When Noctua first released the NH-D15, it was 10 years ago. Now, after a long wait, they have finally launched its next generation. We are excited to test the Noctua NH-D15 G2 to see what improvements they have made to their multi-award-winning cooler. Let’s find out in this review what changes or enhancements have been introduced in this new-generation cooler.
Table of Contents
Noctua NH-D15 G2 Specifications
| Socket compatibility | AMD AM5, AM4 and Intel LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150 |
| Height (without fan) | 168 mm |
| Width (without fan) | 150 mm |
| Depth (without fan) | 127 mm |
| Weight (without fan) | 1180 g |
| Height (with fan) | 168 mm |
| Width (with fan) | 150 mm |
| Depth (with fan) | 152 mm |
| Weight (with fan) | 1525 g |
| Material | Copper (base and heat-pipes), aluminium (cooling fins), soldered joints & nickel plating |
| FANS | 2x NF-A14x25r G2 PWM |
Three new variants
To achieve optimal performance, Noctua has made three variants available, as current CPU platforms differ significantly in terms of contact surface flatness and hotspot location.
- Standard: A regular all-around version with medium base convexity.
- Low Base Convexity (LBC): Specifically optimized for relatively flat CPUs, offering excellent contact quality on AMD AM5 processors even without offset mounting, as well as other similarly flat CPUs (AM4, LGA2066, LGA2011, and lapped or custom flat heat spreaders).
- High Base Convexity (HBC): Designed to provide excellent contact quality on Intel LGA 1700 processors, particularly those used with full ILM pressure or those that have become permanently deformed through long-term use.
This tailored approach ensures optimal performance across a wide range of CPU platforms.
The Unboxing
The Noctua NH-D15 G2 features its signature color scheme on the packaging, with a product image on the front and specifications and feature details on the sides and back. Upon opening the box, you will find all the mounting hardware neatly packed in a separate box. Beneath that lies the cooler itself, secured between cardboard instead of foam.
Here are the things included in the box.
- 2x NF-A14x25r G2 PWM premium fan
- 2x NA-RC16 Low-Noise Adaptor (L.N.A.)
- NA-YC1 4-pin PWM splitter cable
- NT-H2 high-grade thermal compound
- NA-TPG1 thermal paste guard for AM5
- NA-CW1 cleaning wipe
- SecuFirm2+ multi-socket mounting system
- 4x NM-ISW1 shim washers for LGA1700
- NM-SD1 Torx T20 screwdriver
- Noctua metal case-badge
Taking a Closer Look
First, let’s talk about the mounting system, which has been updated to the SecuFirm2+. One notable change is the switch from Philips head screws to Torx screws. As always, Noctua includes a Torx driver in the package, which is a thoughtful addition. The Noctua NH-D15 G2 supports all modern mainstream sockets but does not support Threadripper or Intel HEDT platforms like LGA2066 and LGA2011.
As for the cooler itself, the Noctua NH-D15 G2 features an asymmetrical layout design. The bottom part of the aluminum fins is shorter to accommodate tall VRM heatsinks. However, RAM modules with tall designs may not fit, so it’s better to stick with standard-height RAM for compatibility.
The cooler includes 58 aluminum fins and six heat pipes. Its size is massive, with a maximum height of 168mm when the fans are attached. It is also quite heavy, weighing 1525g, which may not make it ideal for systems that are frequently moved, as the weight could put stress on the motherboard. The base and heat pipes are nickel-plated for enhanced durability and performance.
The cooler comes with two new fans, the NF-A14x25r G2. These fans have a maximum RPM of 1500 and can deliver a maximum airflow of 91.5 CFM. They feature SSO2 bearings, Progressive-Bend impeller blade geometry, and Advanced Acoustic Optimization for improved performance and reduced noise levels.
Installing the Cooler
Be sure to refer to the instructions during installation to ensure you get the maximum performance from the cooler. Installing the cooler is quick and straightforward.
When installing the cooler on an Intel processor, you have the option to use the included washer to reduce CPU deformation on LGA 1700 processors. However, we opted not to install it, as doing so would require removing the socket, which could void your warranty.
Before mounting the cooler, you’ll need to install the bracket. Once that’s done, don’t forget to apply the included NT-H2 thermal paste before securing the cooler to the bracket. After screwing in the cooler, it’s best to connect the fan header before mounting the fans, as it can be difficult to reach the CPU fan pins on the motherboard once the fans are in place.
You can also install the included low-noise adapters for the fans, but we chose not to use them, as we prefer running the cooler at maximum performance.
Looks and Performance
Noctua’s signature color scheme—brown and beige—on its fans is undoubtedly polarizing; you’ll either love it or hate it. It makes the cooler stand out in your PC build with its massive size and unique fan colors. While you can replace the fans with Noctua’s Chromax series for a different look, none are included in the box. However, replacing the included fans might be wasteful, as they are exceptionally high-quality.
For memory slot clearance, you can opt to use only one fan if you have high-clearance RAM. However, if you’re planning to build with this cooler, it’s best to use standard-clearance RAM to take full advantage of the cooler’s dual-fan setup.
| Processor | Intel Core i5-12400 |
| Motherboard | Gigabyte B660M DS3H DDR4 |
| Memory | Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR4 RAM 32GB (16GBx2) 3200MHz |
| Graphics Card | PNY Geforce RTX 3060 VERTO Dual Fan |
| Storage | Samsung SSD 980 500GB Silicon Power 2TB NVMeToshiba N300 4TB |
| Power Supply | Montech Century G5 750W |
| Case | Deepcool CH510 |
We conducted a performance test, comparing the Noctua NH-D15 G2 against the stock cooler, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 R SE air cooler, and the Deepcool LS720 liquid cooler. During testing, the room temperature was maintained at under 27°C. We recorded the idle temperatures as well as the results after a 15-minute stress test.
| Coolers | Min Temperature | Max Temperature |
| Stock Cooler | 53°C | 100°C |
| Thermalright Assassin X 120 R SE | 38°C | 79°C |
| Deepcool LS720 | 31°C | 56°C |
| Noctua NH-D15 G2 | 32°C | 58°C |
Even as an air cooler, it can compete with a 360mm liquid cooler, which is impressive. Another noteworthy point is that during our testing, the included fans of the Noctua cooler remained remarkably quiet, even when running at maximum speed.
Noctua NH-D15 G2 Verdict
The Noctua NH-D15 G2 is yet another excellent air cooler from Noctua, and it is sure to be a top choice for those seeking the best air cooler on the market. From its outstanding build quality and thermal performance to its included fans that run quietly while providing sufficient cooling power, this cooler delivers on all fronts.
However, it comes with a steep price tag. At $150, it is significantly more expensive than its predecessor, which might put it out of reach for some budgets. Additionally, its aesthetics can be polarizing; the brown-and-beige color scheme and it doesn’t have RGB lighting.
Despite its unique design, there is no doubt that this cooler is ideal for those who prioritize maximum performance and long-term reliability. With a six-year warranty, the Noctua NH-D15 G2 promises exceptional longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for many years to come.
