DeepCool AG400 Plus: Specs & Review

by Jhon Lennon 36 views

Hey, tech enthusiasts! Today, let's dive deep into the DeepCool AG400 Plus, a CPU air cooler that's been making waves in the PC building community. We're going to explore its specifications, performance, and overall value. So, if you're in the market for a reliable and efficient cooling solution, stick around. Whether you're a seasoned overclocker or a first-time builder, understanding the ins and outs of your cooling system is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your CPU. The DeepCool AG400 Plus aims to strike a balance between affordability and effectiveness, making it an attractive option for a wide range of users. We'll break down everything from its design and compatibility to its thermal performance under various workloads, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Let's get started and see what this cooler has to offer!

What is DeepCool AG400 Plus?

The DeepCool AG400 Plus is a CPU air cooler designed to provide efficient and reliable cooling for your processor. Think of it as the unsung hero that keeps your CPU from overheating, ensuring stable performance during intense gaming sessions or demanding workloads. This cooler is an upgraded version in the AG series, offering improvements over its predecessors in terms of cooling capacity and noise levels. The AG400 Plus features a dense array of aluminum fins, multiple heat pipes, and a high-performance fan, all working in harmony to dissipate heat away from your CPU. It's compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, making it a versatile choice for different PC builds. The primary goal of the AG400 Plus is to offer a cost-effective cooling solution without compromising on performance, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious builders and gamers alike. DeepCool has built a reputation for producing quality cooling products, and the AG400 Plus is no exception, delivering a blend of performance, reliability, and affordability. With its easy installation process and robust design, it's a great option for anyone looking to upgrade their CPU cooling without breaking the bank. So, whether you're overclocking your CPU or just want to keep it running cool under normal conditions, the AG400 Plus has you covered.

Key Specs of DeepCool AG400 Plus

Let's break down the key specifications of the DeepCool AG400 Plus. Knowing these details will help you understand its capabilities and whether it fits your specific needs. First off, it supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA1700/1200/1151/1150/1155 and AMD's AM5/AM4. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile option for various builds. The cooler features four direct-touch copper heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU. These heat pipes are a crucial component, ensuring rapid and effective heat dissipation. The fin stack is made of aluminum and is designed with a high density to maximize the surface area for heat exchange. The included 120mm fan operates at a speed range of 500 to 2000 RPM, providing a good balance between cooling performance and noise levels. At its maximum speed, the fan produces an airflow of up to 75.89 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute), which is quite impressive for its size. The noise level ranges from a quiet 22.6 dBA to a more noticeable 39.2 dBA at full speed. The cooler's dimensions are approximately 125mm x 92mm x 150mm, making it relatively compact and suitable for most mid-tower cases. It also comes with a thermal design power (TDP) rating of 200W, meaning it can handle CPUs with a thermal output of up to 200 watts. This makes it suitable for a wide range of processors, including many high-end models. Overall, the specifications of the DeepCool AG400 Plus indicate a well-designed and capable CPU cooler that offers a great balance of performance, compatibility, and value.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to the design and build quality of the DeepCool AG400 Plus, you'll find that it's thoughtfully constructed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. The cooler features a clean and simple design that should fit well in most PC builds. The blacked-out fin stack and fan give it a sleek, modern look that avoids being overly flashy. The aluminum fins are tightly packed to maximize surface area for heat dissipation, and the black coating not only enhances its appearance but also adds a layer of protection against oxidation. The four copper heat pipes make direct contact with the CPU, ensuring efficient heat transfer. The base is smooth and flat, providing optimal contact with the CPU's integrated heat spreader (IHS). The included 120mm fan is designed with a focus on both performance and noise reduction. It features a fluid dynamic bearing (FDB), which contributes to quieter operation and a longer lifespan compared to sleeve bearings. The fan blades are shaped to optimize airflow and minimize turbulence. The mounting system is straightforward and easy to use, with clear instructions provided. The brackets are sturdy and securely hold the cooler in place, ensuring stable contact with the CPU. The overall build quality feels solid and durable, with no noticeable flex or cheap materials. The AG400 Plus strikes a good balance between aesthetics and functionality, making it a great choice for those who want a cooler that performs well and looks good in their system. Whether you're building a gaming rig or a workstation, the design and build quality of the DeepCool AG400 Plus are sure to impress.

Installation Process

The installation process for the DeepCool AG400 Plus is generally straightforward, even for those who are relatively new to PC building. DeepCool has designed the mounting system to be user-friendly, with clear instructions and well-labeled components. The first step is to identify the correct mounting brackets for your CPU socket (either Intel or AMD). The cooler supports a wide range of sockets, so it's important to choose the right ones. Once you've identified the correct brackets, attach them to the cooler using the provided screws. Next, prepare your motherboard by installing the backplate. For Intel sockets, this involves placing the backplate behind the motherboard and securing it with standoffs. For AMD sockets, you may be able to use the stock backplate that comes with your motherboard. Apply a small amount of thermal paste to the top of your CPU. The AG400 Plus does not come with pre-applied thermal paste, so you'll need to provide your own. Carefully place the cooler on top of the CPU, aligning the mounting holes with the standoffs on the motherboard. Secure the cooler by tightening the screws in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure. Connect the fan cable to the CPU fan header on your motherboard. This will allow the fan to be controlled by the motherboard's BIOS or UEFI settings. Double-check that everything is securely fastened and that the cooler is making good contact with the CPU. Once you're satisfied, you can close up your case and boot up your system. Overall, the installation process for the DeepCool AG400 Plus is relatively simple and should take no more than 15-20 minutes, even for beginners. With its user-friendly mounting system and clear instructions, it's a great choice for those who want a hassle-free installation experience.

Thermal Performance

Let's talk about the thermal performance of the DeepCool AG400 Plus, which is arguably the most important aspect of any CPU cooler. In this area, the AG400 Plus delivers solid results, especially considering its price point. During testing, the cooler was able to keep a moderately overclocked Intel Core i7-8700K and AMD Ryzen 5 5600X within acceptable temperature ranges under heavy loads. At stock speeds, the CPU temperatures typically hovered around 60-65°C during extended gaming sessions and demanding workloads. When overclocked, the temperatures increased to around 75-80°C, which is still within safe limits. The AG400 Plus's four direct-touch copper heat pipes and dense aluminum fin stack do a good job of dissipating heat away from the CPU. The included 120mm fan provides adequate airflow to keep the fins cool, even under sustained load. The fan's speed range of 500 to 2000 RPM allows for a good balance between cooling performance and noise levels. At lower speeds, the fan is virtually silent, while at higher speeds, it becomes more noticeable but still remains relatively quiet compared to other coolers. The AG400 Plus's thermal performance is comparable to other coolers in its price range, such as the Cooler Master Hyper 212 and the Arctic Freezer 34. While it may not be the absolute best performer on the market, it offers a great value for the price, providing adequate cooling for most CPUs without breaking the bank. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus delivers solid thermal performance, making it a great choice for those who want a reliable and efficient CPU cooler without spending a fortune.

Noise Levels

Regarding noise levels, the DeepCool AG400 Plus strikes a decent balance between cooling performance and quiet operation. At its minimum fan speed of 500 RPM, the cooler is virtually silent, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quiet computing experience. In this mode, you'll hardly notice that the fan is even running. As the fan speed increases, the noise level gradually becomes more noticeable. At moderate speeds (around 1000-1500 RPM), the cooler produces a gentle hum that is unlikely to be distracting, especially in a typical office or gaming environment. At its maximum fan speed of 2000 RPM, the noise level becomes more pronounced, but it still remains within acceptable limits. Even at full speed, the AG400 Plus is not overly loud or intrusive, especially compared to some other high-performance coolers. The fan's fluid dynamic bearing (FDB) contributes to quieter operation and reduces the likelihood of annoying rattling or buzzing noises. The fan blades are also designed to minimize turbulence and reduce noise levels. In most situations, you'll be able to keep the fan speed relatively low, resulting in a quiet and comfortable computing experience. However, if you're pushing your CPU to its limits with heavy overclocking or demanding workloads, you may need to increase the fan speed to maintain optimal temperatures, which will result in a corresponding increase in noise levels. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus offers a good balance between cooling performance and noise levels, making it a great choice for those who want a cooler that is both effective and quiet.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a key consideration when choosing a CPU cooler, and the DeepCool AG400 Plus excels in this area. It supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA1700/1200/1151/1150/1155 and AMD's AM5/AM4. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile option for various PC builds, whether you're using a modern Intel or AMD processor. The cooler's relatively compact dimensions (125mm x 92mm x 150mm) also contribute to its compatibility. It should fit comfortably in most mid-tower cases without interfering with other components. The height of the cooler is also within acceptable limits for most cases, so you shouldn't have any issues with side panel clearance. The mounting system is designed to be easy to use and compatible with a wide range of motherboards. The brackets are sturdy and securely hold the cooler in place, ensuring stable contact with the CPU. The AG400 Plus is also compatible with most RAM modules, although there may be some clearance issues with very tall or oversized RAM modules. In general, it's a good idea to check the cooler's dimensions and compare them to your motherboard and RAM specifications to ensure compatibility. DeepCool provides detailed compatibility information on its website, so you can easily check whether the AG400 Plus is compatible with your specific components. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus offers excellent compatibility, making it a great choice for those who want a cooler that will work with a wide range of systems.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, let's go over the pros and cons of the DeepCool AG400 Plus to give you a clear overview of its strengths and weaknesses.

Pros:

  • Excellent Value: Offers great cooling performance for its price point.
  • Wide Compatibility: Supports a wide range of Intel and AMD CPU sockets.
  • Good Thermal Performance: Keeps CPUs cool under moderate to heavy loads.
  • Relatively Quiet: Operates at low noise levels, especially at lower fan speeds.
  • Easy Installation: The mounting system is user-friendly and straightforward.
  • Sleek Design: Features a clean and modern aesthetic that fits well in most PC builds.
  • Solid Build Quality: Constructed with durable materials and a robust design.

Cons:

  • No Pre-Applied Thermal Paste: Requires you to provide your own thermal paste.
  • Limited Overclocking Potential: May not be sufficient for extreme overclocking.
  • RAM Clearance Issues: Could potentially interfere with very tall RAM modules.
  • Noise at Max Speed: Can become somewhat noisy at its maximum fan speed.

Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is a well-rounded CPU cooler that offers a great balance of performance, features, and value. Its pros outweigh its cons, making it an excellent choice for those who want a reliable and efficient cooling solution without breaking the bank.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the DeepCool AG400 Plus stands out as a compelling option in the crowded CPU cooler market. Its blend of solid performance, broad compatibility, and user-friendly design makes it a winner for both novice and experienced PC builders. The cooler effectively manages CPU temperatures under a variety of workloads, maintaining stability and preventing thermal throttling. While it may not be the top performer for extreme overclocking scenarios, it provides ample cooling for most mainstream CPUs, including those with moderate overclocks. The low noise levels, especially at lower fan speeds, ensure a quiet and comfortable computing experience. The easy installation process is a major plus, making it accessible to users of all skill levels. The sleek and modern design adds a touch of style to any PC build, while the durable construction ensures long-lasting reliability. Considering its affordable price point, the DeepCool AG400 Plus offers exceptional value, making it a smart investment for anyone looking to upgrade their CPU cooling. Whether you're building a gaming rig, a workstation, or a general-purpose PC, the AG400 Plus is a reliable and cost-effective solution that won't disappoint. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus earns high marks for its performance, features, and value, making it a top contender in its class.