Normalized Noise Tests
For these tests, I set the fan to speeds with noise output at the following predefined levels: 20/25/30/35/40/45 dBA. I skip the corresponding tests if the fan under the test cannot reach some noise levels. The speeds shown in the graph below are measured with the fan in a clear space inside my hemi-anechoic chamber without any obstacles. I set these speeds on the Longwin machine, but they slightly change because of the variable conditions that the device applies.
Lately, we discovered a peculiarity of the Longwin apparatus, so we are re-testing every fan we have, and we will continue to double-check all results because it seems the Longwin’s fan controller doesn’t “like” speed control for these tests, but it works better with PWM control. This is why you will find differences with results listed in previous reviews; we constantly update the noise-normalized tests to make them as accurate as possible!
20 dBA Noise Output
The RPMs are pretty high, showing a noise-effective design. Airflow is not that high, but static pressure is satisfactory. Power consumption is low.
25 dBA Noise Output
High speeds, high enough airflow, and static pressure. Power consumption is low.
30 dBA Noise Output
Compared to the other fans, it has very high speed, not high airflow, and good enough static pressure. Power consumption is on the low side.
Hi there
I compared the the data of the max static pressure graph at 20 dBA Noise Output with the same graph from the test of the Phanteks T30 (https://hwbusters.com/cooling/phanteks-t30-120-cooling-fan-review-recheck/10/) and the values of certains fans change quite a bit. For example here the static pressure of the Phanteks T30 is 1.32mmAq in this test while it is 1.44mmAq in the review of the Phanteks.
So which are the “correct” values?
Cheers
Hi! Thanks for such a detailed review!
I agree, the hero of the review is far from the most productive fan in terms of noise normalization, but its quality is… a separate level
As a person for whom complete noiselessness of assembly is a priority, I cannot accept some models following the NF-A12x25 in the list of the best, simply because, based on personal experience and numerous reviews, after a while very unusual sounds at low rpm (~800-1000 rpm) begin to emanate from them
Therefore, in my personal top, I would give him a solid 2nd place in terms of a combination of factors
The rest is a matter of compatibility of the Phankeks T30 with your build. 😁
Suggestion: it would be cool to add fan testing for near-silent operation, 10 dBa, for example, there are probably a lot of silence maniacs in their builds 🙃
Also, please test the NF-A14 (aka A15 for the NH-D15 cooler)
Thanks!
Happy New Year to your team! 🎄
Happy New Year!
Unfortunately, I cannot do torture testing in noise measurements, for now at least.
This Noctua fan has sky-high quality and its bearing is among the best in today’s market, but since performance is of the highest priority, it needs improvements there.
In the way I test, even 20 dBA is very low, since I measure the fans from 1 meter away. I also have readings for 15 dBA.