Compare: NH-D15S vs Assassin King 120 SE

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

This economical cooler showcases an unexpectedly polished design. Its aesthetic equilibrium exudes a visually pleasing presence, making it a charming addition to any PC configuration. Regardless of your budget considerations, this cooler offers a practical and stylish choice to maintain ideal temperatures for the right CPU.

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

This cooler follows a typical installation method seen in mainstream air coolers, utilizing two brackets that connect to the motherboard and then to the cooler. Due to its size, it's straightforward to position with minimal effort.

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

Equipped with four heat pipes and a single fan, this cooler delivers substantial cooling power. While it may not rival dual heatsink coolers in terms of extreme heat dissipation, it's an excellent choice for individuals with low to moderate cooling requirements.

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

Equipped with four heat pipes and a single fan, this cooler delivers substantial cooling power. While it may not rival dual heatsink coolers in terms of extreme heat dissipation, it's an excellent choice for individuals with low to moderate cooling requirements.

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.

Assassin King 120 SE

This cooler offers a straightforward installation method common among mainstream air coolers. It surprises with an elegant yet budget-conscious design, making it visually appealing for various PC setups. Equipped with four heat pipes and a single fan, it provides substantial cooling power suitable for those with low to moderate cooling needs. While it may not match dual heatsink coolers in extreme heat dissipation, it strikes a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.