I am looking to build a new system I have most of the parts picked out except for the CPU and a air cooler for it. Each of the CPU's on my list has a down side it seems. i9-9900k is pricey, i7-9700k no hyper threading, i7-8700k two less cores and threads compared to the 9900k. Then there is the i5-9600k that seems to have problems with some games and hanging up while rendering. Yes, the R7 2700X is on the list. But Intel still has the edge when it comes to gaming which is my primary use. However the 2700X would be nice for my secondary hobby of distributed computing projects since its as good if not better at compute jobs. At this point I am wavering on going big with the 9900k or saving a bit and just settle for the 2700x. Both of which will need a good air cooler to get the most out of them. Yes the 2700x comes with a cooler its a bit loud running full out. Rather just skip it and get something better. I prefer air over water cooling since air avoids two additional point sources of possible failure, leaks and the pump motor.
My current i5-3570k has a Coolermaster GeminII on it. While I like this type of cooler I don't think its up to the job if you OC beyond a mild setting. So I was looking to jump ship and pick up something from Noctua. While I like the NH C14S, since its similar to the GeminII, I am still concerned its not up to the job of more than a mild OC. On the other hand my second choice is the monster NH D15. Thing is huge but looking at the numbers it will fit in the the case I chose, the Define R6.
So, does any one think the NH C14S is up to the job or should I just go with the NH D15 monster? Or is there a better choice from a different manufacturer?