Noctua NH-U12S Review

Up Close:  The Cooler 

Although later in the build section you can see the U12S with 2 fans attached, so that you can better see the fin structure and pipe distribution we’ve attached just a single NF-F12 to it for this part of the review.  The NF-F12 has a focussed flow design and is specifically intended for use with heatsinks and radiators where a high static pressure is required.  The PWM feature allows the user, via motherboard control to alter the speed between 1500RPM and 300RPM, although it has to be said even at full tatt the 22.4dB(A) emmited by the fan isn’t exactly loud.

50 Aluminium fins with semi closed sides are utilised to conduct the heat away from the heat pipes and provide a large surface are for maximising heat dissipation. 

The NH-U12S is symmetrical with grooves for fan clips on both sides.  Additional fan clips come as standard within the accessories box,

The NH-U12 has five heat pipes spread fairly evenly within the fin stack although with a slight bias to the lateral aspects   

As with all Noctua products there’s real attention to detail and clear evidence of high quality standards.  Whether it be the immaculate Nickel plating of the copper contact plate or the perfect soldering of joints