For warehouses, stadium sidelines and big events that need the most airflow from a single plug in unit.
Amazon $4,609The Portacool APEX 6500 and the Big Ass Fans Cool-Space 500 are evenly matched, rated 4.3 and 4.3. The Portacool APEX 6500 costs $341 less ($4,609 vs $4,950).
For warehouses, factories and outdoor job sites that need one huge cooler with app control and a five year warranty.
Amazon $4,950Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every 2,000 CFM and up evaporative cooler; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Portacool APEX 6500 | Big Ass Fans Cool-Space 500 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.3/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Value 30% | 60 $184.36 per 1,000 CFM ($4,609, 25,000 CFM) | 56 $206.25 per 1,000 CFM ($4,950, 24,000 CFM) |
| Airflow 25% | 100 25,000 CFM | 100 24,000 CFM |
| Tank 10% | 100 66 gal tank | 100 64 gal tank |
| Features 15% | 50 rigid cooling pads, hose hookup | 50 rigid cooling pads, hose hookup |
| Warranty 20% | 100 3-year warranty | 100 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Portacool APEX 6500 | Big Ass Fans Cool-Space 500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | ||
| Airflow | 25,000 CFM | 24,000 CFM |
| Cooling area | 8,500 sq ft | 6,500 sq ft |
| Cooling pads | Rigid cellulose | Rigid cellulose |
| Pad thickness | - | 8 in |
| Tank | 66 gal | 64 gal |
| Hose hookup | Yes | Yes |
| Controls and build | ||
| Fan speeds | 5 | 7 |
| Oscillation | No | - |
| Remote | No | - |
| Weight | 290 lb | 480 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 5 years |
| Released | 2023-10 | - |
