CPU coolers / Compare

be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 vs Noctua NH-U12A

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Product A: be quiet!

Dark Rock Pro 5

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Product B: Noctua

NH-U12A

29 of 54 known

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Abe quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5

BNoctua NH-U12A

General

6 of 12 differ

Series

Dark Rock1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026The launch article names the Dark Rock family and calls the Pro 5 the successor of the Dark Rock Pro 4.

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.

BK03611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 202612Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026

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

426005219074611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026EAN barcode 4260052190746. Scan and the Icecat datasheet give the same code.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 202613Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

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.

11 October 20231Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026The launch article is dated 11 October 2023. KitGuru's article of the same day gives the same news.

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

Available11Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Listed in stock with a price on the access date.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026

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.

be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 615Press articleclubic.com/actualite-616492-dark-rock-pro-6-be-quiet-pousse-le-refroidissement-et-le-silence-dans-ses-retranchements.htmlRead 23 October 2026Clubic calls the Dark Rock Pro 6 the direct successor to the Dark Rock Pro 5.

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.

$99.91Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Recommended retail price $99.90, with EUR 99.90 and GBP 99.99. Tom's Hardware prints $89.90 for this model, which conflicts. The launch press text is followed.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 2026$99.90 for the Dark Rock Pro 5, $114.90 for the Elite.

$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.

€99.91Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026EUR 99.90 recommended price at launch. Guru3D and Hardware-Journal give the same figure. VAT treatment is not stated.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 2026EUR 99.90 for the Dark Rock Pro 5.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026

€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.

US, EU, GB1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Launch prices are given in USD, EUR and GBP.

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20264Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 202611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026

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.

Air1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Air tower cooler with two fans, no liquid loop.

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.

Dual tower10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 2026Seven copper heat pipes connected to dual towers.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026Cooler type: dual tower, 7 heatpipes.

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.

270W1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026TDP rating 270 W for the Dark Rock Pro 5.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20264Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 202613Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

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 copper8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 2026Copper with nickel plating, per the review's close-up of the base.10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 2026Spec table, Base: Nickel Plated Copper. Specs are credited as direct from be quiet!.

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.

Included11Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Spec table: thermal paste included.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026TIM included, type not stated. The page says it works with liquid metal grease.

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, LGA11501Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Launch sockets: Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155 and AMD AM5, AM4. LGA1851 comes from retailer spec tables that carry the maker data (Scan, QuietPC).2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 2026Intel LGA 1700, 1200 and 115X, AMD AM5 and AM4. 115X is stored as LGA1150, LGA1151 and LGA1155, which Club386 and Guru3D name. LGA1156 is named only by QuietPC, so it is left out.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Intel 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155 and AMD AM5, AM4. Review dated 24 October 2023.10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 202611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Spec table lists LGA1851, 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 2011, 2066 and AM5, AM4. Only the sockets that two or more sources name are stored, so 1156, 2011 and 2066 are left out.12Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026Spec table lists Intel 1150, 1151, 1200, 1700, 1851 and AMD AM4, AM5.

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.

Not available

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.

72Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 20263Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20264Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20268Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 202610Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 202613Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

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.

6mm4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 7 heat pipes, 6 mm diameter.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 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.

Not available

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

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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 Pro 5

Model	Size (mm)	Fans	Max speed (rpm)	Airflow (CFM)	Static pressure (mmH₂O)	Bearing	Connector
Silent Wings 4 120mm	120	1	2,000	52.5	2.48	Fluid dynamic (FDB)	4-pin PWM
Silent Wings 135mm	135	1	1,700	68.7	1.82	Fluid dynamic (FDB)	4-pin PWM

Source1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026Performance mode: front 120 mm fan 2000 rpm and middle 135 mm fan 1700 rpm. Quiet mode: 1500 and 1300 rpm. The 2000 and 1700 figures are stored as the fastest mode.2Press articlekitguru.net/components/cooling/joao-silva/the-be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-returns-alongside-new-dark-rock-elite-coolerRead 14 October 2026120 mm front fan, height-adjustable, and 135 mm middle fan on the top cover. Performance mode 2000 rpm (front) and 1700 rpm (middle). Fluid-dynamic bearings.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: quiet mode 1500 rpm (front) and 1300 rpm (middle), performance mode 2000 rpm (front) and 1700 rpm (middle). Overall noise 8.9, 16.3 and 23.3 dB(A) at 50, 75 and 100 percent. That noise is for the whole cooler, so no fan noise is stored.8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 2026Review dated 24 November 2023. Performance mode 2000 rpm (120 mm) and 1700 rpm (135 mm), quiet mode 1500 and 1300 rpm. The 120 mm fan plugs into the 135 mm fan, so one header controls both. Max noise 32.3 dB(A) in performance mode and 23.3 dB(A) in quiet mode for the whole cooler.10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 2026Fan table: Silent Wings 135 mm and Silent Wings 4 120 mm, 135 x 135 x 25 and 120 x 120 x 25 mm, fluid dynamic bearing, no lighting. The page says the Pro V is the same as the Pro 5.11Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Spec table lists airflow 52.5 CFM (120 mm) and 68.7 CFM (135 mm) and static pressure 2.48 and 1.82 mmAq, with fluid dynamic bearing and 12 V. The table assigns the max speeds the wrong way round (120 mm = 1500, 135 mm = 2000), so speeds come from the launch articles. The weight row says 1000 g, which conflicts with every other source.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026Fan sizes 135 x 135 x 25 and 120 x 120 x 25 mm, fluid dynamic bearing, 4-pin connector. This German catalog sheet (publication date 23 July 2026) lists sockets without LGA1851, so it is not used for sockets.14Reviewprofesionalreview.com/2024/02/14/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-review/ampRead 14 October 2026Spec table: Silent Wings 4 120 mm 1500 rpm (Q mode) and 2000 rpm (P mode), 52.5 CFM and 2.48 mmH2O. Silent Wings 4 135 mm 1300 and 1700 rpm, 68.7 CFM and 1.82 mmH2O. The page gives RAM clearance as 45 mm, while Tom's Hardware says 42 mm out of the box, so RAM clearance is left out.

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.

2=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.

No3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026The spec table lists no lighting connector.11Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 2026Spec table: RGB 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.

None13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026Display type: not applicable. The cooler has no screen.

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.

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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.

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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 Pro 5

Test CPU	Load	CPU power (W)	Fan setting	Noise (dB(A))	CPU temperature (°C)	Above ambient (°C)
Intel Core i9-13900K	Prime95 Small FFTs, 20 minutes per run	306.56	20 dB(A)	20	91.83	Not available
Intel Core i9-13900K	Prime95 Small FFTs, 20 minutes per run	312.6	25 dB(A)	25	91.81	Not available
Intel Core i9-13900K	Prime95 Small FFTs, 20 minutes per run	322.02	30 dB(A)	30	91.89	Not available
Intel Core i9-13900K	Prime95 Small FFTs, 20 minutes per run	329.15	100%	33.7	91.38	Not available
Intel Core i7-13700K	No power limits, CPU at TJ Max, maximum package power cooled	220	Low noise mode	38.2	Not available	Not available
Intel Core i7-13700K	No power limits, CPU at TJ Max, maximum package power cooled	225	Full speed	41.4	Not available	Not available
Intel Core i7-13700K	No power limits, CPU at TJ Max, maximum package power cooled at normalized noise	217	38.2 dB(A)	38.2	Not available	Not available
Intel Core i7-13700K	Cinebench multi-core at a 175 W power limit	175	Low noise mode	37.3	Not available	57
Intel Core i7-13700K	Cinebench multi-core at a 175 W power limit	175	Full speed	Not available	Not available	58

Source5Measurementhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-review/4Read 14 October 2026Hardware Busters, review dated 24 October 2023 (earlier test procedure, Intel Core i9-13900K). Hemi-anechoic chamber with a 6 dB(A) noise floor for noise. Climate chamber at 25 C plus or minus 0.5 C, DimasTech bench, Arctic MX-4 paste, Prime95 small FFTs, 20 minutes per run with a 10-minute cool-down, at least two sessions averaged. CPU power is measured with Powenetics. The page says the CPU package limit was set to 250 W, but the measured power is 306 to 329 W, so the stated limit is not stored. The page gives no temperature above ambient and no mount.6Measurementhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-review/6Read 14 October 2026Bar charts for fan speeds set to 20, 25 and 30 dB(A) and for full fan speed: CPU power 306.56, 312.6, 322.02 and 329.15 W. CPU temperature 91.83, 91.81, 91.89 and 91.38 C. Values read from the chart images.7Measurementhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-review/5Read 14 October 2026Noise chart, fans at 100% speed: 33.7 dBA. The 100% row stores this noise. The page does not say which speed-switch mode was used. This is the Hardware Busters value, not a Cybenetics report, so measured_noise_max_dba is left empty.10Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 2026Tom's Hardware, Albert Thomas, review of 6 December 2023, which tests the Dark Rock Pro V (Pro 5) and the Dark Rock Elite together. Intel Core i7-13700K on an MSI Z690 A-Pro DDR4 in a be quiet! Silent Base 802 case with the system fans on speed 1, 23 C ambient, Thermalright LGA1700 contact frame. Noise is the whole system, and 37.3 dBA is the idle system floor. Paste and noise distance are not stated. Low noise mode is the speed switch on quiet, full speed is performance mode. Values read from charts and text: 220 W and 38.2 dBA in low noise mode, 225 W and 41.4 dBA at full speed, 217 W at a normalized 38.2 dBA, and 57 C (low noise) and 58 C (full speed) above ambient at a 175 W limit. The 175 W full-speed noise is not stated for this model. The Hardware Busters rows use another CPU and are not comparable.

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.

Width136Height168Depth145mm(5.4 × 6.6 × 5.7 in)1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 2026145 x 136 x 168 mm in the launch table, shared with the Elite. Guru3D says without mounting material. Read as depth 145 (along the airflow, fans included), width 136 and height 168.3Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 145 x 136 x 168 mm (L x W x H) without mounting material.4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20268Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 20269Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5/2Read 14 October 2026Measured height 168 mm, width 136 mm and depth 145 mm with the front fan attached.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

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.

Width136Height168Depth119.5mm(5.4 × 6.6 × 4.7 in)4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: heatsink 119.5 x 136 x 168 mm (L x W x H). Overall size with fans and without mounting hardware 145 x 136 x 168 mm. Depth is the first number.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026

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.

1,290g(2.8 lb)1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 20263Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 1.29 kg.4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 1290 g.8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 202612Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 1290 g.13Spec databasedirectdeal.imgbolt.de/media/dc/2e/8b/1784796989/1432_17077099000_datasheet.pdfRead 14 October 2026Weight 1.29 kg, package weight 1.74 kg.

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.

818g(1.8 lb)9Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5/2Read 14 October 2026The heatsink alone weighs 818 g and the total cooler with fans and top frame 1.29 kg. The page does not say how it was weighed.

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.

Mounting accessories for Intel and AMD sockets, Screwdriver, Thermal paste tube, Mounting documentation, Warranty information4Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 2026Page 2: all parts to install the cooler on all popular CPU sockets, a long screwdriver and a thermal grease tube. No full parts list is published.8Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5Read 14 October 2026Packaging page: foam brackets, a magnetic screwdriver, mounting documentation and warranty information, a bag of mounting accessories and a small tube of thermal paste. The foam brackets are packing and are not listed. HWBusters page 2 agrees on the long screwdriver and the thermal grease tube.

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

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Product page

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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

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Manual

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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.

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Warranty

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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.

3years1Press articleclub386.com/be-quiet-releases-two-new-dark-rock-cpu-tower-coolersRead 14 October 20263Reviewguru3d.com/review/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 20264Reviewhwbusters.com/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-5-reviewRead 14 October 202610Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/cooling/be-quiet-dark-rock-pro-v-and-dark-rock-elite-review-kings-of-quiet-coolingRead 14 October 202611Retailer pagequietpc.com/bq-bk036Read 14 October 202612Retailer pagescan.co.uk/products/be-quiet!-dark-rock-pro-5-dual-tower-cpu-cooler-7-heatpipes-1x-135mm-1x-120mm-silent-wings-pwm-fansRead 14 October 202636 months, return to base.

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.