Compare: NH-D15S vs Liquid Freezer III 360

Design and Aesthetics:

NH-D15S

The NH-D15S features a dual-tower design with a large aluminum heatsink and one 140mm NF-A15 PWM fan. The asymmetrical layout of the cooler allows for improved clearance for RAM and PCIe slots, making it more versatile for different motherboard layouts. Aesthetically, the NH-D15S maintains Noctua's signature beige and brown color scheme, reflecting the brand's reputation for quality and performance.

Liquid Freezer III 360

This cooler features a contemporary, symmetrical design. Although this particular model does not include RGB lighting, other versions do, providing options based on your preferences. Overall, this cooler enhances your PC with a sleek and modern appearance.

Install Notes:

NH-D15S

The NH-D15S comes with Noctua's SecuFirm2 mounting system, which provides compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. The installation process is straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and high-quality components provided. Noctua also includes a tube of their premium NT-H1 thermal compound to ensure optimal thermal transfer between the CPU and heatsink.

Liquid Freezer III 360

The Arctic Freezer III maintains the user-friendly installation features of its predecessor. This cooler distinguishes itself by having fans pre-attached to the radiator, which streamlines the installation process compared to other all-in-one (AIO) coolers. Additionally, the CPU mounting component is detachable, allowing for easier installation without interference from aesthetic parts. However, connecting the control cable to the motherboard can be tricky when the cooler is already mounted. Therefore, it is recommended to attach the desired cable to the motherboard before installing the cooler.

Cooling Performance:

NH-D15S

The performance of the NH-D15S is exceptional due to its six heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU and into the large fin array of the heatsink. 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. However, given this cooler only uses a single fan, this version of the NH-D15 doesn't perform as well as the NH-D15.

Liquid Freezer III 360

The Arctic Freezer III 360 offers improved performance over the previous model, though it does generate more noise. Despite this, it outperforms most coolers in its class on a cooling basis.

Noise Performance:

NH-D15S

One of the standout features of the NH-D15S is its quiet operation. The included 140mm NF-A15 PWM fan is designed for optimal airflow and low noise levels. Noctua fans are well-known for their excellent acoustic performance, and the NH-D15S is no exception. Users can expect quiet cooling even during intense workloads or gaming sessions.

Liquid Freezer III 360

The Arctic Freezer III 240 comes equipped with a more powerful pump, which can become noticeably audible at higher speeds. As our testing was done with the pump running at 100% speed, reducing the pump speed during less demanding tasks can help minimize noise without significantly compromising performance.

Summary:

NH-D15S

The Noctua NH-D15S is a versatile, high-performance air cooler that offers excellent cooling capabilities and quiet operation. Its asymmetrical, dual-tower design makes it suitable for various system configurations, and its exceptional build quality ensures long-lasting performance. For users seeking a reliable and efficient cooling solution, the NH-D15S is a top choice.

Liquid Freezer III 360

The Arctic Freezer III maintains user-friendly installation features, with pre-attached fans on the radiator and a detachable CPU mounting component for easier setup. However, connecting the control cable can be tricky once the cooler is mounted, so it's recommended to attach the cable before installation. It features a contemporary design, with some versions offering RGB lighting. Despite aesthetic improvements and lower noise levels compared to typical coolers and the previous Arctic Freezer 360, the Arctic Freezer III 360 has average performance and struggles to cool high-core CPUs under heavy loads.