DeepCool AG400 Plus: Black CPU Cooler

by Jhon Lennon 38 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the DeepCool AG400 Plus, a sleek, all-black single tower CPU cooler designed to keep your processor running cool and efficiently. If you're in the market for an affordable yet powerful cooling solution, this might just be the one for you. We'll cover everything from its design and features to its performance and why it stands out in a crowded market. So, let's get started!

Unboxing and First Impressions

First off, the unboxing experience is pretty straightforward. Inside the box, you'll find the AG400 Plus cooler itself, mounting hardware for both Intel and AMD platforms, and a detailed user manual. The cooler comes in a stylish all-black finish, which gives it a premium look that will complement any build. The build quality feels solid, and the aluminum fins are neatly arranged, promising efficient heat dissipation. The included fan is also black, maintaining the cooler's consistent aesthetic.

Design and Features

Single Tower Design

The AG400 Plus features a classic single tower design, which is a popular choice for its balance of performance and size. This design allows it to fit into most PC cases without clearance issues, making it a versatile option for various builds. The tower is constructed from high-density aluminum fins, maximizing the surface area for heat dissipation.

Heat Pipes

This cooler is equipped with four direct-contact heat pipes. These heat pipes are designed to quickly transfer heat away from the CPU to the aluminum fins, where it can be dissipated by the fan. Direct contact technology ensures that the heat pipes make direct contact with the CPU surface, improving thermal conductivity and cooling efficiency. The heat pipes are evenly distributed across the base to ensure optimal heat transfer across the CPU.

120mm PWM Fan

The AG400 Plus includes a 120mm PWM fan that provides excellent airflow while keeping noise levels to a minimum. PWM stands for Pulse Width Modulation, which means the fan speed can be automatically adjusted based on the CPU temperature. This allows for a balance between cooling performance and quiet operation. At lower temperatures, the fan spins slower, reducing noise, while at higher temperatures, it spins faster to provide maximum cooling. The fan blades are designed to optimize airflow and reduce turbulence, further minimizing noise.

Compatibility

One of the key features of the AG400 Plus is its broad compatibility with both Intel and AMD sockets. It supports a wide range of Intel sockets, including LGA 1700, 1200, 1151, 1150, and 1155, as well as AMD sockets AM5 and AM4. This makes it a versatile choice for different CPU platforms, whether you're using the latest Intel processors or AMD Ryzen CPUs. The included mounting hardware is easy to install and provides a secure fit for your CPU.

Installation Process

Installing the DeepCool AG400 Plus is pretty straightforward, even for beginners. The included manual provides clear, step-by-step instructions for both Intel and AMD platforms. Here’s a quick rundown:

  1. Prepare the Motherboard: Depending on your CPU socket, you'll need to install the appropriate mounting brackets. The manual clearly indicates which brackets to use for each socket type.
  2. Apply Thermal Paste: Apply a small amount of thermal paste to the CPU. If you're not comfortable doing this, some coolers come with pre-applied thermal paste.
  3. Mount the Cooler: Align the cooler with the mounting brackets and secure it using the provided screws. Make sure the cooler is firmly attached to the CPU to ensure good contact.
  4. Connect the Fan: Plug the fan cable into the CPU fan header on your motherboard. This allows the motherboard to control the fan speed based on the CPU temperature.

Performance and Thermals

Now, let's talk performance. The AG400 Plus does a solid job of keeping CPU temperatures in check. In our tests, it managed to keep an Intel Core i7 processor running at comfortable temperatures even under heavy loads. The PWM fan effectively adjusts its speed to maintain optimal cooling without producing excessive noise. Of course, the actual performance will depend on your specific CPU, ambient temperature, and case airflow, but overall, the AG400 Plus offers excellent cooling for its price range.

Noise Levels

One of the standout features of the AG400 Plus is its low noise levels. Thanks to the PWM fan, the cooler operates quietly under normal loads. Even when the CPU is under heavy stress, the fan noise remains reasonable and not distracting. This makes it an excellent choice for users who value a quiet computing experience. The fan's design minimizes turbulence, further reducing noise levels.

Aesthetics

The all-black design of the AG400 Plus gives it a sleek and modern look that will complement any PC build. The black aluminum fins and fan create a clean and understated appearance. If you're building a gaming rig with a black and white or monochrome color scheme, this cooler will fit right in. The minimalist design also makes it a good choice for professional workstations where aesthetics are important.

Comparison with Competitors

When compared to other coolers in its price range, the DeepCool AG400 Plus holds its own. It offers similar or better cooling performance than many of its competitors while maintaining lower noise levels. Its broad compatibility with both Intel and AMD sockets also makes it a more versatile option. While some coolers may offer more flashy features like RGB lighting, the AG400 Plus focuses on delivering solid performance and reliability.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the DeepCool AG400 Plus:

Pros:

  • Excellent cooling performance
  • Low noise levels
  • Broad compatibility with Intel and AMD sockets
  • Sleek all-black design
  • Easy installation
  • Affordable price

Cons:

  • No RGB lighting for those who want a more flashy look
  • Single tower design may not be sufficient for extremely high-end CPUs under heavy overclocking

Who Is This For?

The DeepCool AG400 Plus is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and quiet CPU cooler. It’s perfect for gamers, content creators, and everyday users who want to keep their CPU running cool without breaking the bank. If you're building a new PC or upgrading your existing cooler, the AG400 Plus is definitely worth considering. It’s also a great option for those who value a clean and minimalist aesthetic.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is a fantastic single tower CPU cooler that offers excellent performance, low noise levels, and broad compatibility. Its sleek all-black design makes it a great addition to any PC build. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive coolers, it delivers where it counts: keeping your CPU cool and running smoothly. If you’re on a budget and looking for a reliable cooling solution, the AG400 Plus is definitely worth your consideration. So, that’s our take on the DeepCool AG400 Plus. Hope this helps you make an informed decision. Happy building!