Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black, vs SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 Low Profile CPU Cooler, 4.7"
Updated August 2026 — Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black, leads on cooling area and height.
The Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black offers superior performance and compatibility, while the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is a budget-friendly option for compact builds.
Why Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black, is better
Performance
Top-tier cooling efficiency with dual fans
Compatibility
Supports a wide range of CPU sockets
Noise Level
Whisper-quiet operation at idle
Why SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 Low Profile CPU Cooler, 4.7" is better
Price
Significantly cheaper option
Size
Compact design for small builds
Value
Good performance for budget builds
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black, | SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 Low Profile CPU Cooler, 4.7" |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Type | Air | Air |
| Fan Count | 2 | 1 |
| Max Noise | 25 dB | 31.78 dB |
| Socket Support | Multiple | Limited |
| Warranty | 6 years | 3 years |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black and SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4
The Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black is a premium 120mm single-tower CPU cooler priced at $134.95, while the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is a compact low-profile cooler available for $32.99. This significant price difference of about 76% may lead potential buyers to question the performance and suitability of each cooler for their needs.
The Noctua NH-U12A is designed for top-tier performance, whereas the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 excels in space-constrained builds. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses will help you decide which cooler best fits your setup.
Design and Aesthetics
The Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black features a sleek all-black design that complements various color schemes in PC builds. Its 120mm single-tower configuration is not only stylish but also functional, with a height of 158mm that ensures compatibility with most tower cases without overhanging RAM slots.
In contrast, the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is a low-profile cooler measuring 4.7" x 4.8" x 2.6". This compact design makes it ideal for Mini-ITX systems or builds with limited vertical space. Both coolers prioritize aesthetics, but the choice largely depends on your case dimensions and visual preferences.
Cooling Performance
When it comes to cooling efficiency, the Noctua NH-U12A boasts dual NF-A12x25 120mm fans equipped with Low-Noise Adaptors and PWM for automatic speed control. This setup not only provides full cooling performance under load but also operates quietly during idle periods. The NH-U12A has garnered more than 100 awards and recommendations, showcasing its effectiveness in demanding environments.
The SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 features six heat pipes designed to improve cooling performance compared to its predecessor, the Shuriken 3. While specific thermal performance metrics aren't provided, reviews suggest it offers good value and operates quietly. However, the Noctua’s proven track record in high-performance cooling gives it an edge in this category.
Compatibility
The Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, including LGA1851, LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA115x, and AMD AM5 & AM4. This broad compatibility ensures that users can install it on most modern systems without hassle.
On the other hand, the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 also supports Intel LGA 1851 and AMD AM5, but its low-profile design limits its cooling capacity in more demanding setups. Thus, if you plan to build a high-performance rig, the Noctua cooler may be more suitable, while the SCYTHE is better for compact systems.
Noise Levels
The Noctua NH-U12A is known for its whisper-quiet operation, especially at idle, thanks to its advanced fan design and PWM control. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize low noise levels during operation, especially in quiet environments.
The SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is also noted for its low noise output, with a maximum noise level of 31.78 dB. While this is commendable for a cooler of its size, it still may not match the ultra-quiet performance of the Noctua. If noise levels are a critical factor, the NH-U12A might be the quieter option.
Installation Process
The Noctua NH-U12A comes with the SecuFirm2 mounting system, which simplifies installation on various platforms. It includes high-end NT-H1 thermal paste, ensuring optimal thermal conductivity right out of the box.
The SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is designed for easy installation as well, but the specifics of its mounting system aren’t detailed. However, considering its low-profile nature, it may have a simpler installation process in tight spaces. Overall, both coolers are user-friendly, but the Noctua's included thermal paste adds to its installation convenience.
Price Comparison
The Noctua NH-U12A is priced at $134.95, making it a high-end option for users seeking top-tier cooling performance. In contrast, the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 is priced at $32.99, which is about 76% cheaper. This significant price difference may appeal to budget-conscious consumers or those with less demanding cooling needs.
While the Noctua cooler justifies its higher price with superior performance and build quality, the SCYTHE cooler offers excellent value for those building compact systems or looking for an affordable option without sacrificing too much on cooling capabilities.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the decision between the Noctua NH-U12A chromax.Black and the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 comes down to your specific needs and system requirements. If you're building a high-performance rig or have larger case dimensions, the Noctua cooler is the superior choice for efficiency, compatibility, and quiet operation. However, if you're working with a compact setup or on a tight budget, the SCYTHE Big Shuriken 4 provides excellent value and sufficient cooling for less demanding applications.