Compare: AK500 vs Assassin King 120 SE

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

This economical cooler showcases an unexpectedly polished design. Its aesthetic equilibrium exudes a visually pleasing presence, making it a charming addition to any PC configuration. Regardless of your budget considerations, this cooler offers a practical and stylish choice to maintain ideal temperatures for the right CPU.

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

This cooler follows a typical installation method seen in mainstream air coolers, utilizing two brackets that connect to the motherboard and then to the cooler. Due to its size, it's straightforward to position with minimal effort.

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

Equipped with four heat pipes and a single fan, this cooler delivers substantial cooling power. While it may not rival dual heatsink coolers in terms of extreme heat dissipation, it's an excellent choice for individuals with low to moderate cooling requirements.

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

Equipped with four heat pipes and a single fan, this cooler delivers substantial cooling power. While it may not rival dual heatsink coolers in terms of extreme heat dissipation, it's an excellent choice for individuals with low to moderate cooling requirements.

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

This cooler offers a straightforward installation method common among mainstream air coolers. It surprises with an elegant yet budget-conscious design, making it visually appealing for various PC setups. Equipped with four heat pipes and a single fan, it provides substantial cooling power suitable for those with low to moderate cooling needs. While it may not match dual heatsink coolers in extreme heat dissipation, it strikes a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.