AK400 Vs AG400 Plus: Which CPU Cooler Wins?

Choosing the right CPU cooler is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and preventing dreaded overheating, especially if you're into gaming or other CPU-intensive tasks. Two popular contenders in the market are the DeepCool AK400 and the DeepCool AG400 Plus. Both offer excellent cooling capabilities at a reasonable price, but which one is the better choice for you? Let's dive deep into a detailed comparison, guys, so you can make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to CPU coolers, the design and build quality significantly impact their performance and longevity. The DeepCool AK400 features a classic tower design with a dense fin stack. Its blacked-out aesthetic gives it a sleek, minimalist look that fits well in most PC builds. The cooler utilizes four direct-touch copper heat pipes that efficiently draw heat away from the CPU. The build quality feels solid, and the materials used are of good quality for its price range. The top of the cooler has a clean, unadorned finish, which adds to its overall understated appearance.

On the other hand, the DeepCool AG400 Plus takes a slightly different approach. While it also sports a tower design, it includes dual fans, which immediately suggests enhanced cooling potential. The fin stack design is similar to the AK400, but the presence of two fans means a larger surface area for heat dissipation. The AG400 Plus also uses direct-touch copper heat pipes, but it has an additional heat pipe, totaling five. This increase in heat pipes can lead to better heat transfer. The build quality remains consistent with DeepCool’s standards, providing a robust and durable cooler. The inclusion of dual fans might make it a bit bulkier than the AK400, but the improved cooling might be worth the extra space.

In terms of aesthetics, both coolers are designed to blend seamlessly into any build. The AK400 is perfect if you prefer a more subtle, single-fan setup, while the AG400 Plus is ideal for those who prioritize performance and don't mind the slightly larger footprint and dual-fan configuration. Both coolers feature well-constructed fin stacks and efficient heat pipe designs, ensuring effective heat dissipation. Ultimately, the choice depends on your aesthetic preference and cooling needs.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is where these coolers truly show their mettle. The DeepCool AK400, with its single 120mm fan and four heat pipes, provides respectable cooling for mainstream CPUs. In typical usage scenarios, such as general computing and moderate gaming, the AK400 keeps temperatures well within acceptable limits. It handles CPUs with TDPs (Thermal Design Power) of up to 130W effectively, ensuring your processor doesn't overheat during prolonged use. While it may not be the best choice for overclocking high-end CPUs, it offers a solid balance of performance and noise for everyday tasks.

The DeepCool AG400 Plus, armed with dual 120mm fans and five heat pipes, elevates the cooling game. The extra fan and heat pipe contribute to a more efficient heat dissipation process. This cooler excels in maintaining lower temperatures, especially under heavy loads. Gamers and content creators who push their CPUs to the limit will appreciate the AG400 Plus's ability to keep temperatures under control. It handles CPUs with higher TDPs with ease, making it suitable for overclocking and demanding applications. The dual-fan setup not only improves cooling performance but also ensures consistent airflow across the heatsink.

Independent tests and reviews consistently show that the AG400 Plus outperforms the AK400 in terms of raw cooling power. The difference in temperature can range from a few degrees Celsius to as much as 5-10 degrees Celsius under extreme workloads. This makes the AG400 Plus a better investment if you prioritize maximum cooling efficiency. However, the AK400 still holds its own for users who don't require extreme cooling and prefer a quieter, more compact solution.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a crucial consideration, especially if you value a quiet computing environment. The DeepCool AK400, with its single fan, generally operates quietly. The 120mm fan is designed to balance airflow and noise, providing adequate cooling without generating excessive noise. Under normal workloads, the AK400 is barely audible, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive users. Even under moderate loads, the fan noise remains minimal, ensuring a distraction-free experience. DeepCool has optimized the fan blades to reduce turbulence and noise, contributing to its overall quiet operation.

The DeepCool AG400 Plus, featuring dual fans, has the potential to be louder than the AK400. However, DeepCool has implemented measures to mitigate noise. The fans are designed with similar noise-reduction technology, and the PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control allows the motherboard to regulate fan speeds based on temperature. Under light loads, the fans spin at lower speeds, keeping noise levels to a minimum. Under heavy loads, the fans ramp up to provide maximum cooling, which inevitably increases noise. However, even at full speed, the noise levels are generally acceptable and not overly intrusive.

In practice, the difference in noise levels between the AK400 and AG400 Plus is noticeable but not dramatic. The AG400 Plus is slightly louder under heavy loads, but the improved cooling performance might justify the extra noise for some users. If silence is your top priority, the AK400 is the quieter option. However, if you need the extra cooling power and don't mind a bit more fan noise, the AG400 Plus is a reasonable trade-off.

Installation and Compatibility

Installation and compatibility are essential aspects to consider when choosing a CPU cooler. The DeepCool AK400 is designed for easy installation, with a straightforward mounting system that supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700/1200/1151/1150/1155 and AMD AM5/AM4. The cooler comes with clear instructions and all the necessary hardware, making the installation process hassle-free. Its compact size ensures it doesn't interfere with other components, such as RAM modules or VRM heatsinks. The mounting mechanism provides a secure fit, ensuring optimal contact between the cooler and the CPU.

The DeepCool AG400 Plus also features a user-friendly installation process. It supports the same range of CPU sockets as the AK400, ensuring broad compatibility. The mounting system is similar, with clear instructions and all the required hardware included. However, the dual-fan design might make it slightly more challenging to install in tight spaces. The larger footprint of the AG400 Plus could potentially interfere with RAM modules, especially if your motherboard has closely spaced RAM slots. It's essential to check the dimensions of the cooler and your motherboard layout to ensure compatibility. Despite the slightly larger size, the AG400 Plus remains relatively easy to install, thanks to DeepCool's well-designed mounting system.

Overall, both coolers offer a smooth installation experience. The AK400 is slightly more forgiving due to its smaller size, but the AG400 Plus is manageable with a bit of planning. Make sure to consult your motherboard's documentation and measure available space to avoid any compatibility issues.

Pricing and Value

Pricing and value are critical factors in any purchasing decision. The DeepCool AK400 is positioned as an entry-level cooler, offering excellent performance at an affordable price. Its cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious builders who want a reliable cooler without breaking the bank. The AK400 provides a great balance of performance, noise, and price, making it an excellent value proposition for mainstream users. It's ideal for those who don't need extreme cooling capabilities but still want to ensure their CPU runs cool and quiet.

The DeepCool AG400 Plus is priced slightly higher than the AK400, reflecting its enhanced cooling capabilities and dual-fan design. While it's not the cheapest cooler on the market, it offers excellent value for its performance. The AG400 Plus is a worthwhile investment for gamers, content creators, and overclockers who demand the best possible cooling. The extra cost translates to lower temperatures, improved stability, and the ability to push your CPU further. Considering its performance and features, the AG400 Plus provides a compelling value proposition for users who prioritize cooling efficiency.

Ultimately, the better value depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable, reliable cooler for everyday use, the AK400 is an excellent choice. If you need the extra cooling power for demanding tasks and are willing to spend a bit more, the AG400 Plus is the better investment. Both coolers offer great value within their respective price ranges.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, both the DeepCool AK400 and AG400 Plus are excellent CPU coolers that offer great performance and value. The DeepCool AK400 stands out as a budget-friendly option that provides reliable cooling for mainstream CPUs. Its quiet operation and easy installation make it ideal for everyday users who don't require extreme cooling. The DeepCool AG400 Plus, on the other hand, offers superior cooling performance thanks to its dual-fan design and additional heat pipe. It's a great choice for gamers, content creators, and overclockers who need the extra cooling power to keep their CPUs running at optimal temperatures.

So, which one should you choose? If you're on a tight budget and need a reliable cooler for everyday tasks, the AK400 is the way to go. If you're willing to spend a bit more for better cooling performance, especially for demanding applications, the AG400 Plus is the better investment. Consider your specific needs, budget, and priorities to make the right choice. Either way, you're getting a quality cooler that will keep your CPU running cool and quiet.

Happy building, folks!