Compare: Wraith Prism vs NH-D15S

Design and Aesthetics:

Wraith Prism

The Wraith Prism cooler, although not the best at keeping things cool and quiet, does a good job for the CPUs that it comes bundled with. It showcases a stunning design featuring customizable RGB lighting, adding a touch of personalization to your PC build. Its well-crafted, slim construction ensures compatibility with a variety of cases, including those with limited height clearance.

NH-D15S

The NH-D15S features a dual-tower design with a large aluminum heatsink and one 140mm NF-A15 PWM fan. The asymmetrical layout of the cooler allows for improved clearance for RAM and PCIe slots, making it more versatile for different motherboard layouts. Aesthetically, the NH-D15S maintains Noctua's signature beige and brown color scheme, reflecting the brand's reputation for quality and performance.

Install Notes:

Wraith Prism

Installing the Wraith Prism cooler is a straightforward process, thanks to its compatibility with AMD's mounting system. Some users may encounter minor challenges when securing the backplate, but with care and patience, most builders will find the installation hassle-free.

NH-D15S

The NH-D15S comes with Noctua's SecuFirm2 mounting system, which provides compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. The installation process is straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and high-quality components provided. Noctua also includes a tube of their premium NT-H1 thermal compound to ensure optimal thermal transfer between the CPU and heatsink.

Cooling Performance:

Wraith Prism

When it comes to keeping your computer cool, the Wraith Prism cooler does a good job, especially with the CPUs it comes with. It might not be the best for super powerful processors, but for most people, it keeps things cool enough even when you're gaming or working on heavy stuff. We test it using the normal, slower setting, so it works well right when you start using it, providing a reliable and visually appealing cooling solution.

NH-D15S

The performance of the NH-D15S is exceptional due to its six heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU and into the large fin array of the heatsink. It is suitable for a wide range of processors, from mainstream CPUs to high-end models with high TDPs. The cooler can handle high levels of overclocking and provides reliable cooling under demanding situations, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. However, given this cooler only uses a single fan, this version of the NH-D15 doesn't perform as well as the NH-D15.

Noise Performance:

Wraith Prism

The Wraith Prism cooler is pretty quiet compared to the basic coolers that usually come with CPUs. It has a special fan design and air flow system that keeps the noise down without making it less effective at cooling.

NH-D15S

One of the standout features of the NH-D15S is its quiet operation. The included 140mm NF-A15 PWM fan is designed for optimal airflow and low noise levels. Noctua fans are well-known for their excellent acoustic performance, and the NH-D15S is no exception. Users can expect quiet cooling even during intense workloads or gaming sessions.

Summary:

Wraith Prism

The Wraith Prism cooler is a top contender in the market for those looking for an efficient and visually striking cooling solution. Its solid performance, customizable design, and competitive pricing make it a highly recommended choice for a wide range of PC builders.

NH-D15S

The Noctua NH-D15S is a versatile, high-performance air cooler that offers excellent cooling capabilities and quiet operation. Its asymmetrical, dual-tower design makes it suitable for various system configurations, and its exceptional build quality ensures long-lasting performance. For users seeking a reliable and efficient cooling solution, the NH-D15S is a top choice.