Introduction

A big thank you to Noctua for supplying the review sample.

With a reputation built on outstanding performance, exceptional quality, and ultra-low noise levels, Noctua remains a premier manufacturer of air-cooling products. Much like the towering Mount Everest, they continue to serve as the benchmark to which all others are compared. The distinctive tan and brown color scheme may not appeal to everyone, but it remains a hallmark of the brand. Most PC enthusiasts can recognize it at a glance, and that brand awareness, combined with some of the best warranty and after-sales support in the industry, ensures Noctua remains a quintessential favorite among enthusiasts. Forging this reputation with consistent results over decades, Noctua has earned their status.



It has been awhile since I have reviewed a Noctua cooler, and I am always happy to see what they have in store. Today's review will focus on Noctua's latest design, the NH-D15 G2, which replaces the time tested and venerable NH-D15. This new release offers several options including a standard version and two specialized variants. Today's review is of the standard version which is Noctua's recommended option for most. On the other side is the HBC and LBC offerings (High Base Convexity and Low Base Convexity). HBC is meant for Intel LGA1700 chips that have experienced deformation from pressure over time. Meanwhile, LBC is for flat CPUs such as AM4 or in situations where the end user has lapped the CPU IHS or has opted for a custom heat spreader. All versions of the NH-D15 G2 have eight heatpipes compared to six on the NH-D15, along with a higher fin density and entirely new NF-A14x25r G2 fans. All together this should result in a potent air-cooler, but will it be enough to leave its predecessor in the dust along with the competition? Well, let's find out!