Compare: Mugen 5 Rev. C vs AK500

Design and Aesthetics:

Mugen 5 Rev. C

The Mugen 5 Rev. C features a single-tower design with a large aluminum heatsink and a single 120mm Kaze Flex fan. This design ensures efficient heat dissipation while allowing compatibility with different system configurations, including those with tall RAM modules. Aesthetically, the Mugen 5 Rev. C has a sleek and modern appearance with a silver and black color scheme that complements various build themes.

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.

Install Notes:

Mugen 5 Rev. C

The Scythe Mugen 5 Rev. C comes with a mounting system that offers compatibility with a wide variety of Intel and AMD sockets. The installation process is relatively straightforward, thanks to the detailed instructions and high-quality components provided. This cooler employs a similar method to the Noctua installation, but with a slight alteration in the male and female connectors on the cooler's mounting system. This modification allows for easy installation and removal of the cooler. However, to ensure optimal cooling performance, it's essential to carefully follow the instructions and achieve proper mounting.

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.

Cooling Performance:

Mugen 5 Rev. C

The performance of the Mugen 5 Rev. C is exceptional due to its six heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU and into the large fin array of the heatsink. It is suitable for a wide range of processors, including some high-end models with high TDPs. The cooler can handle moderate levels of overclocking on mid-level CPUs and provides reliable cooling under demanding situations, making it a popular choice among PC enthusiasts.

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.

Noise Performance:

Mugen 5 Rev. C

One of the standout features of the Mugen 5 Rev. C is its quiet operation. The included 120mm Kaze Flex fan is designed for optimal airflow and low noise levels. Scythe fans are known for their excellent acoustic performance, and the Mugen 5 Rev. C upholds this reputation. Users can expect quiet cooling even during moderate workloads or gaming sessions.

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.

Summary:

Mugen 5 Rev. C

The Mugen 5 Rev. C is a high-performance air cooler that offers excellent cooling capabilities and quiet operation. Its single-tower design and sleek aesthetics make it an attractive option for users seeking a reliable and efficient cooling solution for their PC systems.

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.