Compare: NH-U12S chromax.Black vs Mugen 6

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.

Mugen 6

This cooler features a sleek, monolithic design with an exposed metal heatsink and a polished top that conceals the heat-pipe ends, giving it a clean, refined appearance. It comes with a single 120mm black fan, with the option to add a second for enhanced cooling performance. While other design variations exist, this model emphasizes simplicity and modern aesthetics.

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.

Mugen 6

The Scythe Mugen 6 features a standard installation process, where brackets are first attached to the motherboard, followed by the cooler. It includes a single fan, with the option to install a second for enhanced cooling performance. Its design ensures compatibility with most motherboards, without interfering with RAM placement.

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.

Mugen 6

This cooler delivers above-average performance and its performance is in line given its size and single fan configuration. With the option to add a second fan, it allows for improved cooling and a better noise-to-performance ratio at minimal cost, offering upgrade flexibility. However, in its default configuration, it may not be sufficient for high-end CPUs that generate significant heat.

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.

Mugen 6

This cooler boasts an excellent noise profile, thanks to its single 120mm fan. While adding a second fan can enhance overall cooling and improve the sound-to-performance ratio, it may also lead to increased noise levels at higher speeds. Overall, the cooler maintains a good balance between noise and performance, especially considering its size and fan configuration.

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.

Mugen 6

The Scythe Mugen 6 features a straightforward installation process, with brackets attached to the motherboard before securing the cooler. Its monolithic design includes an exposed metal heatsink and polished top, hiding the heat-pipe ends for a clean, modern look. It comes with a single 120mm black fan, with the option to add a second for enhanced cooling performance. The cooler is compatible with most motherboards, avoiding interference with RAM placement. Offering above-average performance, the option for a second fan allows for improved cooling and a better noise-to-performance ratio, though overall noise levels may increase at higher speeds. In its default configuration, the cooler performs well but may not be sufficient for high-end CPUs that produce significant heat. Overall, it strikes an impressive balance between noise and performance.