Noctua NH-L12 Low Profile CPU Cooler Review

1. Introduction2. Packaging and Bundle3. The Noctua NH-L12 Cooler4. Installing the Noctua NH-L125. Testing Methodology and Performance6. Closing Thoughts7. View All Pages

Noctua have been able to create a steady stream of high grade coolers over the years, and the NH-L12 is no exception to the rule.

We managed to maintain a substantial 4.7 GHz overclock via the NH-L12 without experiencing high temperatures that could affect the longevity of the CPU.  This is quite remarkable for a compact, low-profile CPU cooler especially as compromises normally have to be made.

The impressive thermal performance of the cooler is rivaled by the excellent acoustic performance.  Even with the fans running at full speed, the cooler is inaudible when it’s installed in a case. That said, both of the fans are PWM models, so most of the time they will be spinning much slower, emitting low levels of noise.

Noctua offer a 6 year warranty as standard which gives us peace of mind that the cooler will last a very long time indeed.

At a price of about £50 from Scan, we feel that the Noctua NH-L12 offers reasonable value for money.  There aren’t many low profile coolers out there that offer this level of performance.  So if you want to build an overclocked HTPC or small form factor PC, you need look no further.

Pros:

• Good cooling capability.
• Quiet fans.
• Generous bundle.
• Very compact.

Cons:

• Can block RAM slots.

KitGuru says: Another excellent product from Noctua!

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