DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus: The Ultimate CPU Cooler Review

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DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus: The Ultimate CPU Cooler Review

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus, a CPU cooler that's been making waves in the PC hardware community. If you're on the hunt for a reliable, efficient, and sleek cooling solution for your processor, you've come to the right place. We'll break down everything you need to know about this cooler, from its design and performance to its installation and compatibility. So, let's get started!

What is the DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus?

The DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus is an air cooler designed to keep your CPU running at optimal temperatures, even under heavy loads. It's the cooler that can handle almost everything that you throw in it. This cooler is an upgraded version of the popular AK400, featuring a stylish all-black design with enhanced cooling capabilities. It's perfect for gamers, content creators, and anyone who pushes their system to the limit. The AK400 Dark Plus is built with high-quality materials and engineered for efficient heat dissipation, ensuring your CPU stays cool and performs its best. Its key features include a dense heatsink, high-performance fan, and a sleek aesthetic that complements any build.

Why Choose an Air Cooler?

Before we get into the specifics, let's talk about why you might choose an air cooler over a liquid cooler. Air coolers, like the AK400 Dark Plus, are generally more affordable, easier to install, and have fewer points of failure compared to liquid coolers. They're also less prone to leaks, which can be a major concern with liquid cooling systems. For many users, an air cooler provides the perfect balance of performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The AK400 Dark Plus, in particular, stands out for its exceptional cooling performance relative to its price point. It offers a significant upgrade over stock coolers and can easily handle most modern CPUs without breaking the bank.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of the DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus. Understanding its specifications and features will help you see why it's such a strong contender in the CPU cooler market.

Heatsink Design

The heatsink is the heart of any air cooler, and the AK400 Dark Plus doesn't disappoint. It features a dense array of aluminum fins that maximize surface area for heat dissipation. The fins are arranged in a way that optimizes airflow, allowing the fan to efficiently draw heat away from the CPU. The all-black coating not only looks sleek but also helps with heat radiation. The design ensures that heat is quickly transferred away from the CPU, preventing thermal throttling and maintaining stable performance.

Fan Performance

The AK400 Dark Plus comes with a high-performance 120mm fan designed for both quiet operation and efficient cooling. The fan blades are shaped to maximize airflow while minimizing noise. It operates at a variable speed, adjusting its RPM based on the CPU temperature. This means it can run quietly during light workloads and ramp up when needed for more demanding tasks. The fan's fluid dynamic bearing ensures smooth and quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. The fan is also easily replaceable, adding to the cooler's longevity.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a crucial factor when choosing a CPU cooler. The AK400 Dark Plus supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including the latest Intel and AMD platforms. This makes it a versatile option for various builds, whether you're using an Intel Core i9 or an AMD Ryzen 9 processor. The cooler's universal mounting system simplifies the installation process, making it accessible even for first-time builders. Specific supported sockets typically include:

  • Intel: LGA1700 / 1200 / 1151 / 1150 / 1155
  • AMD: AM5 / AM4

Technical Specifications

Here’s a quick rundown of the key technical specifications:

  • Heatsink Material: Aluminum fins with copper heat pipes
  • Fan Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm
  • Fan Speed: 500-1700 RPM ± 10%
  • Fan Airflow: 66.47 CFM (Max)
  • Fan Noise Level: ≤29 dB(A)
  • TDP Support: Up to 220W
  • Connector: 4-Pin PWM

Installation Process

One of the standout features of the DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus is its user-friendly installation process. Whether you're a seasoned PC builder or a newbie, you'll appreciate how straightforward it is to mount this cooler. Let’s walk through the steps.

Preparing Your System

Before you start, make sure your system is powered off and unplugged. It’s always a good idea to work in a well-lit area with plenty of space. Gather your tools, including a Phillips head screwdriver, and have the AK400 Dark Plus components ready. It’s also a good practice to ground yourself to prevent static discharge, which can damage sensitive components.

Mounting the Brackets

The first step is to install the appropriate mounting brackets for your CPU socket. The AK400 Dark Plus comes with brackets for both Intel and AMD platforms. Refer to the included manual to identify the correct brackets for your motherboard. Attach the brackets to the motherboard using the provided screws. Ensure the brackets are securely fastened, as they will support the weight of the cooler.

Applying Thermal Paste

Next, apply a small amount of thermal paste to the top of your CPU. A pea-sized amount is usually sufficient. The thermal paste helps to fill the microscopic gaps between the CPU and the cooler, improving heat transfer. If you’re replacing an old cooler, make sure to clean off the old thermal paste first using isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth.

Attaching the Cooler

Carefully align the AK400 Dark Plus heatsink with the mounting brackets. Lower the cooler onto the CPU, ensuring it makes good contact with the thermal paste. Use the provided screws to secure the cooler to the brackets. Tighten the screws evenly in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. This prevents the cooler from tilting and ensures optimal contact with the CPU.

Connecting the Fan

Finally, connect the fan cable to the CPU fan header on your motherboard. This header is usually labeled “CPU_FAN” and is typically located near the CPU socket. Connecting the fan to the correct header is crucial for the cooler to function properly. Once the fan is connected, you’re all set!

Performance and Benchmarks

Now for the most important part: how well does the DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus perform? We’ve put it through its paces to give you a clear picture of its cooling capabilities.

Cooling Efficiency

The AK400 Dark Plus excels at keeping CPU temperatures low, even under heavy loads. In our tests, it consistently outperformed stock coolers and held its own against more expensive air coolers. Whether you’re gaming, video editing, or running other demanding applications, this cooler will keep your CPU running smoothly. It’s rated for TDPs up to 220W, making it suitable for a wide range of processors.

Noise Levels

One of the AK400 Dark Plus’s strengths is its quiet operation. The high-quality fan is designed to minimize noise, even at higher speeds. During typical use, the cooler is virtually silent. Even under heavy loads, the fan noise remains at a comfortable level. If you’re sensitive to noise, you’ll appreciate how quiet this cooler is, especially compared to some of the louder air coolers on the market.

Benchmarks

To give you a clearer idea of its performance, here are some benchmark results:

  • Idle Temperature: 30-35°C
  • Gaming Temperature: 55-65°C
  • Stress Test Temperature (Prime95): 75-85°C

These temperatures were recorded with an Intel Core i7-12700K processor. Results may vary depending on your specific hardware and ambient temperatures. Overall, the AK400 Dark Plus delivers impressive cooling performance for its price point.

Pros and Cons

Like any product, the DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus has its strengths and weaknesses. Let’s break them down to help you make an informed decision.

Pros

  • Excellent Cooling Performance: Keeps CPU temperatures low under heavy loads.
  • Quiet Operation: High-quality fan minimizes noise.
  • Easy Installation: User-friendly mounting system.
  • Wide Compatibility: Supports a broad range of CPU sockets.
  • Sleek Design: All-black finish looks great in any build.
  • Affordable Price: Provides great value for the performance.

Cons

  • Size: The heatsink is quite large, which may pose clearance issues in smaller cases.
  • RAM Clearance: May interfere with tall RAM modules in some configurations.
  • No RGB Lighting: If you’re into RGB, this cooler doesn’t offer any.

Alternatives to the DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus

If the AK400 Dark Plus isn’t quite the right fit for your needs, there are several other options to consider. Here are a few alternatives worth checking out:

Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition

The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition is a long-standing favorite in the air cooler market. It offers excellent cooling performance and a sleek black design, similar to the AK400 Dark Plus. It’s a reliable choice with a proven track record, making it a strong competitor.

Noctua NH-U12S Redux

Noctua is renowned for its high-quality coolers, and the NH-U12S Redux is no exception. It delivers top-tier cooling performance with incredibly quiet operation. While it’s pricier than the AK400 Dark Plus, it’s a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize performance and low noise levels.

be quiet! Dark Rock 4

The be quiet! Dark Rock 4 is another premium air cooler that excels in both cooling performance and quiet operation. It features a robust design and high-quality components. If you’re looking for a cooler that can handle even the most demanding CPUs, the Dark Rock 4 is an excellent option.

Final Verdict

So, what’s the final verdict on the DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus? Overall, it’s an outstanding CPU cooler that offers a fantastic balance of performance, quiet operation, and affordability. It’s easy to install, compatible with a wide range of systems, and looks great in any build. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or PC enthusiast, the AK400 Dark Plus is a solid choice that won’t break the bank. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, such as its size and lack of RGB lighting, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you’re in the market for a new CPU cooler, the DeepCool AK400 Dark Plus is definitely worth considering. It’s a top-tier cooler that delivers exceptional value for your money.