Noctua NH-D15 + GPU compatibility : Can I use another PCIe 3.0 slot?

thomchild

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Hi everyone,

I'm really struggling to chose my CPU cooler. The Noctua NH-D15 is tempting, but I fear I will come close to my GPU (GTX 980) on an Asus X99-Deluxe motherboard in a Fractal Design R4 case. Here's an example I found surfing around (http://www.pcper.com/image/view/45501?return=node%2F61041). I don't know what GPU is in the picture, though.

In that scenario, could I use another PCIe slot for the GPU (one which is lower)?

Hope it's not a stupid question ;) I'm a newbie in that domain!

Thanks in advance,

Éric
 
Solution
Absolutely. It does pretty well with OC. The Noctua performs a bit better but for the price difference, it is not really worth it. Also, see above.

kira70591

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You would have to look in your motherboard manual and see where they recommend placing cards and what the slots run at. The 980s also come with backplates on them so that may give a slightly wider width as well.

You could look at a liquid AIO cooler which would solve your problem as well. The high end air coolers perform as good as, if not better than liquid coolers but the liquid coolers give you a ton more room to work with if you have the mounting space for the radiator.
 

thomchild

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Kira, thanks for the answer! Thats the problem! I know the H100i can fit in the top of the case, but I'm not sure it can with the X99-deluxe board, which have a particulary big heatsink (or so I think)... :\

I was fixed on trying the h100i but I had second thought this morning...
 

thomchild

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Damn! It's gonna be tight... I guess I'll have to try it. I hope it will fits, cause I don't wanna go through the process of returning the part (I live in Canada, and will order from the US)...

Would you have any recommandations for a good CPU cooler that is a sure fit?
 

kira70591

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The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo is another great cooler for a great price. It is also a bit less wide than the Noctua. However, as you said, you could always give it a shot. There is always a risk factor when it comes to these things :(.
 

kira70591

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No problem at all. If you need fans or want to put a cooler in a push / pull config (does not change temps much but it helps a little), I would recommend the Corsair SP120 Quiet Edition PWM fans. They have great static pressure and are able to to remain pretty quiet while still pushing quite a bit of air.
 

thomchild

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I have opted for more noctua 140mm fans in the R4. Shouldn't I go with this brand for the cpu cooler fans too? Sorry, I didn't take the time to look if they would fit yet.
 

kira70591

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Noctuas are great but they are super pricey; however, they are some of the best. I still prefer the Corsair's though as I like the look and they perform great at a low noise. You can get a twin pack for $30. You can also get 140mm AF ones.

If you have the money though, then Noctuas are the way to go!