DeepCool AK400 CPU Cooler Review: Budget-Friendly Performance
DeepCool AK400 CPU Cooler Review: Budget-Friendly Performance
Looking for a reliable and affordable CPU cooler that can keep your system running cool and quiet? The DeepCool AK400 is a compelling option, especially for budget-minded gamers and enthusiasts. In this review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The DeepCool AK400 is a single-tower CPU cooler designed to provide efficient thermal dissipation for mid-range processors. It features a 120mm fan with a fluid dynamic bearing (FDB) and a heatsink with four direct-touch copper heatpipes. The AK400 boasts impressive cooling performance, particularly for its price point, and it’s compatible with all major socket types, making it a versatile choice for various builds.
Features
The DeepCool AK400 comes packed with features that contribute to its cooling efficiency and overall appeal:
- 120mm FDB Fan: The fan utilizes a fluid dynamic bearing, known for its quiet operation and longevity. It spins at up to 1850 RPM, delivering strong airflow at 66.47 CFM while maintaining a relatively low noise level of 29dBA.
- 4x Direct Touch Copper Heatpipes: The heatsink is designed with four copper heatpipes that directly touch the CPU’s IHS (Integrated Heat Spreader), ensuring efficient heat transfer. These heatpipes maximize contact area for better thermal performance.
- 4-Pin PWM Fan Connector: The fan features a 4-pin PWM connector, allowing for automatic speed control based on CPU temperatures. This ensures optimal fan speed and noise levels for different workloads.
- Compatibility: The AK400 is compatible with Intel and AMD platforms, including popular sockets like LGA1700, LGA1200, AM4, and AM5, making it a versatile choice for various PC builds.
Performance
In terms of performance, the DeepCool AK400 exceeded expectations. It kept my Intel Core i5-12400F CPU comfortably cool even under heavy workloads, including gaming sessions and stress tests. During gaming, I consistently saw CPU temperatures well below the thermal throttling threshold, ensuring stable and smooth gameplay. The cooler’s quiet operation was also a welcome surprise, particularly during idle and light workloads.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent cooling performance for its price.
- Quiet fan operation, especially at low RPMs.
- Compatible with all major socket types.
- Attractive design with a sleek black finish.
Cons
- The fan can become a bit noisy at higher RPMs under extreme loads.
- The heatsink is not as tall as some other tower coolers, which could limit its compatibility with larger RAM heatsinks.
Final Verdict
The DeepCool AK400 is a highly recommended CPU cooler for users seeking a budget-friendly option that delivers solid performance. It strikes a balance between cooling efficiency, noise levels, and price, making it a great choice for a wide range of users, from gamers to enthusiasts. While it may not be the most silent cooler under heavy load, it’s a valuable solution for those looking for reliable cooling without breaking the bank.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 127 × 97 × 155 mm (L × W × H) |
| Heatsink Dimensions | 120 × 45 × 152 mm (L × W × H) |
| Net Weight | 661 g |
| Heatpipe | Ø6 mm × 4 pcs |
| Fan Dimensions | 120 × 120 × 25 mm (L × W × H) |
| Fan Speed | 500 ~ 1850 RPM ± 10% |
| Fan Airflow | 66.47 CFM |
| Fan Air Pressure | 2.04 mmAq |
| Fan Noise | ≤ 29 dB(A) |
| Fan Connector | 4-pin PWM |
| Bearing Type | Fluid Dynamic Bearing |
| Fan Rated Voltage | 12 VDC |
| Fan Rated Current | 0.13 A |
| Fan Power Consumption | 1.56 W |
