DeepCool AG400 Plus Review: Is This Air Cooler Worth It?

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the DeepCool AG400 Plus, an air cooler that's been making waves in the PC hardware community. If you're on the hunt for a reliable and efficient cooling solution without breaking the bank, you've probably stumbled upon this cooler. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its design and build quality to its performance and value. So, let's get started!

What's in the Box?

First things first, let’s talk about what you get when you purchase the DeepCool AG400 Plus. Opening the box, you'll find the cooler itself, which consists of the heatsink and fans. Alongside that, you'll typically find mounting hardware compatible with both Intel and AMD sockets. This is super convenient because it saves you the hassle of figuring out compatibility issues right off the bat. There’s also usually a small tube of thermal paste included, which is a nice touch, ensuring you have everything you need for installation. Lastly, you'll get an installation manual. While manuals aren't always the most thrilling read, trust me, give it a look. It can save you a headache or two, especially if this is your first time installing an aftermarket cooler. The inclusion of all these necessary components right in the box makes the AG400 Plus user-friendly and ready to go, appealing to both seasoned builders and newcomers alike. No need to run to the store for extra thermal paste or worry about missing brackets; DeepCool has you covered right from the start. This comprehensive package ensures a smooth and straightforward installation process, getting you up and running with your new cooler in no time.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design and build quality, the DeepCool AG400 Plus strikes a solid balance between aesthetics and functionality. The cooler features a fairly standard tower design, which is efficient for heat dissipation. The heatsink is composed of aluminum fins, arranged to maximize surface area for cooling. The fins are neatly aligned and evenly spaced, indicating good manufacturing precision. The black color scheme gives it a sleek and modern look, fitting well in most PC builds. What sets the 'Plus' version apart is the inclusion of dual fans, enhancing its cooling capabilities compared to the base AG400 model. The fans themselves feel sturdy and are designed with rifle bearings, which promise a decent lifespan and relatively quiet operation. The mounting hardware is robust and well-made, ensuring a secure fit on your CPU. While the AG400 Plus might not have the flashy RGB lighting of some higher-end coolers, its understated design is a plus for those who prefer a cleaner look. Overall, the build quality inspires confidence, with no obvious signs of cheap materials or rushed construction. This attention to detail ensures that the cooler not only performs well but also holds up over time, making it a reliable component in your system.

Installation Process

Okay, let’s talk about the installation process of the DeepCool AG400 Plus. Generally, installing this cooler is pretty straightforward, even if you're not a seasoned PC builder. The included manual provides clear, step-by-step instructions, which are a lifesaver. The mounting hardware is designed to be compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including both Intel and AMD platforms, so you're likely covered regardless of your setup. One thing to keep in mind is to make sure you have enough clearance around your CPU socket. The cooler isn't overly large, but it's always a good idea to double-check to avoid any surprises. Applying the thermal paste is crucial for good heat transfer, so be sure to use the included paste sparingly and evenly. Once the cooler is mounted, the fans are easy to attach, and connecting them to your motherboard's fan headers is a breeze. Overall, the installation process is user-friendly, and most people should be able to get it done without too much hassle. However, if you're a complete beginner, watching a quick installation video online might be helpful just to visualize the steps. With a little patience and attention to detail, you'll have your AG400 Plus up and running in no time, keeping your CPU nice and cool.

Cooling Performance

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: the cooling performance of the DeepCool AG400 Plus. This is where this cooler really shines, especially considering its price point. With its dual-fan design and efficient heatsink, the AG400 Plus does an excellent job of keeping CPU temperatures in check. In typical everyday use, such as browsing the web, watching videos, or working on documents, the cooler keeps the CPU running cool and quiet. Even under moderate gaming loads, the temperatures remain well within acceptable limits, preventing any thermal throttling. When subjected to more demanding tasks like video editing, rendering, or heavy gaming sessions, the AG400 Plus still manages to hold its own. While it might not perform quite as well as high-end liquid coolers, it provides a significant improvement over stock coolers and handles the heat admirably. The dual fans help dissipate heat quickly and efficiently, ensuring your CPU stays stable even during prolonged periods of intense use. Overall, the cooling performance of the AG400 Plus is impressive for its class, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to upgrade from a stock cooler or build a budget-friendly gaming PC. It strikes a great balance between performance and price, delivering reliable cooling without breaking the bank.

Noise Levels

Let's talk about noise levels of the DeepCool AG400 Plus. One of the standout features of this cooler is its ability to keep things quiet while maintaining excellent cooling performance. In idle or low-load scenarios, the fans spin at a low RPM, making them virtually silent. This is a huge plus if you value a quiet computing environment, whether you're working, studying, or just browsing the web. Even under moderate loads, such as gaming, the fans remain relatively quiet, producing a gentle hum that's unlikely to be distracting. It's only when you push your CPU to its limits with demanding tasks like video editing or heavy gaming that the fans ramp up to higher speeds, and the noise becomes more noticeable. However, even at full speed, the noise levels are still reasonable and not overly intrusive compared to some other coolers on the market. DeepCool has done a good job of optimizing the fan design to minimize noise without sacrificing cooling efficiency. Overall, the AG400 Plus offers a pleasant acoustic experience, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a quiet PC build. You can enjoy the benefits of efficient cooling without having to put up with excessive fan noise, making it a win-win situation.

Value for Money

Now, let’s discuss the value for money offered by the DeepCool AG400 Plus. In terms of pricing, this cooler typically falls into the budget-friendly category, making it an attractive option for those looking to upgrade their cooling without spending a fortune. Considering its cooling performance, build quality, and relatively quiet operation, the AG400 Plus offers excellent value for the price. It provides a significant improvement over stock coolers, allowing you to push your CPU harder and maintain stable temperatures without breaking the bank. The inclusion of mounting hardware for both Intel and AMD platforms, as well as a tube of thermal paste, adds to its value proposition. Compared to other coolers in its price range, the AG400 Plus stands out for its balanced performance and user-friendly installation. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end coolers, it delivers where it counts: effective cooling at an affordable price. Whether you're building a budget gaming PC or simply looking to upgrade your existing cooler, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is definitely worth considering. It offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and affordability, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Final Verdict

Alright, so what's the final word on the DeepCool AG400 Plus? Overall, this air cooler is a fantastic option for anyone looking to upgrade their CPU cooling without breaking the bank. It offers a great balance of cooling performance, quiet operation, and ease of installation, making it suitable for both novice and experienced PC builders. The dual-fan design ensures efficient heat dissipation, keeping your CPU temperatures in check even under demanding workloads. While it may not have the flashy RGB lighting or advanced features of high-end coolers, it delivers reliable performance at an affordable price. The included mounting hardware and thermal paste are nice touches that add to its value. If you're on a budget and need a cooler that can handle moderate to heavy workloads without sounding like a jet engine, the DeepCool AG400 Plus is definitely worth considering. It's a solid all-around cooler that offers excellent value for money and is sure to keep your CPU running cool and quiet. So, if you're in the market for a new air cooler, be sure to give the AG400 Plus a look – you won't be disappointed!