Review

The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Halo Black is a popular option among air cooling enthusiasts, combining striking looks with reasonable performance. Priced competitively at $34.99, it's a good choice for those seeking a balance between aesthetics and efficiency.

Design and Build Quality

The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Halo Black features a sleek black design complemented by dual loop ARGB lighting. The overall aesthetic is minimalist and stealthy, especially when the ARGB lighting is deactivated, which blends seamlessly with any build color scheme. The black coating also helps the cooler retain a sleek profile while the white diffusers offer a subtle contrast TechPowerUp. The fan is equipped with translucent blades ensuring a uniform and bright lighting effect.

The build quality is commendable with a structure that utilizes four copper heat pipes, aiding in efficient heat dissipation. The simplified Cooler Master logo enhances the elegance without unnecessary embellishments.TechPowerUp

Compatibility and Installation

Regarding compatibility, the cooler supports a range of AMD and Intel sockets including AM5, AM4, LGA1700, and LGA1200. Its height of 154 mm ensures broad case compatibility without worrying about RAM clearance TweakReviews.

Installation can be a bit tricky due to the need to simultaneously handle the backplate and mounting brackets. The mounting hardware is designed to be straightforward, but this simplicity comes with the drawback of requiring careful handling during installation, particularly if not mounting the motherboard outside of the case TechPowerUp.

Performance and Noise Level

The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Halo Black does an admirable job at balancing cooling performance with noise levels. In tests, it reached a delta temperature of 76 degrees Celsius under stressful conditions with an Intel Core i7-12900K, indicating its capability to manage substantial heat loads though it operates better in mid-range CPUs TweakReviews. The noise profile remains smooth at roughly 18.1 dBA under full load, which isn't silent but fits well within acceptable limits for most users TechPowerUp.

Value and Conclusion

The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Halo Black represents a solid middle ground for users who value aesthetics and require reliable cooling for moderate computing needs. While it does not match the cooling efficiency of some competitors at this price range, especially if maximum performance per dollar is a priority, it makes for a compelling choice in setups where visual appeal and ARGB customs are desired ExtremeHW.

For those building entry to mid-range systems around AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5 processors, the Cooler Master Hyper 212 Halo Black is a choice worth considering, particularly if the system is planned with ARGB elements in mind as it provides adequate cooling performance while enhancing the visual aspect of any build TechPowerUp.