Phanteks PH-TC14S and PH-TC12LS CPU Coolers Review

[section_title title=”Conclusion”]

Conclusion

The performance of both the coolers is right on par with where we would expect it to be for their individual sizes and design. The TC14S, of course, offers a bit better performance over that of the TC12LS but if it did not, I would have been a little worried. Both coolers are more than capable of handling an overclocked i7 4770K with 1.3V pumping through it which is all we can really ask from them. However, I do feel the performance on each of the coolers could have been a bit better, it would have been nice to see them come out a couple of degrees cooler but at the end of the day this wouldn’t make a big difference so is not the end of the world.

The design of both of these coolers on test today is where they shine if you ask me. The fin arrays on both are black and they have black caps covering the ends of the heatpipes where they stick out of the fins. Both featuring a black and white colour scheme in their own rights, they will be sure to add a nice touch to any build and should fit in with most colour schemes without looking too far out of place. Phantek’s have even gone as far as to braid the PWM cable for the fans in an effort to aid in their overall appearance and I must say, it is definitely welcome in my book. There really is just something about coolers with black fin arrays that need to be seen in person to fully appreciate the beauty they have to offer.

Both of these coolers are competitively priced and fall into their respective spots in the market with ease.  Value, as is beauty, is always in the eye of the beholder, but there is no denying these coolers are worth the money based on looks alone, at least in my eyes. For their asking prices, you are getting amazing looking coolers that when all is said and done can handle an overclocked 4770K. What more can we really ask for? They look nice and do their job, sounds good to me!

When all is said and done, these coolers have decent performance and while I feel it could be a bit better, they aesthetics of the cooler more than make-up for their minor shortcoming and when all is said and done, is a couple of degrees really a big deal? I’ll leave that decision up to you but I for one and pleased with both the TC14S and TC12LS overall.

I would like to thank Phantek’s for sending both these coolers in for review and look forward to seeing more from them in the future.