Compare: NH-D15S vs Frost Spirit 140

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.

Frost Spirit 140

The Frost Spirit looks very similar to the Frost commander and is a sleek CPU cooler with a design reminiscent of the Peerless Assassin 120. This cooler features a dual-tower heatsink with 4 large heat pipes with the heat pipe ends are hidden from view. Sporting gray and silver tones, the Thermalright logo shows on the top of the heatsink. Despite its larger radiator, the Frost Spirit uses a single 120mm fan in front and a 140mm fan between the heatsinks, giving it a distinct, asymmetrical look.

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.

Frost Spirit 140

The cooler installation is quite similar to Noctua's easy setup and is identical to the Frost Commander's setup. However, during installation, securing the fans to the heatsink requires more effort (relative to the Phantom Spirit or Peerless Assassin), which is due to the metal securing the fans requiring much more effort to place. For this reason, it's also a lot easier to slightly bend the heatsink fins, but this can be fixed by bending it back with a credit card.

Additionally, like Noctua coolers, the Frost Spirit faces challenges in uninstalling when trying to break the thermal paste seal between the cooler and CPU, as it doesn't easily slide or twist off. This can be an issue if the thermal paste forms a strong bond.

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.

Frost Spirit 140

The Frost Spirit delivers impressive performance for its size, rivaling Noctua's offerings. Capable of cooling some of the more powerful CPUs without being overly bulky, this cooler can also manage overclocking for specific CPUs. As a result, the Frost Spirit is a strong contender for a wide variety of computer setups.

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.

Frost Spirit 140

The Frost Spirit excels in providing an impressively silent operation, setting it apart from its sibling, the Frost Commander 140. The lower fan RPM of this cooler plays a substantial role in reducing noise levels when compared to the Frost Commander. Furthermore, it boasts a noise profile that can be likened to that of the NH-D15, making it an optimal selection for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment.

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.

Frost Spirit 140

The Frost Spirit CPU cooler offers a sleek design resembling the Frost Commander and Peerless Assassin 120. It requires extra effort to secure the fans to the heatsink due to the metal's firm placement. Despite its larger radiator, the Frost Spirit maintains a compact size with a single 120mm front fan and a 140mm fan between the heatsinks. It delivers impressive performance, rivaling Noctua's offerings, and is capable of effectively cooling powerful CPUs and managing overclocking. Notably, it stands out for its remarkably quiet operation, surpassing the noise levels of the Frost Commander 140, with a noise profile similar to the NH-D15. Overall, the Frost Spirit is a stylish, powerful, and quiet CPU cooler suitable for various computer setups.