Deepcool AG400 LED Review: Is This CPU Cooler Worth It?

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Deepcool AG400 LED Review: Is This CPU Cooler Worth It?

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Deepcool AG400 LED, a CPU cooler that's been making some waves in the budget-friendly market. If you're on the hunt for a cooler that can keep your CPU temps down without breaking the bank and adds a little RGB flair to your rig, then you've come to the right place. We’re going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision. Let’s get started!

What is the Deepcool AG400 LED?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let's first understand what the Deepcool AG400 LED actually is. Simply put, it's an air cooler designed to dissipate heat from your CPU. It features a tower-style heatsink, which is essentially a block of aluminum fins that provide a large surface area for heat to dissipate. The heat is transferred from the CPU to the heatsink via direct-touch heat pipes. These heat pipes are filled with a fluid that evaporates at a low temperature, carrying heat away from the CPU. As the fluid moves away it condenses and returns back for another cycle.

The AG400 LED comes equipped with a 120mm fan to push air through the heatsink, further aiding in heat dissipation. But what sets this cooler apart from its non-LED sibling is, well, the LED lighting. The fan features RGB LEDs that add a touch of visual appeal to your system. The Deepcool AG400 LED is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, making it a versatile option for many builds. Deepcool has positioned this cooler as an entry-level solution that provides decent cooling performance without costing an arm and a leg. This is a cooler aimed squarely at budget-conscious builders who don’t want to compromise on aesthetics. The Deepcool AG400 LED aims to strike a balance between affordability, performance, and looks.

Key Features and Specifications

Alright, let's dive into the meat and potatoes – the key features and specifications of the Deepcool AG400 LED. Knowing these details will give you a clearer picture of what this cooler brings to the table. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Heatsink Design: The AG400 LED features a tower-style heatsink with a dense array of aluminum fins. This design maximizes the surface area for heat dissipation, allowing for efficient cooling. The heatsink's dimensions are important to consider, especially if you have a compact case.
  • Heat Pipes: It comes with four direct-touch copper heat pipes. These pipes make direct contact with the CPU surface, ensuring rapid heat transfer. The effectiveness of these heat pipes is crucial for keeping your CPU temperatures in check.
  • Fan Specifications: The included 120mm fan is responsible for pushing air through the heatsink. It typically operates at speeds ranging from 500 to 2000 RPM, providing a good balance between airflow and noise. The fan's airflow is usually around 75.89 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute), and the noise level is rated at approximately 31.6 dBA. It uses a fluid dynamic bearing which enhances the lifespan of the fan.
  • LED Lighting: As the name suggests, the AG400 LED features RGB LED lighting on the fan. This adds a splash of color to your build, and the lighting is typically compatible with motherboard RGB control software, allowing you to customize the colors and effects. The lighting system is a definite highlight for those looking to add some visual flair.
  • Socket Compatibility: The cooler supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel's LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1155 and AMD's AM5/AM4. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile choice for various systems.
  • Dimensions: The overall dimensions of the cooler are approximately 120mm x 73mm x 152mm. Make sure to check these measurements against your case's CPU cooler clearance to ensure a proper fit.
  • TDP (Thermal Design Power): The AG400 LED is designed to handle CPUs with a TDP of up to 180W. This means it's suitable for most mainstream processors, but it might struggle with high-end, overclocked CPUs.

Understanding these features and specifications is essential for determining whether the Deepcool AG400 LED is the right cooler for your needs. Consider your CPU's TDP, your case's clearance, and your aesthetic preferences to make the best choice.

Performance and Cooling Efficiency

Now, let's talk about the most crucial aspect of any CPU cooler: performance. How well does the Deepcool AG400 LED actually keep your CPU cool? To give you a clear picture, we need to consider several factors and compare it to other coolers in its class.

  • Cooling Capacity: The AG400 LED is rated for CPUs with a TDP of up to 180W. In real-world scenarios, this means it can handle most mainstream CPUs without significant issues. However, if you're planning to overclock a high-end processor, you might want to consider a more robust cooling solution.
  • Temperature Tests: In various tests, the AG400 LED typically keeps temperatures at around 60-70°C under heavy loads with a mid-range CPU. This is a respectable result for a cooler in this price range. Overclocking will cause temperatures to rise, so it's essential to monitor them closely. The Deepcool AG400 LED generally performs admirably when paired with processors like the Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 series.
  • Noise Levels: One of the advantages of the AG400 LED is its relatively low noise levels. The 120mm fan is designed to operate quietly, even at higher speeds. Most users report that the noise is barely noticeable during normal use, making it a good choice for those who value a quiet computing experience. Noise levels generally stay below 31.6 dBA, which is quiet enough to not be distracting, even in a quiet room.
  • Comparison with Other Coolers: When compared to other coolers in the same price bracket, the AG400 LED holds its own. It often outperforms stock coolers and matches or slightly exceeds the performance of other budget-friendly options. However, it's not going to compete with high-end air coolers or liquid coolers, which offer significantly better cooling but come at a higher cost. For users looking to upgrade from a stock cooler without spending too much, the Deepcool AG400 LED is a solid choice.
  • Factors Affecting Performance: Several factors can affect the cooling performance of the AG400 LED. These include the ambient temperature in your room, the airflow within your case, and the thermal paste used between the CPU and the cooler. Ensuring good case airflow and using a high-quality thermal paste can help maximize the cooler's effectiveness.

Overall, the Deepcool AG400 LED offers good cooling performance for its price. It's suitable for most mainstream CPUs and provides a noticeable improvement over stock coolers. While it may not be the best option for heavy overclocking or high-end processors, it strikes a good balance between performance, noise, and cost.

Installation Process

Alright, let's walk through the installation process of the Deepcool AG400 LED. Don't worry, it's generally straightforward, but here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get it right the first time.

  1. Unboxing and Preparation:
    • First, unpack the cooler and make sure you have all the necessary components: the heatsink, the fan, mounting brackets, screws, and thermal paste (if not pre-applied).
    • Read the manual! It might seem obvious, but it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific instructions for your motherboard socket.
  2. Preparing the Motherboard:
    • For Intel sockets, you'll typically need to install a backplate behind the motherboard. Place the backplate so that the holes align with the CPU socket holes.
    • For AMD sockets, you might be able to use the existing backplate. If not, remove the stock brackets and install the AMD-specific brackets included with the AG400 LED.
  3. Installing the Mounting Brackets:
    • Attach the appropriate mounting brackets to the cooler's base. These brackets will vary depending on whether you're using an Intel or AMD CPU.
    • Use the provided screws to secure the brackets tightly to the cooler.
  4. Applying Thermal Paste:
    • If the cooler doesn't come with pre-applied thermal paste, you'll need to apply it manually. A small, pea-sized amount in the center of the CPU is usually sufficient.
    • Alternatively, you can spread a thin, even layer across the CPU surface. Just make sure not to use too much, as excessive thermal paste can actually hinder heat transfer.
  5. Mounting the Cooler:
    • Carefully align the cooler with the mounting holes on the motherboard.
    • Gently press the cooler down onto the CPU, ensuring that it makes good contact.
    • Use the provided screws to secure the cooler to the mounting brackets. Tighten the screws in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.
  6. Connecting the Fan:
    • Attach the 120mm fan to the heatsink using the fan clips.
    • Connect the fan's power cable to the CPU fan header on your motherboard. This is usually a 4-pin connector labeled