DeepCool's AK400 may not be the top performer in its price range, but overall performance per dollar is still exceptional. While it may not be class-leading in that metric, it offers a more refined visual design and a step up in overall build quality. They also back it with a decent warranty of three years. When you factor all that in, you end up with a well-rounded cooler that should handle the majority of entry and mid-range systems with ease. That said, if you are trying to push a high TDP processor, you are going to need to step up to its larger sibling or another larger cooler, especially if overclocking in a warmer environment. This is particularly true on the AMD front, where the AK400 was not able to handle the increased heat load of our overclocked Ryzen 3900X. In the AK400's defense, most coolers in this price range couldn't handle the Ryzen 3900X in the FPU OC tests. However, in the less intensive Blender tests, it did just fine with a little room to spare. Even so, it fell behind by 4°C in the noise normalized tests.

Looking at the Intel results paints a different picture. With a maximum temperature limit of 100°C on the Core i9-10900K, the AK400 managed to squeak by in the noise normalized FPU OC tests, taking the top spot. Meanwhile, with the fans at maximum RPM, it held a comfortable lead compared to similar coolers. More surprising is that with the fans at maximum RPM, the peak noise level was just 49 dBA, making for a very quiet cooler that was not quite on par with the Noctua NH-U12S or be quiet! Shadow Rock Slim 2, but it was only 3–4 dBA louder at maximum RPM. Therefore, if running an Intel-based system, the DeepCool AK400 will be a terrific fit if you're not trying to overclock to the moon and just want a solid performer without excess noise.

While build quality is topnotch, I am not a fan of the mounting hardware. It isn't terrible, but on Socket AM4, threaded standoffs would make for a much easier install than the current design. While the situation isn't a whole lot different on the Intel side of the fence, the spacers grip the backplate to a certain degree, making the process a bit easier. However, that just proves that a revamp using standoffs to secure the backplates is a better option.

I will also point out that the cooler's lack of ARGB lighting will likely cause a few to pass on the AK400, but if you are tired of the "let's put LEDs on everything trend," you should find the DeepCool offering to be a great option for a less ostentatious build.

Overall, DeepCool's AK400 proves to be a damn good cooler both in terms of quality and bang for your buck. Add the decent level of performance, low noise output, and good warranty and you have a well-rounded offering that is a great fit for entry to mid-range gaming rigs. It should be on your short list of potential coolers for such builds, especially if you're tired of ARGB lighting.