Test Set Up
We tested the Noctua NH-L9x65 CPU Cooler for sound and cooling performance using an i5 LGA1150 set up. We tested two configurations, stock with turbo and over clock with turbo.
- Operating System: Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit SP1
- Processor: Intel i5-4670K
- Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z97M-DS3H
- Graphics: PNY XLR8 GeForce GTX 770
- Memory: 16GB Corsair Vengeance Pro DDR3 2400Mhz
- Drives: 2 x 128GB SSDs OS RAID 0 (SanDisk SSD SATA III 128GB)
- PSU: Corsair HX1000i
- Chassis: MicroCool Banchetto 101 Chassis
Software used for load tests and temperature capture;
- HWiNFO64
- AIDA64 Extreme
We ran the AIDA64 Extreme stability test in 30 minute batches and recorded the results. We used the Core Max result as there was typically a variance across the cores of a couple of degrees. We only selected the cache, FPU and CPU tests, so no other component would generate impacting heat during the tests.
Fitting
Installing the Noctua NH-L9x65 CPU Cooler wasn’t difficult. You need to remove the fan and screw the heatsink in place. There are no access issues and it doesn’t clash with the surrounding motherboard and memory. It was trouble-free on our mATX Gigabyte GA-Z97M-DS3H and as per the manufacturers claims of 100% memory compatibility, it doesn’t go anywhere near the DIMM slots.
BIOS Setting
We used the default PWM setting and left it alone! Generally we are leaving the hardware to do the work, so it is default settings and no messing!
Sound Level Testing
We used a standard generic digital sound level meter at 15 inches. It is important to note we used the MicroCool Banchetto 101 Chassis for testing which is an open chassis.
This means you are hearing the CPU coolers fan unobstructed.
Thermal Paste
We use Arctic MX-2 for all heatsink cooler tests and in fact we use it for all builds, test or otherwise.
We run the AIDA64 Extreme stability test as our burn in programme for thermal paste, which allows the paste to spread out and share the love across the mating surfaces. It is worth doing, we noted a drop in throttling after 30 minutes of burn in, and we don’t like throttling!
Results
First up, we have the Intel i5-4670K clocked at stock levels, with Turbo enabled. We set all BIOS settings to Auto where appropriate and set up the motherboard as we would for a standard build, RAID, LAN only etc.
Idle is whisper quiet, it really is a quiet fan for the size, and for a 120mm fan. Under load, the AIDA64 Extreme stress test, we see the temperatures double more or less, with 79 ºC at its peak.
No throttling was observed throughout the tests for both stock and overclocking, a good achievement for a low profile cooler.
Noctua NH-L9x65 low-profile CPU Cooler Review
Package - 9
Performance - 9.5
Price - 9
Consumer Experience - 9.6
9.3
If you need a low profile cooler for your server, mITX or HTPC, this will do you just fine. In fact, it will do you more than just fine, it does what a good product does well, high performance without the fuss.
