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
• Features
• Performance
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

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