Compare: AK500 vs Phantom Spirit 120 Evo

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.

Phantom Spirit 120 Evo

The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO has similar looks to the regular Phantom Spirit 120 with two 120 millimeter fans, subtle Thermalright logo, and a flat textured design on the heatsink top. One key difference between this cooler and other Phantom Spirit designs is subtle the ARGB accented fans. However, there are other versions of the Phantom Spirit with a more pronounce ARGB presence.

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.

Phantom Spirit 120 Evo

This cooler has a similar installation components as many of the mainstream Thermalright designs, which is one of the easier installation setups. One difference is the mount is painted black and the screws have a larger head. However, it also faces an issue regarding uninstalling this cooler, where the cooler is unable to slide/twist off the cooler to break the thermal paste seal. This might be necessary if the thermal paste has a strong hold between the cooler and the CPU.

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.

Phantom Spirit 120 Evo

The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO upholds the high-performance legacy of Thermalright's Phantom Spirit series, emerging as a strong option for those in search of a premium cooler. Featuring a seven heat pipe dual tower configuration and equipped with two 120mm fans, this compact cooler is adept at managing cooling requirements that were previously the domain of All-In-One cooling systems.

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.

Phantom Spirit 120 Evo

The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO variant distinguishes itself with a unique set of fans that provide increased airflow and air pressure. However, this enhancement comes with a trade-off: a higher noise level compared to other models in the Phantom Spirit range. As a result, while this cooler boasts a modern and stylish design, it might not be the ideal choice for those prioritizing a quiet computer setup.

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.

Phantom Spirit 120 Evo

The Phantom Spirit 120 EVO, maintaining the easy installation of Thermalright's designs, features a unique black mount and larger screws. It resembles the standard Phantom Spirit 120 in design, with subtle ARGB accented fans, but stands out with a seven heat pipe dual tower design for efficient cooling. However, its unique fans offer increased airflow and pressure at the cost of higher noise, posing a challenge for those seeking a quieter computer setup.