Compare: NH-L9x65 vs iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT

Design and Aesthetics:

NH-L9x65

The NH-L9x65 features a low-profile design with a slim aluminum heatsink and a 92mm NF-A9x14 PWM fan. With a height of only 65mm, the cooler is compatible with a wide range of PC cases, including mini-ITX and HTPC builds. Aesthetically, the NH-L9x65 maintains Noctua's signature beige and brown color scheme, reflecting the brand's reputation for quality and performance.

iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT

Experience the ultimate cooling solution with the 360mm RGB Fan AIO Liquid Cooler, boasting three captivating 120mm RGB fans. Enhanced by a sleek black radiator and tubes, this cooler seamlessly fits into your setup while offering customizable brilliance that complements other components. With iCUE compatibility, it effortlessly syncs with other Corsair RGB products, enabling personalized color schemes and effects, all while maintaining top-tier cooling performance. For those seeking both refined style and exceptional cooling, this cooler stands as an exceptional choice.

Install Notes:

NH-L9x65

This cooler is designed to be a typical Noctua cooler installation, which is easy to do and rather straightforward. This means that if you're new to installing a CPU cooler, there is little room to make a mistake. For AMD is uses the original AMD backplate. Only downside to the Noctua installation is that the cooler may stick to your CPU and given how the screws are setup, you can't slide the cooler off the CPU like other brands.

iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT

This cooler is relatively easy to install and is a typical iCUE AIO install. This cooler has a standard AIO installation where you must screw the fans onto the radiator. In regards to the pump installation, this AIO has four screws that go into the backplate, where the pump can then be placed and secured with screw caps. To swap the cooler for different CPU mounting systems (AMD/Intel) is relatively easy and doesn't require any screws. However, the corsair logo is secured with four hex screws, so it might require additional work to get the logo in the proper direction. When it comes to RGB setup, this AIO requires the use of the Corsair iCUE Commander CORE RGB hub. Additionally, the heat pipes pivot at the pump, which allows for a more versatile installation.

Cooling Performance:

NH-L9x65

The performance of the NH-L9x65 is suitable for most mainstream CPUs and everyday tasks. It has four heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU to the heatsink. While the cooler may not be the best choice for high-end CPUs with high TDPs or extreme overclocking scenarios, it provides adequate cooling for lower TDP CPUs, especially in small form factor builds with limited space.

iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT

Achieve peak cooling performance with this robust 360mm AIO cooler. Tailored for high TDP CPUs and overclocking, it excels in thermal control. Outperforming the flagship Noctua NH-D15 air cooler and 240mm AIOs, it offers superior cooling while maintaining a sleek appearance in your setup. This is a perfect choice for those who want to elevate your PC's potential.

Noise Performance:

NH-L9x65

The 92mm NF-A9x14 PWM fan included with the NH-L9x65 is designed for quiet operation while maintaining good airflow for its size. Noctua fans are well-known for their excellent acoustic performance, and the NH-L9x65 is no exception. Users can expect quiet cooling even during low workloads, however due to it's limited cooling abilities, it may have to run louder moderate workloads or gaming sessions.

iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT

While the integration of three fans in this AIO cooler might result in a slightly heightened noise level, it's crucial to recognize that the unit's exceptional cooling performance is unlikely to present a concern unless you're heavily involved in rigorous overclocking and pushing your CPU to its utmost capacity. Notably, this cooler strikes an impressive balance between excellent cooling and noise performance.

Summary:

NH-L9x65

The Noctua NH-L9x65 is a compact and efficient air cooler that's well-suited for small form factor builds and systems with limited space. Its low-profile design, adequate cooling performance, and quiet operation make it an attractive option for those looking for a space-saving and reliable cooling solution.

iCUE H150i Elite Capellix XT

Experience the ultimate cooling with the 360mm RGB Fan AIO Liquid Cooler, featuring three captivating 120mm RGB fans. Complemented by a sleek black radiator, it seamlessly integrates into your setup, offering customizable brilliance that harmonizes with other components via iCUE compatibility. This cooler excels for high TDP CPUs and overclocking, outperforming the flagship Noctua NH-D15 while maintaining a sleek appearance. Despite three fans potentially causing slightly elevated noise levels, its remarkable cooling balance ensures peak performance unless heavily overclocking, making it a choice that maximizes your PC's potential.