Compare: NH-D12L vs AG400 BK

Design and Aesthetics:

NH-D12L

The NH-D12L features a dual-tower design with two moderate aluminum heatsinks and a single Noctua 120mm NF-A12x25r PWM fan. The cooler's design allows for superior heat dissipation, making it capable of handling even the most demanding processors. Aesthetically, the NH-D12L maintains Noctua's signature beige and brown color scheme, reflecting the brand's reputation for quality and performance.

AG400 BK

The AG400 series is a single tower 120mm CPU cooler that built upon DeepCool's legacy products but was stripped down for a streamlined and efficient package. It has a simple and clean design, with an aluminum tower and a single 120mm fan. This cooler comes in a variety of colors including black and white, so it matches most computer setups. Additionally, this cooler has RGB lighting which may fit for setups with a RGB focus.

Install Notes:

NH-D12L

The NH-C14S features Noctua's SecuFirm2 mounting system, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets and offering a straightforward installation process, typical of Noctua coolers. Clear instructions, high-quality components, and a tube of their premium NT-H1 thermal compound make it an easy and user-friendly experience, even for beginners. The cooler uses the original AMD backplate for AMD installations. However, one downside is that the cooler may stick to your CPU, and due to the screw setup, you can't slide the cooler off the CPU like with some other brands. Overall, the NH-C14S offers a relatively hassle-free installation process.

AG400 BK

This cooler is moderately difficult to install and is more difficult than other DeepCool cooler installations. For AMD CPU's, the mounting setup can be given that the cooler doesn't secure through holes but rather through notches. For this reason, keeping the backplate flush against the motherboard while also keeping the install components in line may prove to be difficult and may require a second pair of hands. This also has a very similar installation to the AK400.

Cooling Performance:

NH-D12L

The NH-D12L delivers impressive performance, thanks to its five heat pipes that effectively transfer heat from the CPU to the extensive fin arrays of the heatsinks. However, this cooler primarily emphasizes quiet operation, which may limit its cooling capabilities for high-end models with high TDPs that demand more robust cooling solutions.

AG400 BK

It's designed to work with a wide range of modern CPU sockets and is able to dissipate heat quickly and efficiently. Although this cooler doesn't push out the best cooling performance, it does well for its size with performance slightly below the Noctua NH-U12S Redux. For this reason, this cooler is best for CPUs that need a moderate cooling solution.

Noise Performance:

NH-D12L

One of the standout features of the NH-D12L is its quiet operation. The included 120mm NF-A12x25r PWM fan is designed for optimal airflow and low noise levels. Noctua fans are well-known for their excellent acoustic performance, and the NH-D12L is no exception. Users can expect quiet cooling even during intense workloads or gaming sessions.

AG400 BK

This cooler has an above average noise profile, making it louder than most comparable air coolers. This means that you might experience more noise while your PC is running, which could be a drawback if you're sensitive to noise or prefer a quiet workspace. If having a quiet PC setup is important to you, it's worth considering other coolers with better noise profiles.

Summary:

NH-D12L

The Noctua NH-D12L is a top-tier air cooler that offers excellent cooling capabilities and quiet operation. Its dual-tower design and exceptional build quality make it a top choice for users seeking a reliable and efficient cooling solution for moderate-performance systems.

AG400 BK

The AG400 is an excellent choice to upgrade their CPU cooling solution. It has a sleek design with ARGB capabilities, helping create that look that sets you apart. However, this cooler isn't the most powerful cooling solution so it may not be best for all CPU's and it runs on the louder side. Overall, there is enough that sets this cooler apart that makes this cooler worth considering.