- Review -

20.02.2023 FunkyKit.com

The NH-L9a-AM5 handles the Ryzen 5 7600 without problems. Our results can be a bit misleading as the fan balances at about 1600-1800 RPM when the CPU is under load. There is clearly some headroom as the maximum fan speed is 2500 RPM. The automatic adjustment lets the CPU go up to 90°C+ and isn’t forcing the fan to spin at its full speed. The cooler was very quiet, with the CPU at its default settings. Even under full load, it was hard to separate the fan noise from the ambient. To see 2200-2400 RPM, we had to overclock the CPU. Then the fan wasn’t loud but clearly audible. For most users, it would still be not bad, but I assume all who think about overclocking buy other and larger coolers. As far as the L9a-AM5 isn’t recommended for overclocking, then we could go as far as up to 5.4GHz on our Ryzen 5 7600. If we wish to use PBO overclocking, then it won’t let us pass 5.35GHz, regardless of the cooler. A quick conclusion is that we can max out the Ryzen 5 7600 using nothing but a small NH-L9a-AM5 cooler. It’s impressive, especially when we compare our results to the previous CPU generations.

"The NH-L9x series of CPU coolers from Noctua proves that a good design doesn’t need big changes to be on top for years. The NH-L9a-AM5 is perfect for any SFF PC with the latest AMD socket, delivering high performance and quiet operation in a tiny package. One more Noctua cooler leaves our redaction with the Editor’s Choice Award!" (Bartosz Waluk, FunkyKit.com)