AK620 vs NHD15, Which is Recomended?

When it comes to high-end air cooling for processors, two CPU cooler models always seem to top the charts – the legendary Noctua NH-D15 and the newer Cooler Master AK620. With large heatsinks, multiple heatpipes, and powerful fans, both are designed to tame even the hottest CPUs. But how exactly do these two heavyweights compare? Which one comes out on top in a head-to-head ak620 vs nhd15 matchup? Let’s find out.

Aesthetics

In terms of looks, the AK620 features an asymmetrical aluminum fin stack design with a grey and black color scheme. The included 120mm fan has RGB lighting effects. The overall aesthetics are fairly subtle and understated. The NH-D15 on the other hand sports a more industrial look, with a twin tower copper and aluminum heatsink design in a beige and brown Noctua color scheme. The fans are also brown and beige. The NH-D15 definitely has a signature style, but whether it appeals to you visually is a matter of taste.

Cooling Performance

Both coolers boast exceptional cooling capabilities thanks to their massive heatsinks and heatpipe designs which efficiently draw heat away from the CPU and distribute it through the fins where airflow from the fans removes it. The AK620 sports a 6 heatpipe direct contact design. The legendary NH-D15 has a slightly larger fin-stack, copper baseplate, 6 heatpipes and an additional 150W TDP rating over the AK620 (250W vs 400W).

Compatibility

Both the AK620 and NH-D15 support most modern CPU sockets including Intel LGA 1200, 2066, 1700 and AMD AM4, sTRX4. The AK620 can handle RAM modules and motherboards with larger heatsinks more easily thanks to its asymmetrical offset design and adjustable fan height. The NH-D15 offers excellent compatibility too but taller RAM modules can cause some fitment issues in smaller mid-tower cases.

Acoustics

The Cooler Master AK620 uses a 120mm SickleFlow fan that operates quietly under normal loads but can get audible at higher RPMs. The NH-D15 is equipped with higher quality 120mm and 140mm A15 fans optimized for lower noise even at higher speeds. Both coolers generate a tolerable hum but the Noctua solution offers better acoustics overall. Replacing the stock AK620 fan with something quieter like the Noctua redux line further improves noise levels.

Price and Value

One area where the AK620 clearly wins is pricing. Unless you really need every bit of thermal headroom or ultra low noise, the AK620 represents a better bang for buck proposition while still going toe to toe with one of the most lauded coolers out there.

Verdict

In the arena of CPU air cooling the venerable Noctua NH-D15 still reigns supreme when it comes to maximum performance and low noise thanks to its impeccable build quality and design. However the new kid on the block, the Cooler Master AK620, delivers astonishingly close cooling and acoustic results for a significantly lower price point. Unless you want the absolute best air cooling money can buy, the AK620 is arguably the smarter purchase for most. In any ak620 vs nhd15 matchup, both are winners in their own right.

Specifications Table