Compare: NH-D12L vs Kraken-X53

Displayed below are comprehensive data and graphs that compare the Noctua NH-D12L to the NZXT Kraken-X53, showcasing critical qualitative and performance metrics. Performance metrics are further segmented into distinct graphs while leveraging the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X, illustrating how each cooler performs under various varying CPU power levels. This allows for a clear comparison of their relative performance and sound output when under different heat loads. The comparison is conducted under the following conditions:
  • Case: Praxis Wetbench
  • Ambient Temperatures: 23°C
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600X (Pick Another CPU)

CPU Cooler Details

Metric Cooler 1: NH-D12L Cooler 2: Kraken-X53
Cooler Name NH-D12L Kraken-X53
Fan 1 Name NF-A12x25r PWM Aer P 120mm
Fan 2 Name Aer P 120mm
Manufacture Rated dBa 22.6 36.0
Number of Heat Pipes 5 0
Radiator/Heatsink 1 (WxHxD) 125x95x50 mm 123x30x275 mm
Heatsink 2 (WxHxD) 125x95x32 mm
Air Cooler Rating: Install 8 (Easy)
AIO Cooler Rating: Install 6 (Moderate)
Manufacture's Link NH-D12L Manufacture's Link Kraken-X53 Manufacture's Link

Product Links

Link Type Cooler 1: NH-D12L Cooler 2: Kraken-X53
Amazon.com

Fan Details for CPU Cooler:


Fan 1

Metric Cooler 1 Cooler 2
Fan Name NF-A12x25r PWM Aer P 120mm
Fan Location Mid Bottom
Fan Flow Type Mid Push
CPU Only Fan No No
Max RPM 2000 2000
Fan Size (mm) 120 120
Fan Width (mm) 25 26
Manufacture Rated dBa 22.6 36.0
Manufactured Rated Airflow (cmf) 60.1 73.1
Manufactured Rated Air Pressure (h2o) 2.3 2.9
Number Of Pins 4 4
PWM Fan Yes Yes
Bearing Type SSO2 Fluid Dynamic
Watts (W) 1.68
Current (A) 0.14
Max Volts 12.00

Fan 2

Metric Cooler 1 Cooler 2
Fan Name Aer P 120mm
Fan Location Top
Fan Flow Type Push
CPU Only Fan No
Max RPM 2000
Fan Size (mm) 120
Fan Width (mm) 26
Manufacture Rated dBa 36.0
Manufactured Rated Airflow (cmf) 73.1
Manufactured Rated Air Pressure (h2o) 2.9
Number Of Pins 4
PWM Fan Yes
Bearing Type Fluid Dynamic
Watts (W)
Current (A)
Max Volts


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.

Kraken-X53

Sporting an all-black aesthetic, this cooler presents an innovative infinity screen showcasing the NZXT logo. While it provides subtle RGB accents on the AIO pump, it avoids overwhelming RGB effects, appealing to users seeking a tastefully subdued lighting rather than an overpowering RGB setup.


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.

Kraken-X53

Installing this AIO is relatively straightforward, especially when compared to some other AIO models. When it comes to mounting the radiator, the initial step involves attaching the fans to it. However, it's worth noting that the screws used to secure the radiator to the PC case are relatively short and may not be sufficient for cases with thick materials. As for the pump installation, it follows a conventional process with four screws connecting it to the backplate, ensuring the AIO pump is securely placed on the CPU. Additionally, the AIO tubes offer flexibility, allowing for convenient adjustments to achieve an optimal setup placement.




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.

Kraken-X53

The NZXT Kraken x53 stands out as a cooling solution capable of handling high temperatures, delivering excellent cooling performance that can rival top-tier air coolers like the NH-D15. It's perfectly suited for setups seeking remarkable cooling efficiency , all without the bulkier dimensions often associated with larger air cooling solutions. However, much of the performance gained from this cooler is driven by the high RPM fans.


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.

Kraken-X53

Equipped with dual 120mm fans capable of reaching high RPMs, this cooler may exhibit more noise compared to its counterparts. Nonetheless, this characteristic offers a wider array of choices for optimizing cooling performance during CPU-intensive tasks. It's worth noting, however, that there are alternative cooling solutions, both in the air and all-in-one (AIO) categories, which deliver better noise-to-performance ratios.


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.

Kraken-X53

The NZXT Kraken x53 delivers strong cooling performance, thanks to its dual high-RPM 120mm fans. However, it can be noisier compared to alternatives in both air and AIO categories that offer better noise-to-performance ratios. Sporting an understated all-black design with subtle RGB accents, it appeals to those seeking tasteful lighting options. Its compact form factor suits setups prioritizing efficient cooling without excess bulk, although it's important to note that a significant part of its performance hinges on the high RPM fans.


AMD 5600X CPU Box Image

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

Pick Another CPU

CPU Details:

Metric Value
Brand AMD
Cooler Name Ryzen 5 5600X
CPU Socket AM4
Cores 6
Thread Count 12
Max Temperature 95°C
Base Clock 3.7GHz
Max Boost Clock 4.6GHz
Cache L1
Cache L2 3MB
Cache L3 32MB
Processor Power Base 65W
Manufacture's Link Ryzen 5 5600X Manufacture's Link

Product Links

Link Type Value
Amazon.com

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