Testing
The following system was used to test the fans:
– Processor: Intel i9 9900K @ 5GHz
– Motherboard: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming X
– RAM: GOODRAM IRDM PRO 16GB DDR4 @ 3600MHz
– GPU: MSI GeForce RTX 2070 Super Gaming X Trio
– SSD: Crucial P5 500GB
– HDD: GOODRAM IRDM 1TB SSD
– CPU Cooler: SilverStone Permafrost PF240W-ARGB
– PSU: Seasonic Snow Silent 750W Platinum
– Case: be quiet! Silent Base 802 White
– Thermal compound: Noctua NT-H2
The testing of all fans is done with the i9 9900K CPU at maximum load with Intel Burn Test V2. All system fans and the tested fans are turned to their maximum speeds while the PC case has both side panels closed.
The 120mm fans has been tested using a 240mm CPU liquid cooler, the SilverStone Permafrost PF240W-ARGB at max. RPM.
The 140mm fans has been tested using a 280mm CPU liquid cooler, the NZXT Kraken X61 at max. RPM.
120mm Fan Performance
The noise level was measured at three different distances from the fans (10cm, 20cm, 30cm.) the noise was measured with a margin of error of ± 5 db.
Final thoughts
The Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black is the same fan that we all know, only that this one looks so much better. In terms of the performance, this chromax.black variant of the NF-A12x25 PWM is identical with the regular model, while looking a lot better.
The performance is what we can expect from a highly developed fan such as the NF-A12x25 PWM. The fan has good static pressure and airflow, while remaining relatively quiet and vibration free.
The build quality is outstanding to say the least, nothing is left rough, this includes the impellers and the frame of the fan. The same can be said for the included accessories, the rubber fan frame, the frame corner pads and the extension cable.
From a design standpoint, the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black is a good-looking fan. The impellers have a unique texture thanks to the Sterrox liquid-crystal polymer compound that they’re made out of. While the frame has a smooth texture with a deep black color on all surfaces.
The included accessories are useful, and they are what we can expect from Noctua. A rubber fan frame to dampen the vibrations, alongside seven different sets of rubber pads for the corners. You also get a 30cm extension cable.
In conclusion, the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black is a design upgrade over the regular NF-A12x25 PWM fan. This chromax.black edition is not only performing the same, but it has included more accessories alongside looking better. The increase in price might be a drawback for many, but it is worth it when we look at the included accessories and the performance offered. In terms of the performance, this fan is ideal for heatsinks and radiators, thanks to its excellent static pressure and airflow.
