Consumercarts is reader-supported. Learn more
EKWB EK-Vardar EVO 120ER vs Noctua NF-A9 PWM: Comparison
EKWB EK-Vardar EVO 120ER and Noctua NF-A9 PWM separate most on warranty: EKWB EK-Vardar EVO 120ER at 2 years, Noctua NF-A9 PWM at 6 years, 67% in favour of Noctua NF-A9 PWM. They match on 7 other specifications, including fan thickness, pack quantity and zero rpm capable.
Specs
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 120 | 92 mm |
| Brand | EKWB | Noctua |
| Model | Vardar EVO 120ER | NF-A9 PWM |
| Bearing Type | Ball | Fluid Dynamic |
| Lighting | No RGB | None |
| Fan Thickness | 25 mm | 25 mm |
| Static Pressure | 3.16 | 2.28 mmH2O-28% |
| Pack Quantity | 1 | 1 |
| Max Speed | 2200 | 2000 RPM-9% |
| Noise Level | 33.5+10.7 dBA | 22.8 dBA |
| Airflow | 77 | 46.44 CFM-40% |
| PWM Control | true | Yes |
| Min Speed | 500 RPM | 400 RPM |
| Zero RPM Capable | Yes | Yes |
| Bearing Marketing Name | Dual-Ball | SSO2 |
| Rated Life | 50000 hours | 150000 hours |
| Max Power Draw | 2.16 W | 1.2 W |
| 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 | 300 mm | 200 mm |
| Warranty | 2 years-67% | 6 years |
| Positioning | Performance | Premium |
| Source URL | https://www.ekwb.com/shop/ek-vardar-evo-120er-black-bb-500-2200rpm | https://cdn.noctua.at/media/noctua_nf_a9_pwm_infosheet_en_web.pdf |
Price comparison
| Retailer | EKWB EK-Vardar EVO 120ER | Noctua NF-A9 PWM |
|---|---|---|
| EKWB | View on EKWB |
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
EKWB EK-Vardar EVO 120ER
8 / 10 Expert Rating
An extreme, loud, purpose-built radiator fan for the densest custom loops, overkill for anything less.
Noctua NF-A9 PWM
8 / 10 Expert Rating
The go-to premium option whenever a build genuinely needs a 92mm fan instead of 120mm.




