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Arctic P12 Max vs Noctua NF-F12 PWM: Comparison
Arctic P12 Max and Noctua NF-F12 PWM separate most on max speed: Arctic P12 Max at 3300 RPM, Noctua NF-F12 PWM at 1500 RPM, 55% in favour of Arctic P12 Max. Static Pressure splits them by another 40%, again favouring Arctic P12 Max. They match on 7 other specifications, including fan size, bearing type and fan thickness.
Specs
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 120 mm | 120 mm |
| Brand | Arctic | Noctua |
| Model | P12 Max | NF-F12 PWM |
| Bearing Type | Fluid Dynamic | Fluid Dynamic |
| Fan Thickness | 25 mm | 25 mm |
| Static Pressure | 4.35 mmH2O | 2.61 mmH2O-40% |
| Max Speed | 3300 RPM | 1500 RPM-55% |
| Airflow | 81.04 CFM | 54.97 CFM-32% |
| PWM Control | Yes | Yes |
| Zero RPM Capable | Yes | Yes |
| Start Voltage | 3.9 V | 7 V |
| Connector Type | 4-Pin PWM | 4-Pin PWM |
| Cable Length | 400 mm | 200 mm |
| Warranty | 6 years | 6 years |
| Source URL | https://www.arctic.de/en/P12-Max/ACFAN00280A | https://www.noctua.at/en/products/nf-f12-pwm/specifications |
Price comparison
| Retailer | Arctic P12 Max | Noctua NF-F12 PWM |
|---|---|---|
| Noctua | View on Noctua |
Disclaimer: The price and specification of the given product may differ from the actual product. Please confirm on the retailer's website before buying.
Verdict
Arctic P12 Max
8 / 10 Expert Rating
The highest static pressure in our case fan lineup at a budget price, ideal for radiators and dense heatsinks.
Noctua NF-F12 PWM
9 / 10 Expert Rating
The benchmark focused-flow 120mm fan for CPU coolers, still worth the premium for the one or two fans that actually sit on a heatsink.




