A Closer Look

While the AK500 from DeepCool does have a well-thought-out design, it hasn't changed much from its siblings. This isn't a bad thing, though, as the design is visually clean and aesthetically pleasing, thanks in part to its simplicity. The 45 aluminium fins have folded edges to maintain spacing, while also directing the conical shape of the fan's airflow through the fin stack. The fins are also rather robust, with very little flex.


Considering the similar TDP rating between the AK620 at 260 watts and the AK400 at 220 watts, it will be interesting to see how the AK500 stacks up as it is rated at 240 watts. These TDP ratings are, in my experience, fairly useless in regard to how a cooler will actually perform. However, with all three coolers being from DeepCool, it will be entertaining to me to see where the AK500 falls.


The top plate has a pattern reminiscent of a checkerboard with the DeepCool logo on the bottom right. Much like the overall design, it is simple, clean, and somewhat elegant. You won't find ARGB lighting or anything of the sort here. Only the DeepCool logo in teal is used to add a touch of color to an otherwise neutral aesthetic. As for the base, it is solid copper and has been nickel-plated. Said base distributes absorbed heat to the five 6 mm heat pipes.


The fan used for the AK500 is DeepCool's DF1202512CM. It has a PWM RPM range of 500–1850 with a CFM rating of 68.99. As for the design itself, it uses a solid square frame with airflow generated via 9 fan blades. It also makes use of a fluid dynamic bearing. Overall, much like the heatsink, it feels quite nice, with the build quality being quite good.