The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a highly-regarded CPU cooler that has gained popularity among PC enthusiasts and overclockers. Known for its exceptional performance, quiet operation, and sleek design, this cooler has become a top choice for those seeking to upgrade their system’s cooling capabilities. However, one question that often arises among potential buyers is whether the Noctua NH-U12S Redux comes with thermal paste. In this article, we will delve into the details of this cooler and provide an answer to this question.
Understanding the Importance of Thermal Paste
Before we dive into the specifics of the Noctua NH-U12S Redux, it’s essential to understand the role of thermal paste in CPU cooling. Thermal paste, also known as thermal interface material (TIM), is a substance applied between the CPU and the cooler to enhance heat transfer. It fills microscopic gaps and imperfections on the surfaces, allowing for more efficient heat dissipation. Without thermal paste, the cooler would not be able to effectively absorb heat from the CPU, leading to reduced performance and potentially damaging the processor.
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux: A Closer Look
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a compact, single-tower CPU cooler designed for high-performance applications. It features a 120mm fan, six heatpipes, and a copper base plate, making it an excellent choice for overclocking and gaming. The cooler’s compact design allows for easy installation and compatibility with a wide range of motherboards.
What’s Included in the Box?
When you purchase the Noctua NH-U12S Redux, you can expect to find the following items in the box:
- The CPU cooler itself
- A 120mm fan
- A set of mounting screws and clips
- A user manual
- A tube of NT-H1 thermal paste
Does the Noctua NH-U12S Redux Come with Thermal Paste?
As mentioned earlier, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux does come with a tube of NT-H1 thermal paste. This is a high-quality, non-conductive paste that is specifically designed for use with Noctua coolers. The NT-H1 paste is known for its excellent thermal conductivity, low viscosity, and long lifespan, making it an ideal choice for CPU cooling applications.
Why Noctua Includes Thermal Paste with the NH-U12S Redux
Noctua includes thermal paste with the NH-U12S Redux for several reasons:
- Convenience: By including thermal paste, Noctua makes it easy for users to install the cooler without having to purchase additional materials.
- Performance: The NT-H1 paste is specifically designed to work with Noctua coolers, ensuring optimal performance and heat transfer.
- Quality control: By providing a high-quality thermal paste, Noctua can ensure that the cooler performs as intended, without any potential issues caused by low-quality or incompatible paste.
What if I Already Have Thermal Paste?
If you already have thermal paste, you may be wondering whether you can use it with the Noctua NH-U12S Redux. While it’s technically possible to use a different thermal paste, it’s recommended to use the NT-H1 paste provided by Noctua. This is because the NT-H1 paste is specifically designed to work with Noctua coolers, and using a different paste may affect performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux does come with thermal paste – a high-quality NT-H1 paste that is specifically designed for use with Noctua coolers. This paste is included in the box, making it easy for users to install the cooler and ensuring optimal performance. While it’s possible to use a different thermal paste, it’s recommended to use the NT-H1 paste provided by Noctua to ensure the best possible results.
Final Thoughts
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is an excellent CPU cooler that offers exceptional performance, quiet operation, and a sleek design. With its compact size, high-quality materials, and included thermal paste, it’s an ideal choice for PC enthusiasts and overclockers. Whether you’re building a new system or upgrading your existing one, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux is definitely worth considering.
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| CPU Cooler Type | Single-tower, 120mm fan |
| Heatpipes | 6 copper heatpipes |
| Base Plate | Copper base plate |
| Thermal Paste | NT-H1 thermal paste (included) |
| Mounting | SecuFirm2 mounting system |
| Compatibility | Intel LGA 1200, 115x, 2011, 2066; AMD AM4, AM3+ |
By understanding the importance of thermal paste and the specifics of the Noctua NH-U12S Redux, you can make an informed decision when choosing a CPU cooler for your system. Remember to always follow proper installation procedures and use high-quality thermal paste to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
What is the Noctua NH-U12S Redux?
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a CPU cooler designed by Noctua, a well-known Austrian company specializing in high-performance cooling solutions. This cooler is part of Noctua’s Redux series, which aims to provide high-quality products at an affordable price. The NH-U12S Redux is a single-tower cooler with a 120mm fan, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from general use to gaming and content creation.
The NH-U12S Redux features a compact design, making it compatible with most modern CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700, 1200, and AMD AM5, AM4. Its single-tower design allows for easy installation and ensures good airflow around the CPU area. The cooler’s heat sink is made of copper, which provides excellent heat conductivity, while the fan is designed to operate quietly and efficiently.
Does the Noctua NH-U12S Redux come with thermal paste?
Yes, the Noctua NH-U12S Redux comes with a tube of NT-H1 thermal paste, which is a high-quality thermal interface material designed by Noctua. The NT-H1 thermal paste is known for its excellent thermal conductivity and long-lasting performance. It is suitable for a wide range of applications and is compatible with most CPU materials.
The NT-H1 thermal paste is pre-applied to the CPU cooler’s heat sink, so you don’t need to apply it yourself. However, if you need to reapply the thermal paste in the future, the tube of NT-H1 thermal paste included with the cooler will come in handy. It’s worth noting that the NT-H1 thermal paste is a non-conductive and non-corrosive material, making it safe to use with most electronic components.
What are the key features of the Noctua NH-U12S Redux?
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux features a single-tower design with a 120mm fan, which provides excellent airflow and quiet operation. The cooler’s heat sink is made of copper, which offers excellent heat conductivity, while the fan is designed to operate at low noise levels. The NH-U12S Redux also comes with a tube of NT-H1 thermal paste, which is a high-quality thermal interface material.
The NH-U12S Redux is compatible with most modern CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700, 1200, and AMD AM5, AM4. Its compact design makes it easy to install, and the cooler’s heat sink is designed to provide good airflow around the CPU area. The NH-U12S Redux is also backed by Noctua’s 6-year warranty, which provides peace of mind for users.
How does the Noctua NH-U12S Redux perform?
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a high-performance CPU cooler that offers excellent cooling performance. In various tests, the NH-U12S Redux has shown to be capable of cooling CPUs with high TDPs, making it suitable for gaming and content creation applications. The cooler’s single-tower design and 120mm fan provide excellent airflow, which helps to keep the CPU at a safe temperature.
The NH-U12S Redux has also been praised for its quiet operation, with the fan operating at low noise levels even at high speeds. This makes it an excellent choice for users who value a quiet computing experience. Overall, the NH-U12S Redux is a reliable and high-performance CPU cooler that is suitable for a wide range of applications.
Is the Noctua NH-U12S Redux compatible with my CPU?
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is compatible with most modern CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700, 1200, and AMD AM5, AM4. However, it’s always a good idea to check the compatibility of the cooler with your specific CPU model before making a purchase. You can check the compatibility of the NH-U12S Redux on Noctua’s website or by consulting with a computer hardware expert.
If your CPU is compatible with the NH-U12S Redux, you can be sure that the cooler will provide excellent cooling performance and quiet operation. The NH-U12S Redux is designed to be easy to install, and its compact design makes it suitable for use in a wide range of computer cases.
Can I use the Noctua NH-U12S Redux with my existing case?
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is a compact CPU cooler that is designed to be compatible with most modern computer cases. However, it’s always a good idea to check the compatibility of the cooler with your specific case before making a purchase. You can check the compatibility of the NH-U12S Redux by consulting with a computer hardware expert or by checking the specifications of your case.
In general, the NH-U12S Redux is suitable for use in cases with a height of at least 158mm. The cooler’s single-tower design and 120mm fan make it easy to install, and its compact design ensures good airflow around the CPU area. If you’re unsure about the compatibility of the NH-U12S Redux with your case, it’s always a good idea to consult with a computer hardware expert.
What is the warranty period of the Noctua NH-U12S Redux?
The Noctua NH-U12S Redux is backed by Noctua’s 6-year warranty, which provides peace of mind for users. The warranty period starts from the date of purchase, and it covers defects in materials and workmanship. If you experience any issues with the NH-U12S Redux during the warranty period, you can contact Noctua’s customer support team for assistance.
Noctua’s 6-year warranty is a testament to the company’s confidence in the quality of its products. The NH-U12S Redux is designed to provide reliable and high-performance cooling for many years, and the warranty period reflects this. If you’re looking for a CPU cooler that is backed by a comprehensive warranty, the NH-U12S Redux is an excellent choice.