CPU coolers / Compare
be quiet! Dark Rock Elite vs Noctua NH-D15 G2
Product A: be quiet!
31 of 54 known
Change be quiet! Dark Rock Elite
Compare the Noctua NH-D15 G2 with
Product B: Noctua
36 of 54 known
Change Noctua NH-D15 G2
Compare the be quiet! Dark Rock Elite with
27 of 46 fields differ
- 16 different values
- 11 known for one only
- 9 the same
- 10 missing for both
Biggest differences
Each bar uses the scale of all 66 CPU coolers.
- RAM clearanceA: 42mmB: 32mmbe quiet! is 10 mm higher.
Size, drawn to scale
Front and side.
- Abe quiet!: 136 × 168 mm
- BNoctua: 150 × 168 mm
Weight
0 to 2,500 g
All 54 fields
Every value links to where we found it.


General
7 of 12 differ
Series
Not available
Model numbers
BK0373Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026MPN BK037. The listing is used only for its copy of the be quiet! spec table.9Retailer pagearvutitark.ee/en/pc-components/coolers/protsessori-jahutid/cooler-be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-amd-am4-1320166Read 16 October 2026SKU BK037.10Retailer pagegigante.co.uk/products/be-quiet-bk037-dark-rock-elite-heatsink-fan-intel-amd-2-silent-wings-fans-speed-switch-argb-top-cover-280w-tdpRead 16 October 2026BK037 in the product title.
NH-D15 G2, NH-D15 G2 chromax.black, NH-D15 G2 LBC, NH-D15 G2 HBC2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 2026Noctua gives no separate model codes. The model names are NH-D15 G2 (Standard), NH-D15 G2 LBC and NH-D15 G2 HBC. The chromax.black name comes from its own page.
GTIN / EAN
42600521907539Retailer pagearvutitark.ee/en/pc-components/coolers/protsessori-jahutid/cooler-be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-amd-am4-1320166Read 16 October 2026The page data lists GTIN 4260052190753 for SKU BK037.10Retailer pagegigante.co.uk/products/be-quiet-bk037-dark-rock-elite-heatsink-fan-intel-amd-2-silent-wings-fans-speed-switch-argb-top-cover-280w-tdpRead 16 October 2026Barcode 4260052190753, the same as Arvutitark.
9010018000405, 9010018000535, 9010018000429, 90100180004362Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 2026EAN 9010018000405 for the Standard version, 9010018000429 for LBC and 9010018000436 for HBC.3Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2-ch-bkRead 14 October 2026EAN 9010018000535 for the NH-D15 G2 chromax.black. The Noctua spec page (Chinese version, seen in search results) gives the same EAN.
Announced
11 October 20231Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 16 October 2026News of 11 October 2023: be quiet! unveiled the Dark Rock Elite and Dark Rock Pro 5.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 16 October 2026KitGuru, 11 October 2023.
2 July 20245Press articlefunkykit.com/news/noctua-releases-its-nh-d15-g2-next-gen-flagship-cpu-coolers-and-nf-a14x25r-g2-fansRead 14 October 2026Announced and released on 2 July 2024.6Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-introduces-nhd15-g2-cpu-coolers-and-nfa14x25r-g2-140mm-fansRead 14 October 2026Story of 2 July 2024.7Press articleclub386.com/noctua-nh-d15-g2-flagship-cpu-cooler-is-hereRead 14 October 2026Article of 2 July 2024.
Status
Available9Retailer pagearvutitark.ee/en/pc-components/coolers/protsessori-jahutid/cooler-be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-amd-am4-1320166Read 16 October 2026Listed at EUR 104.90 with pickup dates in mid-October 2026.10Retailer pagegigante.co.uk/products/be-quiet-bk037-dark-rock-elite-heatsink-fan-intel-amd-2-silent-wings-fans-speed-switch-argb-top-cover-280w-tdpRead 16 October 2026Shown with stock on hand on the access date.
Predecessor
Not available
Noctua NH-D1518Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/air-cooling/noctua-nh-d15-g2-reviewRead 23 October 2026Tom's Hardware's review calls the NH-D15 G2 the successor of the NH-D15.19Reviewpcgamer.com/hardware/cooling/noctua-nh-d15-g2-reviewRead 23 October 2026PC Gamer's review calls the NH-D15 G2 a long-awaited successor to the NH-D15.20Press articleheise.de/en/news/Noctua-s-best-CPU-cooler-gets-a-successor-after-10-years-9788774.htmlRead 23 October 2026Heise reports that the NH-D15 G2 replaces the previous NH-D15.
Successor
Not available
Not available
Launch price (US)
$114.91Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 16 October 2026Available at $114.90 / EUR 114.90 / GBP 109.99. The article does not say if tax is included. Tom's Hardware prints a US price near $99 for the Elite, which conflicts. KitGuru gives the same $114.90 as Club386.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 16 October 2026The Dark Rock Elite goes for $114.90/EUR 114.90/GBP 109.99.
$149.95Press articlefunkykit.com/news/noctua-releases-its-nh-d15-g2-next-gen-flagship-cpu-coolers-and-nf-a14x25r-g2-fansRead 14 October 2026Suggested retail price USD 149.90 for the NH-D15 G2, LBC and HBC. Tax treatment is not stated.6Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-introduces-nhd15-g2-cpu-coolers-and-nfa14x25r-g2-140mm-fansRead 14 October 2026USD 149.90 each for the NH-D15 G2, LBC and HBC.7Press articleclub386.com/noctua-nh-d15-g2-flagship-cpu-cooler-is-hereRead 14 October 2026Article of 2 July 2024: $149.90 on Amazon.
Launch price (EU)
€114.91Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 16 October 2026EUR 114.90 for the Elite, with no country named and no statement on VAT. KitGuru gives the same figure.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 16 October 2026EUR 114.90, no country named.
€149.95Press articlefunkykit.com/news/noctua-releases-its-nh-d15-g2-next-gen-flagship-cpu-coolers-and-nf-a14x25r-g2-fansRead 14 October 2026Suggested retail price EUR 149.90 for the NH-D15 G2, LBC and HBC. Whether VAT is included is not stated. The chromax.black price is not stored because the sources disagree on it.7Press articleclub386.com/noctua-nh-d15-g2-flagship-cpu-cooler-is-hereRead 14 October 2026EUR 149.90 on Amazon, with GBP 127.95. Tax treatment is not stated.
Markets
Not available
Colours
Black3Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026Color option Black.4Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026Color option Black.
Brown, Black3Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2-ch-bkRead 14 October 2026All-black heatsink, fans, fan clips and mounting hardware.8Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-launches-nhd15-g2-chromaxblack-and-updated-a14x25-fanRead 14 October 2026Matte-black finish on heatsink, fan frames, rotors and accessories.9Reviewtech4gamers.com/nh-d15-g2-chromax-black-reviewRead 14 October 2026The original NH-D15 G2 comes in the traditional brown and beige colour scheme. The chromax.black is all black. Retailer listing titles name the standard model as Brown. Noctua's own spec page could not be read.
Cooler type
Air cooler layout
Rated TDP (claimed)
280W1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 16 October 2026280W rating for the Elite and 270W for the Pro 5.3Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026TDP (W) 280.4Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026Specification table taken from the maker's website at launch: TDP (W) 280.
Not available
Base material
Nickel-plated copper2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 16 October 2026A nickel-plated base compatible with liquid metal thermal paste.3Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026The table says Base material Copper and CPU contact surface CNC machined. Tom's Hardware and Club386 say nickel-plated copper, which is stored.5Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 16 October 2026Spec table: Base Nickel Plated Copper.7Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-review-german-rival-to-austrias-nh-d15Read 16 October 2026Seven 6mm heatpipes feed into a CNC-machined, nickel-plated copper baseplate.
Nickel-plated copper4Retailer pageeshop.enzure.se/noctua-nh-d15-g2/cat-p/c/p1004921255Read 14 October 2026Materials: copper base and heat pipes, aluminium fins, soldered joints, nickel plating. Igor's Lab states that the base plate itself is nickel plated.13Reviewigorslab.de/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-chromax-black-review-return-of-the-king-in-blackRead 14 October 2026The base plate is made of nickel-plated CU1100 copper with a purity of 99.95 percent, 44.6 x 51.6 mm, mirror-polished.
Thermal paste
Included3Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026Thermal grease (Type) Included.4Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026Accessories: thermal grease included. The text adds a small tube of thermal paste.5Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 16 October 2026Thermal paste is in the box.7Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-review-german-rival-to-austrias-nh-d15Read 16 October 2026There is no paste pre-applied, so use the provided tube.8Reviewbasic-tutorials.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026The kit has a small tube of thermal paste.
Included2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 2026NT-H2 thermal compound is a separate item in the box. Nothing says it is pre-applied.5Press articlefunkykit.com/news/noctua-releases-its-nh-d15-g2-next-gen-flagship-cpu-coolers-and-nf-a14x25r-g2-fansRead 14 October 2026NT-H2 thermal compound included.
Compatibility
3 of 3 differ
CPU sockets
AM5, AM4, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA11503Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026Socket compatibility Intel 1851 / 1700 / 1200 / 1150 / 1151 / 1155 and AMD AM5 / AM4. The launch articles list sockets only up to LGA1700, so LGA1851 comes from this table only.
AM5, AM4, LGA1954, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA11502Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 2026Spec table: AM5, AM4, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151 and LGA1150. LGA1954 is added from Noctua's FAQ, see the Club386 source.11Press articleclub386.comRead 14 October 2026Article of 27 November 2025 quoting Noctua's FAQ: all Noctua CPU coolers compatible with LGA1851 and LGA1700 are also compatible with Intel's LGA1954 socket, and no additional mounting parts are needed.12Reviewclub386.com/noctua-nh-d15-g2-chromax-black-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table of the chromax.black lists LGA1954, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200 and LGA115x for Intel and AM4 and AM5 for AMD.14Reviewhwcooling.net/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-meeting-all-our-expectations-reviewRead 14 October 2026Intel LGA 115x, 1200, 1700 and 20xx and AMD AM4 and AM5. The 20xx sockets are for the LBC version and are not stored.
RAM height clearance
42mm2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 16 October 2026The front fan rail has adjustable height settings, offering up to 69 mm above the second RAM slot. Above the first RAM slot the clearance is 63.3 mm. These are the raised fan figures. The stored 42 mm is Tom's Hardware's out-of-the-box figure with the fan in its lowest position.5Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 16 October 2026Out of the box, these coolers have RAM limitations of 42mm. The fan slides up a few notches for taller RAM. The Elite has a fan brace that slides up and down.7Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-review-german-rival-to-austrias-nh-d15Read 16 October 2026A shorter front fin-stack enables 63.3mm clearance for the closest memory slot, while the fan can be raised up to 69mm. Kingston Fury Beast DDR5-6000 left a tiny gap to the fan at its lowest position.
32mm2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 2026The page says the recessed lower fin stack gives up to 59 mm clearance with a single fan. In the dual-fan configuration it recommends standard-height memory up to 32 mm. The two-fan figure is stored because the field counts all included fans in their standard position.14Reviewhwcooling.net/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-meeting-all-our-expectations-reviewRead 14 October 2026Review of 17 July 2024: for memory modules up to 32 mm in height the front fan can stay in its default position.
Offset mounting
Yes5Press articlefunkykit.com/news/noctua-releases-its-nh-d15-g2-next-gen-flagship-cpu-coolers-and-nf-a14x25r-g2-fansRead 14 October 2026The standard cooler includes offset mounting for AM5.14Reviewhwcooling.net/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-meeting-all-our-expectations-reviewRead 14 October 2026AM5 offset mounting up to 7 mm off the centre of the heat spreader.
Heatsink
1 of 3 differ
Heat pipes
73Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026Heatpipe number / Diameter (mm) 7 / 6. PCMENA says six, which is treated as an error.5Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 16 October 2026Seven copper heat pipes, the same heatsink as the Dark Rock Pro 5.
Heat pipe diameter
Direct-contact heat pipes
Liquid cooling
None of 7 known
Radiator size
Not available
Not available
Radiator dimensions
Not available
Not available
Radiator material
Not available
Not available
Tube length
Not available
Not available
Max pump speed
Not available
Not available
Pump power connector
Not available
Not available
VRM fan
Not available
Not available
Fans
1 of 2 differ
Included fans
Abe quiet! Dark Rock Elite
| Model | Size (mm) | Fans | Max speed (rpm) | Airflow (CFM) | Static pressure (mmH₂O) | Bearing | Connector |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silent Wings 135mm | 135 | 2 | 2,000 | 80.2 | 2.41 | Fluid dynamic (FDB) | 4-pin PWM |
Source3Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026Fan specifications: Silent Wings, 135 x 135 x 25 mm, speed at 100% PWM Q 1500 / P 2000 rpm, airflow at 100% PWM / 12V 80.2 CFM (136.2 m3/h), air pressure 2.41 mm H2O, Fluid Dynamic Bearing, 6-pole motor, 4-pin PWM, Y-cable yes, two fans. Q and P are the quiet and performance modes of the speed switch, so the top speed is 2000 rpm. The airflow and pressure are not in the launch-time copy of the table at APH Networks and Tom's Hardware lists them as unlisted, so they come from this copy only. The overall noise of 11.0 / 19.5 / 25.8 dB(A) at 50 / 75 / 100% is for the whole cooler in quiet mode and is not stored as a fan figure.4Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026Speed at 100% PWM / 12V 1500 / 2000 rpm, fluid dynamic bearing, 6-pole motor, 4-pin PWM, Y-cable. The table has no airflow or pressure row.5Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 16 October 2026Two Silent Wings 135mm fans on the Dark Rock Elite, up to 1500/2000 rpm in the quiet and performance modes, fluid dynamic bearing, no lighting on the fans. Airflow and pressure are unlisted. The top speed is 2000 rpm in the performance mode.8Reviewbasic-tutorials.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026The two fans are connected to each other with a proprietary connector. The cooler connects to a regular PWM fan header.
BNoctua NH-D15 G2
| Model | Size (mm) | Fans | Min speed (rpm) | Max speed (rpm) | Airflow (CFM) | Static pressure (mmH₂O) | Noise (claimed) (dB(A)) | Bearing | Connector |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NF-A14x25r G2 PWM | 140 | 2 | 300 | 1,500 | 91.6 | 2.56 | 24.8 | SSO or SSO2 | 4-pin PWM |
Source2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 20262x NF-A14x25r G2 PWM, 1500 rpm maximum (1250 rpm with the low-noise adaptor), 24.8 dB(A) maximum, control range 300 to 1500 rpm. The page lists airflow as 91.8 CFM, but 155.6 m3/h from Noctua and the other sources converts to 91.6 CFM with 0.5886, so 91.6 is stored.4Retailer pageeshop.enzure.se/noctua-nh-d15-g2/cat-p/c/p1004921255Read 14 October 2026NF-A14x25r G2 PWM: SSO2 bearing, 1500 rpm, 155.6 m3/h, 24.8 dB(A), 4-pin PWM.14Reviewhwcooling.net/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-meeting-all-our-expectations-reviewRead 14 October 2026Comparison table for the NF-A14x25r G2: SSO2 bearing, speed range 300 to 1500 rpm, 155.6 m3/h and 2.56 mmH2O.15Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/noctua-nh-d15-g2-review-standard-lbc-hbc-comparisonRead 14 October 2026Spec table: static pressure 2.56 mmH2O, 91.58 CFM and 155.6 m3/h, 24.8 dB(A), SSO2 bearing, 4-pin PWM. Cybenetics rated the G2 fans Diamond and Titanium in its fan standard, which is not stored.
Fans
2
2
Display and lighting
3 of 7 differ
RGB lighting
Yes1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 16 October 2026Rectangular RGB strip on the heatpipe cover, controlled through the motherboard.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 16 October 2026Top cover with ARGB lighting.5Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 16 October 2026The top of the Dark Rock Elite features an ARGB ring that can optionally be connected to a motherboard.
Lighting standard
ARGB 5 V7Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-review-german-rival-to-austrias-nh-d15Read 16 October 2026The central fan assembly provides a connector for the front fan, a four-pin PWM motherboard header and a three-pin ARGB connector.8Reviewbasic-tutorials.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026The RGB strip is controlled through a standard ARGB connection. Connect the 5V ARGB connector to the board.
Not available
Built-in screen
Screen size
Not available
Not available
Screen resolution
Not available
Not available
Software
Not available
Not available
Measured
6 of 6 differ
Cybenetics THETA, Intel LGA1851
Not available
Overall performance at 30 dB(A), AM5 (measured)
Not available
Overall performance at 30 dB(A), LGA1851 (measured)
Not available
Noise at 100% fan setting (Cybenetics)
Not available
36.6dB(A)16Measurementcybenetics.com/evaluations/coolers/72Read 14 October 202636.6 dB(A) at the 100% fan setting (1494 and 1536 rpm), the same figure as the HBC report. Hemi-anechoic chamber with a 6 dB(A) noise floor, Bruel & Kjaer 2270 G4 analyser, microphone 1 m from the cooler. Protocol revision 1.8.17Measurementcybenetics.com/evaluations/coolers/20Read 14 October 2026The HBC report gives the same 36.6 dB(A) at 100% (1494 and 1536 rpm) as the LBC report.
Thermal tests (measured)
Abe quiet! Dark Rock Elite
| Test CPU | Load | CPU power (W) | Fan setting | Noise (dB(A)) | CPU temperature (°C) | Above ambient (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i7-13700K | No power limits, CPU at TJ Max, maximum package power cooled | 231 | Low noise mode | 38.9 | Not available | Not available |
| Intel Core i7-13700K | No power limits, CPU at TJ Max, maximum package power cooled | 235 | Full speed | 43.4 | Not available | Not available |
| Intel Core i7-13700K | No power limits, CPU at TJ Max, maximum package power cooled at normalized noise | 227 | 38.2 dB(A) | 38.2 | Not available | Not available |
| Intel Core i7-13700K | Cinebench multi-core at a 175 W power limit | 175 | Low noise mode | 37.3 | Not available | 57 |
| Intel Core i7-13700K | Cinebench multi-core at a 175 W power limit | 175 | Full speed | 42.4 | Not available | 55 |
| Intel Core i9-13900K | Cinebench R23 stress test, CPU held at 253 W in the BIOS, average of the performance core temperatures | 253 | 600 rpm | 30.2 | 94.4 | Not available |
| Intel Core i9-13900K | Cinebench R23 stress test, CPU held at 253 W in the BIOS, average of the performance core temperatures | 253 | 1200 rpm | 33.7 | 93 | Not available |
| Intel Core i9-13900K | Cinebench R23 stress test, CPU held at 253 W in the BIOS, average of the performance core temperatures | 253 | Maximum rpm | 41.8 | 91.8 | Not available |
| Intel Core i9-13900K | Cinebench R23 stress test, CPU held at 153 W in the BIOS, average of the performance core temperatures | 153 | 600 rpm | 30.2 | 77.6 | Not available |
| Intel Core i9-13900K | Cinebench R23 stress test, CPU held at 153 W in the BIOS, average of the performance core temperatures | 153 | 1200 rpm | 33.7 | 70.8 | Not available |
| Intel Core i9-13900K | Cinebench R23 stress test, CPU held at 153 W in the BIOS, average of the performance core temperatures | 153 | Maximum rpm | 41.8 | 67.7 | Not available |
Source6Measurementtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-cooling/2Read 16 October 2026Tom's Hardware, Albert Thomas, review of 6 December 2023, which tests the Dark Rock Pro V (Pro 5) and the Dark Rock Elite together. Intel Core i7-13700K on an MSI Z690 A-Pro DDR4 in a be quiet! Silent Base 802 case with the system fans on speed 1, 23 C ambient, Thermalright LGA1700 contact frame. Values come from the bar charts. No power limits: the Elite cooled 231 W in low-noise mode and 235 W at full speed. Noise normalized to 38.2 dBA: 227 W. The 175 W Cinebench rows are the temperature over ambient. Noise is the whole system, and 37.3 dBA is the idle system floor. The 125 W chart has one unlabelled Elite bar and is not stored.7Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-review-german-rival-to-austrias-nh-d15Read 16 October 2026Club386, Parm Mann, review of 24 October 2023. Core i9-13900K on an ASRock Z690 Taichi, CPU set to hold 253 W (and 153 W) under the Cinebench R23 stress test. Temperature is the average of the eight performance cores. Fan speeds of 600 rpm, 1,200 rpm and the cooler's maximum. Noise was measured in a built PC with the chassis fans fixed at 600 rpm, so it is whole-system noise. The review says both air coolers had a couple of cores hit 100 C at 253 W. The ambient temperature is not stated.
BNoctua NH-D15 G2
| Test CPU | Load | CPU power (W) | Fan setting | Noise (dB(A)) | CPU temperature (°C) | Above ambient (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, PBO enabled | 187.9 | 20 dB(A) | 20 | 95.3 | Not available |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, PBO enabled | 190.3 | 25 dB(A) | 25 | 95.2 | Not available |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, PBO enabled | 190.4 | 30 dB(A) | 30 | 94.2 | Not available |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, PBO enabled | 193.1 | 35 dB(A) | 35 | 93 | Not available |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, PBO enabled | 193.1 | 100% | 36.6 | 93 | Not available |
| Intel Core Ultra 9 285K | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, Intel default mode | 295.9 | 20 dB(A) | 20 | 89.8 | Not available |
| Intel Core Ultra 9 285K | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, Intel default mode | 297.6 | 25 dB(A) | 25 | 88.5 | Not available |
| Intel Core Ultra 9 285K | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, Intel default mode | 296.9 | 30 dB(A) | 30 | 87.4 | Not available |
| Intel Core Ultra 9 285K | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, Intel default mode | 297.1 | 35 dB(A) | 35 | 85.7 | Not available |
| Intel Core Ultra 9 285K | Prime95 Small FFTs, full CPU load, Intel default mode | 297.3 | 100% | 36.6 | 85 | Not available |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95, 20 minutes, power level as published | 100 | 40 dB(A) | 40 | Not available | 25.3 |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95, 20 minutes, power level as published | 150 | 40 dB(A) | 40 | Not available | 44.8 |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95, 20 minutes, power level as published | 200 | 40 dB(A) | 40 | Not available | 65 |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95, 20 minutes, power level as published | 100 | 100% | 41.6 | Not available | 23.2 |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95, 20 minutes, power level as published | 150 | 100% | 41.6 | Not available | 41.6 |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900X | Prime95, 20 minutes, power level as published | 200 | 100% | 41.6 | Not available | 64.1 |
Source13Reviewigorslab.de/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-chromax-black-review-return-of-the-king-in-blackRead 14 October 2026Igor's Lab review of the NH-D15 G2 chromax.black. Ryzen 9 7900X on an ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Hero, open bench, Prime95 for 20 minutes, same paste for all coolers but the paste is not named, SecuFirm2+ with the AMD backplate. Temperatures are the CPU die average as a delta to the room temperature, which is not stated and not air-conditioned. The power levels 100, 150 and 200 W are as published, and the review does not say how they were set. The cpu_power_w value is that level, not a measured power. Noise was measured at 40 cm with a Voltcraft SL-10 meter in a room of 30.4 dB(A), so the dB(A) values do not compare with the Cybenetics rows at 1 m. The 40 dB(A) rows ran at 92% PWM (front fan about 1385 rpm, middle fan about 1325 rpm). The full-speed rows are at 100% PWM and 41.6 dB(A).16Measurementcybenetics.com/evaluations/coolers/72Read 14 October 2026Cybenetics Cooling Solutions Test Protocol, revision 1.8 (20 minutes per noise level, 10-minute cool-down). Ambient held at 25 C and 30% humidity in a climate chamber, open Cooler Master Test Bench, Prime95 Small FFTs, PBO enabled. The report does not name the paste. The current protocol states Arctic MX-4 for all tests. CPU power is measured at the EPS connectors. The AM5 rows are from the LBC version and the Default mount, and the LGA1851 rows are from the HBC report. The reports do not publish a temperature above ambient.17Measurementcybenetics.com/evaluations/coolers/20Read 14 October 2026Intel rows: Core Ultra 9 285K on an ASRock Z890 Taichi, open DimasTech Bench, Prime95 Small FFTs, Intel default mode, HBC version. Same protocol and climate chamber as the AM5 rows.
Dimensions and weight
4 of 4 differ
Dimensions
Width136Height168Depth146mm(5.4 × 6.6 × 5.7 in)4Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026Overall dimensions without mounting material (L x W x H) 146 x 136 x 168 mm, read as depth 146, width 136, height 168. Club386, Tom's Hardware and Basic Tutorials print 145 for the depth. The maker's drawing V1/23 shows 146.5Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 16 October 2026Installed size with fans 145 (L) x 136 (W) x 168 (D) mm. The depth axis is the length along the airflow.7Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-review-german-rival-to-austrias-nh-d15Read 16 October 2026Measures 145mm (L) x 136mm (W) x 168mm (H).
Width150Height168Depth152mm(5.9 × 6.6 × 6 in)2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 2026With fans: 168 mm high, 150 mm wide and 152 mm deep.13Reviewigorslab.de/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-chromax-black-review-return-of-the-king-in-blackRead 14 October 2026Spec table of the chromax.black: height 168 mm, width 150 mm, depth 127 mm without fans and 152 mm with fans.14Reviewhwcooling.net/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-meeting-all-our-expectations-reviewRead 14 October 2026168 x 150 x 152 mm with fans.15Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/noctua-nh-d15-g2-review-standard-lbc-hbc-comparisonRead 14 October 2026150 x 168 x 152 mm with fans.
Heatsink dimensions
Width136Height168Depth120mm(5.4 × 6.6 × 4.7 in)3Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026Heatsink specifications, Dimensions (L x W x H) 120 x 136 x 168 mm, read as depth 120, width 136, height 168. The depth is below the 146 mm with fans, so it is stored. The maker's drawing V1/23 shows 124 for the same depth.4Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026Heatsink specifications, Dimensions (L x W x H) 120 x 136 x 168 mm.
Width150Height168Depth127mm(5.9 × 6.6 × 5 in)2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 2026Without fans: 168 mm high, 150 mm wide and 127 mm deep.
Weight
1,340g(3 lb)4Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026Total weight 1.34 kg, the same as Club386 and Basic Tutorials. The table says the size is without mounting material.7Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-elite-review-german-rival-to-austrias-nh-d15Read 16 October 2026Tips the scales at 1.34kg.8Reviewbasic-tutorials.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026Weight 1.34 kg.
1,525g(3.4 lb)2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 20261525 g with fans.13Reviewigorslab.de/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-chromax-black-review-return-of-the-king-in-blackRead 14 October 20261525 g with fans.14Reviewhwcooling.net/en/noctua-nh-d15-g2-meeting-all-our-expectations-reviewRead 14 October 20261525 g.15Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/noctua-nh-d15-g2-review-standard-lbc-hbc-comparisonRead 14 October 20261525 g with fans.
In the box
1 of 1 differ
In the box
Mounting set for Intel and AMD, Screwdriver, Thermal grease, Y-cable, User manual4Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-eliteRead 16 October 2026Accessories: thermal grease, mounting set for Intel and AMD. The text adds a magnetic screwdriver, mounting documentation and warranty information. The Y-cable comes from the fan table.5Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 16 October 2026Included: two Silent Wings 135mm fans, heatsink with seven copper heat pipes, mounting for AMD and Intel, thermal paste, user manual.
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, NM-SD1 Torx T20 screwdriver, 4x NM-ISW1 washers for LGA1700, Noctua metal case badge2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 2026Box list of the Noctua spec table, copied for the items shared by all versions. The page text mentions NM-ISW1 washers for LGA1700 but its list leaves them out. Other sources list them for the Standard version, so they are stored only for that row.3Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-d15-g2-ch-bkRead 14 October 2026Box list of the chromax.black. It has no NM-ISW1 washers.4Retailer pageeshop.enzure.se/noctua-nh-d15-g2/cat-p/c/p1004921255Read 14 October 2026Scope of delivery of the NH-D15 G2 lists 4x NM-ISW1 shim washers (LGA1700) between the mounting system and the screwdriver.15Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/noctua-nh-d15-g2-review-standard-lbc-hbc-comparisonRead 14 October 2026Scope of delivery of the NH-D15 G2 lists 4x NM-ISW1 washers for LGA1700. The review does not break the list out by version.
Links
Not compared
Product page
Not available
noctua.at/en/nh-d15-g21Maker product pagenoctua.at/en/nh-d15-g2Read 14 October 2026The Noctua site answers agents with a bot check, so the page could not be read. It is stored as the product link only. No value comes from it. Spec values come from the retailer copies of the Noctua spec table and from reviews.
Spec sheet
Not available
Not available
Manual
Not available
Not available
EPREL registration number
Not available
Not available
Warranty
1 of 1 differ
Manufacturer warranty (source market)
3years1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 16 October 2026Backed by a three-year warranty.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 16 October 20263-year warranty.3Retailer pagestore.arsenalpc.com/be-quiet-BK037/Product/3257328Read 16 October 2026Warranty Information 3 year.5Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 16 October 20263 years.
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