Tom's Hardware reviewed the Deepcool Gammaxx 400 V2 and noted it features an upgraded fan with a wider RPM range (500-1650 RPM) and reduced noise profile at 27 decibels. The cooler supports up to 180 watts TDP, representing an improvement over the original model. YouTube reviewer Mike from Mike's Unboxing Reviews highlighted its affordability. This cooler is best suited for budget-conscious builders seeking basic cooling performance without significant upgrades.
Full review
Tower height and design
The Deepcool Gammaxx 400 V2 stands 162mm tall, placing it in the full tower category of CPU coolers. Frostytech noted that the heatsink features a standard rectangular aluminum fin stack with four 6mm diameter copper heatpipes exposed at the base. The design eschews fancy leading edges or punched cooling fins, presenting a straightforward approach to heat dissipation. The heatsink weighs 654 grams and measures 162x135x75mm overall. The aluminum fins are press-fit over the copper heatpipes and include a slight bend in the middle to break up laminar airflow. This configuration provides a balance between cooling efficiency and manufacturing simplicity, though it lacks the aerodynamic enhancements found in premium competitors.
Fan specifications and airflow
The cooler ships with a 120mm PWM fan that operates between 900-1500 RPM, moving up to 66CFM of airflow at maximum speed. According to Tom's Hardware, this fan provides sufficient cooling performance for most applications. The fan's RPM range has been expanded in the V2 model, now operating between 500-1650 RPM, which allows for more precise control and potentially lower noise levels under light loads. Frostytech measured the acoustic performance at 48-39 dBA, indicating moderate noise levels. The fan's ability to adjust speed based on temperature helps maintain a balance between cooling performance and operational quietness, making it suitable for both gaming and office environments.
Installation and compatibility
Installation of the Deepcool Gammaxx 400 V2 is straightforward, with the cooler coming with mounting hardware for both Intel and AMD processors. The heatsink includes three sets of metal brackets that accommodate a wide range of socket types including Intel LGA2011/1366/1156/1155/775 and AMD FM1/AM3+/AM3/AM2+/AM2/940/939/754. For AMD platforms, the cooler clips directly onto the existing AMD heatsink retention cage, simplifying the installation process. Overclockers Club noted that the cooler includes all necessary mounting hardware and thermal paste for both socket types. The V2 model supports up to 180W TDP, which is sufficient for most mid-range to high-end processors. The cooler's dimensions of 127 x 75.5 x 157.5mm make it compatible with most standard PC cases, though users should verify clearance with their specific build.
Performance in thermal tests
Tom's Hardware conducted performance testing on the Deepcool Gammaxx 400 V2, measuring its ability to maintain CPU temperatures under load. The cooler demonstrated adequate performance for its price point, effectively managing heat dissipation across various processor loads. The combination of four copper heatpipes and the 120mm PWM fan provides efficient cooling, preventing thermal throttling and maintaining stable performance. The V2 model's increased RPM range and improved noise profile contribute to better overall user experience. While not competing with high-end liquid coolers, the Gammaxx 400 V2 delivers solid performance for mainstream users and budget-conscious builders. The cooler's ability to handle up to 180W TDP makes it suitable for a wide range of CPUs, including many mid-range and some high-end processors.
Noise and operational characteristics
The Deepcool Gammaxx 400 V2 operates with relatively low noise levels, making it suitable for quiet environments. Frostytech measured the cooler's acoustic output between 48-39 dBA, which is moderate for a full tower cooler. The PWM fan's ability to adjust speed based on temperature helps maintain low noise levels during light usage while providing adequate cooling when needed. The V2 model's fan now operates between 500-1650 RPM, offering more precise control than previous versions. Users have noted that the cooler's noise profile improves with the new fan, though it may still produce noticeable sound under full load conditions. The de-vibration features mentioned in the packaging help reduce fan-induced vibrations, contributing to a quieter operation.
Strengths
- +New fan with wider RPM range of 500-1650 RPM
- +Reduced noise profile at 27 decibels compared to previous version
- +Increased TDP support up to 180 watts
Watch-outs
- −Limited performance gains over previous Gammaxx 400 version
- −No significant improvements in cooling efficiency beyond fan upgrade
How it compares
The Deepcool Gammaxx 400 V2 offers a wider RPM range and reduced noise but provides only modest performance gains over its predecessor, unlike the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE which includes an extra heat pipe. Compared to the be quiet! Pure Rock Pro 3 Black, it lacks dual fans and a more advanced design, though it's significantly more affordable and suitable for AM4 platform users.
Rating sources
“The build quality of the Gammaxx 400 V2 is decent, with a sturdy heatsink and a reliable fan. Considering its price point, it provides excellent value for your money.”
Our 3.8 score is the average of the 2 scored reviews above; 2 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
