TESTING
The cooler was tested against an elite group of competitors. It was possible to include other coolers in the test, but that would have just cluttered the results. Suffice to say that these are the cooler you really want to compete against if you want the price/ performance crown.
There was no significant difference between AS5 and NT-H1.
Coolers were tested with bundled fans (in case of the NH-U12P SE2, NH-D14) and with Thermalright TR-FDB-2000 fans (85cfm at 38db(A)). The Venomous-X was also tested with NF-P12 fan(s). Further more the product in question was also tested using the LNA and ULNA speed control cables
The results should be interpreted as:
- 1. Cooler Name (20): Tested with TR-FDB-2000
2. Cooler Name: Tested with bundled fans or with NF-P12 in case of Venomous-X
The coolers were tested in the standard front-back configuration.
RESULTS
ONE FAN
As you can see the cooler performs in line with its nearest competitor, the TRUE-120. It follows its course to the dot!
TWO FAN TESTS
With the addition of another fan the cooler gains 6C which is more than the double that Noctua’s estimates.
SPEED CONTROL
If a relative quiet setup is required the speed control cables can be used. This takes away about 2-4C of performance depending on the cable used. These are based on using the cooler with two fans in push-pull configuration.
CONCLUSIONS
The NH-U12P is not strictly a new design as the NH-D14, or the Venomous-X. It belongs to the TRUE era and it handily competes with it. The Noctua package is more attractive as it adds two high quality fans.
If you don’t have 90 dollars to spend on a NH-D14, or even the 70 that Thermalright asks for the Venomous-X (no fans included), the NH-U12P SE2 is an outstanding alternative. You get a top notch heat sink together with two quality fans as well as a complete installation kit.
PROS
- • Traditional Noctua build quality (read: great!)
• Two high quality fans
• Secufirm2 mounting system makes installation a breeze
• Extensive CPU compatibility
• High grade thermal compound
CONS
- • Does not hold the performance crown
You can find additional information about our hardware review process and ethics policy here.
Follow Wccftech on Google to get more of our news coverage in your feeds.
