Noctua 8-Port Magnetic PWM Fan vs Noctua 140mm Chromax PWM Fan: Spec Comparison
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are looking at the noctua na fh1 vs nf a14 pwm chromax black swap. These products share the Noctua brand and a black color scheme, but they serve completely different roles in your build. One is a hub for managing multiple fans, while the other is a single high-performance case fan. This comparison focuses on their distinct specifications to help you decide which component fits your specific cooling needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Noctua 8-Port Magnetic PWM Fan Hub | Noctua 140mm Chromax PWM Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | 8-Port PWM Fan Hub | 140mm Case Fan |
| Dimensions | 3.66 x 1.69 x 0.49 inches | 5.51 x 5.51 x 0.98 inches |
| Max Speed | Not listed | 1500 RPM |
| Noise Level | Not listed | 24.6 dB(A) |
| Weight | 1.09 ounces | 6.88 ounces |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Noctua 8-Port Magnetic PWM Fan Hub if
- You need to connect and control eight fans simultaneously.
- You want to mount a control board on a magnetic surface.
- You require short circuit protection for your fan array.
Choose Noctua 140mm Chromax PWM Fan if
- You need a single 140mm fan for case or radiator mounting.
- You prioritize low noise levels at high airflow.
- You want swappable anti-vibration pads for color customization.
Verdict: The NA-FH1 is the correct choice if you are building a complex fan array and need a central hub for power and control. The NF-A14 is the better option if you simply need a high-quality, quiet 140mm fan for airflow. Choose the hub for management and the fan for actual air movement.
Noctua Hub vs Fan Specs
Primary Function
The Noctua NA-FH1 is an 8-port magnetic PWM fan hub. It powers, controls, and monitors multiple fans simultaneously. It transmits PWM signals from your motherboard or an optional NA-FC1 controller to all connected fans. In contrast, the Noctua NF-A14 Chromax PWM is a single high-performance quiet fan. It is designed to move air. You use this fan to cool components or exhaust heat from your case. One manages connections; the other moves air. They are not interchangeable in your build.
Power Handling
The NA-FH1 hub handles significant power loads. It supports up to 54W total power via SATA connectors for 12V fans. It also supports 24W via the 4-pin interface. This allows you to run many fans safely with short-circuit protection. The NF-A14 fan does not list total power handling. It is a 12V, 4-pin PWM device. You must check your motherboard headers or use a hub like the NA-FH1 to power multiple units. The hub offers centralized power management, while the fan is a single endpoint.
Fan Size
The NF-A14 Chromax is a large 140mm fan. Its dimensions are 140x140x25mm. This size provides excellent airflow and pressure performance. It is ideal for water cooling radiators or case intake. The NA-FH1 is not a fan. It is a hub with dimensions of 1.69 x 3.66 x 0.49 inches. It does not move air itself. You cannot compare their physical footprint directly as one is a component and the other is a controller. The fan size matters for case compatibility, while the hub size matters for mounting space.
Connectivity
The NA-FH1 hub features eight output ports for fans. It accepts 4-pin inputs for 5V and 12V fans, and SATA inputs for 12V only. You can use both inputs simultaneously for safety and power. The NF-A14 fan has a single 4-pin PWM connector. It connects directly to a motherboard header or a hub. The hub expands your connectivity options significantly. You can control eight fans from one header using the hub. The fan provides one connection point for airflow.
Performance Specs
The NF-A14 Chromax lists specific performance metrics. It reaches a maximum speed of 1500 RPM. Its noise level is rated at 24.6 dB(A). The Mean Time To Failure is over 150,000 hours. The NA-FH1 hub does not list speed or noise specs. It is a passive electronic device. It does not generate noise or move air. The fan provides the actual cooling performance data. The hub ensures that data is delivered to multiple fans reliably.
Which Noctua component fits your build
You need to manage multiple case fans
The NA-FH1 hub connects up to eight fans to a single motherboard header. It delivers up to 54W via SATA power and 24W via the 4-pin connector. Strong magnets allow easy mounting on steel panels. Safety fuses protect against short circuits. This central unit keeps your cable management clean and ensures all fans receive proper PWM signals from your system.
You require a high-performance 140mm cooling fan
The NF-A14 PWM fan offers 140mm airflow with a maximum speed of 1500 RPM. It operates quietly at 24.6 dB(A) and features a 4-pin PWM connector for automatic speed control. The square frame design provides excellent pressure for radiators. The chromax edition includes swappable vibration pads in various colors, allowing you to match your build aesthetics while ensuring reliable long-term operation.
You want silent operation for a quiet PC
This fan prioritizes low noise with a maximum sound level of 24.6 dB(A). Its 140mm size allows for efficient airflow at lower speeds. The 4-pin PWM interface lets your motherboard adjust RPM dynamically. With a mean time to failure exceeding 150,000 hours, it provides durable silent cooling. The anti-vibration pads reduce mechanical noise transmission, making it ideal for a quiet workstation or media center.
The products compared
Noctua 8-Port Magnetic PWM Fan Hub
Best for: Steel case builders managing multiple fans
- Dimensions
- 1.69 × 0.49 × 3.66 inches
- Weight
- 1.09 ounces
View on Amazon: Noctua 8-Port Magnetic PWM Fan Hub Affiliate link
This 8-port hub splits PWM signals from your motherboard to multiple fans. It supports both 12V and 5V fans, drawing power from SATA and 4-pin connectors. The unit mounts via magnets to steel panels. It includes short-circuit protection and safety fuses. This setup helps you manage airflow without cluttering motherboard headers.
Pros
- Connects up to 8 fans via a single PWM signal
- Supports both 12V and 5V fan operation
- Mounts easily with strong magnets to steel surfaces
- Includes safety fuses for overcurrent and short-circuit protection
Cons
- Requires a steel case panel for magnetic mounting
- Limited to 54W total power via SATA
- Does not include a remote control or app
Good fit if
- You need to control multiple fans from one header
- You have a steel case panel for mounting
- You use a mix of 12V and 5V fans
Skip if
- Your case has no steel surfaces for magnets
- You require individual fan speed control per port
- You need wireless configuration via an app
Verdict: Noctua 8-Port Magnetic PWM Fan Hub simplifies multi-fan setups by splitting signals safely. It is best for builders with steel cases who want clean cable management.
Noctua 140mm Chromax PWM Fan
Best for: quiet 140mm case and radiator cooling
- Fan Size
- 140mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 1500 RPM
- Noise Level
- 24.6 dB(A)
- Connector Type
- 4-pin PWM
- Dimensions
- 5.51 × 5.51 × 0.98 inches
- Weight
- 6.88 ounces
View on Amazon: Noctua 140mm Chromax PWM Fan Affiliate link
This Noctua fan measures 140 by 140 by 25 mm. It runs at a maximum of 1500 RPM. The noise level stays at 24.6 dB(A). It uses a 4-pin PWM connector for speed control. The chromax.Black.swap edition features an all-black design. You get swappable anti-vibration pads in six colors. This fan suits you if you need quiet case or radiator cooling.
Pros
- 140mm square frame design
- Maximum speed of 1500 RPM
- Quiet operation at 24.6 dB(A)
- 4-pin PWM connector for automatic control
- Swappable anti-vibration pads in six colors
Cons
- Lower maximum speed compared to high-performance 140mm fans
- Single fan pack size limits bulk installation
- No included speed controller or splitter
Good fit if
- You prioritize low noise over high airflow
- You need a 140mm case or radiator fan
- You want to customize fan pad colors
Skip if
- You require maximum airflow at high RPM
- You need a multi-fan bundle
- You prefer 120mm fan dimensions
Verdict: Noctua NF-A14 140mm Quiet Fan is a reliable option for builders who value silence and color customization. It fits well in cases where noise reduction is the primary goal.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Noctua 8-Port Magnetic PWM Fan Hub | Noctua 140mm Chromax PWM Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | not stated | 140mm |
| Max Fan Speed | not stated | 1500 RPM |
| Noise Level | not stated | 24.6 dB(A) |
| Connector Type | not stated | 4-pin PWM |
| Dimensions | 1.69 × 0.49 × 3.66 inches | 5.51 × 5.51 × 0.98 inches |
| Weight | 1.09 ounces | 6.88 ounces |
| Color | Black | black |
| Model | NA-FH1 | NF-A14 PWM CH.BK.S |
| Size | not stated | pack of 1 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Noctua NA-FH1 without fans attached?
Yes, the NA-FH1 functions as a hub even with no fans connected. It simply passes the PWM signal through its ports. This allows you to test the hub or plan your cable routing before installing all your case fans. The magnetic design makes adding or removing fans quick and secure.
What is the physical size of the Noctua NA-FH1 hub?
The NA-FH1 measures 1.69 inches in length, 3.66 inches in height, and 0.49 inches in width. It weighs 1.09 ounces. These compact dimensions allow it to fit easily into tight spaces within your case. The small profile helps maintain clean airflow paths without obstructing other components.
How large is the Noctua NF-A14 Chromax PWM fan?
The NF-A14 fan has a square footprint measuring 5.51 inches by 5.51 inches. Its height is 0.98 inches, and it weighs 6.88 ounces. This 140mm size is ideal for high static pressure applications. It fits standard 140mm mounting holes in most modern PC cases and radiators.
Does the Noctua NA-FH1 include a power supply?
The hub requires external power but does not include a power supply unit. It draws power via a SATA connector and a 4-pin fan header. The SATA connection provides up to 54W of power. This setup ensures stable operation for multiple connected fans without overloading your motherboard headers.
Is the Noctua NF-A14 fan sold in a multi-pack?
No, the NF-A14 Chromax PWM is sold as a single unit. The product specifications list the size as a pack of 1. If you need multiple fans for your case, you must purchase each one separately. This allows you to mix and match quantities based on your specific cooling needs.
What color options are available for these Noctua products?
Both the NA-FH1 hub and the NF-A14 fan are available in black. The NA-FH1 model is listed with a black color scheme. The NF-A14 Chromax PWM also comes in black, featuring the Chromax aesthetic. This uniform color helps maintain a consistent look inside your PC case.