Compare: NH-U12S chromax.Black vs AK620

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.

AK620

The AK620 boasts a dual-tower layout with two reasonably-sized aluminum heatsinks and a couple of FK120 PWM fans. Its design ensures excellent heat removal, allowing it to tackle even the most powerful processors. In terms of appearance, this cooler sports a sleek black top, two black fans, and a silver aluminum radiator, lending a refined look to any computer setup.

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.

AK620

The AK620 has DeepCool's more modern installation designs as of 2023, which has more components than most for an easy install. The backplates are held down by single hand screwed nuts that also serve to hold the mount from the other side. This makes it easy to place the backplate correctly during the installation. The remaining portion of the install is similar to that of Noctua's typical installation, which makes it easy, but also can make the uninstallation challenging if the thermal paste sticks well to the CPU.

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.

AK620

The AK620 delivers remarkable performance due to its six heat pipes that effectively move heat from the CPU to the extensive fin array on the heatsink. It is compatible with a variety of processors, even high-end ones with high TDPs. This cooler can handle challenging workloads and extensive overclocking, making it an appealing cooling option. For those seeking Noctua-like performance without breaking the bank, the AK620 is a strong contender.

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.

AK620

A notable feature of the AK620 is its relatively quiet performance. The two 120mm FK120 PWM fans included are designed to deliver optimal airflow while maintaining low noise levels. Although this cooler might be louder than some alternatives of a similar size, its effective cooling makes it a strong candidate for your system. However, it's worth mentioning that some users may experience increased fan noise at mid RPMs occasionally.

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.

AK620

The AK620 is a high-performance cooler with a dual-tower design, six heat pipes, and two FK120 PWM fans that effectively dissipate heat, making it suitable for powerful processors and demanding workloads. Its sleek appearance features a black top, black fans, and a silver aluminum radiator, adding a refined touch to any computer setup. While the cooler generally operates quietly, it may be louder than some similar-sized alternatives, and occasional increased fan noise at mid RPMs is possible. Nevertheless, the AK620 is an appealing choice for those seeking top-tier performance on a budget.