Noctua NH-D15 G2 LBC Review: Best CPU Cooler?
Discover if teh noctua NH-D15 G2 is the best CPU cooler for your build! This in-depth review explores the latest flagship air cooler from Noctua, succeeding the renowned NH-D15. Priced at $150, the NH-D15 G2 promises exceptional cooling performance with a dual-tower design, optimized fin stacks, and dual 140mm fans, available in standard, LBC (AMD), and HBC (Intel) versions. The team at News Directory 3 dives deep into the features, unboxing the cooler, and examining its construction for optimal heat dissipation. We analyze the included accessories like the Torx screwdriver and low-noise adapters, along with the specifications and supported sockets. Does it live up to the hype? Find out as we assess its design with eight heatpipes and nickel plating. Discover what’s next with our thermal performance and noise level tests!
Noctua NH-D15 G2 Review: The Ultimate Air CPU Cooler?
Updated May 31, 2025
Enthusiasts often replace stock CPU coolers with advanced solutions for better performance. Selecting the right cooler involves balancing needs, budget, and available space. The Noctua NH-D15 G2 CPU cooler aims to be a top contender in high-performance air cooling.
Noctua is well-regarded for build quality and cooling efficiency, making their coolers popular among PC builders and overclockers. The NH-D15 G2, priced at $150, promises remarkable air cooling. It comes in three versions: standard, LBC (Low Base Convexity) for AMD AM5 processors, and HBC (High Base Convexity) for Intel LGA1700 processors. The LBC version was tested for this review.
The NH-D15 G2 arrived in a sturdy cardboard box, reflecting Noctua’s focus on informative packaging. Inside, the cooler was well-protected, with mounting hardware and accessories neatly organized. Notably, mounting hardware for Threadripper or LGA20XX processors was not included.
Besides mounting hardware, the package contains a Torx screwdriver, fan power splitter, low noise adapters, NT-H2 thermal grease, a thermal paste wipe, and a case badge.
Noctua designed the NH-D15 G2 for peak performance with a minimalist aesthetic. The cooler weighs over 1.5 kg, utilizing lightweight aluminum. It features a dual-tower design with optimized fin stacks and a reduced fin spacing, increasing the fin surface area by 20% compared to the NH-D15.The thinner fins, however, are more susceptible to damage.
The NH-D15 G2 increases the number of heatpipes from six to eight. These copper heatpipes are nickel-plated for durability. Soldered joints ensure maximum thermal transfer.
Despite these additions, the NH-D15 G2 is slightly smaller than its predecessor. While wide due to the fin array and dual fans, it avoids blocking PCI Express slots on standard motherboards. However, RAM height may be limited to 32 mm when both fans are installed.
Noctua uses two 140 mm fans with SSO2 bearings to optimize airflow and acoustics. The fans have slightly different speed ratings (1475 RPM & 1525 RPM) to minimize harmonic effects.Users can adjust the offset using PWM control or low-noise adapters.
the cooler’s base, wich contacts the processor, is split into two parts. The bottom half is made of nickel-plated copper for efficient heat transfer. The LBC version tested has a perfectly flat base.
| Noctua NH-D15 G2 CPU Cooler Specifications |
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| Type | Air Cooler (Dual Tower) | ||
| Dimensions | 168 x 150 x 127 mm (H x W x D) 1525 gr |
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| Fans | 2 x 140 mm SSO2 Bearing Fans 1525/1475 RPM (max) |
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| RGB | No | ||
| Supported Sockets | Intel: LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x
AMD: AM5 / AM4 |
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| Warranty | 6 Years | ||
| Price | $150 | ||
What’s next
Future tests will evaluate the Noctua NH-D15 G2’s thermal performance and noise levels to determine its effectiveness as a high-performance CPU cooler.