Review: Noctua NH-C14S Heatsink

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”15906″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We recently took a look at the NH-D15S, as Noctua’s new iteration of the popular D15 that offered a slight adjustment to the layout for increased compatibility. The older NH-C14S has gotten similar treatment, but with new socket support, fin stack changes, and a newer, more capable fan.

Here are some of the main specs

Based on the award-winning NH-C14

Offset design for PCIe clearance

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_masonry_media_grid element_width=”6″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1449375403501-b0fbccb0-4450-4″ include=”15908,15909″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The package doesn’t differ at all from previous Noctua heatsinks. This includes the same white and brown colors sceheme and well package cardboard that houses the heatsink itself.

Accessories include the SecuFirm2 mounting brackets for Intel and AMD support – which still to this day make for the easiest installation of a heastink. Noctua also include Thermal Paste, a low-noise adapter, and extra fan clips should you wish to add a second fan.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”15907″ img_size=”large” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The new C14S design has been altered to include top PCIe slot support when the heatpies face the PCIe slot. Being a top-flow design, the heatsink has extensive low profile support, with great airflow for your CPU and entire socket are of the motherboard.

The C14S includes the A14 PWM fan, and thanks to the deeper fin stack, it takes great advantage of the newer fan for better and more efficient airflow.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_masonry_media_grid grid_id=”vc_gid:1449375449813-f378865e-b35f-2″ include=”15902,15901,15903″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”15905″ img_size=”large” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_masonry_media_grid grid_id=”vc_gid:1449375756177-54fa21ff-6cf3-3″ include=”15899,15898,15897″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Installation of the heatsink requires the fan to be removed and added back once the heatsink is in place. Installation like with most Noctua heatsinks, is made very simply thanks to the ingenious design and compatibility with the SecurFirm2 mount brackets.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”15906″ img_size=”large” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The C14S design is aimed at specific usage that require a low-profile heatsink, with great support, and airflow. The fans position will also greatly help airflow around most motherboard with high temperature VRMs.

Noctua’s design choice this time around is aimed at improving the performance over the original C14, and of course increasing its compatibility with new standards.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Testing

Now it’s time for for the numbers. Below is our test setup.

Test setup
Intel Core I7 4770k CPU
Gigabyte Z87X-OC Motherboard
Kingston HyperX Predator 2400Mhz
Corsair AX1200 PSU

Our tests are straight up. We stress our 4770k at stock, and again overclocked to 4.4GHz with 1.4v.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Stock

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Overclocked

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Conclusion

The new C14S makes some adjustments to the previous design with a shifted profile, improved fin stack and newer fan.

These changes make sure the new heatsink doesn’t interfere with your top PCie slot – which is typical with large heatsink, as it was with the previous C14. We also have support for all of the latest CPU sockets.

We’re pleased with the new changes made to the heatsink, and the performance is solid enough that the specific profile design that the C14S is aimed at should still get decent performance compared to the largest heatsinks available and of course popular AIO’s which require case support.

The fit for purpose design of the C14s makes it a unique piece of hardware for specific builds. Pricing for the heatsink is currently just under £60/€90 which puts it along side other high performing heatsinks. Again, the C14S is aimed at specific users with tight builds, but alas the performance is very good that most shall be pleased with its ability to keep things cool and provide decent airflow around your motherboard.

We happily award the C14S with a Gold and we’re glad Noctua are improving their heatsinks and pushing for new support and improved compatibility for unique heatsinks with their outstanding design and excellent performance.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]