Conclusion
We’ve come to the end of this test of DeepCool’s AK400 Digital WH. Are we dealing with a successful product? Let’s take a closer look!
A heatsink that goes everywhere!
After reviewing such monsters as Cooler Master’s A115 and MA824 Stealth, it’s time to move on to a smaller format. Especially since a compact model like the AK400 Digital can slip in anywhere. Its height of less than 160 mm makes it easy to fit into a case. As for memory slots, it won’t obstruct them like the other two models mentioned above.
Aside from that, this is a really well-finished ventirad with a pretty white coat… even if it did force me to take out the black background. However, if you’re looking for a white configuration, this is a choice worth considering, especially if you’re not putting in a 16-core CPU drawing 200W!
Assembly is as easy as ever!
These days, it’s harder to find heatsinks that are complicated to assemble. With this model, however, there are just a few components to handle, and installation is really simplified. What’s more, once installed, this model places no constraints on your memory, so you can opt for RAM with large heatsinks without the risk of having to remount the front fan. On the other hand, the orange spacers on AMD platforms… Tasteless..
However, its digital display means that a USB 2.0 cable will need to be plugged into your motherboard. Likewise, you’ll also need to install a small utility. In reality, this is an accessory, like the display on the brand’s CH560 Digital case. After that, it’s up to you to decide whether you need it or not.
Good performance for the format!
With the AK400 Digital, DeepCool offers us an entry-level ventirad with a meticulous finish, nothing more. However, for its format, we’re surprised by its temperatures, which are significantly lower than those of its NZXT rival. Temperatures are therefore correct for the format. You can therefore mount this ventirad on a CPU consuming up to 130W without fear… That is, provided you don’t run the fan at low rpm when the CPU is working, otherwise temperatures will rise.
As for noise, the nuisance generated by the fan is fairly contained, and remains bearable at full speed – by a long shot, in fact! And if you’re a fan of silence, there’s nothing to stop you from regulating it a little so that it makes itself perfectly invisible.
Finally, the temperature/noise ratio is interesting: at 65W and 95W, the heatsink was able to compete with larger models. However, at 130W, this ratio deteriorates. At the same time, as this is a four-heatpipe model, it’s easy to understand that it’s gradually reaching its limits.
A rising bill!
As far as the sale price is concerned, it’s bound to go up, especially compared to the original series. While the basic version can be found for just over €30, this AK400 Digital WH comes in at almost €50, which is not cheap. Moreover, this price is explained by the extra processing involved in integrating the digital display. Fortunately, if you don’t need a digital display, but are looking for a white ventirad, there’s a version that meets these criteria for around €40!
DeepCool AK400 Digital WH :
We like:
- The meticulous design of this Digital WH version!
- The quality finish of the heatsink
- Its compact dimensions mean it will fit into many cases…
- … and won’t obstruct memory slots
- Easy to install
- Controlled noise levels
- Good temperature-to-noise ratio for its size!
- Numerous versions on offer
Our least favorite :
- A syringe of thermal paste would have been welcome
- Orange spacers on AMD socket (seriously)
- Increasing price
With the AK400 Digital WH, DeepCool offers us a new version of its flagship entry-level CPU Cooler. It features a digital display which, depending on your point of view, may turn out to be a bit of a gimmick. In any case, when mounted on a CPU, it makes a good cup of coffee, while keeping noise levels under control. Otherwise, its dimensions mean it won’t stand up to any particular constraints… However, a syringe of thermal paste or more discreet AMD spacers are possible improvements for this model, which sells for almost €50!
Many thanks to DeepCool!
