Waveshare Active Cooler vs upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler 45mm Height - 6 Heat Pipes

Overview of the Waveshare Active Cooler

The Waveshare Active Cooler is a budget-friendly cooling solution priced at C$15.99. It is designed specifically for use with the Raspberry Pi 5, making it an ideal choice for users looking to enhance performance while keeping costs low. With a pulse width modulation control and a tachometer, this cooler promises efficient operation with a relatively high fan speed of 8000 RPM.

This product’s compact design and lightweight anodised aluminium construction ensure that it maintains a decent airflow of 1.39 CFM. However, its niche application limits its versatility compared to other coolers on the market, making it best suited for Raspberry Pi enthusiasts rather than general CPU cooling needs.

Overview of the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler

The upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler is a more robust option priced at C$49.99. It is designed for space-constrained Mini ITX builds without sacrificing performance, boasting a compact height of just 45mm. This cooler is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA and AMD AM4, making it a versatile choice for many builds.

Equipped with six heat pipes and a high-airflow 90mm fan, the upHere H45K6 can handle a thermal design power (TDP) of up to 150W. Its quiet operation, rated at ≤27 dB(A), and a lifespan of 40,000 hours signify a durable cooling solution suitable for both gaming and productivity setups.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Waveshare Active Cooler is relatively simple and straightforward, tailored specifically for the Raspberry Pi 5. Its anodised aluminium body not only adds to its aesthetics but also aids in heat dissipation. However, the cooler's lack of versatility may deter users looking for a more general-purpose solution.

Conversely, the upHere H45K6 stands out with its ultra-compact design that accommodates Mini ITX cases. The inclusion of six heat pipes and dense aluminium fins enhances its cooling efficiency. Additionally, its tool-free installation process, which takes under five minutes, showcases a user-friendly approach that makes it accessible for builders of all experience levels.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance of the Waveshare Active Cooler is adequate for its intended purpose, with an airflow of 1.39 CFM and a fan speed of 8000 RPM. This level of performance is suitable for the Raspberry Pi 5, ensuring that users can maintain stable operation under typical workloads.

On the other hand, the upHere H45K6 boasts a much higher performance capability. Its six heat pipes and a fan that pushes 35.34 CFM airflow at a variable speed of 800-2800 RPM ensure efficient cooling for CPUs with a TDP of 150W. This makes it a more suitable option for users with demanding applications or gaming rigs that require sustained cooling performance.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a crucial consideration for many PC builders, especially those focused on creating a quiet environment. The Waveshare Active Cooler, while efficient, operates at a single, high RPM which may not be optimal for all users. Its design does not focus on noise reduction, potentially leading to a noisier operation.

In contrast, the upHere H45K6 is engineered for low noise, operating at a maximum level of ≤27 dB(A). This makes it an excellent choice for silent builds, ensuring that users can enjoy their systems without distracting noise. The ability to adjust the fan speed also allows for quieter operation during less intensive tasks.

Compatibility and Installation

The Waveshare Active Cooler is designed exclusively for the Raspberry Pi 5, making it a less flexible choice for users with other setups. Its installation is straightforward, but the limited compatibility means that it won't cater to those who might need a more versatile cooling solution.

The upHere H45K6 excels in this regard, featuring universal hardware compatibility with support for multiple Intel and AMD sockets. Its low-profile design ensures that it avoids interference with RAM and other components, which is a significant advantage for builders facing space constraints. Additionally, the tool-free installation process is a major plus for both novice and experienced users.

Price Comparison

The Waveshare Active Cooler is significantly more affordable at C$15.99, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers focused on enhancing their Raspberry Pi's performance. However, this lower price comes with limitations in terms of compatibility and cooling capacity.

In contrast, the upHere H45K6, priced at C$49.99, offers a more comprehensive cooling solution with better performance and broader compatibility. While it requires a larger investment, the features and capabilities justify the higher price for users needing efficient cooling for more demanding applications.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Waveshare Active Cooler and the upHere H45K6 Low Profile CPU Cooler depends largely on your specific needs. If you are a Raspberry Pi 5 user looking for an affordable cooling solution, the Waveshare Active Cooler is a solid choice that delivers adequate performance at a low price. However, if you require a more versatile and powerful cooler for a Mini ITX build, the upHere H45K6 is worth the investment, offering superior cooling performance, compatibility, and quieter operation. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the specific requirements of your build and the intended use case.