After running the NH-D14 through our series of performance tests we can safely say this high performance heatsink is a force to be reckoned with. The high weight and big size proves beneficiary for low noise computing, which the D14 is capable of out of the box by use of the stock fans, included low noise fan adapters and soft rubber mounts.

At the high end of the scale, inside a case, the NH-D14 trailed the competition when both were paired with the same high RPM/CFM fans, but then again, if a 5°C difference in CPU temperature means the difference between a stable and unstable system, you might be pushing your luck with the CPU overclock. We're sure that outside a case on a test bench this heatsink will perform beautifully, with the ability to mount 3 fans on this monster construction (might need to get a bit creative for the third fan as clips for only 2 fans are provided).

Installation gear is another high point of the NH-D14, while you do need to remove your motherboard for installation, the steps for getting the D14 on your CPU are few and they are straight forward, with help of thumbscrews and pre-mounted screws/springs on the heatsink you won't have much difficulity (re-)installing this heatsink multiple times, each time a perfect fit.

Last but not least is the price of the NH-D14, this is its biggest drawback, if it carried a €50 price tag this heatsink would come heartily recommended, as it stands though at €70+ it's hard to call this product good value, as there are cheaper alternatives out there which offer better, or at least, on par performance. If you want one of the best silent air cooled heatsinks out there, the Noctua NH-D14 fits the bill perfectly.

We like to thank Jakob from Noctua for allowing us to test their latest products.