Compare: NH-D15 vs Fuma 3

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.

Fuma 3

This cooler boasts a sleek appearance with a smooth top surface. Nonetheless, it's worth noting that the plastic covering the exposed heat pipes, while contributing to a polished appearance, is a rather subdued gray and lacks the eye-catching appeal of more vibrant or shiny options. This cooler is an excellent choice for those seeking exceptional cooling performance coupled with a more understated aesthetic.

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.

Fuma 3

This cooler employs the standard mounting system commonly found in premium coolers. In comparison to the Fuma 2, the Fuma 3 has introduced a minor adjustment that enhances the ease of installation by preventing over-tightening, a feature absent in the Fuma 2. Overall, the installation process for this cooler is straightforward, and it has demonstrated improvements compared to previous Fuma iterations.

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.

Fuma 3

The Fuma 3 is a mid-performance cooler offering moderate cooling capabilities. While it may not be suitable for high-heat CPUs, it's an excellent option for users who appreciate its aesthetic appeal and require effective cooling for CPUs with moderate thermal loads.

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.

Fuma 3

The dual 120mm Kaze Flex fans are engineered for maximum airflow and moderate noise levels. In terms of the noise-to-cooling ratio, it strikes a good balance, providing an average level of noise for the cooling performance it delivers.

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.

Fuma 3

The Fuma 3 cooler uses a standard premium cooler mounting system but adds a minor tweak from the prior generation for easier installation. Its sleek design features a subdued gray plastic top, making it suitable for users who prioritize both cooling performance and aesthetics, especially for mid-heat CPUs. Equipped with two 120mm fans, it strikes a balanced noise-to-cooling ratio.