Hyper 212+ Push-Pull or NH-D14?

[Strife025]

So I'm trying to hash out my final build for my i7-930.

It's come down to either the Noctua for $80 or the 212+ for $40 (after buying a 2nd fan). Is there any major reason to justify the extra $40 on the D14? From what I've read the D14 only runs 2-3 degrees cooler or so?

The 212+ seems like an awesome deal for how cheap it is. Would either be able to hit 4.0 on a 930? Or is 3.6-3.8 more realistic?

Thanks.

 

[ClockHound]

The Noctua, although gigantic and may cause gravity wells to open over your CPU, its mounting system is up to the task. But, to get the best from the D14, it really cries out for better fans, so add $30+ for a pair of GTs. ;-)

The mounting system for the 212+ is almost designed for a single use. It works ok, but not fun for multiple re-seats. Still it's a very good deal - $19.99 at microcenter. + a pair of GTs. ;-)

But, all said and done you get what you pay for. If it were me and it's not - I'd be all over a Megahalems with GTs.

As far the overclock goes - can't say - it would spoil the suspense. But, can't imagine the 212+ heading much past 3.8 comfortably.

 

[Strife025]

Wow didn't realize it was even cheaper at microcenter. I'm heading there on saturday to grab the i7-930, so probably just gonna grab the 212+ also instead of for $26.99 on tigerdirect.

I'm probably fine with 3.8, was just shooting for that nice round number. I'm running an e8400 @ 4.0 right now and I didn't even have to try. Obviously apples and oranges but was just wondering.

For me though, that $19.99 price vs $80 is just too hard to pass up

I did hear it's a pain to install though Luckily I don't reseat (or haven't needed to), hopefully I don't mess up applying the compound :x

 

[ClockHound]

Not so bad to install the 212. It's just when you remove the cooler from the CPU it's too easy to loosen or remove the back plate in the process! What was that clunk at the bottom of the case? ;-)

 

[Strife025]

Ouch that could definitely get annoying. I'll have to remember that and be careful if I have to reseat :x