In November 2025, Noctua finally launched the black version of its NH-D15 G2 CPU cooler, simply named NH-D15 G2 chromax.black. With this new version, the brand is responding to demand for a black version of the company’s new high-end cooler. You know how it is: brown/beige is a nice color, but it doesn’t go well with other components. And when you like nice-looking PCs, it’s easier to build a full black machine than one in military colors!
Introducing the NH-D15 chromax.black:
We have, of course, received this new version, but we are not going to test it per se. As we will see, this chromax.black version does not bring any major changes in terms of features. We therefore expect equivalent performance. To get an idea of the performance offered by this model, we simply refer you to our test.
In any case, this chromax.black version comes in new packaging similar to that of the brown/beige version. However, the brown tones are only present in the form of a border at the bottom. In any case, the box displays an illustration of the heatsink as well as its features and functionality on the sides. Inside, the cooler is protected by cardboard packaging. In total, there are three or four layers of cardboard, which is ideal for protecting the product properly.
Thebundle:
As you can see, the accessories are once again very comprehensive. These include:
- A Noctua badge to stick on
- An NA-TPG1 ring to prevent thermal paste from getting all over your AM5 CPU
- An NA-CW1 wipe to clean your CPU before installing your new cooler
- An installation guide
- Connectors including:
- An NA-YC1 splitter
- Two NA-RC16 L.N.A adapters
- One NT-H2 thermal paste syringe
- Screws, mounting arms, and amulti-socket backplate for mounting
- A Torx screwdriver
In addition to the accessories, which are identical to those included with the original version of the cooler, we note that the mounting arms are also black. This helps the mounting kit blend in with the cooler.
The radiator:
This black version does not change the dimensions of the radiator. Equipped with its fans, the NH-D15 G2 chromax.black still measures 150 (W) x 152 (D) x 168 (H) mm. Weight is still a factor to consider, with the unit tipping the scales at 1.525 kg. On the other hand, when you look at this model, you understand why it weighs so much. This is because we are dealing with a radiator crossed by a total of eight 8 mm copper heat pipes. In addition, there are numerous fins: 58 per cooling tower. Finally, there is a large nickel-plated copper base measuring 44 x 51 mm.
The radiator is slightly offset towards the top, and the reason for this is simple: to maximize compatibility with the motherboard’s first PCIe slot. As for RAM, by default, 32 mm high memory modules can be installed. However, if you opt for taller modules, you will need to reposition the first fan, which will affect the total height of the heatsink. Unless you remove or reposition the front heatsink at the rear, in which case the RAM support increases to 54 mm in height.
Otherwise, as we can see, the finish is exemplary. The black coating is applied evenly over the surface of the radiator. This includes both the aluminum fins and the copper heat pipes. Of course, there is a Noctua logo stamped into the first fin of the second tower.
The fans:
Ventilation for this version is provided by a pair of NF-A14x25r G2 chromax.black fans. These feature the same blade and hub design as their brown/beige counterparts. This means that Progressive Bend blades are once again present, as are the Centrifugal Turbulator hub and all the other features offered by these fans. The goal remains the same: to maximize airflow or static pressure, or both. This minimizes noise pollution by reducing turbulence, for example.
Compared to other fans, these are not the fastest on the market, and for good reason: they only operate at a maximum of 1500 rpm. At full speed, the airflow generated reaches 91.58 CFM, while the advertised static pressure is 2.56 mmH2O.
Assembly:
The installation of this version is exactly the same as for the original brown/beige model. In practice, on an Intel socket, you will need to insert screws into the backplate provided in the accessory pack. Depending on their position, you can mount it on LGA-1700/1851 or LGA-1200/115x motherboards. Then, once positioned on the back of your motherboard, washers are threaded onto the screws surrounding the socket. Their color will depend on your socket, once again, and then the mounting arms must be positioned and screwed in place. Finally, all that remains is to place the cooler on the CPU and screw it in place. Don’t forget to apply a little thermal paste.
On AMD processors, you will need to remove the original mounting tabs from the AM4 or AM5 motherboard. Next, place four gray washers at the ends of the socket to screw on the AMD mounting pads. Depending on your processor, it may be beneficial to mount them offset, i.e., with a 7 mm downward shift to maximize performance. Starting with the Ryzen 3000 series, processors use CCDs offset at the bottom of the IHS. In these conditions, an offset mount allows you to re-center the base of the heatsink on the CPU’s hot spot. After applying the thermal paste, place the heatsink and screw it onto its mounting mechanism.
Conclusion:
Finally, we would like to note that with this chromax.black version, Noctua offers us a particularly well-designed high-end cooler. Its all-black finish suits it perfectly and will be much easier to integrate into a PC than the original classic brown/beige theme.
Of course, before you make a purchase, keep in mind the imposing dimensions of this model, which means that it will not fit in all cases, that’s for sure. This is even more so with large memory modules, which will force you to raise the first fan, so be careful.
Installation is always smooth, and the mounting kit is as practical as ever. What’s more, the accessories include a screwdriver, so you won’t have to hunt for your toolbox to mount the cooler.
In hindsight, even though this is a very high-performance model, we feel that a little modernization of Noctua products would be welcome. We’re thinking in particular of the fan mounting system, which still uses steel claws, for example. Over time, more and more heat sinks are coming with rail systems, for example. The same goes for the upper part, where a small cover to hide the heat pipe ends would be appreciated.
In the meantime, we are dealing with a very high-end heat sink that costs as much as an AIO, since you’ll have to shell out no less than €160 to get your hands on one. It’s a lot of money, but it also guarantees that you’ll have well-built, durable equipment that will last!
Check out our review of the brown/beige version here!
