As on previous occasions, we’ve been impressed by what Noctua has to offer in their latest product, the NH-D12L.

The NH-D12L retains the signature design that Noctua are well-known for. Just one look at this cooler and you instantly know who the manufacturer is. The build quality and attention to detail is outstanding, something we’ve come to love over the years of reviewing Noctua’s products.

Cooling and acoustic performance are fundamental to a CPU cooler and the most obvious traits that the end user is seeking from such a product. We’re pleased to report that in both aspects, the NH-D12L exceeds expectations. In the thermal performance it delivered excellent results while maintaining reasonably low RPM, and even at the peak fan speed of 1148 RPM, we recorded just 36 dBa – the lowest figure from all the coolers we have tested lately.


The installation process is an area which is important – not all CPU coolers are easy to attach to CPU/system and problems can be encountered. With Noctua this has never been the case, the SecuFirm 2 mounting system is exceptional and we were up and running in next to no time. Our cooling test system uses LGA 1700 – which is Intel’s latest socket and platform. The process for installing this cooler on the new socket is still plain sailing and just requires slightly different standoff mounts.

This cooler isn’t cheap by any means, it comes in at GBP £85 | USD $89 | AUD $169. On offer though is something which goes above and beyond with regards to thermals and acoustics. The included items within the bundle and lengthy 6-year warranty are all reasons to justify the cost.

If you’re on the hunt for an outstanding 120mm CPU cooler which has the added bonus of being shorter for better case compatibility then the NH-D12L is the perfect candidate.


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