Introduction
There are several instances, especially in technology, when taking up less space is important. Finding a good low profile cooler can be challenging, especially since the more compact designs don’t always have the reputation of high performance. Today we will be looking at a low profile CPU Cooler that is designed be able to keep up with some of the popular larger coolers, yet do it in a more compact size. We have a low profile CPU Cooler by Noctua on the test-bench, and this one is called the NH-L12.
The NH-L12 is is designed for small form factor set-ups and HTPC environments. The quiet design of the PWM fans really might really make this cooler stand out in its class. The cooler is designed to allow for multiple fan configurations and with reduced noise, making it more versatile. In this review we will cover the details and overall performance of the NH-L12 Cooler, but before we continue, we want to share a little about Noctua for those who may not know much about them. For those who are familiar with the company, you may already know that Noctua has made some of the best air coolers on the market, and the NH-L12 may be no exception here. We will see in the review. In the mean-time, here’s a little history of the company below.

Noctua comes from a cooperation of the Austrian Rascom Computerdistribution Ges.m.b.H. with the Taiwanese cooling specialist Kolink International Corporation, pooling more than ten years of experience in the development, manufacturing and marketing of high-end cooling components. Established in 2005, Noctua took the international silent enthusiasts’ hearts by storm and quickly developed into one of the most acclaimed suppliers of premium quality quiet cooling products. Today, Noctua is present in more than 30 countries across the globe and working with several hundred sales partners. Chosen by noise conscious PC users, system integrators and industry clients alike, Noctua has become synonymous with impeccable quality, excellent customer service and class leading quiet cooling performance.
Now lets move onto the specifications and package of the NH-L12 Cooler.