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Arctic F12 PWM vs Noctua NF-A14 PWM: Comparison
Arctic F12 PWM and Noctua NF-A14 PWM separate most on static pressure: Arctic F12 PWM at 1.0 mmH2O, Noctua NF-A14 PWM at 2.08 mmH2O, 52% in favour of Noctua NF-A14 PWM. Airflow splits them by another 36%, again favouring Noctua NF-A14 PWM. They match on 8 other specifications, including bearing type, fan thickness and pwm control.
Specs
| Specification |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 120 mm | 140 mm |
| Brand | Arctic | Noctua |
| Model | F12 PWM | NF-A14 PWM |
| Bearing Type | Fluid Dynamic | Fluid Dynamic |
| Lighting | No RGB | None |
| Fan Thickness | 25 mm | 25 mm |
| Static Pressure | 1.0 mmH2O-52% | 2.08 mmH2O |
| Max Speed | 1350 RPM-10% | 1500 RPM |
| Noise Level | 22.5 dBA | 24.6 dBA+2.1 dBA |
| Airflow | 53.0 CFM-36% | 82.52 CFM |
| PWM Control | Yes | Yes |
| Min Speed | 230 RPM | 300 RPM |
| Zero RPM Capable | Yes | No |
| Max Power Draw | 1.44 W | 1.56 W |
| Start Voltage | 6.0 V | 7 V |
| PWM Duty Floor | 5 percent | 20 percent |
| Connector Type | 4-Pin PWM | 4-Pin PWM |
| Lighting Connector | None | None |
| RGB Lighting | No | No |
| Lighting Type | None | None |
| Colorway | Black | Brown And Beige |
| Cable Length | 400 mm | 200 mm |
| Weight | 105 g | 190 g |
| Warranty | 6 years | 6 years |
| Positioning | Budget | Premium |
| Source URL | https://www.arctic.de/en/F12-PWM/ACFAN00203A | https://www.noctua.at/en/products/nf-a14-pwm/specifications |
Verdict
Arctic F12 PWM
7 / 10 Expert Rating
The no-frills budget fan pick when a build just needs more quiet case airflow.
Noctua NF-A14 PWM
9 / 10 Expert Rating
The default recommendation for a 140mm airflow fan when looks don't matter and quiet running does.