NF-S12-1200
120x25mm fan
Classic 12cm design
Sound-optimised blade geometry and profile
SSO Bearing
Time-tested SSO-Bearing for exceptional long-term stability
Trusted Noctua quality
Renowned for impeccable quality and outstanding longevity
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Initially, we were quite skeptical that the unusually shaped fan blades could live up to their claim to provide better than usual airflow at low speeds. A similar blade design on an 80mm Mechatronics fan ended up being significantly less efficient when we compared it to more conventional designs. Additionally, the unusually wide clearance between the blade tip and the frame - intended to reduce turbulence noise - made us wonder whether the blades had enough surface area to move a significant amount of airflow.
Happily, the numbers proved Noctua's claims correct. A close analysis of the data showed that, rotation for rotation, the Noctua fans pushed about 20% more air than the rest of the fans in the test. Even better, the Noctua fans did not lose efficiency until the rotation speed dropped to ~400 RPM, while other fans typically dropped off around ~500 RPM.
So much for airflow, but what about noise? Certainly, the Noctua fans had the advantage of spinning more slowly to produce the same airflow, but we've long since learned not to judge noise on the basis of rotation speed alone. Luckily, the noise character seemed to consist mostly of the quiet, broadband whoosh of airflow, making it very easy to ignore. Close listening revealed a very slight buzz hidden underneath that gave the noise a slight edge that is absent in the Nexus fan. In contrast, the Nexus sounded more tonal, with more emphasis in the deeper frequencies.
Best of all, the better airflow efficiency meant that the Noctua was perceptibly quieter at equivalent airflow than the Nexus. The difference wasn't large, and at low speeds both were quiet enough to disappear entirely. Nevertheless, there was enough difference around ~40 CFM for this reviewer to give the Noctua the nod.