DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus CPU Cooler: A Detailed Review

Hey guys, let's dive into the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus CPU cooler! This cooler is making waves in the PC hardware world, and for good reason. It's affordable, looks fantastic, and promises some serious cooling performance. In this in-depth review, we'll break down everything you need to know, from its specs and installation to its real-world performance and how it stacks up against the competition. We'll also cover the dazzling ARGB lighting, because, let's face it, aesthetics matter! So, buckle up, and let's see if the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus is the right cooler for your rig. We'll explore its features, assess its capabilities, and help you decide if it's a worthy upgrade or a new build essential. This article will provide you with all the necessary details to make an informed decision and enhance your PC's cooling performance and visual appeal.

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

When you first get your hands on the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus, the packaging immediately gives off a premium vibe. DeepCool has done a great job with the presentation, showcasing the cooler's key features and specifications right on the box. Inside, you'll find everything neatly organized, including the cooler itself, a mounting kit compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, a user manual, and of course, the necessary screws and brackets. The cooler itself is a sight to behold. The black top cover, the subtle ARGB lighting, and the overall build quality suggest a product that punches well above its weight class. The included fan is a sleek-looking 120mm PWM fan with ARGB capabilities. The fan's design promotes good airflow, which is critical for efficient cooling. The heatsink is constructed with four direct-touch copper heat pipes that make direct contact with the CPU, ensuring efficient heat transfer. This is a common and effective design found in many high-performance coolers. The initial impressions are overwhelmingly positive. The DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus exudes quality and attention to detail. The packaging is well-designed, the components are robust, and the overall aesthetic is very pleasing. It's clear that DeepCool has put considerable effort into designing a product that not only performs well but also looks great doing it. The provided mounting hardware seems sturdy and well-engineered, which always makes the installation process smoother and less frustrating. The ARGB lighting is a major selling point. The ability to customize the lighting to match your system's theme is a great feature, and DeepCool has implemented it well. This is not just a cooler; it's a statement piece that will undoubtedly enhance the look of your PC. The first impression sets the stage for what we expect in terms of performance and user experience. Overall, it creates a sense of anticipation for the installation and testing phases.

Specifications and Features

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty and take a closer look at the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus's specifications. This cooler boasts some impressive features that contribute to its overall performance and value. The AG400 ARGB Plus is designed to handle TDPs (Thermal Design Power) up to 220W, which means it can effectively cool a wide range of CPUs, from entry-level to mid-range processors. This makes it a versatile choice for various builds. The cooler features four 6mm copper heat pipes that directly contact the CPU, maximizing heat transfer. The direct-touch design is crucial for efficiently dissipating heat. The heatsink is designed with a dense fin stack, optimized for airflow and heat dissipation. The 120mm fan is a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) fan, which allows for dynamic speed control based on the CPU's temperature. This means the fan can ramp up or down its speed as needed, balancing cooling performance with noise levels. The fan also incorporates ARGB (Addressable RGB) lighting, which can be customized using your motherboard's software or a dedicated ARGB controller. The ARGB lighting adds a visual flair to your build. The mounting system is designed for easy installation and is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1151, and AMD AM5, AM4. The compatibility with the latest sockets ensures that this cooler will remain relevant for several years. The fan operates at a speed range of 500 to 2000 RPM, with a maximum airflow of 75.89 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) and a static pressure of 2.53 mmAq. The noise level ranges from a quiet 16.5 dB(A) to a still reasonable 31.6 dB(A) at maximum speed. These specifications indicate a well-balanced cooler that aims to provide excellent cooling performance while keeping noise levels in check. The ARGB lighting is a bonus, allowing users to customize their system's aesthetics. The design focuses on both efficiency and user-friendliness, making it a great option for builders of all experience levels.

Installation Process

Installing the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus is generally a straightforward process, thanks to its well-designed mounting system. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the installation process. Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary components and tools: the cooler, the mounting kit, a screwdriver, and your motherboard's manual for socket-specific instructions. The first step involves preparing your motherboard. This usually means removing any existing cooler brackets and, in some cases, installing the backplate. Consult your motherboard manual for the specific instructions for your socket type. Next, attach the mounting brackets to the cooler. DeepCool provides different brackets for Intel and AMD sockets. Make sure you use the correct brackets for your CPU. Now, apply thermal paste to the CPU's integrated heat spreader (IHS). DeepCool typically includes a small tube of thermal paste, but you can also use your preferred brand. Position the cooler on top of the CPU, aligning it with the mounting brackets. Secure the cooler to the motherboard by tightening the screws. Do this gradually and evenly, tightening each screw a little at a time until the cooler is firmly seated. Connect the fan's PWM cable to the CPU fan header on your motherboard. This allows the motherboard to control the fan's speed based on the CPU's temperature. If you want to use the ARGB lighting, connect the fan's ARGB cable to your motherboard's ARGB header (if supported) or to an ARGB controller. Double-check all connections and ensure that the cooler is securely mounted. You can now power on your PC and check the CPU temperature in the BIOS or using monitoring software. The installation process is designed to be user-friendly, with clear instructions and well-labeled components. The mounting system is robust and provides a secure fit, which is crucial for optimal cooling performance. The use of PWM control ensures that the fan speed adjusts dynamically based on the CPU's temperature, balancing cooling performance and noise levels. The ARGB lighting adds a touch of customization and visual appeal to your build. Taking the time to install the cooler properly is crucial to ensure it functions effectively and protects your valuable CPU.

Performance Testing and Noise Levels

Alright, let's get down to the most important part: the performance of the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus. To evaluate its cooling capabilities, we put it through a series of tests under various workloads. During our testing, we measured the CPU temperature under idle conditions, during gaming, and under a CPU stress test. We used a standard test bench with a mid-range CPU to simulate a realistic scenario. The results are quite impressive. The AG400 ARGB Plus managed to keep the CPU temperatures well within safe limits, even under heavy loads. The temperatures remained stable and consistent, indicating efficient heat dissipation. The fan's PWM control did a great job of balancing cooling performance and noise levels. The fan was barely audible during idle and light workloads. Even under heavy loads, the fan noise was noticeable but not overly distracting. The maximum noise level was within acceptable limits, and the fan never became annoyingly loud. We also tested the cooler's performance in different scenarios, such as with different fan curves and with the ARGB lighting enabled. The results show that the cooler performs consistently well, regardless of the lighting configuration. The cooler's ability to maintain low temperatures under stress tests is a testament to its efficient heat pipe design and heatsink construction. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus delivered excellent cooling performance and kept the CPU running cool and stable, even during extended gaming sessions. The noise levels were well-managed, making it a great choice for users who value a quiet computing experience. The combination of performance and low noise makes this cooler a top contender in its price range. The consistent performance across different workloads confirms its reliability and efficiency. This makes it an ideal upgrade or a new build essential.

ARGB Lighting and Customization

Let's talk about the ARGB lighting on the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus. This is where things get really fun, and it adds a touch of personality to your build. The ARGB lighting is implemented on the fan, and it creates a visually appealing effect. The lighting is controlled through your motherboard's ARGB software (such as ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light, Gigabyte RGB Fusion) or via a separate ARGB controller. This allows for extensive customization options, including different colors, effects, and patterns. You can synchronize the lighting with other ARGB components in your system to create a cohesive look. The lighting is bright and vibrant, without being overly distracting. The ARGB implementation is well-executed, with smooth transitions and a wide range of colors available. The ability to customize the lighting is a huge advantage, allowing you to match your system's aesthetic or create a unique look. The lighting adds a professional touch and enhances the overall visual experience. Setting up the ARGB lighting is usually straightforward. You simply connect the fan's ARGB cable to your motherboard's ARGB header or a dedicated controller, and then use the corresponding software to customize the lighting effects. The software usually provides a wide range of options, allowing you to create your preferred lighting style. The ARGB lighting isn't just about aesthetics; it also allows you to monitor the CPU's temperature visually. For example, you can set the lighting to change color based on the CPU temperature, providing a quick visual cue. The ARGB lighting is a fantastic addition, making the AG400 ARGB Plus a great choice for anyone looking to add some flair to their build. This feature enhances the visual appeal and allows for extensive customization, making your PC truly your own.

Comparison with Competitors

Let's see how the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus stacks up against its competitors in the CPU cooler market. To provide a fair comparison, we'll look at coolers in the same price range and with similar features. One of the main competitors is the Cooler Master Hyper 212. The Hyper 212 has been a popular choice for many years, but the AG400 ARGB Plus offers better performance and ARGB lighting at a similar price. The AG400 ARGB Plus often outperforms the Hyper 212 in terms of cooling efficiency. Another competitor is the Arctic Freezer i35. The Freezer i35 offers good cooling performance, but the AG400 ARGB Plus often has a slight edge in terms of noise levels. The AG400 ARGB Plus provides a better balance between cooling and noise. When comparing the ARGB lighting, the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus generally offers better customization options and more vibrant colors. In terms of value for money, the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus is a strong contender. It offers excellent performance, ARGB lighting, and a user-friendly installation process at a very competitive price. The AG400 ARGB Plus is also generally more aesthetically pleasing, with its sleek design and well-integrated ARGB lighting. The comparison shows that the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus is a superior option compared to many competitors in its price range. It offers better performance, improved aesthetics, and user-friendly features. The comparison helps users make a better buying decision, highlighting the strengths of the AG400 ARGB Plus.

Pros and Cons

Let's summarize the pros and cons of the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus to give you a clear overview. Here are the key advantages of this cooler: Excellent cooling performance, capable of handling a wide range of CPUs. The ARGB lighting adds a stylish and customizable visual element. The cooler features a user-friendly installation process, making it easy to set up. Its operation is quiet, which results in a better user experience. It's affordable, offering great value for money. On the other hand, here are some potential drawbacks: Some users might find the included fan a bit noisy at maximum speed. While the build quality is good, some users may prefer a higher-end design. Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons. The DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus offers a compelling package, especially for those looking for a balance of performance, aesthetics, and affordability. The strengths of the product show that it is a great choice for both gamers and PC enthusiasts. The drawbacks are minor and don't detract significantly from the overall value.

Conclusion

Alright, guys, to wrap things up, the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus is an outstanding CPU cooler that delivers exceptional performance, aesthetics, and value. Its efficient cooling capabilities, combined with the dazzling ARGB lighting and user-friendly installation process, make it a top contender in its class. Whether you're building a new PC or upgrading your existing one, the AG400 ARGB Plus is definitely worth considering. It's a great option for gamers, content creators, and anyone who wants to improve their system's cooling and visual appeal. The excellent balance of performance, features, and price makes it a must-have for PC enthusiasts. Overall, the DeepCool AG400 ARGB Plus is an excellent choice for a CPU cooler. It offers a combination of performance, aesthetics, and value that's hard to beat. If you are looking for a new cooler, the AG400 ARGB Plus should be at the top of your list! You won't be disappointed. Go get yours now!