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Noctua NF-A9 PWM vs SilverStone AP121: Comparison
Noctua NF-A9 PWM and SilverStone AP121 separate most on max speed: Noctua NF-A9 PWM at 2000 RPM, SilverStone AP121 at 1500 RPM, 25% in favour of Noctua NF-A9 PWM. Static Pressure splits them by another 25%, again favouring Noctua NF-A9 PWM. They match on bearing type and fan thickness.
Specs
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 92 mm | 120 mm |
| Brand | Noctua | SilverStone |
| Model | NF-A9 PWM | AP121 |
| Bearing Type | Fluid Dynamic | Fluid Dynamic |
| Lighting | None | No RGB |
| Fan Thickness | 25 mm | 25 mm |
| Static Pressure | 2.28 mmH2O | 1.71 mmH2O-25% |
| Max Speed | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM-25% |
| Noise Level | 22.8 dBA+0.4 dBA | 22.4 dBA |
| Airflow | 46.44 CFM | 35.36 CFM-24% |
| PWM Control | Yes | No |
| Connector Type | 4-Pin PWM | 3-Pin DC |
| Positioning | Premium | Balanced mainstream |
| Source URL | https://cdn.noctua.at/media/noctua_nf_a9_pwm_infosheet_en_web.pdf | https://www.silverstonetek.com/en/product/info/coolers/AP121/ |
Price comparison
| Retailer | Noctua NF-A9 PWM | SilverStone AP121 |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | View on Amazon | |
| Newegg | View on Newegg |
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-A9 PWM
8 / 10 Expert Rating
The go-to premium option whenever a build genuinely needs a 92mm fan instead of 120mm.
SilverStone AP121
6 / 10 Expert Rating
A competent, unremarkable fan best chosen for brand consistency in a SilverStone build rather than outright performance.
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