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Noctua NF-A14 PWM vs Zalman ZM-F3: Comparison
Noctua NF-A14 PWM and Zalman ZM-F3 separate most on max speed: Noctua NF-A14 PWM at 1500 RPM, Zalman ZM-F3 at 1200 RPM, 20% in favour of Noctua NF-A14 PWM. They match on bearing type, fan thickness and rated life.
Specs
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 140 mm | 120 mm |
| Brand | Noctua | Zalman |
| Model | NF-A14 PWM | ZM-F3 |
| Bearing Type | Fluid Dynamic | Fluid Dynamic |
| Lighting | None | No RGB |
| Fan Thickness | 25 mm | 25 mm |
| Max Speed | 1500 RPM | 1200 RPM-20% |
| Noise Level | 24.6 dBA+1.6 dBA | 23 dBA |
| Rated Life | 150000 hours | 150000 hours |
| Weight | 190 g | 100 g |
| Positioning | Premium | Budget |
| Source URL | https://www.noctua.at/en/products/nf-a14-pwm/specifications | https://www.zalman.com/EN/Product/ProductDetail.do?pageIndex=10&pageSize=10&productSeq=335 |
Price comparison
| Retailer | Noctua NF-A14 PWM | Zalman ZM-F3 |
|---|---|---|
| Zalman | View on Zalman |
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
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.
Zalman ZM-F3
5 / 10 Expert Rating
A budget fan that does the basics quietly, nothing more, nothing less.




