The NH-L9i is a rather particular heatsink since, considering its size, it is not compatible with all sockets. Indeed, there is an Intel version (presented here) and another one for AMD socket (tested here). With the launch of Alder Lake-S, Noctua offers a version adapted to the LGA-1700 socket of its small cooler. Moreover, the chromax.black version is launched at the same time.
NH-L9i : the LGA-1700 compatible version is launched !
Clearly, given its dimensions (95 (W) x 95 (D) x 37 (H) mm), this model is designed to fit into an ultra-compact case. Indeed, it will be installed where a larger heatsink (or an AIO kit) will not fit.
In order to cool your CPU, this little heatsink features a copper base and two 6mm heatpipes. We can also count on a dense network of aluminum fins. The previous version had 54 fins, but is this still the case?
Finally, for the cooling, we have a small fan, a NF-A9x14 running from 600 RPM to 2500 RPM. At full speed, the airflow will be 57.5 m3/h, but the static pressure will remain unknown. Of course, it will be possible to add an L.N.A adapter reducing its maximum speed to 1800 RPM and its air flow to 40.8 m3/h. However, given its size, we do not recommend it, especially since even at full speed, it is not an excessively noisy fan.
NF-FD1: foam blocks to channel the airflow!
In addition to the small fans, Noctua announces a very interesting accessory: the NA-FD1. These are actually blocks of foam open in the middle, the purpose of which is to channel the airflow. In some cases, they will brush against the side panel (perforated of course). This forces the fan to draw its air directly from outside the PC. Thus, it will not reuse the hot air inside the case. Noctua claims temperature gains of up to 5°C.
For this, the brand provides several thicknesses in the same package: 2x 10 mm, 1x 7 mm, 1x 6 mm, 1x 5 mm, 4 mm and 1x of 3 mm. Visibly, the installation is done via a steel bolt and plastic rod system.
Prices
Now we finish with the sales prices. Thus, the NH-L9i classic is priced at 44.90 € against 54.90 € for its version chromax.black. Note that this version is only compatible with socket LGA-1700.
The NA-FD1 blocks on the other hand are priced at 12,90 € which is not cheap for an accessory of this kind.
Go here, here and again, here for Noctua’s data sheets!