Compare: NH-D12L vs NH-D15 G2

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.

NH-D15 G2

This cooler is quite large and showcases Noctua's signature design, appealing to diehard PC builders who don't want to compromise on cooling performance. The NH-D15 G2 closely resembles the previous generation, with a few updates. This version features eight heat pipes and offset depths on the two heatsinks

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.

NH-D15 G2

The NH-D15 G2 retains the same installation design as its predecessor, with the addition of a new bracket that allows for offset mounting on AM5 CPUs. The installation process is straightforward, guided by clear instructions that adhere to industry standards for top-tier coolers. However, the cooler's large size may pose challenges when maneuvering it within the case.

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.

NH-D15 G2

The Noctua's NH-D15 G2 cooler is hard to beat in terms of cooling performance, even outperforming AIOs from various other brands—a result expected given its larger size. However, when compared to the previous generation, its performance is on par, offering little improvement.

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.

NH-D15 G2

Compared to the average cooler, the Noctua NH-D15 G2 is louder than most on the market. However, when performance is evaluated on a noise-normalized basis, this cooler is tough to beat, offering excellent cooling for a given noise level. This means you can keep your cooler quiet when needed, while still having the headroom to increase the speed for enhanced cooling performance.

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.

NH-D15 G2

The Noctua NH-D15 G2 retains the familiar installation design of its predecessor, with the addition of a new bracket for offset mounting on AM5 CPUs. While its large size may make installation a bit challenging, the process is straightforward, with clear instructions that meet industry standards. The cooler's substantial size is matched by its performance, offering exceptional cooling that even surpasses many AIOs from other brands. Although its performance is on par with the previous generation, the NH-D15 G2 still delivers excellent cooling, particularly when considering noise levels. Despite being louder than the average cooler, it excels in noise-normalized performance, allowing users to maintain quiet operation while having the flexibility to ramp up speed for maximum cooling when needed.