Check if the Noctua NH-D15 meets the requirements for an overclocked i5 8600k.
Check if the Noctua NH-D15 meets the requirements for an overclocked i5 8600k.
I'm planning a new build with an 8600k and considering a Noctua NH-D15 cooler for an all-core overclock to 5GHz. I have two questions:
1. Can the Cooler Master MasterBox MB500 fit this cooler?
2. Is this an appropriate overclock, and will the cooler maintain temperatures below about 75 degrees?
Thanks a lot for your assistance!
Case Clearance for CPU Cooler is 160mm. Noctua NH-D15 height stands at 165mm, which means it won't fit. But the newest version of that cooler is Noctua NH-D15S measuring 160mm, so it should work. The same model is just summarized here for general use. It should handle the 8600k well and keep temperatures low. Still, no cooler can ensure you stay below 75 degrees at those speeds.
Case Clearance for CPU Cooler is 160mm. Noctua NH-D15 height stands at 165mm, which means it won't fit. But the newest version of that cooler is Noctua NH-D15S measuring 160mm, so it should work. The same model is just summarized here for general use. It should handle the 8600k well and keep temperatures low. Still, no cooler can ensure you stay below 75 degrees at those speeds.
The question checks whether the cooler's dimensions are reliably compatible with the specifications, considering possible rounding variations.
There is generally enough space available. It should fit well.
I own:
8600k on an ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E
Noctua NH-D15 with two NF-A15's
Corsair CX750
Running 5GHz @ 1.350v manual OC, VCore stays under 1.285v.
Idle times (with two monitors, three chrome tabs, Discord, Steam, HWMonitor, and various drivers) range from 27 to 31°C.
Long gaming sessions typically keep max temps near 75°C but rarely go past 78°C, which is uncommon.
It was quite challenging to achieve this setup, and I’d even say I was lucky. Staying above 72°C isn’t a major issue for me since it’s unlikely to happen much, but I’m not sure.
I definitely need a big case with properly designed fans (check your case’s guide).
My current case is a Fractal Design Define R4. The nearest equivalent would be the
Fractal Design Define R6
I'm considering a Fractal Design Define S, which includes two decent silent fans. Would I need to add more? Also, the overclock results look fine, they're safe and within temperature limits. More fans usually help, though not always. The orientation and setup matter too. Front/Bottom/Side - Intake; Rear/Top - Exhaust. It really depends on the room conditions. If the fans are drawing in warm air from the room, extra fans won't make much difference. Define S is a solid choice with strong airflow and good look. Its cooling system is quite reliable.
Cooling system
Front: 3 – 120/140 mm fans (includes 1 Fractal Design Dynamic GP14 at 1000 RPM)
Rear: 1 – 120/140 mm fan (includes 1 Fractal Design Dynamic GP14 at 1000 RPM)
Top: 3 – 120/140 mm fan (not included) or 1 – 180 mm fan with 165mm spacing (not included)
Bottom: 1 – 120/140 mm fan (not included)
Side: 1 – 120/140 mm fan (not included)
Dust filters: Bottom and front intakes
You should install at least one more 140mm fan in front, plus at least one or two at the top. Make sure your CPU cooler is positioned directly toward the rear or top exhaust so hot air can exit efficiently.