Notes and warnings

Caution: while the NH-P1 provides first-rate performance for a passive cooler, it is not suitable for overclocking or CPUs that create high heat loads.

Please note that the TDP (Thermal Design Power) rating or amount of heat dissipation that the cooler can handle not only depends on the chassis and various other factors such as ambient temperature or other components inside the system, but also generally varies from CPU model to CPU model. For this reason, we specify cooling performance using the Noctua Standardised Performance Rating (NSPR) instead of giving a general TDP specification. In addition, we refer to our CPU compatibility list where we indicate how well the cooler can be expected to work on a particular CPU in a fully optimised setup (see our setup guidelines).

Please also note that the NH-P1 strictly requires either a fanless PC case with good natural convection, an open benchtable-type setup or a PC case with fans in order to achieve its full performance. We offer a list of recommended cases for completely fanless systems using the NH-P1. If necessary, Noctua recommends adding a near-inaudible 120mm fan like the NF-A12x25 LS-PWM to the heatsink for improved performance headroom.