CPU coolers / Compare

be quiet! Dark Rock 6 vs Noctua NH-U12A

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Product A: be quiet!

Dark Rock 6

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B

Product B: Noctua

NH-U12A

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Abe quiet! Dark Rock 6

BNoctua NH-U12A

General

6 of 12 differ

Series

Dark Rock5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review text: the standard Dark Rock 6 next to the Dark Rock Pro 6.

NH-U121Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026The text calls it the 5th generation of Noctua's NH-U12 series.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

BK0465Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: article number BK046.11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Model BK046.

NH-U12A, NH-U12A chromax.black1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Noctua gives no separate model codes. The model names are NH-U12A and NH-U12A chromax.black.

GTIN / EAN

42600521931435Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: EAN code 4260052193143.

9010018000160, 90100180002451Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026EAN barcode 9010018000160 for the NH-U12A. The chromax.black EAN is on its own page.2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12a-ch-bkRead 15 October 2026EAN barcode 9010018000245 for the NH-U12A chromax.black.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

5 May 20264Press articlegeektopia.es/es/technology/2026/05/05/noticias/be-quiet-presenta-las-refrigeraciones-dark-rock-6-y-dark-rock-pro-6.htmlRead 15 October 2026Launch news of 5 May 2026 for the Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock Pro 6. The CES 2026 showing was a preview.

19 March 20193Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-launches-nh-u12a-premium-class-120mm-cpu-coolerRead 15 October 2026Noctua presented the NH-U12A on 2019-03-19.

Status

Available5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Published 26 May 2026 as a review of the product on sale.11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026On sale at LDLC at EUR 89.95 on the access date.

Available1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 202623 in stock for the NH-U12A and 51 in stock for the chromax.black on the access date.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$109.93Press releasecdrinfo.com/d7/content/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-6Read 15 October 2026Recommended retail prices EUR 89.90 / $109.90 / GBP 64.99 for the Dark Rock 6. US recommended prices exclude tax.5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table MSRP $109.90.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Price line: $109.90.10Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026MSRP US $109.90.

$99.93Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-launches-nh-u12a-premium-class-120mm-cpu-coolerRead 15 October 2026Suggested retail price listed as EUR/USD 99.90. Tax treatment is not stated.4Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-offers-chromax-line-nf-a12x25-fannh-u12a-cooler-and-heatsink-coversRead 15 October 2026Suggested retail price table: NH-U12A chromax.black 119.90, listed as EUR/USD. The chromax.black is stored in its variant row.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€89.92Press articlepcgameshardware.de/CPU-Kuehler-Hardware-255512/News/Dark-Rock-Pro-6-Be-Quiet-Release-Preis-kaufen-1530283Read 15 October 2026Recommended price 89.90 euro for the Dark Rock 6 (German article, VAT included).3Press releasecdrinfo.com/d7/content/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-6Read 15 October 2026EUR 89.90.5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table MSRP EUR 89.90.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Price line: EUR 89.90.10Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026MSRP EUR 89.90.

€99.93Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-launches-nh-u12a-premium-class-120mm-cpu-coolerRead 15 October 2026Suggested retail price listed as EUR/USD 99.90, the same number for both currencies. Whether VAT is included is not stated.4Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-offers-chromax-line-nf-a12x25-fannh-u12a-cooler-and-heatsink-coversRead 15 October 2026The same 119.90 EUR/USD for the chromax.black. Whether VAT is included is not stated.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Black.

Brown, Black2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12a-ch-bkRead 15 October 2026The text calls it an all-black version, with a black coated heatsink, black fans, black fan clips and black mounting parts.

Cooler typeiAir is a heatsink with fans that sits on the CPU. AIO liquid is a sealed all-in-one liquid cooler with a pump block, tubes and a radiator.

Air5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026

Air1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Air cooler: a heatsink with two fans.

Air cooler layoutiAir coolers only. Top-flow covers low-profile coolers whose fan blows down onto the board.

Single tower5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: single-tower air cooler.7Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6/2Read 15 October 2026Single stack of fins on a single-tower heatsink with one 135 mm fan.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review text: no dual-tower design, a single stack of heatsink fins.11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Dual tower No, Top Flow No, cooling type ventirad.

Single tower1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Single tower with an asymmetric design.

Rated TDP (claimed)iThe heat load the maker says the cooler handles. Makers do not share one test method, so this is not a measured result. A maker's maximum heat dissipation power counts. Check the maker's CPU compatibility page too.

220W2Press articlepcgameshardware.de/CPU-Kuehler-Hardware-255512/News/Dark-Rock-Pro-6-Be-Quiet-Release-Preis-kaufen-1530283Read 15 October 2026Maximum cooling capacity 220 W TDP.5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 220 W TDP.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 202610Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Rated for 220 W thermal power dissipation.11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Max CPU TDP 220 W.

Not available

Base materialiThe surface that touches the CPU: the heatsink base or the AIO cold plate. Plating counts, so nickel-plated copper is not copper. Direct-touch heat pipes are the contact surface, so they count as copper unless plating is stated. The direct-contact heat pipes field records the design.

Nickel-plated copper5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: liquid metal compatibility, nickel-plated base. Review text: nickel-plated copper base.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 2026Maker's table: base material copper / nickel plating.7Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6/2Read 15 October 2026The base and heat pipes are copper and the copper base is covered with electroplated nickel.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026The contact plate is nickel-coated so liquid metal paste can be used.10Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Nickel-plated copper base, safe with liquid metal.11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Feature text copied from the maker: nickel-plated base, compatible with liquid metal thermal pastes. Six copper heat pipes and aluminium fins.

Nickel-plated copper1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Material: copper (base and heat-pipes), aluminium (cooling fins), soldered joints and nickel plating. APH Networks, EnosTech and Tech4Gamers state that the base itself is nickel plated.7Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-black/2Read 15 October 2026The base is electroplated with nickel over copper for a silver finish. The heatpipes are soldered to the fins and the joints at the base are soldered.8Reviewenostech.com/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-black-and-chromax-covers-reviewRead 15 October 2026The complete assembly is nickel plated. The base is a mirror-finish nickel-plated copper plate of 43.5 x 43.5 mm.9Reviewtech4gamers.com/noctua-nh-u12a-reviewRead 15 October 2026The nickel-coated copper cold plate has a glossy mirror finish and measures about 43.5 x 43.5 mm.

Thermal pasteiPre-applied means paste is already on the base or cold plate. Included means a separate tube or syringe in the box.

Included6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 2026Maker's table: thermal grease included. The review shows a small tube of thermal grease.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026A small tube of thermal compound is in the box. The cooler has no pre-printed paste on the contact plate.

Included1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Scope of delivery: NT-H1 thermal compound, a tube in the box.

Compatibility

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CPU socketsiSockets the maker lists as supported in its spec table, compatibility list or guide, written as cpu_socket writes them, e.g. AM5 or LGA1851. List each socket on its own, so LGA115x becomes LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155 and LGA1156. When the maker names the sockets of such a family, list only the ones it names. A socket that needs a separately sold or requested mounting kit is left out. A new socket that the maker lists with no extra kit counts. LGA2011-v3 and 2011(V3) are written LGA2011-3. Threadripper sockets use AMD's names, so TR4 is written sTR4 and TR5 is written sTR5. sTRX4 and sWRX8 are sockets of their own.

AM5, AM4, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA11502Press articlepcgameshardware.de/CPU-Kuehler-Hardware-255512/News/Dark-Rock-Pro-6-Be-Quiet-Release-Preis-kaufen-1530283Read 15 October 2026Intel 1851 / 1700 / 1200 / 1150 / 1151 / 1155 and AMD AM5 / AM4. The maker lists no LGA1156.5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Intel 1851 / 1700 / 1200 / 1150 / 1151 / 1155, AMD AM5 / AM4.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 20269Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Intel LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x and AMD AM4, AM5. The maker's own list names LGA1150, LGA1151 and LGA1155.10Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Intel LGA1150/1151/1155/1200/1700 and AMD AM4 and AM5. The review does not mention LGA1851.

AM5, AM4, LGA1954, LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1151, LGA11501Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Intel LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156 and AMD AM5, AM4. LGA2011 and LGA2066 appear in older copies of the table (APH Networks) and in the RAM text, but not in this table, so they are not stored. LGA1954 comes from the Club386 source.10Press articleclub386.comRead 15 October 2026Article of 2025-11-27 quoting Noctua's FAQ: all Noctua CPU coolers compatible with LGA1700 and LGA1851 also support Intel's LGA1954, and no additional mounting parts are needed. The NH-U12A is listed for LGA1851 and LGA1700, so LGA1954 is stored.

RAM height clearanceiAir coolers only. The tallest memory module that fits under the cooler with all included fans in their standard position. When the maker gives different values per socket, store the lowest and name the others in the source note. A heatsink that does not reach over the memory slots has no height limit, so the field is left out and the maker's statement goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Offset mountingiThe included mount can shift the base or cold plate off the socket centre, for example toward the AM5 hotspot. An asymmetric heatsink on a centred base does not count.

Yes8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6/3Read 15 October 2026Mounting bars have two positions marked 0 and 8. The user manual calls 0 the standard position and the offset 8 position the one for maximum cooling on AMD Ryzen 3000, 5000, 7000 and 9000. The reviewer found his Ryzen 7 9700X ran cooler in the standard position.10Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026AM5 mounting brackets give an offset of 8 mm: each bracket has holes marked 0 and 8, and 8 covers the CPU hotspot best.

Not available

Heatsink

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Heat pipesiAir coolers only. Number of heat pipes. A U-shaped pipe with two ends in the fins counts as one. A T-shaped pipe with three ends, such as Cooler Master's 3DHP, also counts as one. The maker's count wins over a review or Cybenetics count.

65Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 6 heat pipes of 6 mm.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 20267Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6/2Read 15 October 2026Six continuous U-shaped heat pipes lead away from the contact plate and split into two fin stacks. The reviewer counts twelve pipe ends, which is six pipes here.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 6 x 6 mm heat pipes.10Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Six copper heat pipes of 6 mm, 51 fins.11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Feature text: 6 copper heat pipes.

71Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026The text says seven heatpipes.3Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-launches-nh-u12a-premium-class-120mm-cpu-coolerRead 15 October 2026Seven heatpipes in a redesigned layout.8Reviewenostech.com/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-black-and-chromax-covers-reviewRead 15 October 20267 copper heat pipes and 50 aluminium fins.

Heat pipe diameteriAir coolers only. Outer diameter, such as 6 or 8.

6mm5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 20266Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 20269Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026

6mm8Reviewenostech.com/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-black-and-chromax-covers-reviewRead 15 October 20267x 6 mm copper heat pipes.9Reviewtech4gamers.com/noctua-nh-u12a-reviewRead 15 October 2026Seven 6 mm nickel-plated heat pipes, black coated on the chromax.black.

Direct-contact heat pipesiAir coolers only. The heat pipes touch the CPU directly instead of sitting in a solid base plate.

No7Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6/2Read 15 October 2026All heat pipes are soldered to the base, so they do not touch the CPU directly.

No7Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-black/2Read 15 October 2026The base is a separate plated copper plate with soldered joints. No direct-touch pipes are described.9Reviewtech4gamers.com/noctua-nh-u12a-reviewRead 15 October 2026The copper cold plate is in indirect contact with the heat pipes. No thermal paste is pre-applied.

Liquid cooling

None of 7 known

Radiator sizeiAIO coolers only. The nominal size class from the fan positions, such as 240, 280, 360 or 420.

Not available

Not available

Radiator dimensionsiRadiator without fans. Length runs along the row of fans. Width runs across it. Thickness is the depth the airflow passes through, such as 27 or 38.

Not available

Not available

Radiator material

Not available

Not available

Tube lengthiLength of each tube between the pump block and the radiator, as published. When the two tubes differ, the shorter is stored and the other goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Max pump speediHighest rated pump speed. When the maker gives a range, this is its top.

Not available

Not available

Pump power connectoriHow the pump gets power. A pump wired through a supplied hub or cable uses the plug at the motherboard or PSU end. A pump powered from SATA with a separate 3-pin speed lead is SATA power.

Not available

Not available

VRM faniA small fan on the pump block that blows over the motherboard voltage regulators.

Not available

Not available

Fans

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Included fansiFans in the box that cool the heatsink or radiator, one row per fan model. A VRM fan on the pump block is left out. Speed, airflow, pressure and noise are the maker's figures for one fan at full speed, in the fastest mode and without a low-noise adapter. When a range is published, the top of the range is stored. Count is the number of rotors, so a unified frame with three 120 mm rotors counts 3 with size 120. Min speed is the lowest speed while spinning. A zero RPM stop is not stored. FDB and S-FDB are fluid dynamic. HDB is hydrodynamic. Cooler Master's Loop Dynamic Bearing is loop dynamic. If the maker gives airflow only in m³/h, convert with 1 m³/h = 0.5886 CFM, round to one decimal and say so in the source note. Connector is the fan's power lead. A separate lighting lead is not counted, and a maker cable or adapter in the box that ends in a 4-pin PWM plug counts as 4-pin PWM, even when the fan's own lead is proprietary. For an air cooler with one fan, the maker's noise figure for the cooler is the fan noise. A figure the maker does not label per fan or in total counts as per fan. When a maker table prints noise for the whole cooler with no per-fan label and the maker's own data sheet for the same fan gives a figure, the fan data sheet figure is stored.

Abe quiet! Dark Rock 6

Model	Size (mm)	Fans	Max speed (rpm)	Airflow (CFM)	Static pressure (mmH₂O)	Noise (claimed) (dB(A))	Bearing	Connector
Silent Wings PWM 135 mm	135	1	2,000	79.48	2.48	31.1	Fluid dynamic (FDB)	4-pin PWM

Source2Press articlepcgameshardware.de/CPU-Kuehler-Hardware-255512/News/Dark-Rock-Pro-6-Be-Quiet-Release-Preis-kaufen-1530283Read 15 October 2026Fan 135 x 135 x 25 mm, 2,000 rpm at 100% PWM, 79.48 / 135.04 CFM / m3/h, 2.48 mmH2O, 4-pin PWM, overall noise 11.9 / 23.2 / 31.1 dB(A) at 50 / 75 / 100%.5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 1x 135 mm Silent Wings PWM, 135 x 135 x 25 mm, 2000 RPM, 79.48 CFM / 135.04 m3/h at 100% PWM, 2.48 mmH2O, 4-pin PWM, noise 11.9 / 23.2 / 31.1 dB(A) at 50 / 75 / 100%. EnosTech prints 74.98 CFM and 31.3 dB(A), which do not match the maker's 135.04 m3/h (79.49 CFM).6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 2026Maker's table: Silent Wings PWM, 135 x 135 x 25 mm, 2000 rpm, 79.48 / 135.04 CFM / m3/h, 2.48 mmH2O, fluid dynamic bearing, 6-pole motor, 12 V, 4-pin PWM, overall noise 31.1 dB(A).9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Custom 135 mm Silent Wings fan with a six-pole motor and fluid dynamic bearing, 0-2,000 rpm, 79.48 CFM, 2.48 mmH2O, max 31.1 dBA.11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Retailer's airflow row reads 89.95 CFM, which is the Pro 6 figure in m3/h. It is not used. Fan 135 mm, 2000 rpm, 2.48 mmH2O, 31.1 dB, 4-pin PWM. Feature text: asymmetrical design and cut-outs give compatibility with memory modules and VRM coolers, without space constraints. This is why no RAM height limit is stored.

BNoctua NH-U12A

Model	Size (mm)	Fans	Min speed (rpm)	Max speed (rpm)	Airflow (CFM)	Static pressure (mmH₂O)	Noise (claimed) (dB(A))	Bearing	Connector
NF-A12x25 PWM	120	2	450	2,000	60.1	2.34	22.6	SSO or SSO2	4-pin PWM

Source1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 20262x Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM, SSO2 bearing, 2000 RPM max (+/-10%), 1700 RPM with the L.N.A., 450 RPM min (PWM, +/-20%), 22.6 dB(A) max, 18.8 dB(A) with the L.N.A. This page prints 60.0 CFM, but Noctua's own table gives 102.1 m3/h (APH Networks copy), which converts to 60.1 CFM with 0.5886, so 60.1 is stored. Static pressure is not on this page, see EnosTech. The max values are for one fan without the L.N.A.5Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-blackRead 15 October 2026Fan list: NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black, SSO2, 2000 RPM, 450 RPM min, 102.1 m3/h, 22.6 dB(A), 12 V.8Reviewenostech.com/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-black-and-chromax-covers-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review of 2021-11-01: NF-A12x25 PWM fans with 2000 +/-10% RPM, 1700 RPM with the L.N.A., 450 RPM minimum, maximum static pressure 2.34 mmH2O (1.65 with the L.N.A.), 102.1 m3/h, 22.6 dBA, SSO2 bearing, 4-pin PWM connector.

FansiNumber of included heatsink or radiator fans.

1=CalculatedFrom Included fans

2=CalculatedFrom Included fans

Display and lighting

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RGB lightingiLighting on the fans, the heatsink or the pump block.

No11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Luminous No.

No1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Spec table: RGB No.

Lighting standardiThe named lighting connection. ARGB lighting alone does not prove a 5 V header. Proprietary means the maker's own hub or cable system.

Not available

Not available

Built-in screeniA screen on the pump block or the heatsink. LCD and OLED screens show images. A segment readout shows digits only, such as the CPU temperature.

None11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Integrated display No.

None1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026The spec table lists no screen or lighting.

Screen sizeiDiagonal of the built-in screen.

Not available

Not available

Screen resolution

Not available

Not available

SoftwareiThe maker's software for lighting, the screen or the pump. Software that works with the cooler out of the box. Software that needs a separately sold controller is left out.

Not available

Not available

Needs a USB headeriThe cooler needs an internal USB 2.0 header on the motherboard for software control, sensors or the screen. A wireless receiver that plugs into any USB port does not count.

Not available

No6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-black/3Read 15 October 2026The fans were connected to the motherboard 4-pin CPU fan header. No USB cable or software is mentioned for the cooler.

Measured

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Cybenetics THETA, AMD AM5iThe THETA level for this cooler's class on the Cybenetics AMD AM5 platform with a Ryzen 9 7900X. It is rated at 30 dB(A) normalized noise, or at 25 dB(A) for a cooler that cannot reach 30 dB(A). No level means tested without a level. A cooler that Cybenetics did not test on this platform is left out. A report with a heading for this platform but no results counts as not tested.

Not available

Not available

Cybenetics THETA, Intel LGA1851iThe same rating on the Cybenetics Intel LGA1851 platform with a Core Ultra 9 285K. A cooler that Cybenetics did not test on this platform is left out. A report with a heading for this platform but no results counts as not tested.

Not available

Not available

Overall performance at 30 dB(A), AM5 (measured)iThe Cybenetics Overall Performance score at 30 dB(A) normalized noise on the AMD AM5 platform. It is average CPU power times average CPU frequency divided by average CPU temperature. Higher is better. A cooler rated only at 25 dB(A) has no value here.

Not available

Not available

Overall performance at 30 dB(A), LGA1851 (measured)iThe same score on the Cybenetics Intel LGA1851 platform. Scores from the two platforms are not comparable with each other.

Not available

Not available

Noise at 100% fan setting (Cybenetics)iThe Cybenetics noise at the 100% fan setting, measured 1 m from the cooler in a hemi-anechoic chamber, with the pump of an AIO at full speed. Other reviewers' noise goes in the thermal test rows.

Not available

Not available

Thermal tests (measured)iReviewer results, one row per test condition. Rows compare only when the test CPU, load, power and noise level match. The source note names the reviewer, ambient temperature, case or open bench, and thermal paste. Test CPU is the CPU name only, such as AMD Ryzen 9 7900X. The power limit and mode go in the load. Above ambient is stored only when the reviewer publishes it, never computed from the ambient.

Abe quiet! Dark Rock 6

Test CPU	Load	CPU power (W)	Fan setting	Noise (dB(A))	CPU temperature (°C)	Above ambient (°C)
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D	Cinebench 26 multi-thread, CPU set to 170 W TDP, average core temperature over ambient	170	600 rpm	Not available	Not available	61.3
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D	Cinebench 26 multi-thread, CPU set to 170 W TDP, average core temperature over ambient	170	1,200 rpm	Not available	Not available	64.1
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D	Cinebench 26 multi-thread, CPU set to 170 W TDP, average core temperature over ambient	170	2,000 rpm (maximum)	42.9	Not available	54.6
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D	Cinebench 26 multi-thread, CPU set to 105 W TDP, average core temperature over ambient	105	600 rpm	Not available	Not available	53.1
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D	Cinebench 26 multi-thread, CPU set to 105 W TDP, average core temperature over ambient	105	1,200 rpm	Not available	Not available	42.8
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D	Cinebench 26 multi-thread, CPU set to 105 W TDP, average core temperature over ambient	105	2,000 rpm (maximum)	42.9	Not available	39.9
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D	Cinebench 26 multi-thread, CPU set to 65 W TDP, average core temperature over ambient	65	600 rpm	Not available	Not available	31.6
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D	Cinebench 26 multi-thread, CPU set to 65 W TDP, average core temperature over ambient	65	1,200 rpm	Not available	Not available	25.2
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D	Cinebench 26 multi-thread, CPU set to 65 W TDP, average core temperature over ambient	65	2,000 rpm (maximum)	42.9	Not available	21.3
AMD Ryzen 7 9700X	Prime95 Small FFTs, at least 10 minutes, maximum core temperature, stock paste, standard mounting position	Not available	100%	44.7	77.1	Not available

Source8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6/3Read 15 October 2026APH Networks on a Ryzen 7 9700X, ASUS ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi in a TRYX FLOVA F50 case, room of about 23 C, the cooler's own stock paste, Prime95 Small FFTs for at least 10 minutes, maximum core temperature in HWiNFO, standard mounting position. Result 77.1 C with no throttling. The reviewer measured 44.7 dBA at 50 cm at maximum fan speed. The CPU power, paste name and ambient are not stated precisely, so no power is stored.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Club386 with a Ryzen 9 9950X3D on an MSI MEG X870E Ace Max in a closed be quiet! Light Base 900 FX case with the case fans at 30%, Cinebench 26 multi-thread. The CPU ran at 170, 105 and 65 W TDP settings. The power is the setting, not a measured value. Temperatures are the average core temperature minus the room temperature, which the review does not state. The peak-core delta T values are 73.3, 71.6 and 66.4 C at 170 W, 60.5, 49.4 and 45.3 C at 105 W and 43.5, 36.4 and 32.4 C at 65 W for 600, 1,200 and 2,000 rpm. At 170 W and 600 rpm the CPU throttled from about 200 W to 172 W during the run, so that row is not comparable with the others. Noise is a meter 10 in (25 cm) in front of the closed case, so it does not compare with Cybenetics' 1 m figures. 600 and 1,200 rpm were undetected and are not stored. The 42.9 dBA at 2,000 rpm is repeated in each power row. The paste is not named.

BNoctua NH-U12A

Test CPU	Load	Fan setting	CPU temperature (°C)
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X	Prime95 in-place large FFTs, maximum worker threads, at least 10 minutes, stock settings, two fans	2 fans on the CPU fan header	61
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X	Prime95 in-place large FFTs, maximum worker threads, at least 10 minutes, stock settings, one fan	1 fan on the CPU fan header	64

Source6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-black/3Read 15 October 2026APH Networks review of the chromax.black. AMD Ryzen 7 3700X on an ASUS Prime X470-Pro in a Thermaltake Core P6 TG Snow, room temperature about 22 C, the stock thermal paste of each cooler, fans on the motherboard's 4-pin CPU fan header. Prime95 in-place large FFTs with the maximum number of worker threads for at least ten minutes or until stable. Temperatures are the maximum core value in HWiNFO. With both fans the maximum was 61 C and with one fan 64 C. CPU power and noise are not published (noise is a 0 to 10 rating). The reviewer says the chromax.black and the NH-U12A idle at nearly the same temperature.

Dimensions and weight

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DimensionsiAir coolers only. The cooler with its included fans in the standard position, without the mounting kit. Height runs from the bottom of the base to the top. Depth runs along the airflow, fans included. Width runs across the fins. Map by direction, not by letter. Width runs across the fins, depth runs along the airflow. DeepCool's 129 x 138 x 160 mm (L x W x H) is width 129, depth 138, height 160.

Width139Height162Depth102.4mm(5.5 × 6.4 × 4 in)2Press articlepcgameshardware.de/CPU-Kuehler-Hardware-255512/News/Dark-Rock-Pro-6-Be-Quiet-Release-Preis-kaufen-1530283Read 15 October 2026Table row 'Abmessungen, inkl. Luefter (L x B x H in mm)': 102.4 x 139 x 162. Stored as depth 102.4, width 139, height 162.5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 102.4 x 139 x 162 mm including fan.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 2026Reviewer copy of the maker's table: overall dimensions without mounting material 102.4 x 139 x 162 mm.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 102 x 139 x 162 mm with fan, rounded.10Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026102.4 x 139 x 162 mm (L x W x H). The review gives 1.05 kg, which is not used because the maker states 1005 g.11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 2026Retailer lists 162 mm height and swaps width and depth, so the maker's table is used.

Width125Height158Depth112mm(4.9 × 6.2 × 4.4 in)1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026With fans: height 158 mm, width 125 mm, depth 112 mm.5Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-blackRead 15 October 2026158 x 125 x 112 mm with fans, 125 x 158 x 58 mm without.

Heatsink dimensionsiAir coolers only. The heatsink without fans, as the maker lists it. Map by direction, not by letter. Width runs across the fins, depth runs along the airflow. DeepCool's 129 x 138 x 160 mm (L x W x H) is width 129, depth 138, height 160. A heatsink depth that equals the depth with fans includes the fan, so that axis is not stored.

Width139Height162Depth77.4mm(5.5 × 6.4 × 3 in)6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 2026Reviewer copy of the maker's table: heatsink 77.4 x 139 x 162 mm (L x W x H). Stored as depth 77.4, width 139, height 162. With the 25 mm fan this gives the 102.4 mm overall depth.

Width125Height158Depth58mm(4.9 × 6.2 × 2.3 in)1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Without fan: height 158 mm, width 125 mm, depth 58 mm.

WeightiAn air cooler with its included fans. An AIO cooler as one unit with pump block, tubes, radiator and fans. Mounting hardware is left out when the maker states it separately. When one maker figure may include the mounting kit, such as a press release net weight above the product page figure, the product page figure is stored. An RGB edition can weigh a little more or less, so it is per variant.

1,005g(2.2 lb)2Press articlepcgameshardware.de/CPU-Kuehler-Hardware-255512/News/Dark-Rock-Pro-6-Be-Quiet-Release-Preis-kaufen-1530283Read 15 October 2026Table row 'Gesamtgewicht (g)': 1.005, the German thousands dot, so 1005 g.5Reviewguru3d.com/review/bequiet-dark-rock-6-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 1005 g including fan.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 2026The copy of the maker's table reads 1.01 kg, a rounding of the 1005 g stated by PCGH and Guru3D.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 1,005 g with fan.11Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00741958.htmlRead 15 October 20261005 g.

1,220g(2.7 lb)1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 20261220 g with fans.5Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-blackRead 15 October 20261220 g with fans, 760 g without.

Heatsink weightiAir coolers only. The heatsink without fans.

836g(1.8 lb)7Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6/2Read 15 October 2026APH Networks weighed 836 g for the heatsink alone and about 1012 g with the front fan attached. The maker states 1005 g with the fan.

760g(1.7 lb)1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026760 g without fans.

In the box

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In the boxiItems supplied with this exact model, verbatim.

2x AMD Mounting Brackets, 4x AMD Spacers, 4x AMD Screws, 1x Intel Backplate, 4x Intel Screws for backplate, 4x Intel Rubber washers for backplate, 2x Intel Mounting Brackets, 4x Standoff Screws, 1x Thermal Paste, 1x Long Neck Screwdriver, 1x User Guide, 1x Warranty Paper6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-6Read 15 October 2026Maker's table accessories: thermal grease, Intel and AMD mounting set and screwdriver.10Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 2026Packing and Unboxing list as printed. Guru3D also mentions fan clips in the box, which this list does not show.

2x NF-A12x25 PWM 120mm fan, 2x Low-Noise Adaptor (L.N.A), 4-pin PWM y-cable, SecuFirm2 mounting system for Intel and AMD, NT-H1 thermal compound, Noctua Metal Case-Badge1Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Scope of delivery of the NH-U12A. The page also says the mounting kit is SecuFirm2. The page text says a 100% RAM fit on LGA115x and AM4, and that on LGA2066 the rear fan overhangs the RAM slots, with modules up to 42 mm fitting. No RAM height is given for AM5, LGA1700 or LGA1851, so ram_clearance_mm is left out.2Retailer pagequietpc.com/nh-u12a-ch-bkRead 15 October 2026The page's scope of delivery is the same as for the brown model. The black items are named in the APH Networks list.5Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-blackRead 15 October 2026Scope of delivery of the chromax.black: black NH-U12A heatsink, 2x NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black premium fan, 2x NA-RC14 Low-Noise Adaptor, NA-YC1 4-pin PWM y-cable, NT-H1 high-grade thermal compound, black SecuFirm2 mounting kit and Noctua Metal Case-Badge. Used for the chromax.black row.

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.bequiet.com/en/cpucooler/73251Maker product pagebequiet.com/en/cpucooler/7325Read 15 October 2026Product page of the BK046. bequiet.com blocks agents, so it was not opened. The maker's spec table was read in copies at PCGH, Guru3D and APH Networks, and the maker's feature text in the LDLC product description.

noctua.at/en/nh-u12a11Maker product pagenoctua.at/en/nh-u12aRead 15 October 2026Noctua's product page. The page was not opened. It is stored as the product link only. No value comes from it. Spec values come from retailer copies of the Noctua spec table, press coverage of the launch and reviews.

Spec sheet

Not available

Not available

Manual

Not available

Not available

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

3years2Press articlepcgameshardware.de/CPU-Kuehler-Hardware-255512/News/Dark-Rock-Pro-6-Be-Quiet-Release-Preis-kaufen-1530283Read 15 October 2026Text: three-year manufacturer warranty.3Press releasecdrinfo.com/d7/content/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-6Read 15 October 2026Dark Rock 6 is covered by a 3-year manufacturer's warranty.9Reviewclub386.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 3 years.10Reviewenostech.com/be-quiet-dark-rock-6-air-cpu-cooler-reviewRead 15 October 20263-year warranty.

6years3Press articleguru3d.com/story/noctua-launches-nh-u12a-premium-class-120mm-cpu-coolerRead 15 October 2026The story names a 6-year manufacturer's warranty. The page names no market. A retailer table prints 60 months, but the maker's text and the other sources say six years.5Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/noctua-nh-u12a-chromax-blackRead 15 October 2026Spec list copied from the maker's website: Warranty 6 Years.

Both are also in the API. Back to all CPU coolers.