mm in height.
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