Compare: NH-D15 G2 vs AXP90-X47 Full Copper

Design and Aesthetics:

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

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-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.

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-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.

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-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.

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-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.

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.