Conclusion:

After using the Noctua hardware for a couple of weeks I must say that there is very little negative commentary to be said about these coolers, I’m having a hard time coming up with anything substantial. The performance is extremely good, the NH-U12 beating the XP 120 by several degrees is nothing but impressive. Furthermore the NH-U9 is able to keep up with the XP 120 with a silent and rather low performing fan is remarkable.

The only real downside especially with the larger NH-U12 is the size and weight of the coolers. The 700g (without fan) of the NH-U12 is something to take into consideration when moving the case around. And some enclosures may have a problem fitting the NH-U12 due to the sheer height (155mm). But other than those minor niggles I have nothing but praise to give both coolers.

Therefore I award both the coolers with the Heavenly Hardware Gold Award.

At the moment the Noctua coolers are only available in Europe.
Can be found at tekheads.co.uk or www.quietpc.com with a price of around £38 for the NH-U12
and £30 for the NH-U9.