Compare: NH-D12L vs AXP90-X47 Full Copper

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.

AXP90-X47 Full Copper

This cooler features a sleek, low-profile design, making it an excellent choice for compact builds where space is a priority. Its copper construction not only enhances thermal performance but also adds a distinctive look that stands out in any 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.

AXP90-X47 Full Copper

Installing this cooler is more involved than a standard cooler due to its low-profile design, which requires it to be screwed in from behind rather than from the top, as is common with most coolers. While the installation is relatively easy if the motherboard is not yet secured in the case, it can be challenging if you attempt to install it with the motherboard already mounted. Additionally, the cooler's brackets are attached via screws that need to be removed and swapped depending on the CPU you're using.

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.

AXP90-X47 Full Copper

Given its compact size, it’s no surprise that this cooler won’t top the charts in cooling performance. However, it delivers impressive efficiency for its form factor, outperforming stock coolers of similar size.

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.

AXP90-X47 Full Copper

With its high-speed 2700 RPM single fan, this cooler has the potential to produce higher noise levels than typical models. However, given its compact size, it's expected to become audible when delivering high-performance cooling.

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.

AXP90-X47 Full Copper

This cooler’s sleek, low-profile design makes it an excellent choice for compact builds where space is a priority. Its copper construction enhances thermal performance while adding a distinctive look to any setup. While it won’t compete with larger coolers in raw cooling power, it outperforms stock coolers of similar size. The high-speed 2700 RPM fan can produce noticeable noise under heavy loads, which is expected given its compact form factor. Installation is more involved than standard coolers, requiring mounting from behind rather than from the top, making it easier to install before securing the motherboard in the case. Additionally, its brackets must be swapped depending on the CPU, adding an extra step to the process.