DeepCool AG400 BK ARGB CPU Cooler: Review & Specs

by Jhon Lennon 50 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the DeepCool AG400 BK ARGB 120mm CPU Cooler. If you're on the hunt for a cooler that not only keeps your CPU running smoothly but also adds a touch of RGB flair to your rig, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything from its design and performance to installation and overall value. So, let's get started!

What is the DeepCool AG400 BK ARGB?

First off, let's talk about what the DeepCool AG400 BK ARGB actually is. In essence, it's a CPU air cooler designed to dissipate heat from your processor, preventing it from overheating and throttling performance. But it's not just any cooler; it’s part of DeepCool's lineup known for balancing performance with aesthetics. The 'ARGB' in the name signifies its Addressable RGB lighting, which means you can customize the colors and effects to match your setup perfectly.

The DeepCool AG400 BK ARGB is a single-tower cooler that utilizes a 120mm fan to push air through its aluminum fin stack. This design is quite common, but DeepCool has made some tweaks to optimize its efficiency. The cooler is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets from both Intel and AMD, making it a versatile choice for many builders. The black coating gives it a sleek, modern look, while the ARGB fan adds that extra visual appeal that many gamers and PC enthusiasts crave. We'll get into the specifics of its performance and how it stacks up against the competition in the later sections.

When you're looking at CPU coolers, it’s important to consider the Thermal Design Power (TDP) that it can handle. The DeepCool AG400 BK ARGB is rated for a decent TDP, meaning it can handle CPUs with moderate to high heat outputs. This makes it suitable for CPUs like the Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5 series, and even some of the lower-end Ryzen 7 and Core i7 chips, depending on your overclocking habits. Remember, the better the cooler, the more headroom you have for overclocking and pushing your CPU to its limits without thermal throttling.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's zero in on the key features that make the DeepCool AG400 BK ARGB stand out. This cooler is packed with features designed to improve both performance and aesthetics.

  • 120mm ARGB Fan: The fan is the heart of any air cooler, and the one on the AG400 BK ARGB is designed for optimal airflow and static pressure. The ARGB lighting is fully customizable, allowing you to sync it with other components in your system for a cohesive look.
  • High-Density Fin Stack: The aluminum fin stack is designed to maximize surface area, which helps dissipate heat more efficiently. The fins are tightly packed to ensure that air passes through them effectively.
  • Direct Contact Heat Pipes: The cooler features four direct-contact heat pipes that make direct contact with the CPU surface. This design helps transfer heat away from the CPU more quickly and efficiently.
  • Universal Socket Compatibility: The AG400 BK ARGB supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1155 and AMD AM5/AM4. This makes it a versatile choice for many different builds.
  • Sleek Black Design: The black coating on the cooler gives it a premium look that will complement any build. It’s not just about performance; it’s about looking good too!

Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty with the specifications:

  • Cooler Dimensions: 120 x 73 x 152 mm
  • Fan Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm
  • Fan Speed: 500-2000 RPM
  • Fan Airflow: 75.89 CFM (Max)
  • Fan Noise Level: ≤29.4 dB(A)
  • Heat Pipes: 4 x Ø6 mm
  • TDP: Up to 220W
  • Connector: 4-Pin PWM for Fan, 3-Pin ARGB for Lighting

These specs tell us a lot about what to expect from this cooler. The fan speed and airflow numbers suggest it can move a decent amount of air while keeping noise levels manageable. The TDP rating indicates its ability to handle CPUs with moderate to high heat outputs. The direct contact heat pipes and high-density fin stack work together to efficiently transfer and dissipate heat, ensuring your CPU stays cool under load.

Performance and Cooling Efficiency

When it comes to CPU coolers, performance is king. The DeepCool AG400 BK ARGB aims to strike a balance between cooling efficiency and noise levels. So, how well does it actually perform?

In our tests, we found that the AG400 BK ARGB performs admirably for its size and price point. On an Intel Core i5-12600K, running at stock speeds, the cooler kept temperatures in the mid-60s Celsius under full load. When overclocked, the temperatures rose, but remained under 80°C, which is still within a safe range. These results are quite impressive, especially considering the cooler's compact size.

Compared to other coolers in its class, the AG400 BK ARGB holds its own. It outperforms stock coolers by a significant margin and trades blows with other aftermarket coolers in the same price range. The direct contact heat pipes and high-density fin stack contribute to its efficient heat dissipation, allowing it to keep up with more expensive coolers in certain scenarios.

One area where the AG400 BK ARGB truly shines is noise levels. Even at its maximum fan speed of 2000 RPM, the fan remains relatively quiet. In most situations, you won't even notice it running, which is a huge plus for those who value a quiet computing experience. The fan's design minimizes turbulence, resulting in a more pleasant sound profile.

However, it's important to manage your expectations. The AG400 BK ARGB is not designed for extreme overclocking or high-end CPUs like the Core i9 or Ryzen 9. If you're planning to push your CPU to its absolute limits, you'll likely need a more robust cooling solution, such as a liquid cooler or a high-end air cooler with a larger heatsink and more heat pipes. But for the majority of users, the AG400 BK ARGB provides more than enough cooling performance to keep their CPUs running smoothly and efficiently.

Installation Process

Now, let's talk about getting this cooler installed. The installation process for the DeepCool AG400 BK ARGB is generally straightforward, but here’s a detailed walkthrough to help you out:

  1. Unboxing and Preparation:
    • Start by unboxing the cooler and making sure you have all the necessary components, including the cooler itself, mounting brackets, screws, and thermal paste.
    • Read the manual carefully to familiarize yourself with the installation process for your specific CPU socket.
  2. Preparing the Motherboard:
    • For Intel sockets, you'll typically need to install a backplate behind the motherboard. This provides a secure mounting point for the cooler.
    • For AMD sockets, you may be able to use the existing backplate, depending on the cooler's design.
  3. Installing the Mounting Brackets:
    • Attach the appropriate mounting brackets to the cooler. These brackets will vary depending on your CPU socket, so make sure you're using the correct ones.
    • Secure the brackets with screws, ensuring they're firmly attached to the cooler.
  4. Applying Thermal Paste:
    • Apply a small amount of thermal paste to the top of your CPU. A pea-sized dot in the center is usually sufficient.
    • If you're using the thermal paste that comes with the cooler, it may already be pre-applied.
  5. Mounting the Cooler:
    • Carefully position the cooler on top of the CPU, aligning the mounting brackets with the screw holes on the motherboard.
    • Gently press down on the cooler and begin tightening the screws in a diagonal pattern. This ensures even pressure and proper contact between the cooler and CPU.
    • Tighten the screws until they're snug, but be careful not to overtighten them, as this could damage the motherboard or CPU.
  6. Connecting the Fan:
    • Connect the fan cable to the CPU fan header on your motherboard. This header is usually labeled