Thermaltakes NiC C5 is an interesting choice; its affordable price and exceptional cooling makes it an attractive option. This is especially true because of its non-intrusive design, which translates into perfect memory clearance on even Intel's LGA2011 socket. The fact that it's easy to install is also a huge boon. Thermaltake's NiC C5 is a cooler you can easily install into a case without removing the motherboard, which is obviously also dependent on the case itself. The fins sturdy and the nickle-plated copper base smooth, with a nice mirror finish, the NiC C5's build quality is one of its strong points. Overall, the build quality of Thermaltake's NiC C5 is very good. Offering far more protection to the product than the typical carboard and foam combination by some competitors, it also doesn't hurt that its packaging is above average.

There are, however, some issues, a few easily avoidable on Thermaltake's part. First is the NiC C5's noise level as it is just plain loud at full load. Not to mention that the variable resistor means that you have to open your case to change fan speeds if you don't use a separate fan controller. Why Thermaltake didn't use PWM fans I don't know, but lowering noise output at idle while still ramping speeds up for as much performance as possible when it is needed, they would have been a better option. The next disappointing find was the fact that the cooler blocks the first expansion slot on the test system's motherboard, which is due to its large plastic shroud.

My other thoughts come down to its color scheme and the fact that people, including myself, are fickle. When it comes to color-matching components for a build, the Thermaltake NiC C5 won't be for everyone because of its red and black styling, even if I myself like its colors. I would have also hoped for PWM fans instead of the included variable resistor ones. With the performance the NiC C5 offers, I also can't help but like the Scythe Ashura more as it offers the same memory clearance and performance while being far quieter.

The Thermaltake NiC C5 is an exceptional cooler for those wanting maximum memory compatibility on any socket without sacrificing performance. Just keep in mind it can be loud when the fans are set to full speed.