ELUTENG Dual USB Fan 120mm 5V vs Noctua NH-U12S redux

Overview of Products

The ELUTENG Dual USB Fan 120mm 5V is a budget-friendly cooling solution, priced at £16.99, while the Noctua NH-U12S redux is a premium CPU cooler retailing at £65.68. Both products aim to enhance cooling efficiency but cater to different needs and budgets.

The ELUTENG fan features two 120mm USB fans that can operate simultaneously, making it versatile for various devices like PCs, laptops, and gaming consoles. In contrast, the Noctua cooler is a high-performance heatsink designed specifically for CPUs, offering advanced thermal management for gaming and productivity tasks.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the ELUTENG Dual USB Fan is functional and compact, aimed at users needing portable cooling. Its dimensions of 12cm x 12cm x 2.5cm make it easy to fit in tight spaces. The black metal grill provides protection and durability, ensuring safety during operation.

The Noctua NH-U12S redux, however, showcases a more sophisticated design tailored for performance. With a slim 120mm profile, it fits most tower cases without obstructing RAM slots or PCIe slots. The quality of materials used in the Noctua cooler is renowned, reflecting a commitment to longevity and efficiency, which is evident in its performance and installation features.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a critical factor when choosing between the ELUTENG fan and the Noctua cooler. The ELUTENG fan boasts an airflow of about 56 CFM per fan, allowing for adequate cooling from different angles. It operates at speeds up to 1500 RPM, providing adjustable airflow levels with three gear settings. This ensures users can tailor the fan's performance to their needs, whether it's low noise for casual use or higher airflow for demanding tasks.

On the other hand, the Noctua NH-U12S redux employs a quiet NF-P12 redux-1700 fan that automatically adjusts its speed via PWM for optimal performance. This feature allows it to maintain full cooling power during intense workloads while remaining nearly silent during idle times. The ability to cool effectively under load makes it an excellent choice for high-performance CPUs.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are essential for many users, particularly those in quiet workspaces or gaming environments. The ELUTENG fan operates at noise levels ranging from 25.6 dB on low gear to 32.5 dB on high gear. While the noise is manageable, it may still be noticeable during operation, especially at higher speeds.

In contrast, the Noctua NH-U12S redux is designed with quiet operation in mind. Thanks to its advanced fan technology, it can achieve near-silent performance at idle, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Users can expect a quieter experience compared to the ELUTENG fan, especially when the CPU is not under heavy load.

Installation Process

Ease of installation is a major consideration when comparing these two products. The ELUTENG fan is straightforward to set up, requiring just a single USB connection to power both fans. Its plug-and-play design allows users to quickly get it running without complicated procedures.

The Noctua NH-U12S redux, while more complex, comes with a detailed SecuFirm2 mounting system that simplifies installation on various platforms, including Intel and AMD CPUs. It includes high-end NT-H1 thermal paste, ensuring optimal thermal conductivity for effective cooling. However, users should be prepared for a more involved installation process compared to the simple USB setup of the ELUTENG fan.

Versatility and Compatibility

Versatility is where the ELUTENG Dual USB Fan shines. It can be used with a plethora of devices, including PCs, laptops, gaming consoles, and even projectors. Its USB-powered design allows it to operate in any location with a 5V power supply, making it a flexible cooling option for different setups.

Conversely, the Noctua NH-U12S redux is specifically designed for CPU cooling and excels in that role. It fits most tower cases and is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD processors. While it is not as versatile as the ELUTENG fan for different devices, its focused design ensures superior performance for CPU thermal management.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant differentiator between the two products. The ELUTENG Dual USB Fan is priced at £16.99, making it an economical choice for users seeking basic cooling solutions. Its low price point makes it accessible to a wide range of consumers.

In contrast, the Noctua NH-U12S redux commands a higher price of £65.68. This reflects its higher performance capabilities, build quality, and advanced features. While it may be a larger investment, users looking for serious CPU cooling will find the cost justified by the performance benefits.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the ELUTENG Dual USB Fan and the Noctua NH-U12S redux ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require a simple, affordable cooling solution for various devices, the ELUTENG fan is a great option. However, for users focused on high-performance CPU cooling, the Noctua cooler is the superior choice, providing advanced features and quiet operation.