A Closer Look

The aluminium fin stacks are of different sizes. Maintaining memory clearance requires tight heat pipe bends in the front tower. This also results in fewer fins than the rear tower. The total fin count for the front tower is 39; meanwhile, the rear tower has 43. In terms of fin design, there are no dimples or other features to speak of other than the folded edges that add rigidity and keep the fins appropriately spaced.


In terms of design, it's similar to other dual-tower offerings, but where it differs is in overall size as the cooler is relatively compact. Its total height is just 153 mm, and front to back with fans, it is 111 mm. As such, the Hydrogon D120 ARGB should fit the majority of ATX cases without issue.


The lack of a top plate means the heatsink fins are fully exposed along with the heat pipes. At the same time, I prefer some form of heat pipe cap at a minimum for cleaner looks; however, the nickel-plated heat pipes blend in quite well with the heatsink, so it's not as much of an issue in terms of aesthetics. The base is made out of solid copper that has been nickel-plated along with the heat pipes. Machining marks are visible but not terrible. Overall, the fit and finish are above average.


The fans are where SilverStone gives the Hydrogon D120 ARGB a leg up compared to some of its competition. Where most fans have a 400–800 minimum RPM, the dual 120 mm ARGB fans used here have an extended RPM range that goes from 0 when set to 0% PWM on supported motherboards to 1850. While not a new feature, it's still a nice addition not seen on many affordable cooling options.