The Noctua NH-U12A wins in 2 out of 3 comparable specs. Its biggest advantage is TDP Rating (111% better).
NH-L12S wins in 1 spec (MSRP: 45% better).
Recommendation
Choose NH-U12A if you want the best overall performance — especially tdp rating.
Choose NH-L12S if msrp matters more to you.
| Spec | NoctuaNH-L12S | NoctuaNH-U12A |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Type | Low Profile | Air Tower |
| Height | 70 mm | 158 mm |
| Performance | ||
| TDP Rating | 95W | 200W+111% |
| Fans | 1 | 2 |
| Fan Size | 120 mm | 120 mm |
| Acoustics | ||
| Noise Level | 23.9 dB(A) | 22.6 dB(A)−5% |
| Fan RPM |
| 450 - 1850 |
| 450 - 2000 |
| Compatibility | ||
| Sockets | LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1151, LGA1150, AM5, AM4 | AM2+, AM3+, FM2+, LGA2011-3, LGA2011, LGA2066, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA1150, AM5, AM4, AM3, AM2, FM1, FM2 |
| Price | ||
| MSRP | $55−45% | $100 |
| Release Date | Jan 2018 | Jan 2019 |
