Compare: NH-U12S chromax.Black vs iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

Design and Aesthetics:

NH-U12S chromax.Black

The NH-U12S chromax.Black features a single-tower design with a slim aluminum heatsink and a single 120mm NF-F12 PWM fan. This design ensures efficient heat dissipation while maintaining compatibility with various system configurations, including those with tall RAM modules. Aesthetically, the NH-U12S chromax.Black adopts a black color scheme, providing a sleek and modern appearance that complements various build themes.

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

The 240mm RGB Fan AIO Liquid Cooler features two 120mm RGB fans. Complemented by its sleek black radiator and tubing, this cooler effortlessly fits into your setup while offering customizable brilliance that complements other components. Thanks to iCUE compatibility, it easily syncs with fellow Corsair RGB products, enabling personalized color schemes and effects, all while maintaining top-tier cooling performance. For those seeking a balanced blend of style and cooling prowess, this cooler stands as a compelling choice.

Install Notes:

NH-U12S chromax.Black

The NH-U12S features Noctua's SecuFirm2 mounting system, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets and offering a straightforward installation process, typical of Noctua coolers. Clear instructions, high-quality components, and a tube of their premium NT-H1 thermal compound make it an easy and user-friendly experience, even for beginners. The cooler uses the original AMD backplate for AMD installations. However, one downside is that the cooler may stick to your CPU, and due to the screw setup, you can't slide the cooler off the CPU like with some other brands. Overall, the NH-U12S offers a relatively hassle-free installation process.

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

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 relativly 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-U12S chromax.Black

The performance of the NH-U12S is commendable due to its five 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, including high-end models with high TDPs. While it may not offer the same level of cooling performance as its bigger sibling, the NH-U12A, the NH-U12S still provides reliable cooling under various workloads and can handle moderate levels of overclocking under certain CPUs.

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

The iCUE H100i Elite Capellix provides excellent cooling performance that rivals top-tier air coolers such as the NH-D15, this cooler stands out as a cooler that can handle the heat. Perfectly tailored for setups in looking for remarkable cooling efficiency without compromising on noise levels, it does so without the unwieldy dimensions of some of the larger air cooling solutions.

Noise Performance:

NH-U12S chromax.Black

One of the standout features of the NH-U12S is its quiet operation. The included 120mm NF-F12 PWM fan is designed for optimal airflow and low noise levels. Noctua fans are well-known for their excellent acoustic performance, and the NH-U12S is no exception. Users can expect quiet cooling even during normal computer use.

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

This cooler offers impressive noise levels in proportion to its cooling performance. However, owing to its dual-fan setup, it can produce audible noise. This aspect should mainly concern those who plan on pushing their CPU to overclocked limits.

Summary:

NH-U12S chromax.Black

The Noctua NH-U12S is a reliable and efficient air cooler that offers excellent cooling capabilities and quiet operation. Its single-tower design and slim profile make it compatible with various system configurations, and its exceptional build quality ensures long-lasting performance. For users seeking a dependable cooling solution for their systems, the NH-U12S is a great choice.

iCUE H100i Elite Capellix

This cooler is easily installed with standard iCUE AIO procedures for fans and pump. CPU swaps are straightforward, but adjusting the logo may need extra effort. The 240mm RGB Fan AIO Liquid Cooler seamlessly integrates into setups, with two captivating 120mm RGB fans and a sleek black radiator, offering customizable brilliance via iCUE compatibility. It matches top-tier air coolers' performance, ideal for efficient cooling without noise worries. Audible noise from the dual-fan setup is mainly relevant for aggressive CPU overclocking.