Compare: NH-D15 vs Freezer 36

Design and Aesthetics:

NH-D15

The NH-D15 features a dual-tower design with two large aluminum heatsinks and a pair of Noctua's 140mm NF-A15 PWM fans. The cooler's design allows for superior heat dissipation, making it capable of handling even the most demanding processors. Aesthetically, this version of the NH-D15 maintains Noctua's signature beige and brown color scheme, reflecting the brand's reputation for quality and performance.

Freezer 36

This cooler features an all black design with a single heatsink, two Arctic P12 fans, and a polished top. It offers a clean and polished appearance that's ideal for an all-black setup, which is my preferred build.

Install Notes:

NH-D15

The NH-D15 features Noctua's SecuFirm2 mounting system, ensuring compatibility with numerous Intel and AMD sockets. The installation process is made easy with the help of clear instructions and top-notch components. Additionally, Noctua includes a tube of their high-quality NT-H1 thermal compound for optimal heat transfer between the CPU and heatsink. However, the cooler's large size may make it challenging to maneuver around when installed within the case.

Freezer 36

the Arctic Freezer 36 features a novel way to secure the fan to the cooler. It uses buttons that are pre-installed and attached to the fan to snap into the cooler. This makes the process much easier relative to the main steam method that uses wires that can sometimes bend the heatsink fans. The rest of the installation process follows the industry standard with mounting brackets that secure the cooler to the motherboard. Given it's size, it's much easier to handle than some of the larger dual tower coolers.

Cooling Performance:

NH-D15

The performance of the NH-D15 is exceptional due to its six heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU and into the large fin arrays of the heatsinks. It is suitable for a wide range of processors, from mainstream CPUs to high-end models with high TDPs. The cooler can handle high levels of overclocking and provides reliable cooling under demanding situations, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. If this cooler can't handle the CPU's heat, then you will have to move to AIO coolers.

Freezer 36

This cooler is better than many others and runs almost at full speed when cooling high-power CPUs with a lot of use. It works well for medium-level CPUs that produce a moderate amount of heat. However, it might not cool down CPUs very well if they generate a lot of heat.

Noise Performance:

NH-D15

One of the standout features of the NH-D15 is its quiet operation relative to its performance. The two included 140mm NF-A15 PWM fans are designed for optimal airflow and low noise levels. Noctua fans are well-known for their excellent acoustic performance, and the NH-D15 is no exception. Users can expect quiet cooling even during intense workloads or gaming sessions. Additionally, the Low-Noise Adaptors (LNA) connectors included can be used to reduce the fan's speed, further reducing the cooler's noise.

Freezer 36

This cooler is relatively quiet, making it perfect for setups where silence is important. Its efficiency in cooling relative to its noise level is matched by very few other coolers.

Summary:

NH-D15

The NH-D15 is a dual-tower cooler with two aluminum heatsinks and a pair of Noctua's 140mm NF-A15 PWM fans, ensuring superior heat dissipation for a wide range of processors, even those with high TDPs. Its six heat pipes efficiently transfer heat, making it suitable for high levels of overclocking and demanding situations. With its signature beige and brown color scheme, the NH-D15 is not only known for its performance but also its quiet operation, thanks to the fans' design and included Low-Noise Adaptors for further noise reduction during intense workloads or gaming sessions.

Freezer 36

The Arctic Freezer 36 features a novel fan attachment method with pre-installed buttons for easy setup, avoiding the complications of traditional wire methods. Its compact size and standard mounting brackets simplify installation, making it less cumbersome than larger coolers. With an all-black design, single heatsink, and two Arctic P12 fans, it offers a sleek look ideal for all-black setups. This cooler performs well, efficiently cooling high-power CPUs under heavy use, best suited for medium-level CPUs. Despite its effectiveness, it may not handle extremely hot CPUs as well. Its quiet operation is a significant advantage, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments, standing out for its exceptional cooling-to-noise ratio.