This article covers Thermalright AS120 PLUS CP クーラー.

Overview

The Thermalright AS120 PLUS CP is a single-tower air CPU cooler that punches well above its price point. Featuring four AGHP (Anti-Gravity Heat Pipe) direct-contact heat pipes and dual 120mm PWM fans, it offers solid cooling performance for mainstream CPUs. Priced around ¥2,800–¥3,500 in Japan, it competes in the entry-to-mid-range segment, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious builders. With dimensions of 120mm (W) x 98mm (D) x 154mm (H), it fits comfortably in most mid-tower cases. The cooler supports Intel LGA115x/1200/1700 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets, covering virtually all modern desktop platforms. It includes two TL-C12C V2 and TL-C12R V2 fans, one standard and one reverse-blade, to deliver a combined airflow of up to 66 CFM while keeping noise levels at or below 25.6 dBA.

Connectivity & Compatibility

The AS120 PLUS CP connects via a standard 4-pin PWM fan header, allowing precise speed control through the motherboard. Both fans are daisy-chainable (one cable each), but you can also connect them separately if the board has two headers. Socket compatibility is broad: Intel LGA1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700 and AMD AM4/AM5. The mounting system is tool-less and comes with separate backplates and brackets for each platform. Installation is straightforward, though first-time builders should watch an online guide for clarity. Clearance notes: The cooler measures 154mm tall. Most mid-tower cases with a CPU cooler clearance of 160mm or more will accept it. It is also designed to avoid interfering with RAM slots, though tall, RGB-laden modules may still require moving the front fan upward slightly. Check case width and motherboard VRM heatsink height before purchase.

Product Info

Released around 2021, the AS120 PLUS CP remains a staple in Thermalright's budget lineup. Its current price in Japan hovers around ¥2,899 on , placing it firmly in the entry-level category. The cooler comes with two 120mm fans, a full set of mounting hardware, and a tube of thermal compound. Warranty is typically one year from Thermalright. Market positioning: This cooler is designed for users who need reliable cooling for mid-range CPUs (Core i5 / Ryzen 5) without spending a fortune. It is not intended for high-end overclocking or CPUs with TDPs above 150W. For those use cases, a dual-tower or 240mm AIO would be more appropriate.

Best Use Cases

  1. First-time PC builders: The AS120 PLUS CP is one of the easiest coolers to install in this price range, with clear instructions and separate mounting kits for each socket. The low price also means less financial risk if something goes wrong. However, make sure your case supports 154mm cooler height. 2. Mainstream gaming PCs: Paired with a Ryzen 5 5600, Core i5-12400, or similar, this cooler keeps temperatures well within safe limits during gaming. It's quiet enough for most users, though very sensitive ears may notice fan noise at full speed. Not recommended for overclocked i7/i9 or Ryzen 7/9 chips. 3. Budget silent builds: With the fans running at around 1000–1200 RPM for everyday tasks, it remains nearly inaudible. Users after absolute silence can swap the included fans for Noctua or be quiet! models, but that would increase the total cost. For the price, it's a great balance between cooling and noise.