DeepCool AG400 Plus: Review, Specs, And Best Price
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the DeepCool AG400 Plus, a CPU cooler that's been making waves in the PC building community. If you're on the hunt for a cooler that offers a blend of performance, affordability, and quiet operation, then you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know about this cooler, from its specifications and features to its performance in real-world scenarios. So, buckle up and let's get started!
What is the DeepCool AG400 Plus?
At its core, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is an air cooler designed to keep your CPU running cool and efficiently. It's an upgraded version of the popular AG400, featuring a dual-fan design that enhances its cooling capabilities. This makes it an excellent choice for both gamers and content creators who demand consistent performance from their systems. The AG400 Plus aims to strike a balance between cooling efficiency, noise levels, and cost, making it accessible to a wide range of users. It supports a broad range of CPU sockets, including the latest Intel and AMD platforms, ensuring compatibility with most modern CPUs. With its sleek design and easy installation process, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is a compelling option for anyone looking to upgrade their CPU cooling solution without breaking the bank. The cooler's dual-fan configuration not only improves heat dissipation but also ensures that the CPU maintains optimal temperatures under heavy workloads. This is particularly beneficial for tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming, where the CPU is often pushed to its limits. Furthermore, the AG400 Plus incorporates features that minimize noise, allowing for a quieter and more enjoyable computing experience. The cooler's design also takes into account ease of installation, making it a user-friendly option even for those who are new to PC building. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is a versatile and reliable CPU cooler that offers excellent value for its price.
Key Features and Specifications
Let's delve into the nitty-gritty details of the DeepCool AG400 Plus. Understanding its specifications will help you determine if it's the right fit for your build. Here’s a breakdown:
- Cooler Type: Air Cooler
- Heatsink Material: Aluminum fins with copper heat pipes
- Fan Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm
- Fan Speed: 500 - 2000 RPM (PWM controlled)
- Fan Airflow: 75.89 CFM (Max)
- Fan Noise Level: ≤31.6 dB(A)
- Fan Connector: 4-Pin PWM
- Number of Fans: 2
- TDP Support: Up to 220W
- Socket Compatibility: Intel LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1155 and AMD AM5/AM4
The dual-fan design is a standout feature, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. The fans are PWM controlled, meaning they can adjust their speed based on the CPU temperature, optimizing for both cooling performance and noise levels. The wide socket compatibility is also a huge plus, making it a versatile choice for various systems. With a TDP support of up to 220W, the AG400 Plus can handle even high-end CPUs with ease. The aluminum fins and copper heat pipes work together to effectively transfer heat away from the CPU, preventing overheating and ensuring stable performance. Moreover, the cooler's design incorporates features that minimize noise, allowing for a quieter and more enjoyable computing experience. The included mounting hardware is designed for easy installation, making it a user-friendly option even for those who are new to PC building. The AG400 Plus's compact size ensures compatibility with a wide range of cases, making it a versatile choice for different system configurations. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus offers a comprehensive set of features and specifications that make it a compelling option for anyone looking to upgrade their CPU cooling solution.
Performance and Cooling Efficiency
Now, let's talk about performance. How well does the DeepCool AG400 Plus actually cool your CPU? In various tests, the AG400 Plus has shown impressive results, especially considering its price point. Under heavy loads, such as gaming or video rendering, it manages to keep CPU temperatures well within acceptable limits.
Compared to stock coolers, the AG400 Plus offers a significant improvement in cooling performance. This means lower temperatures, reduced thermal throttling, and potentially higher boost clocks for your CPU. The dual-fan design plays a crucial role here, effectively dissipating heat away from the CPU and maintaining stable temperatures. In terms of noise levels, the AG400 Plus performs admirably. Even at higher fan speeds, the noise is generally unobtrusive, making it a good choice for those who value a quiet computing experience. Of course, the exact performance will depend on your specific CPU, case airflow, and ambient temperature. However, in most scenarios, the AG400 Plus delivers excellent cooling performance for its class. It's worth noting that the cooler's performance can be further optimized by adjusting the fan speed curve in your system's BIOS or using third-party software. This allows you to fine-tune the cooling performance and noise levels to your liking. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus offers a compelling combination of cooling efficiency and quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of users.
Installation Process
One of the best things about the DeepCool AG400 Plus is its straightforward installation process. DeepCool has designed the mounting system to be user-friendly, even for those who are new to PC building. The cooler comes with all the necessary hardware for both Intel and AMD platforms, and the included instructions are clear and easy to follow.
Generally, the installation involves attaching a backplate to the motherboard, securing mounting brackets, applying thermal paste to the CPU, and then attaching the cooler. The process is relatively quick and painless, and you should be able to get it done in about 15-20 minutes. Here are some general steps:
- Prepare the Motherboard: Place the appropriate backplate behind the motherboard, aligning it with the CPU socket holes.
- Install Mounting Brackets: Secure the mounting brackets to the motherboard using the provided screws. Make sure they are firmly attached.
- Apply Thermal Paste: Apply a small amount of thermal paste to the top of the CPU. A pea-sized amount is usually sufficient.
- Attach the Cooler: Carefully place the cooler on top of the CPU, aligning it with the mounting brackets. Secure it in place using the provided screws.
- Connect the Fan: Connect the fan connector to the CPU fan header on the motherboard.
It's always a good idea to consult the included manual for specific instructions and diagrams. Additionally, there are plenty of online tutorials and videos that can guide you through the process. Overall, the installation process of the DeepCool AG400 Plus is hassle-free and should not pose any major challenges.
Pros and Cons
To give you a balanced perspective, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the DeepCool AG400 Plus:
Pros:
- Excellent Cooling Performance: Keeps CPU temperatures low under heavy loads.
- Quiet Operation: Minimal noise, even at higher fan speeds.
- Wide Socket Compatibility: Supports a broad range of Intel and AMD platforms.
- Easy Installation: User-friendly mounting system.
- Affordable Price: Great value for the performance it offers.
- Dual-Fan Design: Enhances heat dissipation and cooling efficiency.
Cons:
- Size: The cooler's size may not fit in very compact cases, so it's essential to check compatibility before purchasing.
- Aesthetics: Some users may find the design a bit basic compared to more premium coolers with RGB lighting. However, this is subjective and depends on personal preferences.
While the AG400 Plus may not be the flashiest cooler on the market, it more than makes up for it with its performance, quiet operation, and ease of installation. The cooler's size should be a consideration, especially for those with smaller cases. However, in most standard ATX and micro-ATX cases, it should fit without any issues. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus offers an excellent balance of features and performance, making it a solid choice for a wide range of users.
Alternatives to the DeepCool AG400 Plus
If the DeepCool AG400 Plus doesn't quite tick all your boxes, here are a few alternatives to consider:
- Cooler Master Hyper 212: A classic choice that offers excellent cooling performance at a similar price point.
- Noctua NH-U12S: A premium option known for its exceptional cooling performance and ultra-quiet operation.
- be quiet! Pure Rock 2: A solid choice that balances performance, noise levels, and price.
- Arctic Freezer 34 eSports DUO: A cooler that offers excellent value for its price, with dual fans and good cooling performance.
Each of these coolers has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to consider your specific needs and budget when making a decision. The Cooler Master Hyper 212 is a popular choice that has been around for years, known for its reliability and performance. The Noctua NH-U12S is a top-of-the-line cooler that delivers exceptional cooling performance and operates almost silently. The be quiet! Pure Rock 2 is a solid all-around performer that balances performance, noise levels, and price. The Arctic Freezer 34 eSports DUO offers excellent value for its price, with dual fans and good cooling performance. Ultimately, the best alternative for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as cooling performance, noise levels, ease of installation, and price when making your decision.
Where to Buy the DeepCool AG400 Plus
You can find the DeepCool AG400 Plus at most major online retailers, such as Amazon, Newegg, and Micro Center. It's also available at many local computer stores. Prices may vary depending on the retailer, so it's always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, as you may be able to snag it for an even better deal. Additionally, check the retailer's return policy to ensure that you can return the cooler if it doesn't meet your expectations or if you encounter any issues during installation. When purchasing online, be sure to read customer reviews to get an idea of other users' experiences with the cooler. This can provide valuable insights into its performance, noise levels, and ease of installation. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is widely available, making it easy to find and purchase from a variety of retailers.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is an excellent CPU cooler that offers a compelling combination of performance, quiet operation, and affordability. Its dual-fan design, wide socket compatibility, and easy installation make it a great choice for both novice and experienced PC builders. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive coolers, it delivers excellent cooling performance for its price point. If you're looking for a reliable and effective CPU cooler that won't break the bank, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is definitely worth considering. It's a solid all-around performer that will keep your CPU running cool and efficiently, allowing you to enjoy smooth and stable performance in your favorite games and applications. So, go ahead and give it a try – you won't be disappointed! This cooler strikes a great balance between price and performance, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious builders who don't want to compromise on cooling efficiency. With its user-friendly installation process and wide compatibility, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is a hassle-free solution for keeping your CPU temperatures in check. Whether you're a gamer, content creator, or simply someone who wants a reliable and quiet cooling solution, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is a solid investment that will provide years of dependable performance. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is a top contender in its class and offers exceptional value for its price.