Compare: AK500 vs Hyper 212 EVO V2

Design and Aesthetics:

AK500

The AK500 air cooler is like the AK400 but has a bigger radiator for better cooling. It has a smooth black top and comes with a single 120mm black fan, perfect for people who like a simple design. The one-tower aluminum radiator is really good at getting rid of heat, which helps keep your CPU cool. This small and low-key cooler works well and fits easily into all kinds of computer setups, making it an awesome choice for anyone who wants something that looks good and works great.

Hyper 212 EVO V2

The Hyper 212 EVO V2 has a unique design with its fan bracket, which sets it apart from most other coolers. While this gives it a different look, it also pushes the fan out far enough that it might interfere with the first RAM slot. This shouldn't be an issue if you're only using two RAM slots, but something to keep in mind.

As for the overall feel of the cooler, it seems a bit lighter and cheaper than other coolers of a similar size. This might not be a deal-breaker, but it's worth mentioning.

Install Notes:

AK500

The AK500 has DeepCool's more modern installation designs as of 2023, which has more components than most for an easy install. The backplates are held down by single hand screwed nuts that also serve to hold the mount from the other side. This makes it easy to place the backplate correctly during the installation. The remaining portion of the install is similar to that of Noctua's typical installation, which makes it easy, but also can make the uninstallation challenging if the thermal paste sticks well to the CPU.

Hyper 212 EVO V2

It's more difficult than most to install, especially for AMD coolers. The cooler doesn't use the AMD backplate, and its own backplate isn't labeled, making it hard to figure out how to orient it based on the pictures provided. The backplate might feel loose on the motherboard at first, but it should become secure once the cooler is screwed into the mounting system. While the installation is an improvement from the EVO V1, it's still more complicated than most coolers, which can be a turn-off for beginners.

Cooling Performance:

AK500

The AK500 delivers impressive cooling performance for its size, attributed to its four heat pipes that effectively transfer heat from the CPU to the extensive fin array on the heatsink. It is well-suited for up to moderate-level processors; however, it might not be the best choice for high TDP CPUs or those looking to overclock their systems.

Hyper 212 EVO V2

This cooler has below-average cooling performance compared to other coolers on the market. That means it might not be the best choice if you need top-of-the-line cooling for your PC, especially if you're into gaming or heavy processing tasks.

Noise Performance:

AK500

This CPU cooler offers average cooling performance and operates at a moderate noise level. While it may not be the quietest option on the market, it maintains a comfortable balance between cooling efficiency and acoustic performance. This cooler is suitable for users who are not particularly sensitive to noise and are seeking a cost-effective solution for maintaining stable temperatures in their systems without demanding top-tier cooling or silent operation.

Hyper 212 EVO V2

Unfortunately, the Hyper 212 EVO V2 is louder than most other coolers on the market. This means that you might experience more noise while your PC is running, which could be a drawback if you're sensitive to noise or prefer a quiet workspace. If having a quiet PC setup is important to you, it's worth considering other coolers with better noise profiles.

Summary:

AK500

This cooler has a moderately difficult installation, especially for AMD CPUs, due to its unique mounting setup. The installation process is similar to the AK400. The AK500 has a compact design, moderate cooling performance, and above-average noise levels. With a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, the cooler is suitable for various PC builds, offering a balance between cooling efficiency and acoustic performance for users seeking cost-effective solutions without top-tier cooling or silent operation.

Hyper 212 EVO V2

The Hyper 212 EVO V2 has its pros and cons. It's got a unique design, a decent noise profile, but its performance is below average, and the installation process can be challenging. It's better suited for people who feel more comfortable putting together a computer, and not the best choice for beginners. If you're looking for a cooler that's easy to install with better performance, you might want to consider other options.