4 Things to Know About Cooler and RAM Clearance

DDR5 and DDR4 sticks are physically the same size Both have the same height and width, so the memory type itself does not affect clearance.

Motherboard layout is the real variable Some DDR5 boards shift the CPU socket or move DIMM slots closer to it, which can cause interference with large coolers like the NH-D15.

Check Noctua’s compatibility list before buying The first DIMM slot may sit under the cooler’s front fan. Noctua’s site lists which boards work with each cooler.

You can work around clearance issues Move the front fan up a few millimeters, use only the middle fan, or buy low-profile RAM.