In our next CPU cooler review we take at look at the much anticipated NL-LC1 AIO cooler featuring the Asetek Emma V2. Was it worth the wait?
Product on Review: NL-LC1-36 AIO CPU Cooler
Manufacturer: Noctua
Street Price: USD $250
Noctua’s entry into the all-in-one liquid cooling market has been a long time coming, and the new NL-LC1 series represents the culmination of that effort. Based on Asetek’s flagship Emma V2 platform, the NL-LC1 lineup combines proven liquid-cooling technology with several key Noctua-developed enhancements. The model under review today is the NL-LC1-36, a 360mm all-in-one liquid cooler equipped with three NF-A12x25 G2 fans, positioning it as the middle offering in a range that also includes 240mm and 420mm variants.
What sets the LC1 apart from the crowded AIO market is Noctua’s focus on refining both acoustics and user experience. Alongside the acclaimed NF-A12x25 G2 fans, the cooler incorporates the custom-engineered NL-PNA1 pump noise absorber, designed to further reduce vibration and noise transmission from the pump assembly. Installation is handled by Noctua’s SecuFirm2+ mounting system, a feature that has earned an excellent reputation for ease of use, compatibility and mounting pressure consistency across multiple CPU platforms.
Under the hood, the LC1 benefits from the latest advances of Asetek’s Emma V2 platform. The system features a redesigned pump with a closed impeller design, a high-torque three-phase motor, optimised flow paths and a refined cold plate incorporating a dense skived microfin array. These improvements contribute to higher flow rates, greater pressure head, lower power consumption and smoother operation compared to previous Asetek generations. The package is complemented by a 20 FPI radiator optimised for low-noise operation, high-quality braided EPDM tubing, a carefully formulated coolant mixture for long-term reliability, and comprehensive safety and quality certifications. Noctua backs the LC1 with a six-year warranty, underscoring the emphasis on durability and long-term stability.
In this review, we’ll be taking a closer look at the NL-LC1-36 to see how Noctua’s first-generation liquid cooler performs in practice. Testing will focus on two key areas: thermal performance and acoustic behaviour, allowing us to determine whether the LC1 delivers on its promise of combining high-end cooling capability with exceptionally quiet operation.
Closer Look
For a complete overview of the bundled accessories, we’ve filmed an unboxing video which shows you what you’ll receive in the box. Check out the Noctua NL-LC1-36 Unboxing Video.
The NL-LC1-36 is equipped with three NF-A12x25 G2 120mm fans, giving the cooler a premium foundation from the outset. As the latest evolution of Noctua’s flagship fan design, the NF-A12x25 G2 has been engineered to deliver exceptional airflow, static pressure and acoustic efficiency, making it particularly well suited for radiator duties. The three-fan arrangement ensures full coverage across the 360mm radiator while maintaining the low noise levels that have become synonymous with the Noctua brand. Combined with the cooler’s overall design philosophy, these fans play a significant role in achieving an excellent balance between cooling performance and quiet operation.
Supporting the fan array is a 360mm aluminium radiator based on Asetek’s flagship Emma V2 platform. The radiator utilises a 20 FPI (fins per inch) fin density that has been specifically optimised for strong cooling performance at lower fan speeds. Rather than relying on more restrictive louvered fin designs, Asetek employs non-louvered fins that reduce airflow impedance and better suit the quieter operating characteristics of the NF-A12x25 G2 fans. The result is a radiator design that extracts excellent thermal performance without requiring aggressive fan speeds to do so.
At the heart of the LC1 sits the Asetek Emma V2 pump, the company’s most advanced closed-loop liquid cooling platform to date. Emma V2 introduces a redesigned closed impeller, optimised internal flow paths and a new high-torque three-phase motor, all of which contribute to increased coolant flow, improved efficiency and reduced vibration compared to previous generations. Noctua has further enhanced the platform through the integration of its proprietary NL-PNA1 pump noise absorber, making the NL-LC1 series the world’s first all-in-one liquid coolers to feature this technology. By combining acoustic soundproofing with a tuned-mass damper effect, the NL-PNA1 simultaneously reduces both air-borne pump noise and structure-borne vibrations, helping the cooler achieve exceptionally refined acoustics.
One of the more unique features of the LC1 is the integrated profile switch that allows users to select between three distinct pump operating modes. Quiet mode prioritises minimal noise output by restricting pump speed to approximately 2100 RPM under normal conditions. Unless coolant temperatures exceed 45°C and trigger the safety ramp function, the pump remains within this reduced operating range, resulting in exceptionally low acoustic output during everyday workloads.
Balanced mode serves as the middle ground and will likely be the preferred setting for most users. In this profile, pump speed is limited to approximately 2600 RPM while coolant temperatures remain below 30°C. As liquid temperatures increase, additional control headroom becomes available, allowing pump speeds to gradually scale towards approximately 3400 RPM by 45°C. This intelligent behaviour ensures the pump does not run faster or louder than necessary while still providing additional cooling capacity when thermal demand increases.
For users seeking maximum control, Manual mode unlocks the full operating range of the Emma V2 pump regardless of coolant temperature. This allows the pump to operate at speeds up to approximately 3400 RPM even when the coolant remains near ambient temperature, providing a direct and predictable PWM-to-RPM response.
Completing the cooling assembly is a large 99.95% pure CU1100 copper cold plate featuring a 32.5 x 22.5mm skived microfin array. The generous contact area provides excellent coverage for modern desktop processors, while the dense microfin structure and optimised liquid distribution system ensure efficient heat transfer from the CPU into the cooling loop.
Aesthetically, the LC1 stays firmly within Noctua’s unmistakable design language, featuring the brand’s signature beige and brown NF-A12x25 G2 fans. It’s a deliberately understated look that prioritises function over flash, avoiding any form of RGB lighting in favour of a clean, professional appearance. The pump housing follows the same minimalist approach, with a restrained, utilitarian finish that blends seamlessly into most builds. The end result is a cooler that looks purpose-built rather than decorative, appealing to users who prefer a cohesive, distraction-free system aesthetic.
Installation Process (Intel 1700)
For this review, we’ve filmed an installation guide for this CPU cooler, guiding you through step-by-step on how to get up and running.. Check out the Noctua NL-LC1-36 Installation Guide.
Test Setup & Methodology
HARDWARE
Rather than analyse CPU coolers on a test bench, we prefer to simulate a real-world configuration where all of the components are housed within a computer case. By doing this, our readers are able to see the CPU cooler in a real-world scenario.Special thanks go to Intel, MSI, Corsair, Noctua and AverMedia for providing the hardware configuration for our CPU cooler reviews:
CPU – Intel Core i9-12900K
Board – MSI MAG B660 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4
RAM – Corsair Vengeance RGB PRO SL (16GB)
Power Supply – Corsair RMx850
Hard Drive – Intel S3500 128GB
Case – MSI SEKIRA 500G
Board – MSI MAG B660 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4
RAM – Corsair Vengeance RGB PRO SL (16GB)
Power Supply – Corsair RMx850
Hard Drive – Intel S3500 128GB
Case – MSI SEKIRA 500G
BENCHMARKS
In order to perform our thermal and acoustics tests we use AIDA64 Stability test. The 12900K CPU is left in its default stock state with EIST, Turbo enabled.For the moment, the comparison results highlight only a small number of CPU coolers, this is because we’ve updated our hardware configuration. The number of tested coolers will increase.
To reflect the most accurate user experience we always test our coolers in their out-of-the-box state, with the cooling fans/components they are sold with. However, we do not use the supplied thermal paste as this would skew results – for our thermal paste we use Noctua NT-H2 which provides us with that level playing field and consistency.
To record the idle temperatures result, our system is booted into Windows and left to idle for 20 minutes. The average core temperatures are recorded (Using Core Temp), and then we following this we apply the AIDA64 Stability test to apply an intensive load on the CPU. After 20 minutes have elapsed, we then record the average core temperatures.
All temperature results are delta, this is calculated by subtracting the ambient from the average core temperature. Ambient temperature is recorded using a digital thermometer placed near the front intake of the case.
In regards to acoustics we use the exact methodology above except all case system fans are disabled. This isolates the CPU cooler fans and allows us to accurately report on the decibel readings. We record acoustics using the NDI KC-330D Sound Level Meter at a distance of approximately 30cm.
Thermal Results
Below are the results for our thermal test. We record both the idle and load temperatures – stress is applied to the CPU using AIDA64’s stability test.
NOTE: Of the 3 modes the LC1 offers, we chose to test “Balance’’ for the below evaluation.
Acoustic Results
In terms of the acoustics test, we disable all case fans and place our sound level meter approximately 30cm away from the cooling fans and the result is then obtained.
NOTE: Of the 3 modes the LC1 offers, we chose to test “Balance’’ for the below evaluation.
Conclusion
After spending time with the Noctua LC1, it’s clear that the company’s first all-in-one liquid cooler has been worth the wait. By combining Asetek’s highly refined Emma V2 platform with Noctua’s own engineering expertise, the result is a premium cooling solution that excels in the areas enthusiasts care about most. From the exceptionally straightforward installation process and comprehensive accessory bundle to the clean, RGB-free aesthetic and industry-leading six-year warranty, the LC1 delivers a polished experience from start to finish.
The standout feature, however, is undoubtedly its acoustic performance. Although our testing primarily focused on the Balanced operating mode, similar behaviour can be achieved in both Quiet and Manual profiles. In Balanced mode, the pump dynamically adjusts between approximately 1300 RPM and 2800 RPM, with the majority of the cooler’s noise output coming from the pump rather than the fans. Even so, noise levels remained remarkably low at just 34-36 dBA, resulting in a cooling solution that is genuinely difficult to hear within a typical gaming or workstation environment.
Performance is equally impressive, and the included trio of NF-A12x25 G2 fans plays a major role in that success. Widely regarded as some of the finest radiator fans available, the three NF-A12x25 G2 units complement the Emma V2 platform perfectly, delivering exceptional airflow and static pressure without generating excessive noise. While the LC1 did not claim the absolute top spot in our thermal charts, it consistently finished near the front of the pack and demonstrated cooling capability that comfortably competes with the best 360mm AIOs on the market. What ultimately sets it apart is that it achieves these results without the acoustic penalties often associated with high-performance liquid coolers. Many competing products can match the temperatures, but few can do so while remaining this quiet. The combination of strong thermal performance and class-leading acoustics makes the LC1 one of the most well-rounded coolers we’ve tested.
Another noteworthy aspect is the optional NL-ACF1 auxiliary cooling fan. While not essential, it can be a worthwhile upgrade for both performance enthusiasts looking to keep motherboard power delivery and near-socket components as cool as possible, and noise-conscious users who want to optimise their systems for maximum quietness without allowing surrounding components to exceed comfortable operating temperatures. It adds another layer of flexibility to an already highly refined platform.
Of course, all of this quality comes at a price. At $250 USD, the LC1 sits firmly in the premium segment of the market, and we’d also like to see adhesive included in the installation bundle for Intel socket installation. As seen in our installation video, we had to use painters’ tape to keep the backplate in place momentarily. However, these are relatively minor criticisms when viewed against the complete package.
The LC1 delivers unrivalled noise-to-performance results, whisper-quiet operation, excellent build quality, effortless installation and long-term peace of mind through its six-year warranty. For users seeking one of the best-balanced 360mm liquid coolers currently available, the Noctua NL-LC1-36 earns an easy recommendation and stands as a genuine top-pick.
Pros
+ All-inclusive accessories package
+ Whisper quiet, especially in quiet mode
+ Unrivalled noise/performance results
+ Extremely easy installation process
+ RGB-less design makes it simple
+ Comes with a solid 6 years warranty
Cons
– Adhesive in the install bundle would be good
– Quality/perf comes at a cost
+ All-inclusive accessories package
+ Whisper quiet, especially in quiet mode
+ Unrivalled noise/performance results
+ Extremely easy installation process
+ RGB-less design makes it simple
+ Comes with a solid 6 years warranty
Cons
– Adhesive in the install bundle would be good
– Quality/perf comes at a cost
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