The Noctua NH-L12S is the objective winner of this comparison, securing two out of three spec victories. Its most significant advantage is its MSRP, which is 67% better than that of the be quiet! Silent Loop 2 360mm. While the liquid cooler offers a higher TDP rating, the air cooler provides superior value based on the provided specifications, making it the more efficient choice for users prioritizing cost-effectiveness in their cooling solution.

Choose the Noctua NH-L12S if your primary goal is to minimize your initial investment, as it offers a substantial advantage in MSRP. Conversely, select the be quiet! Silent Loop 2 360mm if your system requires a higher TDP rating to manage thermal output. The liquid cooler is the appropriate choice for users whose hardware demands the specific thermal capacity advantage it holds over the air-cooled alternative.