The Noctua NH-U12A wins in 2 out of 3 comparable specs. Its biggest advantage is Noise Level (29% better).
EK-AIO 280 D-RGB wins in 1 spec (TDP Rating: 50% better).
Recommendation
Choose NH-U12A if you want the best overall performance — especially noise level.
Choose EK-AIO 280 D-RGB if tdp rating matters more to you.
| Spec | EKEK-AIO 280 D-RGB | NoctuaNH-U12A |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Type | AIO | Air Tower |
| Height | 52 mm | 158 mm |
| Radiator Size | 280 mm | N/A |
| Performance | ||
| TDP Rating | 300W+50% | 200W |
| Fans | 2 | 2 |
| Fan Size | 140 mm | 120 mm |
| Acoustics | ||
| Noise Level | ||
| 32 dB(A) |
| 22.6 dB(A)−29% |
| Fan RPM | 550 - 2200 | 450 - 2000 |
| Compatibility | ||
| Sockets | LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1151, AM5, AM4 | AM2+, AM3+, FM2+, LGA2011-3, LGA2011, LGA2066, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, AM5, AM4, AM3, AM2, FM1, FM2 |
| Price | ||
| MSRP | $130 | $100−23% |
| Release Date | Jan 2022 | Jan 2019 |
