MSRP $149.95 USD in Amazon
Noctua
continues to lead the market in cooling solutions, renowned for its exceptional build quality, performance, and near-silent operation. Their present work focuses on refining air cooling technology, with products like the NH-D15 and NH-U12A standing out for their efficiency and reliability. Noctua’s dedication to innovation is evident in their continuous product improvements and new releases, catering to both high-performance gaming rigs and quiet computing setups. In today’s market, Noctua holds a strong position, with customers highly valuing their products despite the premium price, due to the unmatched cooling performance and durability that Noctua consistently delivers.
The Noctua NH-D15 G2 is an updated version of the acclaimed NH-D15, widely recognized for its exceptional cooling performance and quiet operation. This dual-tower air cooler features two high-quality NF-A15 140mm fans, which provide efficient airflow while maintaining low noise levels. The cooler’s design includes six heat pipes and a large fin stack, ensuring optimal heat dissipation, making it ideal for overclocked CPUs and demanding systems. With excellent build quality and compatibility with various RAM and PCIe configurations, the NH-D15 G2 continues Noctua’s tradition of delivering top-tier cooling solutions for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
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Cooler |
specifications |
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Cooler |
Noctua NH-D15 G2 |
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Heatsink Material |
Aluminum |
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Rated Lifespan |
>150,000 for the included fans |
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Socket Compatibility |
Intel Socket LGA 1851/1700/1200/115x AMD AM5 / AM4 |
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Base |
Copper |
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Average Maximum TDP (Our Testing) |
~240W with Intel’s i7-14700K |
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Installed Size (with fans) |
168mm (H) x 150 mm (W) x 152mm (D) |
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Weight |
1525g (with fans) |
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Warranty |
6 years |
Design and Build Quality ,
The Noctua NH-D15 G2 retains the classic dual-tower design of its predecessor, featuring two large fin stacks and six heatpipes that ensure excellent heat dissipation. The build quality is top-notch, as expected from Noctua, with a robust construction that feels premium in every aspect. The cooler’s fins and heatpipes are coated with Noctua’s signature dark brown and beige color scheme, which some might find polarizing, but it remains iconic and synonymous with high performance.
The cooler comes with two 140mm NF-A15 PWM fans, which are optimized for both performance and quiet operation. These fans are known for their durability and low noise levels, even at higher RPMs, making them ideal for maintaining a balance between cooling efficiency and acoustics.
Installation and Compatibility ,
Noctua has made the installation process straightforward with their SecuFirm2™ mounting system, which supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including the latest LGA 1700 and AM5. The package includes everything needed for installation, including thermal paste and a long screwdriver, making the process as hassle-free as possible.
The NH-D15 G2 is designed to fit in most mid-tower cases, but due to its large size, it’s important to check case clearance before purchasing. The cooler stands 165mm tall, so it may not fit in smaller cases or those with limited CPU cooler clearance. Additionally, the cooler can overhang the first RAM slot on some motherboards, but Noctua has designed the cooler to be compatible with most high-performance RAM modules, thanks to its cutout on the lower fins.
Cooling Performance ,
The Noctua NH-D15 G2 excels in cooling performance, handling even the most demanding CPUs with ease. Whether you’re overclocking an Intel Core i9 or an AMD Ryzen 9 processor, this cooler can keep temperatures in check, even under sustained heavy loads. The dual-tower design, combined with six heatpipes, allows for efficient heat dissipation, making it one of the best air coolers for high-TDP processors.
In comparative benchmarks, the NH-D15 G2 performs on par with some 240mm and 280mm AIO liquid coolers, which is impressive for an air cooler. It manages to maintain low temperatures while keeping noise levels surprisingly low, even when the fans ramp up to higher speeds. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize quiet performance.
Noise Levels ,
One of the standout features of Noctua’s coolers is their whisper-quiet operation, and the NH-D15 G2 is no exception. The two NF-A15 PWM fans operate between 300 and 1,500 RPM, with noise levels ranging from 19.2 to 24.6 dB(A). Even at maximum speed, the cooler remains remarkably quiet, making it ideal for those who want a powerful cooling solution without the loud fan noise often associated with high-performance coolers.
Value for Money ,
The Noctua NH-D15 G2 is priced at a premium compared to other air coolers, but it delivers exceptional performance that justifies the cost. It competes not only with other high-end air coolers but also with many AIO liquid coolers, offering similar or even better cooling performance without the potential risks of liquid cooling. The cooler’s longevity, thanks to Noctua’s industry-leading fan design and build quality, adds to its value, making it a long-term investment for any high-performance PC build.
The Noctua NH-D15 G2 stands out as one of the best deals in the high-performance CPU cooling market. Renowned for its exceptional cooling capabilities and ultra-quiet operation, this cooler offers incredible value for both enthusiasts and professionals. Its dual-tower design, coupled with two premium NF-A15 140mm fans, ensures superior heat dissipation even in overclocked systems. The build quality is top-notch, and the cooler is compatible with a wide range of CPUs and motherboards, making it a versatile choice. Given its performance, reliability, and Noctua’s industry-leading reputation, the NH-D15 G2 is an excellent investment for anyone looking to maximize their system’s cooling potential without compromising on noise or quality.
